Washington: Syria's foreign minister stated that discussions with Israel aim to cease Israeli interference and military actions in southern Syria rather than accepting a new reality imposed by force.
According to Anadolu Agency, during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, Asaad al-Shaibani emphasized Syria's 'realistic path' towards Israel, concentrating on reconstruction and national recovery following the Dec. 8, 2024 fall of the Assad regime. Since then, Syria has encountered over 1,000 Israeli airstrikes targeting civilian and military facilities, along with ground incursions and territorial advances in the south.
Damascus opted for diplomacy to address these challenges, and with US support, initiated direct negotiations with Israel. Al-Shaibani clarified that these negotiations are not intended to accept the status quo imposed by Israel in southern Syria. The expected outcome is Israel's withdrawal from areas entered post-Dec. 8, cessation of interference in Syria's internal matters, and a stop to airspace violations.
Al-Shaibani stressed the importance of mutual security, noting that respecting others' security is crucial for preserving one's own. He mentioned Syria's openness in this regard. When questioned about the Israeli government's response to these demands, Shaibani accused Israel of exaggerating perceived threats, cautioning that their current policy could pose a significant risk to themselves.
The Syrian diplomat acknowledged US support in security discussions, highlighting President Donald Trump's role and Washington's backing. Despite an agreement on Jan. 6 to establish a US-supervised communication mechanism, Israeli forces continue near-daily incursions into Syrian territory, particularly in Quneitra.
These developments, including detaining civilians and destroying farmland, persist despite efforts to coordinate information sharing, reduce military escalation, and explore trade opportunities. Following the Assad regime's fall, Israel expanded its occupation of Syria's Golan Heights by seizing the demilitarized buffer zone, violating a 1974 disengagement agreement.
Syrians argue that continued Israeli violations undermine stability efforts and hinder government attempts to attract investment for economic improvement.