Khaberni - A Hebrew report revealed that Syrian and Israeli officials might soon meet under American mediation to finalize a security agreement between Damascus and Tel Aviv.
The "i24 News" website quoted a source, said to be close to the Syrian government, stating that the talks, which may take place in Paris, will also include discussions on potential joint strategic and economic projects in the buffer zones between the two countries.
He added, "There is a very optimistic talk indicating the possibility of opening an Israeli embassy in Damascus before the end of this year, due to significant progress in the likelihood of Syria joining peace agreements."
The source explained that the original Syrian plan was limited to a security agreement and the opening of an Israeli liaison office in Damascus without diplomatic status, but "developments are accelerating significantly under pressure from the United States, particularly from President Trump, along with increasing Syrian openness."
The source mentioned that if Damascus managed to reach an agreement similar to its agreement with the Kurds in north-eastern Syria with the Druze community in southern Syria, and with Israel's commitment to respect Syria's unity and territorial integrity, Syria would be prepared to elevate the agreement with Israel to include diplomatic relations and opening an Israeli embassy in Damascus.
The source added that the Syrian government sees a possible compromise to advance the peace process with Israel, which might include leasing the Golan Heights for 25 years and transforming the area into a "peace park" for joint economic projects.
The source also indicated that Trump is seeking to bring together Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shar` in peace agreement signing ceremonies.
It is worth noting that Israel has repeatedly refused to return any part of the Golan Heights.
In a domestic context, the source mentioned that Damascus intends to adopt a new local administration system based on extensive administrative decentralization to enhance the participation of local communities in all Syrian provinces, which could resolve ongoing conflicts with the Druze, Kurds, Alawites, and other minorities.
The source confirmed that a new Syrian government is expected within the next three months.
