Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajari The spiritual leader of the Druze Unitarians issued a statement from Jabal Bashan – Qanawat on May 20, 2026, affirming an unwavering commitment to what he described as the “comprehensive liberation” of occupied villages and the full restoration of rights. He stressed that the choice of freedom and self-determination is “not subject to bargaining or conditional loyalties.”
The statement noted that “Jabal Bashan,” through its “societal awareness and civil cohesion,” is overcoming what it described as attempts at “economic blockade, destructive administrative invasion, and systematic starvation policies,” asserting that these policies aim to “paralyze institutions and cut off livelihoods.”
Al-Hajari clarified that “the dignity of this Mountain is above all considerations,” adding that “its rights are derived from the authenticity of its history and the strength of its present.” He emphasized that “there is no guardianship or leadership over this Mountain except for those chosen by its people,” and that they “will not allow any encroachment upon their land or dignity.”
The statement added that the “awareness of the locals, the diligence of intellectuals, and the belonging of expatriates and people of conscience” have contributed to “powerfully conveying the facts to international bodies.” It noted that the file is being followed up with the international community to “take decisive measures to stop violations, lift the blockade, and preserve lives and dignity.”
Al-Hajari underscored that their demands are “non-negotiable,” reaffirming the commitment to “holding the terrorist Damascus government accountable for all its breaches and crimes in accordance with international law.”
The statement pointed out that the “immediate goal” is to “compel the aggressors to implement the international solution stipulated in the July 2025 truce,” by “returning the kidnapped, disclosing the fate of the forcibly disappeared, and liberating the afflicted villages and towns.”
Furthermore, it noted that “international allies and guarantors are exerting efforts to consolidate the foundations of administration and full sovereignty over the territories of Jabal Bashan,” confirming that steps are being taken “with steady strides toward implementing the right to self-determination, away from the hegemony of groups with whom facts have proven coexistence to be impossible.”
In a related context, the statement emphasized that “every sacrifice and every drop of sweat and blood shed on the land of the Mountain will not go in vain,” calling for disregard of what it described as “rumors and systematic daily broadcasts” aimed at “frustrating resolve or retreating from primary objectives.”
According to the statement, Al-Hajari affirmed the rejection of “foreign interference from parties that have no mandate or legitimacy,” adding that “their rights are seized through their own strength and steadfastness,” and that “the Mountain belongs to its people, who are best suited to manage the affairs of their region through their own sons.”
He also explained that the “trust of the people of Jabal Bashan in the technocratic administration” forms the “basis of success,” considering that “defending the Mountain and building its institutions is an integrated mission that unites everyone through the unification of efforts and commitment to administrative directives.”
The statement included a “salute of thanks and appreciation to the countries and organizations working on the cause,” with specific thanks extended to Israel—both government and people—in addition to the “members of the [Druze] community there,” for what he described as “supporting their brothers.”
In conclusion, Al-Hajari called for limiting the upcoming Eid activities to “religious ceremonies and rituals” out of “respect for the feelings of sorrow, pain, and separation” under current circumstances. He expressed hope that “the next Eid will be an announcement of the greater joy of victory, freedom, and the complete independence of both decision and land.”
Note: This text is translated from the original Arabic version… Read the Arabic version: Click here
