Who are the Druze and why is Israel bombing Syria to support them?

According to Saed News, quoting CNN, the Druze (Druze) are a small but distinct ethno‑religious minority primarily found in Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. They follow a closed monotheistic faith that emerged from Islam in the 11th century, incorporating elements of Gnosticism, Neoplatonism, and esoteric mysticism. Druze religion is tightly guarded—no outsiders may enter or leave its fold, and its teachings are accessible only to initiates.

📍 Where do the Druze live?

• Syria: About 700,000, mostly in As-Suwayda Governorate in the south

• Lebanon: About 250,000, mainly in the Shouf Mountains

• Israel: About 150,000, chiefly in the Galilee and the Golan Heights

• Jordan: Smaller communities

🛡️ Why is Israel bombing Syria to support the Druze?

1. Kinship solidarity
   Unlike other Arab minorities, Israeli Druze are full citizens and many serve in the Israel Defense Forces. Strong familial and emotional ties bind them to Syrian Druze. When Syrian Druze face threats—from Assad’s forces, Iran‑backed militias, or extremist groups—Israel’s Druze community urges the government to intervene.

2. Countering Iran and Hezbollah
   Many of Israel’s air strikes in Druze‑populated southern Syria target Iranian and Hezbollah positions near the border. By hitting these targets, Israel both degrades hostile forces and indirectly protects Syrian Druze communities.

3. Preventing repression or regional instability
   In recent months, Druze in As‑Suwayda have mounted widespread protests against economic hardship and Assad’s crackdown, emerging as one of Syria’s few independent voices. Israel fears a violent response by the regime or its allies and uses air strikes as a warning to deter brutal repression.

4. Sending a strategic message
   By striking near Druze areas, Israel signals that “the Druze are a red line.” For Israel, this minority is not only part of its own social fabric but also a pillar of regional stability.

⚠️ But the situation is complex:
Israel and Syria are not formally at war, yet Israel regularly conducts covert or limited air strikes against Iran‑ and Hezbollah‑linked forces in Syria. The Israeli government seldom claims responsibility publicly. Druze leaders in Israel typically call for “quiet” support for their Syrian brethren, avoiding overt involvement in open conflict.

🧭 Summary:

• The Druze are a distinct ethno‑religious minority in the Levant and integral to Israeli society.

• Israel’s targeted strikes near Syrian Druze regions aim both to weaken Iran‑ and Hezbollah‑linked forces and to reassure the Druze that they remain within Israel’s sphere of protection.