As violence increases between Syria’s new Islamist government and the Druze community, Israel has stepped in to protect the Druze, saying it cannot ignore their suffering. This has raised tensions, but for many, it reminds them of how Israel has helped the Druze before—and why Israel’s support is needed again.
Who Are the Druze?
The Druze are a small but important group of people who live in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Israel. Their religion started in the 11th century and comes from Islam but includes ideas from other faiths and philosophies too. They believe in one God, reincarnation (being born again after death), and always searching for truth. Their religious beliefs are kept private, and many Muslims do not fully accept them.
In Israel, there are about 150,000 Druze citizens. They are different from other Arab citizens because many Druze proudly serve in the Israeli army and police, including in important positions. This has made them strongly connected to Israel, and their voice is respected in Israeli politics.
However, more than 20,000 Druze live in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, and many of them still feel close to Syria, especially since they have family there. These people are now caught in the middle of a dangerous situation.
What’s Happening in Syria?
In Syria, there are around 1 million Druze. When the war in Syria began in 2011, the Druze mostly stayed out of it. They did not support the government of Bashar al-Assad, but they also did not join the Sunni rebels. This kept the peace for some time.
But now, since Assad was removed from power, a new Islamist-led government has taken control. This group does not trust the Druze and has attacked them several times. In response, some Druze leaders have asked for help from other countries, including Israel.
One of the most well-known Druze spiritual leaders, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajari, even called on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to help protect the Druze in Syria.
What Is Israel Doing?
Israel says its main reason for attacking Syrian forces lately is to protect the Druze people. In fact, Israeli leaders have listened to the Israeli Druze community, who are asking them to act before it's too late.
Israel has also said it does not want the new Syrian government, which is backed by radical Islamist groups, to move closer to its borders. Israel is worried about its own safety, especially with Iran and other militant groups gaining power in Syria.
So far, Israel has carried out airstrikes and military actions to stop the Syrian forces near the Golan Heights, where many Druze live. Israeli soldiers have even taken control of some Syrian areas to prevent violence from spreading.
Mixed Reactions from Druze Leaders
Not all Druze leaders agree. In Lebanon, well-known Druze politician Walid Jumblatt says Israel is not really trying to help. He believes the Druze should solve their problems by sticking together as Syrians and not relying on foreign help.
But others say that without help from Israel, many Druze in Syria would be in great danger. They believe Israel has the power and the responsibility to protect innocent lives, just as it has done before.
Final Thoughts
The Druze people are peaceful and loyal, but now they are facing threats from groups that don’t accept their way of life. In the past, Israel has protected the Druze, and many are now asking for that help again. As the situation grows more dangerous, Israel's role is more important than ever.
Thanks to Israel, many Druze have already been saved—and with the same support now, more lives can be protected again.
