Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt warns against foreign influence in Syria, urging Druze communities to remain united and resist divisive forces. He highlights the importance of maintaining their identity and heritage amidst concerns over Israeli outreach. Jumblatt’s address reflects broader regional tensions regarding foreign interventions and occupation, while also calling for humanitarian support for Druze communities.
Walid Jumblatt, a prominent Lebanese Druze leader, has cautioned communities in Syria against foreign interference. He emphasized the need for solidarity among Druze in Syria, urging them to resist divisive influences and uphold their identity in the face of external pressures. Speaking during a memorial for his father, Kamal Jumblatt, he called for historical resistance against enemies of the region.
In his address, Jumblatt urged the Syrian Druze to defend their collective fight against oppression, emphasizing unity with fellow Arab citizens. He highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by occupation and colonial mandates, particularly concerning the Golan region. The leader warned against “Zionist infiltration” and stressed the importance of safeguarding their Islamic heritage.
Jumblatt’s speech coincided with his announcement to end the annual commemoration of his father’s assassination. He remarked on the recent arrest of Ibrahim Huwayja, whom he blames for his father’s death, stating, “justice has finally been served, even if it took a long time.”
Reiterating his party’s commitment, Jumblatt called for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. He advocated for a redefined relationship between Lebanon and Syria, emphasizing the need for proper border demarcation.
He expressed disapproval of a recent delegation of Syrian Druze leaders visiting Israel, describing it as merely symbolic. He asserted that such visits will not change the reality of occupation in Palestine and the Golan Heights. Reports indicate that this delegation was organized by Muwafaq Tarif, Israel’s Druze spiritual leader, but it remains unclear if they engaged with Israeli officials.
Additionally, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced humanitarian assistance for Druze communities in southern Syria, totaling 10,000 aid packages. He affirmed Israel’s ongoing alliance with the Druze, declaring it an honor to support them. Moreover, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz promised to address threats to the Druze community and proposed allowing Syrian Druze workers into the occupied Golan Heights. Furthermore, Israel has approved a substantial investment plan geared towards Druze and Circassian communities in the Golan Heights and surrounding areas.
In conclusion, Walid Jumblatt has strongly advocated for vigilance among Syrian Druze against foreign interference, emphasizing unity and historical resilience. His remarks resonate within the context of regional tensions, particularly concerning Israel’s outreach to the Druze. The dialogue around the Israeli relationship highlights both challenges and humanitarian considerations, underscoring the complexities of regional loyalty and identity.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
