Syria needs ‘comprehensive security agreement’ with Israel, foreign minister tells Euronews
Syria Needs ‘Comprehensive Security Agreement’ with Israel, Foreign Minister Tells Euronews
Syria needs comprehensive security agreement – Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, has emphasized the necessity of reaching a “calm and comprehensive” security pact with Israel, stating that such a deal is crucial for stabilizing the nation. The remarks were shared during an exclusive conversation with Euronews, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts to mend ties between Syria and its northern neighbor after years of intermittent conflict. Al-Shaibani underscored that Damascus remains committed to restoring peace and sovereignty, despite the challenges posed by recent Israeli military maneuvers.
Brussels Meeting Marks Shift in Syria-Israel Relations
The foreign minister’s comments coincided with a high-level political gathering in Brussels, where Syria and Israel are working to strengthen their diplomatic ties. This meeting comes amid renewed discussions between the two nations, facilitated by the United States, to address lingering tensions along their shared border. The goal is to reestablish a UN-monitored buffer zone that has been in place since the 1974 agreement, which once served as a framework for reducing hostilities.
Al-Shaibani described the push for a security agreement as a strategic priority, noting that it would provide a foundation for long-term stability. “We aim to conclude a security arrangement with Israel that ensures peace and safeguards Syria’s independence,” he explained. The minister highlighted the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue rather than unilateral military actions, which he argued have undermined regional cooperation.
“We hope that these negotiations will lead to a calm and comprehensive agreement that respects Syria’s sovereignty,” Al-Shaibani said. “We do not want normalization to occur under the shadow of military force or provocative acts.”
The push for a peace framework has been complicated by Israel’s recent military operations in southern Syria. Since the end of the civil war in 2024, when Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa led a successful campaign to oust Bashar al-Assad, Israeli forces have taken control of several key areas. These moves have been justified by Tel Aviv as acts of self-defense, but Damascus views them as direct threats to its territorial integrity. The foreign minister criticized Israel for failing to adhere to the terms of the 1974 agreement, which originally outlined a demilitarized zone between the two countries.
Al-Shaibani also called for the reactivation of the 1974 pact, urging Israel to withdraw from the territories it occupied following December 8, 2024. “The current situation reflects a departure from the principles that once guided our relationship,” he stated. “Without this agreement, Syria’s security remains vulnerable, and its progress toward stability is at risk.” The minister’s concerns were echoed by Syrian officials, who have consistently maintained that a formal security deal is a prerequisite for broader diplomatic normalization.
Regional Conflicts Impact Syria’s Economic Recovery
While focusing on security, al-Shaibani also raised alarms about the broader economic challenges facing Syria. He warned that the ongoing war in Iran poses a significant threat to the country’s “fragile” economic landscape, particularly as Damascus seeks to rebuild its infrastructure and restore public services. “Any major conflict in the region has far-reaching consequences for Syria’s economy,” the minister noted, emphasizing the interconnectedness of regional stability and national recovery.
Syria’s leadership has actively sought international support for its reconstruction efforts, appealing to the European Union and other global partners. The EU, alongside the Trump administration, has taken steps to ease economic pressures by lifting sanctions that were imposed during the Assad regime. This move has allowed Syria to regain some financial flexibility, though the country still faces substantial hurdles in reviving its economy.
“Now we are in the process of rebuilding Syria’s economy and restoring economic partnerships across the region,” Al-Shaibani remarked. “However, the instability in neighboring countries, especially the Iran conflict, continues to threaten our progress.”
The minister’s remarks reflect a dual challenge for Syria: securing a lasting peace with Israel while navigating the economic fallout from neighboring wars. Damascus has positioned itself as a key player in regional diplomacy, advocating for a balanced approach that addresses both security and economic concerns. “The collapse of the buffer zone and the use of military force have disrupted our economic development,” he said, adding that the international community must prioritize stability in Syria’s broader geopolitical context.
Recent Israeli strikes in southern Syria have not only targeted military installations but have also damaged civilian infrastructure, raising questions about the true intent behind their actions. Al-Shaibani argued that these operations are part of a broader strategy to weaken Syria’s position, rather than a temporary measure to protect Israeli interests. “Israel has not calmed down, threatening stability in Syria and destabilizing military and civilian facilities under false pretenses,” he claimed, calling for an end to the provocative tactics that have persisted since the 1974 agreement was effectively suspended.
As the talks with Israel continue, Syria remains determined to assert its sovereignty and rebuild its economy. The foreign minister’s statements underscore the nation’s resolve to turn the page on decades of conflict, even as it faces pressure from external actors. “We are committed to achieving a peaceful resolution,” al-Shaibani said, “and we believe a comprehensive security agreement is the first step toward a more secure and prosperous future for Syria.”
With the international community playing a critical role in Syria’s recovery, the country is closely monitoring developments in its relations with Israel. The success of these negotiations could determine whether Syria emerges as a stable regional partner or continues to struggle under the weight of external military interventions. As the rebuilding process gains momentum, Damascus is seeking to align its economic and security goals with global initiatives, ensuring that its path to recovery is both resilient and sustainable.
In summary, Syria’s foreign minister has painted a clear picture of the nation’s priorities: securing peace with Israel through a comprehensive agreement and stabilizing its economy amid regional upheaval. The path forward will require careful diplomacy, a commitment to sovereignty, and support from the international community. As the country works to rebuild, the outcomes of its talks with Israel will be closely watched as a barometer for its broader aspirations in the region.
