Indirect Talks in Paris Seek Israeli Withdrawal from Syria Amid Security Guarantees

Indirect talks between Syria and Israel concluded in Paris, with both sides describing the discussions as "positive." This development reflects a renewed political initiative led by the United States aimed at restructuring security along the Syrian-Israeli border. According to informed sources, the negotiations centered on a potential agreement for an Israeli withdrawal from Syrian territory in exchange for mutual security guarantees.

US Pressure to Expedite Agreement

Israeli and Syrian sources confirmed that Washington is exerting significant pressure on both parties to reach a swift agreement intended to reduce tensions and foster long-term stability in southern Syria. A Syrian source indicated that Damascus is willing to offer "acceptable" security guarantees, provided that Israeli forces withdraw from areas they occupied after December 2024.

Sweida Excluded from Negotiations

Damascus established a clear boundary in the discussions regarding the issue of Sweida, insisting that it should not be internationalized or removed from Syria's internal framework. An informed source noted that the situation in Sweida should be managed through local agreements without armed intervention or external influence, suggesting that Israel is beginning to understand this position.

Separation Forces… but Under Conditions

The talks also addressed the possibility of establishing a separation force between the two sides; however, Damascus emphasized that any such arrangements must be based on mutual consent to ensure full Syrian sovereignty and social stability. Additionally, Syria called for a revision of Israeli rhetoric concerning the "protection of minorities," viewing this matter as an internal Syrian issue.

Netanyahu Cautious… as Washington Applies Pressure

Despite some progress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed caution regarding certain Syrian demands, particularly the complete withdrawal from nine military sites and checkpoints established in southern Syria. Israeli sources noted that the US government views these demands as "reasonable" and continues to apply pressure to advance the negotiations.

Reviving the 1974 Agreement

A Syrian government source revealed that the core of the discussions revolves around revitalizing the 1974 separation of forces agreement to ensure the withdrawal of Israeli troops from positions occupied following the previous regime's collapse, within a framework of a security agreement that preserves Syrian sovereignty and reduces the need for foreign military presence.

High-Level Delegations and US Involvement

The talks featured two high-ranking delegations; the Syrian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani, accompanied by the head of the General Intelligence, Hussein Al-Salamah, while the Israeli delegation included prominent figures from security and political circles. The presence of US Special Envoy Steve Whitekopf and US Envoy for Syria Tom Brack underscored the significance of the US role in this round of discussions.

Potential Normalization or Temporary Calm?

According to Israeli sources, these negotiations could represent an initial step toward future normalization, although significant obstacles remain, particularly Syria's firm rejection of a buffer zone in southern Syria, which Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shara previously warned could be a "dangerous course for the region."