Druze leader Hikmat al-Hijri reiterates calls for Syrian division and thanks Israel

Hikmat al-Hijri, one of the Druze spiritual leaders in Syria’s southern Sweida province, has renewed his calls for the partition of Syrian territory and separation from Damascus, in remarks that also included clear attempts to seek Israel’s sympathy and seek its strength.  In a recorded speech on Thursday, he said: “Our choice of freedom and self-determination is not subject to bargaining or conditional loyalties. The dignity of this mountain (referring to the Druze-majority Jabal al-Druze area in southern Syria) is above all considerations, and its rights are derived from the authenticity of its history and the strength of its present.” He added: “No matter how much de facto powers try to impose guardianship through coercion and misinformation, they will find […]