Six Syrian Druze Villages, Home to 120,000, Seek Annexation by Israel Amid Islamist Threats

Dec 13, 2024, 11:20 AM

Several Druze villages in southern Syria, including Hader near the Golan Heights and al-Suwayda, have reportedly called for their territories to be annexed by Israel. Tribal leaders held a general meeting near Mount Hermon, expressing their desire to become part of Israel due to fears over regional instability and threats from Islamist groups, including concerns about the safety of their wives and daughters. One Druze leader declared, 'We refuse to live under rebel rule. We want Israeli rule and to be part of Israel.' The communities, totaling around 120,000 people and including Druze and Greek Orthodox Christians, seek safety and a better future under Israeli rule. This development could lead to Israel considering an expansion of its jurisdiction into parts of southwestern Syria.