Hikmat al-Hijri, the 60-year-old spiritual leader of Syria's Druze community, has become a controversial figure following recent deadly violence in Sweida province (July 2024), which resulted in over 500 deaths. Critics label him a traitor and warlord, citing his belligerent stance against the new Syrian government and alleged ties to the former Assad regime. Supporters, however, view him as a defender of the Druze community against the government and its potentially dangerous allies. Al-Hijri, who inherited his position after his brother's death in 2012, has shifted his political allegiances over time, supporting the Assad regime during the Syrian Civil War (2011-2024) before later opposing it. His actions, including rejecting ceasefires negotiated by other Druze leaders, and his call for international intervention, including from Israel, have further complicated the situation.

His controversial actions, including rejecting ceasefires and appealing for international intervention including from Israel, which led to Israeli airstrikes in Damascus on July 16, have fueled intense debate over his role in the escalating violence. Disagreements within the Druze leadership itself—between Al-Hijri, Yousef Jarbou, and Hammoud al-Hanawi—further complicate the situation. The lack of consensus is exacerbated by ongoing negotiations between the Druze and the interim Syrian government, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, regarding the community's future within the country.

Al-Hijri's actions have significantly deepened sectarian tensions in Syria. While a ceasefire is currently holding, the situation remains volatile, and the Druze community's relationship with the new government appears to be deteriorating.

Impact Statement: The ongoing conflict and the highly polarized views surrounding Hikmat al-Hijri highlight the fragility of Syria's post-conflict political landscape and the deep-seated sectarian tensions within the country.