Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has confirmed that his country is in advanced discussions with Israel regarding a potential security agreement, mediated by the United States.
Speaking to Arab media leaders, al-Sharaa emphasized that any framework would build upon the 1974 disengagement agreement between Israel and Syria, designed to protect Syrian sovereignty and pave the way for confidence-building measures.
According to Nadim Koteich, general manager of Sky News Arabia, who attended the meeting, al-Sharaa expressed optimism about reaching a security agreement with Israel, stating that the chances of success are greater than failure.
However, he noted that current circumstances aren’t ripe for a comprehensive peace treaty.
“If he believes a peace agreement will serve Syria and the region, he will not hesitate to do so and it will be done publicly,” al-Sharaa said.
The Syrian president stressed the need for a united Syria, opposing any groups possessing weapons except government forces.
Al-Sharaa’s stance aims to address the recent fighting between Sunni militant groups and minorities like the Druze and Alawites.
US Special Envoy Thomas Barrack has been facilitating talks between Israel, Syria, and Lebanon, pushing for a lasting security framework.
The negotiations aim to de-escalate tensions and address concerns around Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon and Syria’s internal stability.