A Syrian news channel reported yesterday, citing a diplomatic source, that Syrian and Israeli officials have agreed to hold another meeting after failing to reach a final agreement during American-mediated talks in Paris aimed at resolving the conflict in southern Syria.
The source described the discussions as candid and responsible, marking the first confirmation from the Syrian side regarding these communications.
The news channel noted that representatives from the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and intelligence officials participated in the talks.
The diplomatic source indicated that the meeting included initial discussions aimed at de-escalating tensions and reopening communication channels amid ongoing escalation.
The source clarified that the Syrian side held Israel accountable for the recent escalation, stating that “continuation of such aggressive policies threatens the region.” The dialogue also touched upon the potential revival of the 1974 disengagement agreement under international guarantees, alongside calls for the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from areas they have recently advanced into.
During the meeting, the Syrian delegation emphasized that the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of Syrian territory is a principle that cannot be negotiated and that Sweida and its residents are an integral part of the Syrian state, which cannot be undermined or isolated under any pretext.
The Syrian delegation further asserted that Damascus will not accept the imposition of new realities on the ground.
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In related news, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized yesterday the need to prevent a recurrence of violence in Syria. Following a conversation with the transitional Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara, he called for accountability for those responsible for the recent violent events in the country.
Macron shared on a social media platform that “the recent acts of violence in Syria reflect the extreme fragility of the transitional process… Civilians must be protected,” urging for a calm local dialogue to achieve the goal of unifying Syria while respecting the rights of all its citizens.
Meanwhile, the Syrian civil defense announced the transport of the fifth convoy of civilians wishing to leave Sweida province through the Busr al-Sham crossing.
According to the Syrian Arab News Agency, Shadi Hassan, the director of civil defense in Daraa province, stated that the convoy comprised around 300 individuals, including 20 injured people and eight bodies of victims, confirming that the convoy was escorted and secured until it reached its final destination in Damascus.
This effort is part of the ongoing initiatives by the Emergency Ministry, disaster management, and civil defense to ensure civilian safety and provide first aid and care for the injured.
The ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to intensify operations to provide humanitarian assistance and ensure that essential services reach those affected in impacted areas.
Additionally, sources revealed to Sky News Arabia yesterday the casualty figures from the tragic events in Sweida province, Syria.
Preliminary estimates indicate there have been 1,700 fatalities, including 200 from public security forces among the Druze and fighters from Druze factions.