Syria Diplomacy: US Envoy Blames Druze Leader for Tensions

US special envoy Tom Barrack has shifted the focus of regional diplomacy toward internal power struggles in southern Syria. He argues that a specific spiritual leader is creating friction by claiming outside support. This move suggests that ordinary residents of the region may face continued instability as local factions jockey for advantage. The envoy believes this dynamic is complicating the broader relationship between Damascus and its neighbors.

Barrack made these remarks in an interview with commentator Mario Nawfal. The conversation was published on the social media platform X on Friday. The envoy said his main issue is not with the state of Israel. Instead, he pointed to a prominent Druze sheikh in Sweida. Barrack claimed this leader uses the idea of Israeli and American backing to target other Druze. He noted that the individual has called for full independence from the Syrian government. Although Barrack did not name the sheikh in the interview, the comments align with growing tensions surrounding Hikmat al-Hijri.

The envoy was clear that Washington does not have an explicit alliance with this leader. He called claims of direct US support absolutely wrong. Tensions in the region have been visible in recent months. Earlier this month, supporters of al-Hijri raised Israeli flags during a rally in Sweida. The event marked the anniversary of the attacks in October 2023. This symbolic gesture highlighted the complex dynamics at play within the local community.

Barrack also addressed the economic factors driving local conflicts. He suggested that armed Druze groups in the province are financing their weapons through the captagon trade. He described the area from Sweida to Daraa as a global hub for this illicit drug. The envoy compared its production to the manufacture of methamphetamine. He stated that the revenue from this trade allows local groups to arm themselves effectively.

The Bashan administration, which is affiliated with al-Hijri, reacted strongly to these claims. They issued a statement expressing anger and condemnation. The group denied that Jabal Bashan is a center for captagon production. They argued that the community has historically fought against smuggling networks. The statement noted that the community has paid a high personal cost in this struggle. This includes the sacrifice of young men in the effort to eradicate illicit drugs.

The political situation has become more complicated since May 2026. Al-Hijri declared that the move toward self-determination is irreversible. He emphasized the goal of establishing a fully independent administration for Jabal Bashan. This push for autonomy has intensified scrutiny on the region's internal politics. It has also raised questions about the relationship between local leaders and neighboring powers.

Barrack noted that the alignment between Israel and the Druze goes beyond politics. He pointed to Druze communities in the Golan Heights and along the border. These groups have served alongside Israeli Defense Forces soldiers. Israel has often framed its military actions in southern Syria as efforts to protect the Druze. This includes strikes against Syrian government forces in Sweida in July 2025.

The envoy observed that Syria has exercised notable restraint in response to Israeli incursions. He warned that aggressive retaliation could trigger a wider conflict. Damascus has been patient in allowing Israel to maintain a perceived buffer zone. This patience is seen as a strategic choice to prevent a larger war. Barrack believes this approach helps keep the peace in a volatile region.

Looking ahead, the envoy expressed optimism about future relations between Israel and Syria. He believes the two nations will eventually reach an understanding. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has made it clear he does not desire a confrontation. However, Israel remains wary of Syria's new leadership. Barrack cited Sharaa's past with the al-Nusra Front and the presence of foreign fighters near the border. Negotiations have continued through five rounds of talks that began in Paris in May 2024. Barrack is confident that these discussions will lead to a final agreement.