Damascus seeks diplomatic solution with Israel, says Al-Sharaa

Damascus does not intend to use force against Israel and remains committed to achieving a security agreement that will preserve regional stability, Syria's transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has announced.

"Negotiations on the normalization of relations and the conclusion of a security agreement between Syria and Israel have not yet reached a dead end, but they are facing serious difficulties due to Israel's persistent desire to maintain its presence on Syrian territory," the Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing the transitional leader's statement. Al-Sharaa further noted that while Israel is maintaining an extremely tough stance toward Syria, Damascus will continue to work toward a purely diplomatic normalization of bilateral relations despite ongoing tensions in neighboring Lebanon.

The transitional president also addressed broader regional cooperation, noting that work is underway to establish a free trade zone between Syria and Turkiye in Idlib to promote industrial collaboration. He highly praised Turkiye's role in the region and the significance of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, stating that Turkish companies are already actively participating in the restoration of Syrian infrastructure. Regarding relations with Ukraine, Al-Sharaa highlighted an initiative to create a platform for exporting essential goods and food products through Syrian ports. He concluded by urging Middle Eastern nations to utilize Syria's logistical capabilities to restore trade routes and mitigate the impacts of the conflict between the United States and Iran.

The statements come at a critical juncture for Syria as the transitional government seeks to rebuild the nation's economy and re-establish its standing in the international community. Following years of internal conflict, the focus on diplomatic normalization and regional trade partnerships represents a strategic shift toward stabilization. The involvement of regional powers like Turkiye and the potential for maritime cooperation with Ukraine underscore Syria's efforts to leverage its geographical position as a logistical hub between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.