Syria Asserts Sovereignty in Talks with Israeli Delegation

A high-level Syrian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and including the heads of General Intelligence and Military Intelligence, met with a high-level Israeli delegation on Sunday. This meeting took place in Jordan and was facilitated by the United States. The discussions primarily focused on de-escalation efforts and enhancing stability in Syria and the broader region. During the talks, Syria firmly rejected any proposals that would impose limitations on its sovereignty, asserting its right to rebuild and develop its military in alignment with its national interests. Additionally, Syria reiterated its claim over the Golan Heights, demanding the withdrawal of Israeli forces to the lines that existed prior to December 8, 2024, and called for the reactivation and full implementation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. The two sides also discussed measures to prevent tensions between Turkey and Israel from spilling over into Syrian territory. This meeting follows a recent Israeli airstrike on the Abu al-Duhur airbase in northern Syria, which Syrian officials clarified was intended for the Syrian Air Force rather than a Turkish military buildup, despite Israel's actions.