Golan Heights Dispute Highlights Stalled Israel-Syria Negotiations
A public exchange between Israel's prime minister and Syria's president at the UN General Assembly brought into view a key obstacle in their stalled talks. Syria's leader said Damascus wants peace but demands the return of the Golan Heights, while Israel rejected withdrawal from the territory and Mount Hermon. The negotiations, which started two years ago, had already halted after an Israeli strike on an airport in Idlib.
Talks began two years ago, then froze after an Israeli raid on Abu al-Duhur airport in Idlib. Syria seeks return of the Golan, occupied since 1967, and wants Israeli forces out of areas taken after Assad’s December 2024 fall, restoring the 1974 disengagement framework. Israel rejects withdrawal from the Golan, Mount Hermon and the security zone.
Under Assad, Damascus had agreed to lease the Golan to Israel for 15 years, extendable. Negotiators reportedly reached agreement on 90% of a security arrangement. Syria offered southern demilitarization and a secure trade corridor. Israel cites possible Turkish influence and fears Syrian territory could be used to attack Golan settlements.
The stalled talks may affect Golan residents, displaced Syrians, and communities in northern Israel and southern Syria, whose security and property claims remain unresolved. Continued deadlock could harden public mistrust and delay trade, diplomatic ties, and regional stabilization. If negotiations resume, any security arrangement might reduce border tensions, but failure may leave civilians exposed to renewed strikes and displacement. International observers could face pressure to clarify occupation, withdrawal, and refugee issues.