According to Syrian state media, the meeting, which also included Syria’s intelligence chief—focused on “non-interference in Syria’s internal affairs” and the monitoring of a Sweida ceasefire brokered by the United States in July.

Both sides reportedly reaffirmed their commitment to Syria’s territorial unity, rejecting “any projects aiming to divide it,” while stressing that Sweida and its Druze population are an integral part of the country.

Violence erupted in Sweida on July 13 after clashes between Druze fighters and Sunni Bedouins quickly escalated, drawing in government forces. Israel also launched strikes, claiming it acted to defend the Druze minority and enforce demands for demilitarisation in southern Syria.

“These talks are taking place under U.S. mediation, as part of diplomatic efforts aimed at enhancing security and stability in Syria and preserving its territorial integrity,” Syrian state news agency SANA reported. It added that the discussions produced “understandings that support stability in the region.”

Israel and Syria technically remain at war, with hostilities stretching back to 1948. The latest talks also touched on reactivating the 1974 disengagement agreement, which established a buffer zone on the Golan Heights after the 1973 Arab-Israeli war.

Humanitarian concerns were also raised, with both parties agreeing on the need to expand assistance for residents of Sweida and nearby Bedouin communities.

Source: Punch