At its most recent meeting, KKL-JNF's Board of Directors approved a special emergency budget of 2 million NIS to support the Druze community. The decision reflects the organization’s recognition of the Druze community as a partner in Israel’s shared destiny and a strategic ally of the State of Israel and the Zionist movement.
The covenant of brotherhood between the Jewish people and the Druze community extends beyond their joint army service. It is rooted in a deep sense of mutual responsibility. At a time when the Druze community faces complex challenges affecting its sense of security and cohesion—both within Israel and with regard to relatives facing humanitarian distress abroad—KKL-JNF has chosen to stand alongside the community and bolster its resilience.
KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky and the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel, Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif. Photo: Courtesy of KKL-JNF
The budget will be divided into three main areas: international advocacy and public diplomacy to raise awareness and garner global support for the Druze community, nationwide awareness campaigns in Israel highlighting the importance of the partnership with the Druze community and the community’s resilience, and the purchase of emergency equipment and logistical supplies.
KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky welcomed the decision, saying: "This is one of the decisions I am most proud of since taking office. The ability to think outside the box and make bold decisions lies at the heart of the Zionist vision, and today’s decision reflects the deep partnership between the Jewish people and the Druze community in Israel and around the world. Just as we are heartbroken by terrorist attacks targeting Jewish communities in the diaspora, such as the recent attack at Bondi Beach in Australia, our Druze brothers are devastated by the terrible massacre their people are enduring in Syria. We cannot stand by in the face of this suffering. At KKL-JNF we have chosen to stand with the Druze community as an expression of the deep bond and shared destiny between our peoples. In times like these, this is the Zionist response required of us."