Axios: US envoy facilitates early progress on Middle East security talks

Israel and Syria are engaging in good-faith discussions over a potential security agreement, with both sides expressing mutual intent and willingness to work toward an understanding, according to Tom Barrack, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria.

“Constructive dialogue between these nation states is the on-ramp to a long-lasting understanding that will be the preface to stability and prosperity in the region,” Barrack told Axios. 

While the talks are ongoing and more work remains, officials view them as a significant step toward normalisation, given Syria’s history of multiple conflicts with Israel since 1948.

During the discussions, Israeli and Syrian ministers explored the creation of a humanitarian corridor to Suwayda, aimed at delivering aid from Israel to the Druze community there. Behind the scenes, a U.S. official noted that the parties also discussed a new security deal to replace the 1974 Israel-Syria separation of forces agreement, which could serve as a first step toward broader regional normalisation. 

“The meeting was good, constructive, and respectful,” the official said. “Each side raised its concerns, and both made clear they want to stabilise and calm down the situation in southern Syria. More work needs to be done, but there is no hostility or anger, and both sides want to reach understanding.”

In parallel, Barrack has also been handling the Lebanon portfolio since being assigned two months ago. His mission is to strengthen the new Lebanese government, encourage steps toward disarming Hezbollah, and lay the groundwork for future normalisation with Israel. He presented the Lebanese authorities with a proposal to permanently end the war with Israel, noting that the ceasefire reached in November 2023 has not been fully implemented.

Three weeks ago, Lebanon’s Cabinet initiated a process to address the U.S. demand for Hezbollah disarmament, asking the military to draft a plan—a move unprecedented in a country where Hezbollah has long held both military and political influence.

Meanwhile, Barrack and U.S. diplomat Morgan Ortagus have urged Israel to reciprocate by scaling back strikes in Lebanon and gradually withdrawing remaining forces from southern areas. The diplomats met Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, Ambassador Gilad Erdan, and Israel’s defence and foreign ministers, emphasising the importance of “creating positive momentum.”

Israeli officials expressed readiness to take some steps requested by the U.S. contingent, but stressed that progress would depend on the Lebanese military’s ability to manage Hezbollah. The meetings also included discussions on the ongoing negotiations with Syria regarding a security agreement.

Upon their arrival in Beirut, the diplomats met with Lebanese officials. Shortly before this visit, Netanyahu issued a statement commending Lebanon’s initiative to disarm Hezbollah by the end of 2025, calling it a “momentous decision.”

He added, “In light of this important development, Israel stands ready to support Lebanon in its efforts to disarm Hezbollah and to work together toward a more secure and stable future for both nations. If the Lebanese Armed Forces take the necessary steps to implement the disarmament of Hezbollah, Israel will engage in reciprocal measures, including a phased reduction of IDF presence in coordination with the US-led security mechanism.”

By Tamilla Hasanova