Israel Confirms Dialogue with Syria, Cites Failed Security Deal

A senior Israeli political source revealed on Wednesday that Israel maintains communication channels with the Syrian regime and considers Syrian President Bashar al-Assad a "partner in dialogue." The source, speaking to i24NEWS, also disclosed that a previous attempt to reach a security agreement between the two sides approximately a year ago was unsuccessful.

The source explained that Syrian motivation for such an agreement waned after certain sanctions were lifted. Israel, for its part, was unwilling to withdraw from a buffer zone, which it considers a security asset, as part of any potential security settlement. "We did not believe that within the framework of a settlement or security agreement we should withdraw from a buffer zone that is fundamentally a security asset," the source stated.

Despite the failure to reach a formal agreement, the dialogue between Israel and Syria continues on various levels. The source also addressed Turkish activity in Syria, particularly the establishment of Turkish bases south of existing lines, deeming it contrary to Israeli interests and indicating that Israel is acting accordingly.

Regarding President Assad, the source indicated that Israel assesses him based on his history, his intelligence record, and the political forces supporting him. The assessment also considers Assad's political base, which includes individuals whose viewpoints are not necessarily moderate. The article also briefly mentions the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission's findings regarding 75 tons of uranium at the Deir Ezzor reactor, though this appears to be a separate point.