Senior Druze officials from Israel, headed by Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Israeli Druze community, are preparing to travel to the United Arab Emirates for talks with representatives of Syriaโs new government, sources confirm to i24NEWS. The delegation is expected to depart imminently as part of ongoing efforts to calm tensions in Syria and safeguard the Druze population amid a turbulent regional environment.
Sheikh Tarifโs office has declined to comment on specific details but affirmed that the Sheikh is engaged in discussions aimed at maintaining the security and well-being of Druze communities in Syria, while respecting their autonomy and internal decision-making. Tarif has consistently emphasized the importance of preserving Syrian unity and the Druze communityโs rightful place within a unified Syrian homeland.
This diplomatic initiative follows a period of increased communication between Israeli Druze leadership and Syrian Druze sheikhs, including a historic visit in March 2025 when about 60 Syrian Druze clerics crossed into Israel via the Golan Heights to meet Sheikh Tarif, the first such meeting in nearly 50 years.
The UAEโs role as a neutral mediator reflects its growing influence in facilitating dialogue between historically adversarial parties in the Middle East. This visit also aligns with broader backchannel talks between Israel and Syria brokered by the UAE, focusing on technical and security cooperation, particularly counterterrorism efforts.
Recent Israeli military actions near Damascus, including airstrikes aimed at deterring threats to the Druze community, underscore the precarious security situation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have publicly committed to protecting Druze populations in Syria, while urging Syrian authorities to prevent sectarian violence.
Sheikh Tarifโs stance balances support for Druze brethren in Syria with respect for their internal governance, rejecting interference in their strategic decisions. He has called for unity among all Syrians and vigilance against terrorism that threatens Syriaโs social fabric.
The Druze community, a religious and ethnic minority with deep roots in the Levant, often finds itself navigating complex political realities. The upcoming UAE talks represent a significant diplomatic effort to foster stability and protect minority rights amid ongoing regional volatility.
As the delegation prepares to depart, observers note the delicate balance Israel seeks to maintain, supporting the Druze community while managing broader security concerns and regional diplomacy.
This article is based on verified information from i24NEWS, Enab Baladi, Syria Live Map, Reuters, and official statements from Druze community representatives and Israeli government sources.