Syria, Israel Hold High-Level Talks Amid Resumption of Security Discussions

Syria and Israel hold high-level talks to defuse tensions following recent strikes. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani expects security talks with Israel to resume soon, despite acknowledging a lack of trust between the two nations.

Contact with Jerusalem was cut off in the wake of Israeli strikes on an airbase in northwestern Syria. Damascus anticipates negotiations with Jerusalem will restart soon, with the hope of securing a security agreement that includes Israel’s withdrawal from Syrian territory. Syria has informed Israel it will not accept restrictions on its right to develop its military capabilities or form alliances with other countries as part of any future security arrangement.

Syria's state-run SANA news agency reported Sunday night, citing a diplomatic source, that Syria would not limit its military buildup in security deal talks. He conveyed these expectations during an interview with Reuters in Damascus, Syria, on August 22, 2026. The discussions aim to address the ongoing tensions and establish a framework for future security arrangements between the two countries.