Few would know that, though Arabic-speaking, the Druze do not uniformly consider themselves Arabs. And while adhering to a monotheistic faith which broke away from Islam in the early Middle Ages, they are neither Muslims. Foreigners who claim to know Israel would be surprised to learn of the prominent role played by Druze in every aspect of Israeli society – not only in the military but in academia, politics, business and the media.
As someone who defends Israel regularly in the foreign press, it’s challenging to describe this situation in a seven-second soundbite. Already fighting on multiple fronts, people understandably ask, why would Israel want to open an additional front with a nation that purportedly seeks peace with us?
Michael OrenPhoto: APThe covenant between Israel and the Druze stands as proof of Israel’s steadfastness as an ally and our unswerving respect for their traditions and family ties. Of course, Israel can do much more to ensure equal opportunities and services for our fellow Druze citizens, but the very least we can do for their embattled brethren in Syria is what Israel would do for endangered Jews anywhere.
