Al-Shaibani urges reinstatement of the 1974 security accord between Israel and Syria and calls for Israeli withdrawal from occupied zones. Statements coincide with high-level political talks between Damascus and Brussels.
Israel must cease activities that “undermine” Syria’s stability and aim for a “stable and comprehensive” security agreement, declared Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in an exclusive interview with Euronews.
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Al-Shaibani expressed these views while a senior political delegation met in Brussels amid ongoing efforts by Israel and Syria to enhance relations after years of conflict.
In January, the nations recommenced talks facilitated by the US, focused on reducing tensions along their shared border and reinstating a United Nations-monitored buffer zone.
“Our goal is to establish a security agreement with Israel,” Al-Shaibani told Euronews’ Europe Today show. “We anticipate these negotiations will culminate in a calm, all-encompassing accord that honours Syria’s sovereignty.”
The Syrian minister emphasized that Damascus differentiates between restoring diplomatic ties and setting a peace framework, adding, “We reject normalisation carried out under military pressure or provocations.”
Since the insurgent offensive led by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa ousted Bashar al-Assad after the 2024 civil war, Israeli authorities have largely disregarded the 1974 accord that set up a buffer zone between the two forces.
Consequently, Israeli troops have occupied territories in southern Syria and launched strikes within the country, citing self-defence as their rationale.
“Israel continues to destabilize Syria, threatening its security and attacking both military and civilian targets based on false and unconvincing motives,” Al-Shaibani stated.
The minister demanded reinstatement of the 1974 agreement with Israel’s withdrawal from areas seized after December 8, 2024.
Moreover, he warned that ongoing conflict in Iran jeopardizes Syria’s “fragile” economy as the nation pursues reconstruction following extensive war damage.
Damascus has urged the international community, including the European Union, to support rebuilding initiatives. The EU, together with the Trump administration, has eased economic sanctions to alleviate pressure on Syria’s economy.
“Currently, we are focused on rebuilding Syria’s economic foundations and restoring regional economic partnerships,” he explained. “Any conflict of this scale in the region significantly impacts our economy as well.”