Israel, Syria talks hit roadblock over issue of IDF operating in Syrian territory

TEL AVIV: Israel and Syria are continuing security discussions that could lead to a peace agreement between the two nations. However, a significant challenge has emerged in the talks, two sources familiar with the details reported to Israeli media.

The administration of Al-Sharaa has made it clear that under any agreement, Israel will not be permitted to operate or strike targets within Syrian territory. Israel, on the other hand, insists on retaining the ability to address security threats, particularly in scenarios where, as demanded by the Damascus administration, Israel withdraws from the buffer zones. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who in recent months described the Syrian president as a “terrorist in disguise” and warned against falling for his charm, stated that “Israel is interested in expanding the circle of the Abraham Accords.” He mentioned Syria and Lebanon as neighbors Israel seeks to include, while safeguarding its security interests.

Sa’ar emphasized, “Israel applied its laws to the Golan Heights over 40 years ago, and in any peace agreement, the Golan will remain an inseparable part of the State of Israel.” Sources familiar with the negotiations told media that even if an agreement is reached, “it will be a cold peace, at least in the initial stage.”

Such an agreement, if signed, would not alter the status of the Golan Heights but would pertain to the buffer zones between the two countries, which Israel seized following the fall of the Assad regime more than six months ago. “At this stage, it will be less a peace agreement and more a security arrangement aimed at cooperating against civilian threats,” one of the sources said. “Eating hummus in Damascus or sailing in Latakia is not expected anytime soon.” Additionally, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order that will cancel most of the US sanctions against Syria. This move is expected to make it easier for Sharaa to advance the talks with Israel.