Syria Signals Openness to Talks With Israel on Golan Heights Dispute

Antalya—Sharaa on Friday said that could consider long-term negotiations with over the disputed , contingent on Israeli withdrawal from territories occupied following recent developments in Syria.

Speaking at a diplomatic forum in Antalya, Sharaa said Damascus was seeking either to revive the framework of the 1974 disengagement agreement or to establish a new arrangement guaranteeing security for both sides. He added that progress on such terms could open the door to extended negotiations on the broader Golan issue.

The remarks come after Israeli forces entered a United Nations-patrolled buffer zone separating Israeli and Syrian positions on the Golan Heights following the ouster of former Syrian leader in December 2024.

Sharaa accused Israel of violating the 1974 disengagement accord and said Syria was working toward a security agreement that would ensure Israeli withdrawal to positions held under that arrangement. He reiterated that any future negotiations would depend on restoring those lines.

Israel captured most of the Golan Heights from Syria during the and later annexed the territory, a move not recognised by most of the international community.

Earlier this year, Syrian Foreign Minister said ongoing discussions with Israel were focused on recently occupied areas and did not extend to the broader territorial dispute over the Golan Heights.

Israeli Prime Minister has repeatedly indicated that Israel does not intend to relinquish control over the territory it holds in the Golan Heights.