Historic Druze Delegation Visit Highlights Cross-Border Ties Amid Tensions

The Druze religious delegation from Syria is set to visit Israel for the first time in 50 years. This visit, hailed by the Druze community's leader Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, underscores the complex ties between Israel and Syria's Druze minority amid rising regional tensions.

The forthcoming visit of a Syrian Druze delegation to Israel marks a significant event, dwarfing five decades of absence between the two communities. Despite rising tensions highlighted by recent Israeli airstrikes in Damascus, the visit indicates ongoing efforts to strengthen ties.

The Druze, an Arab minority with roots in Islam, span several regions, including Lebanon, Syria, and Israel. The delegation's visit, led by Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, includes religious elders from Syrian villages near Mount Hermon.

While Israel officials strive to build bridges with Syria's Druze amid mistrust of the new Syrian Islamist government, the recent strike on Damascus underlines the fragile peace in the region. Yet, Sheikh Tarif remains hopeful for a more inclusive and peaceful future for all communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)