Israeli Druze Leader Says Syrian Druze Communities Remain Encircled, Aid Restricted

Israeli Druze Leader Says Syrian Druze Communities Remain Encircled, Aid Restricted
—————————————–
Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel, has said that Druze populations in parts of southern Syria remain “completely encircled” and are facing severe restrictions on humanitarian assistance, Arab News reported.

In interviews with international media, including AFP, Tarif reported that humanitarian aid deliveries — including those coordinated by the Druze community in Israel — have been blocked from entering the affected areas. He expressed deep concern about the situation facing displaced Druze, particularly in and around the Sweida province and adjacent regions, where clashes broke out in 2025 between Druze fighters, local tribes and government forces.

Tarif stated that tens of thousands of Druze have been displaced from their homes in the months since the violence began, and that access to basic necessities such as food and medical relief remains limited. He also said that hundreds of members of the community, including women and children, are being held captive under difficult conditions — claims that have not yet been independently verified by major global news organizations.

The comments reflect ongoing tensions stemming from deadly clashes in southern Syria, where thousands were killed and large numbers of residents were forced from their homes during the conflict in 2025. Humanitarian organizations have documented displacement and aid challenges in the region, but exact details about access restrictions and specific captivity figures vary between sources.

Tarif has called on international actors and Syrian authorities to allow unfettered humanitarian access and to help ensure the safety and dignity of the Druze community in Syria.