A significant development is unfolding in the Middle East, as former warlord Ahmad al-Sharaa, who seized power in Syria last year, may consider relinquishing the country’s claim to sovereignty over the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. This potential move is part of a broader agreement that could lead to normalized ties with Israel, according to a report by Lebanese media. The Golan Heights, a 1,800 square kilometer region in Syria’s Quneitra Governorate, has been a point of contention between Israel and Syria since the 1967 war, when Israel captured a large portion of the territory and effectively annexed it in 1981.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been active in the region, carrying out airstrikes against Syrian troops loyal to the current government, which Israel claims are intended to protect the local Druze population. The Druze are an ethnoreligious minority community that inhabits the contested region. Lebanese broadcaster LBCI reported that a proposed deal between Israel and Syria could involve Israel recognizing al-Sharaa’s legitimacy, withdrawing troops from areas seized since his December takeover, and agreeing to Syria’s military presence near its borders with Israel and Jordan, with certain restrictions.
In exchange for these concessions, Israel is expected to secure full sovereignty over the Golan Heights, according to sources familiar with Syrian affairs. However, internal hardliner opposition, including from the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, could potentially derail the effort. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar stated that Israel will maintain control of the Golan Heights under any future peace arrangement with Syria. Al-Sharaa has been seeking international recognition since ousting President Bashar Assad, and the United States has taken steps to facilitate the flow of foreign aid for Syria’s reconstruction, with President Donald Trump lifting most US sanctions on the country.
The potential normalization of relations between Israel and Syria is a significant development, and the outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched by the international community. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the proposed agreement will come to fruition, and what implications it may have for the region. One thing is certain, however: the fate of the Golan Heights remains a crucial aspect of any potential peace arrangement between Israel and Syria.
