Trump Calls for “Strong and True” Dialogue Between Israel and Syria

US President Donald Trump has urged Israel to engage in “strong and true” dialogue with Syria, emphasizing the importance of avoiding actions that could interfere with Syria’s development into a stable and prosperous nation.

The statement, posted on Truth Social on Monday, December 1, 2025, comes in the wake of Israeli military incursions and airstrikes outside Damascus that killed 13 civilians, which Syria’s fledgling government condemned as a war crime.

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Praise for Syria’s New Government

Trump did not specifically reference the recent Israeli incursion, part of a series of operations following the toppling of former leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Instead, he praised Syria’s new leadership under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has vowed to unify the country and rebuild after years of civil war.

“The United States is very satisfied with the results displayed, through hard work and determination, in the Country of Syria,” Trump said.
“We are doing everything within our power to make sure the Government of Syria continues to do what was intended, which is substantial, in order to build a true and prosperous Country.”

Trump also highlighted al-Sharaa as a regional leader promoting stability between Syria and Israel, expressing optimism for a long and prosperous relationship between the two nations.

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Recent Israeli Incursion and Civilian Casualties

Israel’s recent military operation in the town of Beit Jinn was officially aimed at targeting members of al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, a Lebanese branch of the Muslim Brotherhood. The group denied any activity outside Lebanon.

When residents resisted, Israeli forces launched airstrikes, resulting in 13 deaths, including two children. Syria’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attack as brutal, deliberate shelling and a “full-fledged war crime”.

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US-Israel Relations and Diplomatic Talks

Shortly after Trump’s statement, the Israeli Prime Minister’s office confirmed that Benjamin Netanyahu had spoken with Trump by phone. While details of the discussion were not released, the White House announced an invitation for Netanyahu to visit the White House in the near future.

Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda commander hosted at the White House last month, indicated that direct talks with Israel on a security agreement had begun. However, critics argue that Israeli military actions, including incursions into occupied Syrian territory, threaten to derail diplomatic efforts.

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Implications for Regional Stability

The recent escalations in Syria highlight ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly regarding Israeli-Syrian relations and the broader question of regional security. Analysts note that continued military strikes could undermine dialogue efforts, escalate civilian casualties, and hinder Syria’s post-conflict reconstruction.

Trump’s call for dialogue reflects a US policy focus on encouraging stability and negotiations between Syria and Israel, while condemning actions that might destabilize the fragile peace process in the region.