Syrian Druse pilgrims visit Israel for holy pilgrimage

A group of about 100 Syrian Druse pilgrims visited Israel for a rare pilgrimage to a holy site over the weekend. This visit marks a significant moment as travel between Israel and Syria has been restricted for decades due to their ongoing conflict. The pilgrims visited the Tomb of the Prophet Shuaib in northern Israel, a site important to their faith. Druse leader Sheikh Muwafaq Tarif expressed joy at the reunion, noting that many had only communicated by phone before this visit. Israel aims to strengthen ties with the Druse community in southern Syria following the recent political changes there. The visit occurs amid increased Israeli airstrikes in Syria, raising concerns about the potential for prolonged Israeli presence in the region.