Damascus, Syria: Syria and Israel held US-mediated talks in Jordan on Sunday aimed at stopping Israeli strikes, arrests and targeted operations in Syrian territory, as Damascus demanded an Israeli withdrawal and the restoration of the 1974 disengagement agreement.
The talks focused on establishing practical mechanisms to reduce military tensions and reviving negotiations on a security agreement that could eventually lead to a broader truce. Syria also raised concerns over tensions between Israel and Türkiye and their potential impact on Syrian territory.
What Did Syria Demand in the Israel Talks?
Syrian officials told the Israeli delegation that Damascus wants Israeli forces to withdraw to positions held before the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad on December 8, 2024, and called for the full restoration of the 1974 disengagement agreement.
Syria also rejected any arrangements that would restrict its ability to rebuild and develop its armed forces or determine its alliances and partnerships. Damascus reiterated that the Golan Heights are Syrian territory but said discussions on its final status would be premature.
Can the US-Brokered Talks Lead to a Wider Security Deal?
US efforts to broker a Syria-Israel security agreement have continued for more than a year. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said earlier that the two sides had reached understandings on several issues, including proposed security zones in southern Syria and a buffer zone to be monitored by United Nations forces.
However, Damascus has questioned whether Israel would implement the understandings. Negotiations were suspended following the outbreak of the Iran war, while Syria later cut contact after Israeli strikes on the Abu al-Duhur airbase.
Israel has carried out repeated strikes on Syrian military sites since Assad’s fall, saying the operations are necessary for its security. Syria has rejected that justification and demanded an end to Israeli strikes and incursions.