Fears regarding the future of Syria's religious minorities have surfaced after the recent power shift in Syria. As the Druse community actively voices its concerns, leaders aim to secure protections from the newly formed governing body.
Druse Community Seeks Protection Amid Syria's Political Shift
Druse Community Seeks Protection Amid Syria's Political Shift
Druse leaders engage with U.S. officials for minority rights in post-Assad Syria.
In the wake of the recent upheaval in Syria, the Druse, a minority religious group practicing a unique offshoot of Shiite Islam, are initiating their own diplomatic efforts to safeguard their community’s future. Following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by a coalition of Syrian rebels, clarity about the new government's commitment to minority rights is uncertain. Notably, members of the Druse community are making direct appeals to Western officials to ensure their safety during this transitional period.
Recently, Sheikh Muwafaq Tarif, a prominent Druse leader, visited Washington to engage with lawmakers and diplomats from both the Biden and Trump administrations. He articulated his community's apprehensions, emphasizing that the well-being of the 1.2 million Druse in Syria should be a priority in U.S. foreign policy discussions regarding the new regime. The coalition, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has declared a commitment to fostering a more tolerant and inclusive society, shedding previous affiliations with extremist groups.
Despite these reassurances, skepticism within the Druse ranks remains palpable. Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajari, another highly regarded Druse figure, expressed hesitation regarding the new leadership's pledges, suggesting that previous experiences cast doubt on whether the promises of tolerance can be trusted.
As international attention turns toward reconstructive efforts in Syria, the Druse community's proactive stance on advocating for their rights highlights the ongoing challenges that religious minorities face in a rapidly changing political landscape. The leadership's discussions with U.S. officials may hold implications not only for the Druse but also for the broader vision of coexistence in post-Assad Syria.
