The Knesset is considering a bill to grant permanent residency in Israeli-controlled areas to Druze from Syria’s Sweida region, a move experts say aligns with Israel’s strategic interests.

A bill submitted to Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, would allow Druze residents of southern Syria’s Sweida region to obtain permanent residency within Israeli-controlled territories. Official statements claim the legislation aims to protect Druze from political pressure and economic crises in Syria.

Experts, however, argue that the initiative primarily serves Israel’s strategic interests in the region. According to the bill, the Israeli Interior Ministry could grant permanent residency to Druze who meet specific criteria, including family ties with Israelis, security service involvement, or civil contributions. Security and political assessments would also factor into the approval process.

Similar to policies previously extended to members of the South Lebanon Army, the bill is presented as limited and ostensibly humanitarian. Yet analysts emphasize that the main goal appears to be using the Druze population as a strategic buffer while securing Israel’s interests in the occupied territories. (ILKHA)