Syrian Druze leader suggests Sweida integration into Israel

Hikmat al-Hijri, a spiritual leader of Syria's Druze community, has proposed that the country's Sweida province be integrated into Israel. Hijri stated that this move would preserve the province's autonomy and ensure its inhabitants could live in safety, citing the geographical proximity and mutual respect between the communities.

Speaking at an event marking the first anniversary of sectarian unrest in Sweida, Hijri expressed a desire for an independent life and a model for the region. He specifically mentioned the State of Israel for its support and respect, noting that Israel had previously conducted air strikes in the province.

Since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Syria has experienced outbreaks of sectarian violence. Despite President Ahmed al-Sharaa's promises to protect minorities, concerns remain due to the history of groups like the al-Nusra Front, which previously targeted the Druze. Violence in Sweida, stemming from clashes between Druze factions and Bedouin fighters, resulted in over 2,000 deaths, including 789 Druze civilians. Separately, at least 1,500 Alawites were killed in related violence.

Syria's new transitional parliament convened its first session, but the Sweida province, along with the Kurdish-held northeast, was unrepresented, with their seats remaining empty. The interim authorities cited the ongoing war as a reason for bypassing popular elections, a decision that has drawn criticism from pro-democracy campaigners.