Syrian President Says Near-Deal with Israel Fell Apart, Rejects Golan Claims

At an Atlantic Council session on the margins of the UN General Assembly, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa claimed that Damascus and Israel were on the brink of a security agreement, estimating the talks were about 90% complete before Israel withdrew for reasons it set. He argued that successful security measures could pave the way for a lasting peace deal, while reiterating that the Golan Heights are Syrian territory under UN recognition by more than 137 countries.

Responding to a question about the October 7 massacre, al-Sharaa expressed sympathy for the victims but argued that Israeli policy should not be driven solely by that incident, noting the ongoing humanitarian toll in Gaza. He also praised his relationship with President Donald Trump, recalling a joke about New Jersey made during a White House visit, and stressed that the Golan’s status cannot be transferred by any leader. The remarks reflect Syria’s continued diplomatic outreach despite the absence of a finalized accord.