A Druze delegation of over 150 members visited Israel last weekend, marking the first such visit since 1974. The trip included visits to sacred sites and a meeting with community leaders, emphasizing familial bonds. Member of Knesset Hamed Amar highlighted the significance of this connection while addressing regional political tensions.
A monumental visit by a delegation of over 150 Druze clerics and dignitaries from Syria to Israel occurred last weekend, the first of its kind since 1974. This historic journey allowed them to visit sacred sites, including the Tomb of Jethro, situated in the Galilee, and was overseen by high-level security and diplomatic coordination in Israel. Ceremonies welcoming the visitors showcased the camaraderie between these Druze communities separated by borders.
Among the highlights of the visit was a meeting with Sheikh Muwafaq Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel, and the delegation also attended the annual Sheikhs’ March, held to celebrate Druze heritage. The invitation and reception were facilitated by Druze Member of Knesset Hamed Amar from the Yisrael Beiteinu party, who emphasized the familial connections and emotional resonance of the gathering.
Member of Knesset Amar articulated the warm atmosphere of the meeting, stating, “The Druze are all connected everywhere they are, like one big family.” He noted the long hiatus since Druze pilgrimages halted post-1974 and stressed the visit’s focus on faith and kinship rather than political matters. The reception may have been clouded by criticism from some factions within the Arab world, viewing it as normalization, a contentious issue amid ongoing regional politics.
Amar drew attention to the broader implications of regional dynamics, expressing concern about the situation in Syria. He stated, “The ones who seized power in Syria are ISIS, nothing less,” underscoring his apprehension about potential national security threats that could emerge from conflicts in the region. He reaffirmed the necessity for Israel to maintain security and uphold communal resilience against extremist influences.
In a hopeful note about future interactions, Amar expressed a desire for more meetings and connections to occur between Druze in Syria and Israel. He reflected on the emotional impact the visit had on the delegates, sharing, “They were all excited and moved. There are videos showing Sheikhs literally crying.” This sentiment poignantly illustrates the longing for reconnection among Druze communities historically distanced from one another.
Amar concluded by reiterating a commitment to peace and unity among the Druze, characterizing the visit as fundamentally social and communal, devoid of political motivation. His hope resonates with the enduring wish for continuous connection: “I hope we remain in touch from now and forever.”
The recent visit of a Druze delegation from Syria to Israel marked a historic reconnection after decades of separation due to political turmoil. This engagement highlighted the strong familial and cultural ties among the Druze people across borders. While concerns about regional security and political implications remain, Member of Knesset Hamed Amar expressed optimism for further gatherings and a commitment to fostering peace among the Druze communities.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
