Israel and Syria Resume Talks After Israeli Airstrike on Syrian Airbase

Israel and Syria held a meeting on Sunday to ease tensions following an Israeli airstrike on the Abu al-Duhur airbase in northwestern Syria. The meeting was confirmed by two informed sources, including a senior American official. Israel was represented by Mossad chief Ronen Gophman, while Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shibani attended on behalf of Syria. According to the sources, the meeting "went well," effectively resuming negotiations that had stalled amid heightened tensions after the strike and Israeli concerns over expanding Turkish military presence in Syria.

The talks follow recent expressions of interest from both Israeli and U.S. officials to restore direct communication channels between the two countries. This was not the first contact between Gophman and al-Shibani on the matter; on August 14, prior to the strike, Gophman held an unusual phone call with the Syrian foreign minister to convey Israeli concerns about developments at the Abu al-Duhur base and the potential increase of Turkish forces in Syria.

Despite the warnings, Israel proceeded with the airstrike, dropping at least eight bombs on runways and hangars at the base. Israel stated it acted on intelligence indicating Turkey intended to significantly expand its military presence in Syria, a move that could alter the security balance in the region. The main Israeli concern centers on Turkey establishing a permanent military foothold, including radar and air defense systems operated by Turkish troops, which could restrict Israeli Air Force operations, especially against Iranian targets.

Syria and Turkey denied the Israeli claims. Al-Shibani asserted that Damascus had informed Israel before the strike that no Turkish military buildup was occurring at the base. The Turkish Defense Ministry also denied that any Turkish military delegation was present at the site during or before the attack.

The strike sparked disagreement between Israel and the U.S. envoy to Syria, Tom Barrett, who called it an "unnecessary escalation" and urged dialogue over further military actions. Conversely, Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yacov Livne told Walla that Israel does not seek escalation with Syria or Turkey and hopes to renew direct negotiations with Damascus.