Decades of tension boil over as Syria fights to reclaim its land and assert sovereignty
US-mediated talks between Syria and Israel have resumed after several months, Syria’s state news agency SANA reported on Monday. Damascus demands the withdrawal of Israeli troops from areas seized after the fall of Bashar al-Assad.
Syrian Delegation and Goals
Syria’s delegation is led by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani and Intelligence Chief Hussein al-Salama. They aim to restore Syria’s non-negotiable national rights and demand Israel pull back to positions held before Assad’s ouster on December 8, 2024.
Syria also seeks a reciprocal security framework ensuring sovereignty and preventing interference in its internal affairs.
Focus on 1974 Disengagement Agreement
The talks focus on reviving the 1974 disengagement agreement, which established a UN-monitored buffer zone after the 1973 Middle East War. Israel had advanced further into Syria following Assad’s fall and intervened in missions protecting the Druze minority in southwestern Syria.
Previous US-mediated talks in Paris and Washington failed to produce a formal peace, though the disengagement accord maintained a fragile ceasefire for decades.
Critical Analysis: US-Mediated Security Talks
US mediation plays a strategic role in balancing power in the region. By hosting Syria-Israel negotiations, Washington strengthens its influence while appearing neutral. However, US involvement also raises concerns:
- Bias Risk: Israel maintains a strong US ally, potentially skewing negotiations.
- Regional Stability: Any misstep could reignite conflict, affecting Lebanon, Jordan, and the broader Middle East.
- Long-Term Peace: History shows US-led talks often maintain ceasefires but fail to resolve core sovereignty disputes, leaving a fragile peace. Every negotiation carries the weight of decades of war, lost lives, and shattered communities.
- The Middle East holds its breath as Syria and Israel resume talks.”