Syria Confirms Secret Meeting With Israeli Intelligence Officials in Jordan

The Syrian Foreign Ministry has confirmed reports by Channel 12 News that Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal al-Miqdad (also referred to as Asaad al-Shibani) and other senior officials met with top Israeli intelligence figures in Jordan. The meeting included Syria's head of general intelligence and military intelligence chief. It aimed to reduce tensions between Israel and Turkey to prevent spillover into Syrian territory.

The discussions focused on halting Israeli strikes in Syria and renewing negotiations on a security agreement between Jerusalem and Damascus. Syria emphasized that any agreement must not restrict its military development or alliances with other countries. Regarding the Golan Heights, Syria reiterated it is occupied Syrian land but stated that discussions about its status should occur at a later stage.

The talks resumed following a recent Israeli airstrike on a Syrian airbase, which had escalated tensions. Syria demands Israel withdraw its forces to positions held before December 8, 2024. Behind the scenes, a senior U.S. official disclosed that Israel informed Washington about Turkey's plans to deploy weapons systems at the Syrian airbase. Despite initial U.S. criticism of the Israeli strike, Washington considers Israel's intelligence credible.

The meeting between Israeli Mossad chief David Barnea and Syrian Foreign Minister al-Miqdad in Jordan was described by informed sources as positive and part of efforts to ease regional tensions. The Syrian Foreign Ministry's statement highlighted the importance of focusing on de-escalation and security arrangements before addressing broader territorial disputes.