UAE opens backchannel for indirect talks between Israel, Syria amid tensions

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has facilitated a backchannel for indirect talks between Israel and Syria.

These previously unreported talks, which focus on security, intelligence, and confidence-building measures, aim to address the increasingly tense relations between the two countries that have no formal diplomatic ties, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The effort, which began shortly after Syrian President Ahmed Sharaa's visit to the UAE on April 13, is centred on "technical matters" with a potential for broader discussions in the future. The backchannel remains focused on security-related issues, particularly counterterrorism and does not address military matters, such as Israeli army activities in Syria. The mediation mechanism involves UAE security officials, Syrian intelligence officers, and former Israeli intelligence officials. However, none of the involved parties have publicly commented on the discussions. 

The backchannel initiative preceded Israeli airstrikes in Syria, including an attack just 500 meters from Syria's presidential palace in Damascus. Israel has justified these strikes as a response to threats against Syria’s Druze community, a minority group with ties to Israel.

Syria has condemned the strikes as an escalation, emphasising its efforts to achieve national unity after years of civil war and repeatedly reassuring Israel that it does not pose a threat. Israel’s operations in Syria have largely aimed at weakening Iran and its allies, including Hezbollah, which has increased its presence in Syria. 

Despite this, the UAE sees its ties with Israel as a key avenue for addressing issues with Syria, especially given the absence of direct diplomatic relations between Syria and Israel. Damascus views the UAE's relationship with Israel, forged through the 2020 US-brokered Abraham Accords, as an important means of engagement.

By Naila Huseynova