What is the Golan Heights and who are the Druze?
The Golan Heights is a region in the Levant spanning about 1,800 square kilometers. Originally, it was part of Syria, but most of it has been occupied and administered by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day War. It was further annexed by Israel in 1981, a move not internationally recognized. The area is of strategic importance, offering expansive views over surrounding regions, and it also provides a significant water source. The region is home to a mix of religious, ethnic, and national groups, including Jews, Druze, and Syrians.
The Druze are a unique religious and ethnic group who live primarily in Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan. The religion developed out of Ismaili Islam, and today, the Druze faith incorporates elements of Islam, Hinduism, and classical Greek philosophy among others. However, it stands out for its belief in the transmigration of the soul (reincarnation). Due to their unique faith, they are often considered a separate ethnic group. In the Golan Heights specifically, many of the Druze community retain Syrian citizenship and identify themselves as Syrians under Israeli occupation.