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Syrian and Israeli officials have agreed to continue negotiations aimed at reducing tensions in southern Syria, following a round of diplomatic talks held in Paris.
The meeting, which included United States Ambassador to Türkiye and Syria Special Envoy Tom Barrack, did not yield a final agreement. However, according to Al-Ikhbariya Syria, citing a diplomatic source, both sides committed to maintaining dialogue.
“While no final deal was reached, the parties agreed to continue discussions and explore ways to stabilize the situation in Syria’s south,” the source said.
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The diplomatic exchange came after violent clashes erupted in Sweida between Druze armed factions and Bedouin tribal groups earlier this month. The Syrian government deployed forces to restore order, prompting Israeli airstrikes in the area.
The Syrian delegation reportedly blamed Israel for the escalation and denounced its air campaign, stating that such “hostile behavior” posed a direct threat to regional stability. Damascus emphasized it would not accept any effort to “impose new realities on the ground.”
A source close to the Syrian side described the talks as “honest and responsible,” underlining their goal to reopen communication channels amid growing instability.
The Israeli army launched airstrikes on multiple days following the deployment of Syrian forces to Sweida. Though Israel claimed the actions were to protect Druze civilians, the Syrian government condemned the strikes as unjustified aggression.
A ceasefire declared by the Syrian Presidency on July 19 was quickly undermined, as clashes resumed between Syrian troops and Druze fighters. The Israeli army continued air raids, including strikes near Damascus and Deraa.
Regional actors — including Türkiye — are engaged in ongoing efforts to prevent further escalation.
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