A Syrian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and General Intelligence Directorate Chief Hussein al-Salameh, has entered negotiations with Israeli officials in Paris, coordinated and mediated by the United States, according to Syria’s state news agency SANA. These discussions mark a renewed effort to address longstanding territorial disputes, including breaches of Syrian sovereignty in the Golan Heights and southern Syria.

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Focus of the Negotiations

A Syrian government source confirmed that the talks underscore Damascus’ unwavering commitment to restoring its national rights, which the country considers non-negotiable. The primary goal of these negotiations is the reactivation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, a framework intended to maintain security while respecting Syrian territorial sovereignty.

According to the source, the discussions focus on:

• The withdrawal of Israeli forces to positions held prior to December 8, 2014
• Establishing an equitable security arrangement to protect Syrian sovereignty
• Preventing external interference in Syria’s internal affairs

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Context: Israel’s Expanding Occupation

Since the fall of longtime leader Bashar al-Assad, Israel has extended its occupation beyond the internationally recognized Golan Heights, conducting multiple incursions and bombardments in southern Syria, particularly in Quneitra province.

A road in Quneitra province illustrates Israel’s rapid expansion in the region, highlighting the urgency for diplomatic negotiations to restore Syria’s territorial integrity.

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Mediation by the United States

The Paris talks are being mediated by the United States, signaling Washington’s continuing role in attempting to broker Middle East peace agreements. While previous rounds of negotiations have seen limited progress, Syrian officials emphasize that these discussions are rooted in Syria’s sovereign rights and the need for a fair security framework that prevents future violations.

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Syrian Government Perspective

Syrian authorities stress that these talks are part of a broader commitment to:

• Protect national sovereignty against foreign occupation
• Ensure full withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied territories
• Maintain peaceful, negotiated solutions that respect Syria’s territorial integrity

The government reiterates that any agreement must prioritize Syrian security and prevent external interference in the country’s internal governance.

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Broader Regional Implications

The renewed Syria-Israel negotiations come amid ongoing regional tensions, with the Golan Heights remaining a flashpoint in Middle East geopolitics. Analysts note that successful talks could stabilize the southern Syria region, reduce military incursions, and strengthen the international framework for peaceful dispute resolution.

Meanwhile, the expansion of Israel’s presence in Syria has prompted international calls for vigilance, emphasizing the need for diplomatic intervention and the restoration of full Syrian sovereignty.

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Key Takeaways

• Syrian delegation, led by al-Shaibani and al-Salameh, meets Israeli officials in Paris
• Negotiations mediated by the United States
• Primary goal: Reactivate the 1974 Disengagement Agreement
• Focus on full withdrawal of Israeli forces and protection of Syrian sovereignty
• Talks occur amid Israel’s ongoing territorial expansion in the Golan Heights and southern Syria