US Eyes Breakthrough Ahead of UNGA
Syria is fast-tracking security talks with Israel under pressure from Washington, which is keen to announce progress before the UN General Assembly later this month. According to sources, the US wants President Donald Trump to present the deal as a diplomatic success. Even a limited agreement, they say, would be significant given Israel’s hardened stance and Syria’s fragile position after years of conflict.
Focus on Southern Syria
The proposed deal reportedly centers on securing the withdrawal of Israeli troops from territory recently seized in southern Syria and restoring the demilitarized buffer zone established in 1974. Damascus is also pushing for an end to Israeli air strikes and incursions, though the sensitive issue of the Golan Heights has been left “for the future,” officials familiar with the talks said.
Trust Deficit and Tensions
Despite progress, mistrust remains a major obstacle. Israel has shown reluctance to give up gains near Damascus, while Syria accuses Israel of exploiting unrest in its south to tighten control. Talks have been hosted in Abu Dhabi, Baku, and Paris, but each round has been overshadowed by fresh clashes, sectarian tensions, and Israeli strikes on Syrian positions.
US Mediation and Strategic Goals
American officials are drawing parallels to past Egypt-Israel agreements, hoping phased steps could eventually pave the way for wider peace. However, Israeli negotiators are unwilling to consider any concessions on the Golan Heights, which Trump recognized as Israeli territory during his first term. For Syria’s leadership, any compromise on Golan would be politically devastating.
Regional Complications
Developments in Sweida, where Druze militias have gained ground and allegedly received Israeli support, have further complicated the picture. While Syria seeks to centralize control, Israel has used the unrest to strengthen its influence. Both sides, however, agree on the need to limit Iranian, Hezbollah, and Palestinian militant activity near the border.
Narrow Path Forward
Analysts say Syrian leaders may pursue the talks not only to avoid military confrontation but also to secure economic aid and reconstruction support from Washington and Gulf states. Still, with deep mistrust and unresolved territorial disputes, the path to a lasting deal remains fragile and uncertain.
