Hundreds of members of Israel’s Druze community on Saturday took part in a protest on the Golan Heights against US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the area. There were also members of the Druze community taking part in the protest on the Syrian side of the border. This led to IDF troops being placed on high alert. The protest was held in the Druze community of Majdal Shams.

The decision by Trump has led to an outcry from European leaders as well. Israel liberated the Golan Heights from Syrian occupation in the June 1967 Six Day War.

In 1981, the government of Menachem Begin annexed the Golan Heights, which passed in Knesset in a 63 to 21 vote. The international community has not recognized that move, including the United States. President Trump has taken the big step despite the international objections.

While the IDF was prepared for violence, the event passed without incident.

US President Trump stated that after 52 years, it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel’s Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 21, 2019

US Secretary of State Pompeo tweeted that as a cadet, he studied the battles of the Golan and he honors the sacrifices of the Israeli people.

As a cadet, I studied the battles of the Golan. Israeli heroism there saved this great nation. @POTUS’ bold decision to recognize #Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights honors the sacrifices of the Israeli people and reality. It’s proper for this land to be part of Israel. pic.twitter.com/0HFWBYJFvL

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) March 22, 2019

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)