A high-stakes negotiation, reminiscent of the “art of the deal,” is underway between Israel and Syria, with the goal of forging a new era of coexistence. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed these talks on Sunday, adding that the entire negotiating climate in the north, including with Lebanon, has been transformed by Israel’s recent war with Hezbollah.
The main negotiation is with Syria, where the fall of the Assad regime brought a new and more willing party to the table. A Syrian official has stated that the two sides are working to finalize the terms of a comprehensive security and military agreement by the end of 2025.
In Lebanon, the deal involves a trade-off for the state: disarm Hezbollah in exchange for greater stability, international support, and a peaceful border with Israel. While Israel continues to apply pressure on Hezbollah, the U.S. is acting as a broker, encouraging the Lebanese government to accept the terms.
Netanyahu indicated that Israel’s strong opening position was established by its military performance. “Our victories… have opened a window for a possibility that was not even imagined before,” he said. He confirmed “some progress” in the deal-making process with Syria.
The key terms of the deal are emerging. Israel is asking for a demilitarized zone in southern Syria. In return, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is negotiating for an Israeli withdrawal from areas occupied in recent months. In Lebanon, the government has agreed to the “down payment” of starting Hezbollah’s disarmament in the south.