Druze Spiritual Leader Denies Political Stance After Syria Comments
Translated & summarized from Panet by baba
Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel, clarified that his recent statements on Israeli intervention in Syria do not signal political support for any party or leader. He reiterated his non-political role and his commitment to addressing civil issues facing the Druze in Israel. Tarif expressed regret over media misinterpretations of his humanitarian concerns as political endorsements.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif denied any political endorsement in recent statements.
- Tarif clarified comments regarding Israeli intervention to prevent a Druze massacre in Syria.
- He stated his role is non-political and does not involve advocating for any party.
- Tarif expressed regret over media misinterpretations of his humanitarian concerns.
- He highlighted ongoing civil issues facing the Druze community in Israel.
The spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel, Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif, has clarified statements he made regarding Israeli intervention during events in Syria's Sweida region. He denied that his remarks implied support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or any political party. In a statement released on Tuesday, Tarif explained that his comments, which were circulated in a video, addressed decisions by Israel and its allies to halt the "massacre of Druze in Syria." He emphasized that this stance is not new and has been expressed previously through various platforms.
Tarif reiterated his position as the spiritual leader, stating, "As the Sheikh of the community, I do not express any political stance and do not call to vote for any party." He expressed regret that some media outlets had distorted the facts, using information from other contexts manipulatively. He lamented that the state's efforts to prevent the "massacre," which he described as a noble humanitarian act to save lives, were being exploited politically.
The statement also highlighted that the Druze community in Israel faces several civil issues, including planning, construction, and the Kaminitz Law, which have been neglected for decades. Tarif affirmed that voting is a right and a duty for all Israeli citizens, including the Druze community, to be exercised according to individual conscience. The clarification comes after a video surfaced of Tarif discussing Israel's actions concerning the Druze in Syria.
