In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa revealed Damascus is pursuing a security agreement with Israel, while warning of the dangers of chaos in Lebanon.

Key Takeaways

  • Syria is actively pursuing a security arrangement with Israel involving international mediation.
  • President Al-Sharaa emphasized that Syria's claim to the Golan Heights remains non-negotiable.
  • Damascus has ruled out military intervention in Lebanon despite regional rumors.
  • A special committee has been formed to address the issue of missing persons from the civil war.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has made a landmark revelation, stating that Damascus is actively working toward a security agreement with Israel. Speaking in an exclusive interview on Al Jazeera’s Al Muqabala program, Al-Sharaa indicated that such a deal, facilitated by multiple nations, could serve as a vital gateway to comprehensive regional peace.

Crucially, the President addressed the sensitive issue of territory, assuring that any security arrangement would not compromise Syria’s sovereign rights to the occupied Golan Heights. This comes at a time of heightened tension, following repeated Israeli strikes in southern Syria since the collapse of the Assad government in late 2024.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Al-Sharaa is attempting a delicate balancing act: seeking stability and economic relief through diplomacy while maintaining nationalistic integrity. By pivoting away from the confrontational stance of the previous regime, Syria is signaling a desire to reintegrate into the international community.

This shift could redefine the geopolitical landscape of the Levant and alter the dynamics of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Regarding the volatile situation in Lebanon, Al-Sharaa dismissed rumors of Syrian military intervention. He instead advocated for the Lebanese state to regain a monopoly on weapons and maintain control over its territories. He warned that any descent into chaos in Lebanon would have immediate and devastating repercussions for Syria.

Historical Background

Since the transition of power in December 2024, Syria has struggled with internal stabilization and external pressures. The ongoing conflict involving the SDF in the north and the humanitarian crisis involving hundreds of thousands of missing persons continue to challenge the new administration's legitimacy and reach.

Did You Know?: Estimates of missing persons in Syria vary wildly, from the UN's 100,000 to local commission claims of up to 300,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Will Syria give up the Golan Heights for peace?
Answer: No, President Al-Sharaa explicitly stated that the deal would not compromise Syria's rights to the territory.

Question 2: Is Syria planning to enter Lebanon?
Answer: No, the President confirmed there is no intention for military intervention in Lebanon.