Druze Leader: We Will Seek Protection If Attacks Against Us Continue
April 30, 2025, 3:04 pm

Druze Leader: We Will Seek Protection If Attacks Against Us Continue

قيادي درزي

Sheikh Samih Yusuf Al-Rayshi, one of the leaders of the Druze community in Suwayda, warned of the serious situation in the region, emphasizing the community's rejection of any aggression and their commitment to the unity of Syria, amidst fears of a collapse of national unity and the division of the country.

In a phone interview with Sky News Arabia, Sheikh Al-Rayshi described Suwayda as "besieged," saying: "We do not accept anyone to transgress against us, nor do we transgress against anyone. We are Muslims." He indicated that the area, especially Sahnaaya, is experiencing an "abnormal" state, as the youth of Suwayda remain in the area despite attempts to sever communication between Damascus and Sahnaaya.

He clarified, "We want to be part of the Syrian people, and we consider ourselves Syrians." He criticized the weakness of leadership, asserting that a true president should support all Syrian citizens without discrimination between groups.

Al-Rayshi viewed the events in Syria as part of an "international divisive scheme," explaining that Turkey controls the north, the United States controls the east, and Israel has taken the south. He added: "We did not divide Syria and do not wish for any form of guardianship from any party."

Sheikh Al-Rayshi spoke about the Druze community's history of resisting French colonialism, recalling the celebrations of Independence Day on April 17. He confirmed that attempts to incite discord are ongoing, noting that attacks targeting the community could expand to include Christians after the current areas are dealt with.

He pointed to the importance of establishing an inclusive leadership that embraces everyone, stating: "Unity is possible if there is a will, and the wise sheikhs are capable of leading us out of this impasse." He warned that the continuation of the current situation could push the community to seek alternative protection, despite their rejection of Israeli guardianship.

Al-Rayshi explained that there is a rupture in relationships between some leaders and the people, questioning who is behind the tensions, saying: "The Israelis could be behind this discord." He expressed concern for the suffering of the displaced, as hundreds gather in different locations, and noted that the Syrian people of all components are ready for reconciliation and coexistence.

In conclusion, Sheikh Samih Al-Rayshi affirmed his national belonging, stating: "I am a son of Deir Ezzor, Homs, Aleppo, Damascus, Daraa, and Qamishli. I am Syrian, but there are those who do not want us."

Syria Between the Screams of Racism and the March of Freedom A violent Israeli raid on Ashrafieh Sahnaya, near Damascus

BENEFIT, the Kingdom’s innovator and leading company in Fintech and electronic financial transactions service, has sponsored the BuildHer CityHack 2025 Hackathon, a two-day event spearheaded by the College of Engineering and Technology at the Royal University for Women (RUW).
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