Amman: High-level Syrian and Israeli delegations met in Jordan under US mediation to achieve 'de-escalation' following recent Israeli strikes on Syrian territory, a diplomatic source told the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

According to Anadolu Agency, the Syrian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and included the heads of the General Intelligence Directorate and Military Intelligence. The meeting was initiated due to 'recent Israeli bombardment of Syrian territory and rising tensions in southern Syria' and aimed to 'support stability in Syria and the region.'

The discussions were centered on establishing 'practical mechanisms to halt Israeli attacks, arrests and targeting operations' and reviving negotiations for a security agreement that might lead to 'a more comprehensive future agreement.' The Syrian delegation emphasized Syria's status as 'a sovereign state' with the right to 'rebuild and develop its national army and determine its alliances and partnerships.'

Damascus expressed its unwillingness to accept any arrangements that would compromise these sovereign rights. Syria reiterated that 'the occupied Golan is Syrian territory,' but noted that discussing its final status is 'premature at the current stage.' The immediate priority, as per the source, is for Israeli forces to withdraw to the lines held before December 8, 2024, and for the reactivation and full implementation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.

The talks also highlighted the importance of 'supporting Syria's stability and preserving regional security,' which includes efforts to 'bring the positions of Trkiye and Israel closer together' to prevent tensions from affecting Syrian territory. The meeting aimed at taking 'practical steps toward de-escalation' while respecting Syria's 'sovereignty, territorial integrity, and sovereign rights.'