Israel and Syria Engage in Talks Through Multiple Channels Amidst Prospects of a Security Agreement

Israeli media outlets have revealed that Israel and Syria are engaged in discussions through multiple channels, with the aim of establishing a new security framework and potentially paving the way for diplomatic normalization. According to reports, these talks are not yet part of an official normalization process but are focused on redefining border security and creating a foundation for future diplomatic engagement.

Gradual Normalization and U.S. Involvement

The Israeli news site Walla reported that the U.S. prefers a gradual approach to rebuilding Israel-Syria relations, while Israel seeks clarity on whether a full peace agreement, including normalization, is achievable in the long term. An unnamed Israeli official was quoted as saying, “The U.S. prefers a step-by-step approach to rebuilding Israel-Syria relations. Israel, on the other hand, wants to know in advance whether a full peace agreement, including normalization, is possible.”

Proposed Security Agreement

In early June, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly informed the U.S., through Special Envoy Tom Barrack, of his desire to negotiate a new security agreement with Syria following the fall of the Baathist regime led by Bashar al-Assad. According to senior Israeli officials, Netanyahu’s goal is to initiate a phased process that begins with an updated version of the 1974 Israel-Syria Disengagement Agreement and could eventually lead to a comprehensive peace deal.

Golan Heights: A Key Issue

Israel has occupied a significant portion of Syria’s Golan Heights since 1967. In late 2024, following the fall of the Baathist regime, Israel declared that the 1974 disengagement agreement was no longer valid and occupied several buffer zones, including the strategically important Mount Hermon (Jabal al-Sheikh), located just 35 kilometers from Damascus. Israeli officials reportedly view these areas as bargaining chips and are only willing to consider withdrawal if full normalization is achieved.

Four Channels of Communication

According to Walla, Israel is currently engaging with Syria through at least four different channels. Diplomatic and strategic dialogue is being conducted through Prime Minister Netanyahu’s National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi, Mossad Director David Barnea, and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, while military coordination is being handled by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Foreign Minister Saar recently stated that Israel is open to an agreement with Syria but emphasized that the Golan Heights would remain an “inseparable part of Israel” in any future deal.

Prospects of a “Cold Peace”

The Jerusalem Post reported that while security talks are ongoing, they face significant obstacles that could lead to a “cold peace” rather than full normalization. Unnamed sources indicated that the Syrian government has made it clear it will not allow Israeli operations on Syrian territory under any agreement, while Israel insists on security guarantees. The newspaper noted, “Even if an agreement is reached, it will likely be more of a joint security arrangement against civil threats rather than a full peace treaty in the initial phase.”

Increased Israeli Strikes on Syria

Although the new Syrian government does not pose a direct threat to Israel, Israeli airstrikes on Syria have increased significantly since the fall of the Assad regime in late 2024. These strikes have resulted in civilian casualties and targeted military facilities and ammunition depots, particularly in the provinces of Quneitra and Rif Dimashq.

The ongoing talks between Israel and Syria represent a significant, albeit cautious, step towards redefining their relationship. While the prospect of a full peace agreement remains distant, the discussions aim to establish a new security framework and potentially pave the way for future diplomatic engagement. The Golan Heights and security guarantees remain key sticking points, and any agreement is likely to be incremental rather than comprehensive.