Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has said his country is working toward a security agreement with Israel. In an interview with Al Jazeera, he explained that several other countries are taking part in the talks. He hopes the deal could open the door to wider regional peace.
Al-Sharaa made clear that any agreement would not change Syria’s claim to the Golan Heights. Israel has controlled the area since 1967, a move that Syria and most of the world do not accept. He stressed that Syria wants to avoid military clashes and has no interest in fighting Israel.
The Syrian leader also spoke about Lebanon. He said Damascus has no plan to send troops there. Instead, Syria is talking with Lebanese officials about ways to help the country through its current problems using peaceful means.
Since al-Sharaa’s government took power in late 2024 after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Israel has carried out strikes and moved forces in parts of southern Syria. Talks between the two sides have been ongoing with help from other nations, including earlier steps toward sharing information and reducing risks along the border.
