Syria and Israel to Meet for Security Talks Amidst Concerns Over Border Security
Paris will host renewed discussions between Syrian and Israeli officials, mediated by the United States, aimed at achieving a security agreement. The goal is to reduce tensions between the two nations, a Syrian official stated Monday.
According to the official, who wished to remain anonymous, the Syrian delegation will be led by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani and the head of the General Intelligence Directorate, Hussein Salameh.
Syria’s main objective is to reinstate a 1974 agreement that established a U.N.-monitored buffer zone in southern Syria. They also seek the removal of Israeli forces, who took control of the zone over a year ago, after insurgents installed a new Islamist-led government.
Following the removal of Bashar Assad, the new Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, expressed no desire for conflict with Israel. However, Israel, concerned about the change in leadership, moved to secure the buffer zone, conducting airstrikes on Syrian military sites and incursions into nearby villages to combat remnants of the prior Assad regime and other militants.
Israel maintains its presence is temporary, aimed at protecting its borders from potential attacks. They haven’t indicated a timeline for withdrawal. Previous talks between the two countries regarding a security agreement stalled last year.
In this new round, Syria aims for “the withdrawal of Israeli forces to the lines prior to Dec. 8, 2024, within a security agreement that respects Syrian sovereignty and prevents interference in its internal affairs.” This reflects Syria’s desire to stabilize its borders and prevent further regional destabilization.
Israeli officials have not yet commented.
