Israel, Syria Near Peace Deal Over Golan Heights
The agreement would mark a significant shift in the region, ending decades of tension and hostility, and could potentially pave the way for further peace deals in the Middle East. With the US expressing support for the agreement, the international community is hopeful that a lasting peace can be achieved.
A historic peace agreement between Israel and Syria is expected to be signed by the end of 2025, marking a significant shift in the region and ending decades of tension and hostility. Syria is not demanding the return of the Golan Heights as part of the agreement, instead seeking Israel's recognition of its new regime and a withdrawal from areas it took control of in southern Syria.
The agreement would be a major breakthrough in the region, with Syria seeking clearly defined security arrangements in southern Syria and the border triangle between Jordan, Syria, and Israel. The country is also seeking US support, according to a report by the Lebanese news channel LBCI. The report cites unnamed sources and notes that Syria's demands for the Golan Heights have been a major obstacle to previous peace talks.
Israel annexed the Golan Heights in 1967, a move not recognized by the international community except for the US. However, Syrian officials have revealed that their country will demand Israeli withdrawal from the Golan Heights as part of any future peace deal. The officials stated that while new Syrian leader Ahmad al-Sharaa is open to ties with Israel, his supporters prefer non-belligerence.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Turkey opposes any Israeli influence in Syria, fearing the country could become subservient to Israeli and Saudi interests. US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the possibility of a peace deal, stating that he had once believed Syria could also join the Abraham Accords, but acknowledged that the country's future remains uncertain.
The potential peace agreement between Israel and Syria is a significant development in the region, with implications for the future of the Middle East. As the two countries move closer to a deal, the international community will be watching closely to see how the agreement is received and what impact it will have on the region.