Muwaffaq Tarif: Druze Remain Trapped in Syrian Territories

ARK News.. The spiritual leader of Israel’s Druze community, Muwaffaq Tarif, confirmed that members of the Druze minority inside Syria continue to face serious danger, seven months after deadly clashes between Syria’s Druze community and government-backed forces.

According to France Press Agency (AFP), Sheikh Tarif said: “The Druze remain completely besieged in Syria. No humanitarian aid is allowed in, including the assistance we ourselves try to provide.”

He added that over 120,000 people remain displaced, 38 villages have been seized, and residents are not allowed to return. More than 300 individuals, including women and children, remain in detention.

Sheikh Tarif emphasized that the Druze do not require government security forces in the region, stating that “the Druze have forces capable of defending themselves and maintaining order,” while describing Syrian government forces as “jihadists and elements of ISIS.”

He also called for Druze across the Middle East to be allowed access to their religious sites in neighboring countries, “just as our Christian and Muslim brothers visit their holy sites” in states where diplomatic relations may not exist.

He concluded: “The Druze also deserve access to our sacred sites in Syria and Lebanon to pray, and to visit our holy places” in Israel.

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