Preliminary Talks Between Israel and Syria Under U.S. Sponsorship... Is a Historic Agreement Approaching?

In a new development on the political scene in the Middle East, American and Israeli sources revealed to Axios that the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated preliminary talks with both Israel and Syria with the aim of reaching a potential security agreement between the two parties.

A senior American official stated that these talks are still in their preliminary and delicate stages, likening them to a process of "peeling an onion," indicating their complexities and sensitivities.

So far, the talks are being held at lower levels than Syrian President Ahmed al-Shar'a, without addressing the convening of a summit of leaders.

The American official confirmed that President Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo strongly support this step, and that diplomatic teams are working harmoniously to push it forward.

On the other hand, Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi stated during a press conference that Israel is open to establishing official diplomatic relations with both Syria and Lebanon, but he emphasized that the fate of the Golan Heights is "non-negotiable," and that its remaining under Israeli sovereignty is a fundamental condition for any potential agreement.

Meanwhile, Syrian President Ahmed al-Shar'a affirmed in a statement issued by his office last week that his government is working to stop the repeated Israeli attacks on safe areas in Quneitra province in southwestern Syria, through indirect negotiations mediated by international parties.

The statement added that al-Shar'a met with dignitaries and elders of Quneitra and the Golan Heights, in a step that confirms his interest in calming the situation in southern Syria.

It is worth noting that Israel had intensified its airstrikes, naval, and ground attacks since the fall of the former President Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024, targeting bases belonging to the former Syrian army.

It also penetrated the demilitarized zone and expanded its presence in the occupied Golan Heights, Mount Hermon, and other areas in southern Syria.

Although these talks are still in their early stages, they reflect an unprecedented move in the file of relations between Syria and Israel, amid international anticipation of the results of this complex diplomatic process.