Hikmat al-Hijri, leader of the Syrian Druze community, rejects agreements with the radical Syrian government. The Druze community is divided over responses to current governance. Israel positions itself as a defender of the Druze, complicating regional dynamics. A Turkish delegation’s recent visit to Syria underscores bleak prospects of reconciliation.
The leader of the Syrian Druze community, Hikmat al-Hijri, has firmly rejected any possibility of an agreement with the current Syrian government, labeling it as “radical.” His statements were made in a video shared by activists and come in light of the new transitional constitution implemented in Syria. Al-Hijri emphasized the Druze community’s desire to maintain its autonomy amid tensions with the state, stating that the government in Damascus is undesirable for the Druze.
Al-Hijri declared, “There is no understanding or agreement with the existing government in Damascus, which is a radical government in every sense of the word.” The Druze community remains critical of the ongoing situation, especially in the wake of the government’s association with international justice issues. Furthermore, local Druze militants allied with the Men of Dignity movement have recently agreed to come under government authority, raising questions about unity and resistance within the community.
The Druze are divided on their response to President Assad’s potential ouster and the rise of the disbanded Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. While some leaders have engaged with the interim government, others are suspicious of its connections to extremist groups. Recent sectarian violence in coastal areas has exacerbated these fears and fueled distrust of the government.
Israel has attempted to position itself as a supporter of the Druze community against the Syrian government, further complicating the political landscape. Israeli officials have labeled members of the Syrian government as “terrorists,” inciting protests within Syria while carrying out airstrikes. Despite this, the majority of Druze reject any moves toward separatism and continue to seek their community’s safety and autonomy.
Additionally, a high-level Turkish delegation recently visited Damascus amidst negotiations between the interim government and Kurdish forces over integrating into state institutions. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and other officials met with President Ahmed al-Sharaa, coinciding with the signing of a constitutional declaration. This agreement is expected to facilitate a political transition and address rights issues within the state.
The Syrian Druze leader Hikmat al-Hijri’s firm stance against the current Syrian government points to deep-rooted concerns regarding autonomy and governance. The Druze community’s divisions highlight the complexities of integrating with a government viewed as radical. Turbulent events, combined with international influences, signify ongoing challenges in the region. Meanwhile, Turkey’s diplomatic initiatives reflect shifting alliances and the pursuit of stability amidst chaos.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
