Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa said in an interview with Al Jazeera that his government is working toward a security agreement with Israel with the participation of a group of countries. He stated that Syria is avoiding confrontation with Israel and has no interest in conflict, but stressed that any deal would not require Syria to relinquish its claim to the Golan Heights, according to multiple Israeli media reports.
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa (also known as Abu Muhammad al-Julani) outlined his government's approach to relations with Israel in an interview with Al Jazeera on Sunday, in a series of remarks that were widely reported by Israeli media throughout the day.
Al-Sharaa stated that Syria is "avoiding confrontation with Israel" and has "no interest" in conflict. He said his government is working toward a security agreement with Israel, with the participation of a group of countries. If such a deal succeeds, he said, it could "pave the way for comprehensive peace." However, he stressed that Syria would not relinquish its claim to the Golan Heights, which he referred to as "occupied."
On Lebanon, al-Sharaa ruled out any military intervention, saying Syria has "no intention of conducting any military intervention in Lebanon." He expressed support for the Lebanese state's exclusive control over weapons and decisions of war and peace, and warned that chaos in Lebanon would directly affect Syria.
The interview marks the most detailed public statement by the Syrian leader on Israel policy since he took power. Al-Sharaa, who led the rebel offensive that toppled the Assad regime, has previously signaled a pragmatic approach, but Sunday's comments clarify his red lines: no armed involvement in Lebanon, and a security deal with Israel that does not require territorial concessions on the Golan. The remarks were reported by multiple Israeli outlets including N12, ynet, and Kan News affiliate Army Radio, as well as Arab media.
13 developments
- DevelopingSyrian President al-Sharaa's Independence Day greeting to Trump reported by Arab news channel
- DevelopingGraham: Syrian President al-Sharaa dramatically reduced Iran's influence, time to recognize
- StrongSyrian President al-Shara says would sit with Hezbollah 'at same table' if it serves Syria and Lebanon
- DevelopingAnalysis: Syria's al-Sharaa advances quiet Islamization behind diplomatic pragmatism
Source and signal
- Open-source intake