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Jamal Suleiman Denies Any Connection with the "Syrian Alawite Community" and Describes Rumors as Absurd
Syrian artist Jamal Suleiman has denied any association with an organization claiming to represent the "Syrian Alawite Community in the United States," asserting that he is not a member and was unaware of its establishment.
In a post on his Facebook page, Suleiman explained that some members of the organization took photos with him during his visit to Washington before the organization was founded, using that to suggest a connection between him and them. He noted that he had requested the removal of his photo from the organization's official website.
Suleiman criticized the "absurd behavior" of some social media users who adopted the rumors without verification, expressing concern over the irresponsible use of digital platforms to make judgments and accusations.
He reiterated his refusal to join any organization with a sectarian nature, emphasizing that he "has never felt and will never feel sectarian belonging," and that his stance has always been in favor of the oppressed, regardless of their religious or ethnic background. He concluded by saying, "I have said this several times, but some prefer not to believe it."
In a related context, Maysa Qabani, the deputy director of the Syrian American organization "Global Justice," raised questions about Jamal Suleiman's relationship with the aforementioned organization, which calls on the U.S. administration to maintain sanctions against Syria and claims that members of the Alawite community are facing genocide.
Qabani published several posts on social media regarding the communication between Suleiman and the relevant parties, referencing members' visits to Congress to urge it not to lift the sanctions on Syria.
She expressed concern about the emergence of the organization after the outbreak of the revolution, noting that it had not been recorded before the fall of the Assad regime and had not issued any positions condemning its crimes, raising suspicions about its objectives. Qabani viewed Suleiman's meeting with the organization as questionable, especially since he was previously a member of the Negotiation Commission and supports the implementation of UN Resolution 2254.
She asserted her right to defend the Syrian revolution, emphasizing the importance of not being lenient with attempts to distort the victories achieved.
Qabani also questioned the credibility of the organization's actions, indicating that she received information that the meetings with U.S. officials were "coincidental" in Congress. She stressed the need to be cautious regarding those who support this organization, asserting that the revolution is going through a phase that requires accountability.
The "Alawite Association" announced in mid-February that it would organize a tour in Washington to support the Alawite minority in Syria, stating that it met with religious leaders, human rights advocates, and government officials to discuss the risks facing Alawites.
The association called for diplomatic and political pressures against the Syrian government, the release of detained Alawites, and the promotion of social justice and political representation for minorities.
