Negotiations between Syria and Israel regarding the normalization of relations and a security agreement have encountered significant challenges, though they have not yet reached a complete deadlock.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing Anadolu Agency, that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa addressed these developments during his speech at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum held in Türkiye.
President Al-Sharaa stated that Damascus remains committed to achieving a security agreement that would ensure regional stability. He noted that while talks have not collapsed, the process is complicated by Israel's desire to maintain a presence within Syrian territory. Al-Sharaa claimed that Israel is maintaining a harsh stance toward Syria, but emphasized that Damascus has no intention of using force and will continue diplomatic efforts toward normalization.
Furthermore, the Syrian leader touched upon international cooperation, mentioning discussions with Kyiv to establish a platform for exporting food and essential goods through Syrian ports. He also highlighted ongoing work to establish a free trade zone between Syria and Türkiye in Idlib to strengthen industrial cooperation. Al-Sharaa praised Türkiye's regional role and its contribution to global stability, noting that Turkish companies are already participating in the restoration of Syrian infrastructure.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where these statements were made, is a high-level dialogue platform that brings together political leaders, diplomats, and academics to address pressing global and regional challenges. Since its inception, the forum has become a significant hub for mediation and peace initiatives in the Middle East and beyond. The inclusion of discussions on Syrian-Israeli relations and regional logistics underscores the forum's growing importance in navigating complex geopolitical tensions, including the impact of US-Iran relations on regional trade routes.
