Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani recently expressed that diplomatic channels with Israel remain accessible, encouraging Israel to embrace what he termed a “historic opportunity.” In a recent interview with Reuters, al-Shaibani indicated a hopeful outlook for the revival of discussions regarding a security agreement that would facilitate Israel’s withdrawal from Syrian territory.
Expectations for Resuming Talks
Al-Shaibani noted that negotiations for the security deal, which had stalled following the intensification of the US-Israel conflict with Iran, are anticipated to resume soon, although no specific date has been established. He emphasized that one of Syria’s prime concerns is to halt the ongoing Israeli assaults, necessitating confidence-building measures from both sides to create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue.
The United States has actively sought to mediate a security arrangement between Israel and the newly-aligned Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa for over a year. However, progress has been hindered by Israel’s military incursions and strikes on Syrian government facilities, framed by Israel as necessary for its national security. Al-Shaibani stated, “We believe there should be contact, especially with a party that constantly threatens the security of Syria,” yet he also made it clear, “We do not trust Israel currently.”
Challenges in Achieving Peace
Al-Shaibani detailed that in earlier discussions, Syria and Israel had tentatively agreed on most aspects of the security deal, which would require Israel to cease its attacks on Syria in exchange for a withdrawal from regions occupied after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. This proposed deal includes the establishment of designated security zones along the Syrian-Israel border, with varying levels of military presence. However, he highlighted the evasiveness of Israeli authorities in implementing the agreement, stating, “We did not see they had the real will to reach an agreement.”
The Israeli government has raised various security concerns regarding Syria, including fears that the new regime might allow foreign military forces, such as those from Turkey, to deploy within its borders. Tensions escalated recently when Israel bombed the Abu al-Duhur airbase, alleging that it would be used by Turkish troops, a claim both Damascus and Ankara have refuted. Al-Shaibani remarked that although Syria is willing to acknowledge Israel’s security interests, Israel must reciprocate by respecting Syria’s sovereignty and refraining from further aggression.
Golan Heights: A Critical Issue
The Golan Heights remains a significant point of contention, as Syria and Israel have been in a state of conflict since 1948, further intensifying after Israel’s seizure of this territory during the 1967 Six-Day War. Al-Shaibani stressed the need to “stop Israeli aggression even before reaching a security agreement,” suggesting that the conversation surrounding peace and the future of the Golan Heights could follow.
While US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack indicated efforts are underway to create mechanisms for conflict resolution among Israel, Turkey, and Syria, there has not yet been consensus on any plan. Al-Shaibani remarked that these efforts should prioritize the cessation of violence rather than entrenching the status quo of Israeli control over the Golan Heights.
Looking ahead, Al-Shaibani holds that while there may be reasons for skepticism regarding Israel’s commitment to peace talks, Syria remains hopeful for the establishment of stable relations with its neighbors. He extended an olive branch, asserting that Syria is ready for diplomacy aimed at fostering understanding and stability in the region.