Syria’s al-Sharaa says security deal with Israel could lead to peace
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa on Sunday said Syria is working to reach a security agreement with Israel with the participation of several countries, adding that Damascus seeks to avoid confrontation with Israel and has no interest in conflict.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, al-Sharaa said a successful security agreement with Israel could pave the way for comprehensive peace without compromising Syria’s claim to the occupied Golan Heights.
Addressing Lebanon, al-Sharaa said Syria does not intend to carry out any military intervention in the country and is discussing solutions with the Lebanese government aimed at helping Lebanon emerge from its crisis.
He said resolving Lebanon’s crisis would not necessarily require a security approach and that Syria is pursuing a comprehensive strategy, warning that any instability in Lebanon would directly affect Syria.
Al-Sharaa also voiced support for the Lebanese state’s exclusive authority over weapons and decisions related to war and peace, adding that Syria fears a wider regional conflict.
On Iraq, he said relations with Baghdad are continuing to improve.
Regarding Russia’s military presence in Syria, al-Sharaa said discussions with Moscow over the future of Russian military bases in the country have not yet concluded.
He also addressed the agreement signed with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on Dec. 29, saying implementation with the Kurdish side has been slow but that Damascus still considers the agreement important.
Al-Sharaa added that Syria has formed a committee to manage the missing persons file in line with international standards and in cooperation with countries that have relevant expertise.
He further said lifting economic sanctions would have limited impact unless Syria is removed from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism.