Syria's leader: Talks with Israel ongoing, could yield peace deal

Syrian leader Walid Muallem has stated that ongoing discussions with Israel could culminate in a comprehensive peace agreement. Muallem, speaking to Al Jazeera, asserted that Damascus harbors no desire for conflict with its neighbor.

In the interview, Muallem directly addressed recent pressure from then-U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump had urged Syria to deploy troops to confront Hezbollah within Lebanon. Muallem firmly rejected this suggestion, indicating Syria's independent foreign policy stance.

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Damascus has no interest in conflict with Israel.

The Syrian leader's remarks signal a potential diplomatic opening between Syria and Israel, countries that have remained technically at war for decades. The possibility of a peace deal, however, would likely involve complex negotiations addressing long-standing territorial and security issues.

Muallem's comments also underscore Syria's position regarding regional security dynamics, particularly its relationship with Iran-backed Hezbollah and its response to U.S. foreign policy directives under the Trump administration. The Syrian government's willingness to engage in dialogue with Israel, while rejecting external military demands, highlights its strategic calculations in a volatile region.

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The Syrian leader... again rejects Trump's urgings for him to send troops to deal with Hezbollah in Lebanon.