U.S. Starts Discussions with Israel, Syria on Potential Security Deal
(MENAFN) The United States has initiated "preliminary discussions" with both Israel and Syria regarding a potential security agreement, according to officials from the US and Israel who spoke with media on Monday.
"We are having very soft preliminary discussions," a senior US official remarked.
Senior Israeli officials acknowledged the possibility of a deal but cautioned that the process could take years, with one noting, "a deal is not around the corner."
At this stage, talks are being led by mid-level officials, with no plans for a summit involving national leaders, a US official confirmed.
"The US favors a gradual process that would slowly build trust and improve relations between Israel and Syria," the official report indicated.
Nevertheless, Israel is pressing for guarantees that "any talks will ultimately lead to a full peace agreement and normalization," as stated by a senior Israeli official.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly focused on phased agreements, beginning with a modernized version of the 1974 disengagement agreement. This would re-establish a separation zone, withdraw forces, and call for the release of prisoners of war, according to an Israeli official.
Israel views the occupied buffer zone along with Syrian territory under its control as crucial leverage in these negotiations, stressing that any withdrawals would be contingent on a full peace agreement.
Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, currently in Washington, is expected to discuss the issue with senior US officials, with Syria likely among the topics.
The political landscape in Syria has shifted dramatically following the departure of long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad, who fled to Russia on December 8, 2024. This event marked the collapse of the Baath Party's rule, which had endured since 1963.
In late January, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led the anti-regime forces that ousted Assad, was declared president for a transitional period.
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