KABUL: International media reports indicate that Israel and Syria have engaged in direct talks in recent weeks aimed at “reducing violence in border areas and preventing clashes.”
According to Reuters, the discussions are seen as a significant development in the relations between the two countries, which have been involved in Middle Eastern conflicts for decades. The talks began following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad’s regime last December.
Additionally, the U.S. has been working to strengthen ties between the new governments in Damascus and Israel, leading to a decrease in Israeli strikes on Syria.
The meetings from the Syrian side are led by a senior security official, Ahmad al-Dalati, who has also recently taken charge of security in Sweida province.
Sources report that several rounds of face-to-face discussions have occurred in Israeli-controlled border areas. While the identities of the Israeli representatives remain unknown, they are believed to be security officials.
The talks are currently focused on joint security matters, such as preventing conflicts and reducing Israeli incursions into Syrian border villages. Two sources told Reuters that these discussions could pave the way for broader political agreements, but they do not signify normalization of relations.
Just days ago, interim Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara confirmed the start of indirect talks with Israel, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates.
