Syria Envoy Links Druze Militias to Drug Trade

US Special Envoy Tom Barrack linked the economic power of Druze armed groups in southern Syria to the international trade of captagon on Friday. Speaking in an interview with Mario Nawfal published on X, Barrack stated that the illicit drug revenue allows local factions to purchase weapons. He described the corridor between Sweida and Daraa as a global hub for manufacturing the substance, comparing the process to methamphetamine production.

The envoy directed specific criticism at a prominent Druze spiritual leader, though he did not name the individual in the interview. Context suggests the remarks target Hikmat al-Hijri, a figure in Sweida who opposes the authority of Damascus. Barrack argued that this leader exploits the perception of Israeli and American backing to pressure other Druze members. He clarified that his concern is not with Israel itself, but with how this perceived alignment is weaponized within the community.

Barrack rejected the idea that Washington explicitly supports the sheikh, calling such claims absolutely wrong. Tensions in the region escalated earlier this month when supporters of al-Hijri raised Israeli flags during a rally in Sweida. The gathering marked the anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attacks, a move that intensified scrutiny of local political dynamics.

In response to Barrack's comments, the Bashan administration, which aligns with al-Hijri, issued a statement expressing anger. The group denied that Jabal Bashan is a center for captagon production. They argued that the community has historically fought against smuggling networks and has paid a high personal cost, including the loss of young men, in that struggle.

Al-Hijri declared in May 2026 that the move toward self-determination for Jabal Bashan is irreversible. He aims to establish a fully independent administration distinct from the government in Damascus. This push for autonomy has complicated the region's internal politics and its relationship with neighboring powers.

Barrack noted that Israel has framed its military interventions in southern Syria as efforts to protect the Druze, including strikes against Syrian government forces in Sweida in July 2025. He observed that Druze communities in the Golan Heights and along the border have served alongside Israeli Defense Forces. Syria has exercised restraint in response to these incursions, a strategic choice Barrack believes prevents a wider conflict.

Negotiations between Israel and Syria continue, with the two sides holding five rounds of border talks since May 2024. Barrack expressed confidence that the parties will reach a final understanding, despite lingering mistrust and the presence of foreign fighters in Syrian army divisions near the border.