US Envoy Blames Druze Leader
Tom Barrack accuses a prominent Syrian religious figure of exploiting perceived Israeli support to target his own community.
By Jisoo Vega ·
US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack has issued a pointed critique of a leading Druze spiritual figure in southern Syria. Barrack, who also holds the post of US ambassador to Turkey, claims the leader is leveraging the belief in Israeli backing and American alignment to pressure other Druze community members. He shared these remarks in an interview with commentator Mario Nawfal, which was posted on the social media platform X on Friday.
The envoy clarified that his criticism targets a specific sheikh rather than the state of Israel. Barrack stated that this leader uses the perception of support from Tel Aviv and Washington to persecute fellow Druze. Although he did not name the individual directly, the comments coincide with rising tensions surrounding Hikmat al-Hijri. Al-Hijri is a key spiritual leader in Sweida who opposes Damascus authority, has sought Israeli support, and advocates for full independence from the Syrian government.
Barrack firmly rejected the idea that the sheikh has explicit Washington support, calling such claims absolutely wrong. Tensions flared earlier this month when al-Hijri's supporters raised Israeli flags during a rally in Sweida. This event marked the anniversary of the 7 October 2023 attacks, highlighting the complex regional dynamics. Barrack also addressed the economic fuel for local armed groups, suggesting Druze factions are financing weapons through the captagon trade. He described the area from Sweida to Daraa as a global hub for manufacturing and selling the illicit drug, comparing its production to methamphetamine.
In reaction, the Bashan administration linked to al-Hijri issued a statement expressing deep anger and condemnation. The group denied that Jabal Bashan is a center for captagon production. They argued that the community has historically fought smuggling networks on the front lines, noting that young men have been sacrificed in the struggle to eliminate illicit drugs.
The political situation was further complicated when al-Hijri declared in May 2026 that the move toward self-determination is irreversible. He emphasized the goal of creating a fully independent administration for Jabal Bashan distinct from the Damascus government. This push for autonomy has increased scrutiny on the region's internal politics and its relationships with neighboring powers.
Barrack argued that the Israel-Druze connection goes beyond political interference. He pointed to Druze communities in the Golan Heights and along the border, noting they have paid a significant price as allies to Israeli Defense Forces. Israel has framed its military interventions in southern Syria as efforts to protect the Druze, including strikes against Syrian forces in Sweida in July 2025. Barrack observed that Syria has shown notable restraint in response to Israeli incursions, warning that aggressive retaliation could trigger a wider conflict.
The envoy expressed optimism that Israel and Syria will eventually reach an understanding despite continuing mistrust. He noted that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has made it clear he does not desire a confrontation. However, Barrack acknowledged that Israel remains wary of Syria's new leadership, citing Sharaa's past with the al-Nusra Front and the presence of foreign fighters near the border. The two sides have held five rounds of border talks since May 2024. Barrack expressed confidence in the trajectory of these discussions, stating he believes they will reach a final understanding again.
Source: Middle East Eye
