Syria and Israel Revive Security Talks Mediated by the U.S.

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Christina GoldbaumJanuary 6, 2026 at 03:24 PM

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U.S.-mediated talks between Syria and Israel resumed in Paris on Tuesday, aiming to reduce tensions along their border. The discussions, led by American special envoy Thomas J. Barrack Jr., focus on reviving a UN-patrolled buffer zone between the two countries' forces. The Syrian delegation, headed by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and intelligence chief Hussein al-Salama, is seeking Israeli withdrawal from territory seized after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government in 2024. These talks are part of an effort by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to gain international support and signal a more conciliatory approach to Israel. A security deal could also help both countries gain favor with the Trump administration, which has been pushing for a U.S.-brokered agreement. Syria and Israel have been officially at war since 1948, with the Golan Heights remaining a key point of contention.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Donald Trump 50% Ahmed al-Sharaa ×250% Bashar al-Assad ×250% Paris ×250% SANA ×260% Thomas J. Barrack Jr. 60% Asaad al-Shaibani 60% Hussein al-Salama 60% Golan Heights ×270% United States ×270% Syria ×1090% Israel ×990%

Keywords

syria-israel talks 100% reducing tensions 80% golan heights 70% u.s.-mediated 70% trump administration 60% buffer zone 60% security deal 50% international stage 40%