Druze

A fringe Israeli settler group called 'Pioneers of Bashan' has been sneaking into southern Syria to claim land for Jewish settlements. The Israeli military recently intercepted the group near the border but avoided confrontation upon recognizing them as religious Jews. The group aims to establish settlements in areas including Quneitra, Daraa, and Sweida, citing biblical historical claims and security rationale for the Golan Heights.

A fringe Israeli settler group called 'Pioneers of Bashan' is conducting incursions into southern Syria to establish Jewish settlements, citing biblical claims. The Israeli military has intercepted these groups, which aim to create a buffer zone and humanitarian corridor in areas including Mount Hermon, Quneitra, Daraa, and Sweida. The group's actions align with the far-right government's support for settlement expansion.

Syria's Druze community is caught between Israeli protection and Damascus's rule. The situation in Suwayda highlights the geopolitical tensions affecting the region.

Syria has begun trials related to deadly 2025 violence in the Druze heartland of Sweida. Government intervention in favor of Bedouin tribes clashing with Druze triggered Israeli strikes, with suspects including staff from defense and interior ministries.