A secret meeting between academics, Syrian businessmen, and Israeli officials in Europe.

The Israeli newspaper "Yedioth Ahronoth" revealed a secret meeting held between a group of Syrian academics, businessmen, and Israeli officials in a European capital, at a private residence away from the public eye. The meeting included 5 Syrian figures and 2 Israelis, marking the first direct encounter between the two sides.

Israeli officials expressed astonishment at the level of knowledge the Syrian interlocutors had about Israeli affairs, as the Syrians relied on following Hebrew media and translations of Israeli newspapers. They also showed significant interest in "the future of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his security policies."

On the other hand, the Syrian participants acknowledged the lack of clarity about Syria's future amidst the multiple crises it faces, stating, "The legitimate president is dealing with many crises, and it is hard to believe he wants to add Israel to his list of problems."

They pointed out that the Syrian president "has not yet been able to fully control the capital, Damascus," according to one participant, a sentiment that was agreed upon by those present.

All the Syrian participants, aged between forty and fifty, grew up under Bashar al-Assad's regime and witnessed sudden political shifts in the country. During the meeting, they discussed the deteriorating economic situation, sectarian conflicts, and internal divisions in Syria.

This meeting took place at a sensitive time, coinciding with an Israeli attack near the Syrian presidential palace, justified under the pretext of "protecting the Druze community."

The meeting also revealed the complexities of the Syrian scene amidst increasing international interventions and regional movements, especially in southern Syria, where demands for "protecting minorities" are used as a pretext to extend Israeli presence.