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Druze community re-evaluates loyalty amid Sweida violence

Sectarian strife in Syria’s Sweida has caused over 1,000 deaths, raising alarm in the Druze community.

July 31, 2025 at 03:30 PM
blur Sweida violence tests Druze loyalty to Syria in Golan Heights : NPR

The ongoing violence in Sweida is deepening divisions for the Druze community in the Golan Heights.

Druze community faces severe loyalty test amid conflict in Syria

In recent weeks, sectarian violence in Syria’s Sweida region has resulted in over 1,000 deaths. This turmoil is testing the loyalty of the Druze community in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to their homeland. Many Druze, despite living under Israeli control for decades, still identify strongly with Syria. However, recent clashes involving Sunni tribes and the Syrian regime have left them feeling betrayed and disillusioned with the interim government. Residents of Majdal Shams, a Druze town, have expressed their frustration with the inability of Syrian leadership to maintain peace and security. As the situation unfolds, many Druze have crossed into Syria to assist family and friends, reinforcing their ties to their historical homeland amidst growing fears of sectarian violence.

Key Takeaways

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Over 1,000 people killed in recent sectarian violence in Syria's Sweida region.
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Druze in the Golan Heights are feeling increasingly betrayed by the Syrian government.
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The most affected groups have been civilians caught between conflicting factions.
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Many Druze have crossed into Syria to support family members amidst the fighting.
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The interim government’s credibility is challenged by its inability to maintain security.
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Growing sectarian tensions could lead to deeper divisions in Syrian society.

"To me it is my motherland, and therefore I wanted to go there."

Jalaa Ayoub expresses his strong connection to Syria despite current upheaval.

"This regime came to dissect people, to divide people and to create sectarianism among people."

Ayyoub critiques the current leadership for its handling of sectarian conflict.

"Sharaa needs to make the Druze feel that they are important members of society."

Mu'thad calls for better treatment of the Druze community under the interim government.

"I used to be secular before. But I'm not secular anymore after what I've seen in Sweida."

Ahmad shares how the violence has changed his perspective on religion.

The violence in Sweida highlights not only the humanitarian crisis but also the fragile nature of national allegiance among the Druze. The community's longstanding support for Syria is being challenged by recent events, which have ignited fears of further conflict and discrimination. The interim government's inability to establish stability has worsened feelings of insecurity among the Druze, pushing some to embrace their identity more rigorously. They are now caught between their commitment to Syria and the need to protect themselves in an increasingly perilous environment. The situation sheds light on the complexities of loyalty in a region marked by deep-rooted sectarian divisions.

Highlights

  • We have total allegiance to Syria; it is my motherland.
  • This regime came to dissect people, dividing communities.
  • Sharaa needs to make the Druze feel safe and valued.
  • After seeing my fellow Druze killed, I must now practice my faith.

Sectarian violence raises significant risks for community safety

The ongoing conflict in Sweida presents potential backlash and escalation of violence against minority groups, including the Druze. The failure of the interim government to ensure security may invite further tension among sectarian factions.

Future developments will determine if the Druze can reconcile their loyalty to Syria with their need for personal security.

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