Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu believes peace agreement with Syria is achievable, but insists on creating a buffer zone.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that reaching a deal with Syria is feasible, provided that Syrian authorities establish a demilitarized buffer stretching from Damascus to Jabal al-Sheikh, currently under Israeli control. His remarks on Tuesday followed U.S. President Donald Trumps call for a long and prosperous relationship between Israel and Syria.

Negotiations over a security arrangement have been ongoing for months but have recently stalled, with little progress reported. Syria does not officially recognize Israel, which has increased its control over Syrian lands over the past year. Israel captured the Golan Heights during the 1967 war and later annexed the region, a move acknowledged by the U.S. but rejected by most of the international community.

Following the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Israel expanded its presence into Syrian territory, including the entirety of Jabal al-Sheikh, a strategic mountain overlooking northern Israel and southern Syria. Israeli strikes have continued despite Damascus insistence that it does not seek confrontation, with the latest attack last Friday in Beit Jinn resulting in 13 fatalities.

Netanyahu emphasized, We expect Syria to create a demilitarized zone from Damascus to the buffer area, including Mount Hermon and its peak. These areas are held to safeguard Israeli citizens, and we remain committed to this principle. He added that an agreement with Syria is possible if both sides demonstrate goodwill and understand these terms, though Israel will uphold its stance regardless.

The Trump administration has worked to mediate a non-aggression agreement between the two nations, praising Syrias new President Ahmed al-Sharaa for efforts to stabilize the country after years of conflict. Trump noted that the U.S. supports Syrias progress and is committed to ensuring its government continues building a prosperous nation, highlighting the potential for improved Israeli-Syrian relations under al-Sharaas leadership.

Following Trumps statement, Netanyahu reportedly spoke with him by phone. Israeli media has indicated that negotiations are at an impasse, primarily due to Israels refusal to retreat from territories acquired in the past year. Israel has also sought to maintain an aerial route through Syria to Iran for potential future military operations.

Author: Gavin Porter