The Druze Arabs in Israel, a community known for their utmost loyalty to the country, are reportedly feeling disillusioned and aggrieved following what they perceive as indifference or insensitivity from the state towards their needs and values. This feeling of betrayal is intensified by the fact that many Druze have sacrificed their lives in defense of Israel, often referred to as ‘paying with their blood’. They have loyally served in the Israeli military, unlike most other Arab citizens of Israel.
One of the key triggers for their disillusionment was the passage of the Nation-State Law in 2018 in Israel, which downgraded Arabic from an official language to one with “special status”. It also declared the right to exercise national self-determination in Israel to be “unique to the Jewish people,” marginalizing other minority communities, including the Druze. This law was seen as a major slap in the face for the Druze community, underlining their status as second-class citizens, even though they contribute significantly towards the country.
The Druze community has been vocal in standing up for their rights and dignity, participating in various protests and demonstrations to raise awareness about their struggles. However, their pleas for fair recognition and respect often struggle to overcome the deeply ingrained divisions in Israeli society.
There are ongoing challenges facing the Druze community in Israel, including issues relating to equal citizenship rights, acceptance, and respect within the Israeli society. The government’s inclination towards policies favoring the Jewish majority
