US Congressman Hamadeh meets Druze leader in Israel to address escalating crisis in southern Syria

JULIS, Israel — In response to the worsening conditions in Syria’s Suwayda region, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel, Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, hosted US Congressman Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ-8) and his accompanying delegation at his residence in the city of Julis, Israel.

The official visit focused on the latest developments in Suwayda, with both sides discussing the urgent need to stabilize the situation. They emphasized the importance of solidifying a ceasefire, halting further military escalation, and establishing a secure humanitarian corridor to ensure the safe delivery of medical and humanitarian aid to local residents.

Discussions also touched on potential paths toward a long-term political resolution to the crisis. Sheikh Tarif underlined the need for proactive engagement by the US as a guarantor of any future agreement — one that ensures lasting peace and security while protecting the rights and standing of the Druze community in Suwayda.

The US delegation received a detailed briefing on the ground-level humanitarian crisis, based on data compiled by the Druze community’s monitoring committee. The report highlighted urgent needs and worsening conditions faced by civilians in the area.

This visit represents a significant step in international efforts to spotlight the suffering of the people of Suwayda. It also reflects the determination of the Druze community — and its leaders — to pursue a just political solution that preserves their religious identity, ensures their security, and upholds their human dignity.