Secret Talks in Paris Between Syria and Israel: Israeli Withdrawal for Security Guarantees, with Suwaida as a 'Red Line'

In Paris, indirect talks between Syria and Israel concluded, with both parties describing the discussions as 'positive.' This development reflects a rapid political initiative led by the United States aimed at reshaping security dynamics along the Syrian-Israeli border. Sources indicate that the negotiations focused on a potential Israeli withdrawal from Syrian territories in exchange for mutual security guarantees.

U.S. Pressure for Swift Agreement

Israeli and Syrian sources confirmed that Washington is exerting significant pressure on both sides to reach a swift agreement, aiming to ease tensions and establish long-term stability in southern Syria. A Syrian source stated that Damascus is willing to provide 'acceptable' security guarantees, contingent upon the withdrawal of Israeli forces from areas occupied after December 2024.

Suwaida Excluded from Negotiations

Damascus has made it clear that the issue of Suwaida is a 'red line' in the negotiations, insisting that it should not be internationalized or removed from the internal Syrian context. An informed source indicated that the situation in Suwaida will be addressed through local agreements, without arms or external intervention, suggesting initial signs of Israeli understanding of this position.

Separation Forces with Conditions

The discussions also included the possibility of establishing a separation force between the two parties. However, Damascus emphasized that any such arrangement must be consensual and ensure full Syrian sovereignty over the territory and its social components. It also called for a shift in Israeli rhetoric concerning 'protection of minorities,' asserting that this is a purely internal Syrian matter.

Netanyahu Cautious Amid U.S. Pressure

Despite some progress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed reservations regarding certain Syrian demands, particularly the complete withdrawal from nine military sites and checkpoints established in southern Syria. Nonetheless, Israeli sources noted that the U.S. administration views these demands as 'logical' and continues to push for advancements in the negotiations.

Reactivation of the 1974 Agreement

A Syrian government source revealed that the core of the discussions revolves around reactivating the 1974 separation of forces agreement, which would ensure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from positions occupied after the fall of the previous regime, within a framework that preserves Syrian sovereignty and reduces the need for foreign military presence.

High-Level Delegations and U.S. Involvement

The talks featured two high-level delegations; the Syrian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Asad al-Shibani, accompanied by General Intelligence Chief Hussein al-Salama, while the Israeli delegation included prominent figures from security and political circles. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Weitkov and Washington's envoy to Syria Tom Brak also attended, underscoring the significant role of the U.S. in this round of negotiations.

Possibility of Normalization or Temporary Calm?

According to Israeli sources, these negotiations could represent an initial step toward future normalization, although significant obstacles remain, particularly due to Damascus's insistence on rejecting any buffer zone in southern Syria. Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara previously warned that such a move would lead the region down a 'dangerous path.'