Syrian foreign minister, Mossad chief meet to discuss easing tensions and resuming talks

Senior Syrian and Israeli delegations convened in Jordan on Sunday, facilitated by US mediation, to address de-escalation and stability in Syria and the broader region. A Syrian Foreign Ministry source revealed that a high-ranking Syrian delegation, headed by Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani and comprising heads of general and military intelligence, engaged in discussions with a senior Israeli delegation.

The talks, held in Jordan as part of US-brokered efforts, aimed to ease tensions and bolster stability in Syria and the region following recent Israeli airstrikes on Syrian soil and escalating tensions in southern Syria. The meeting, which followed the Israeli strikes, centered on devising practical measures to cease Israeli attacks, detentions, and targeted operations, as well as reviving negotiations for a security agreement that could serve as a basis for a comprehensive future accord.

During the deliberations, Syria underscored its sovereignty, stressing its right to rebuild and develop its national military and determine alliances and partnerships based on its national interests. Syria firmly rejected any arrangements that would curtail these sovereign rights, reiterating its claim that the occupied Golan Heights remains Syrian territory.

The immediate priority for Syria, as stated, is the withdrawal of Israeli forces to their positions prior to December 8, 2024, and the full implementation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. The talks also emphasized the importance of regional stability, including efforts to reconcile differences between Turkey and Israel and prevent tensions from spilling over into Syria.

Syria insisted that any security measures must respect its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and sovereign rights.