Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa announced that his government will not enter into direct negotiations with Israel at this time, citing the ongoing Golan Heights dispute and Syria’s unique geopolitical situation.  

“I believe Syria’s situation is different from those who joined the Abraham Accords. Syria shares a border with Israel, which still occupies the Golan Heights since 1967. We are not going to enter into direct negotiations right now,” al-Sharaa stated.  

However, the Syrian leader left the door open for future talks with the potential involvement of the United States. “Maybe the United States administration, with President Trump, will help us reach that kind of negotiation in the future,” he added.  

Al-Sharaa’s remarks underscore Syria’s cautious approach toward normalization with Israel, contrasting sharply with the recent wave of peace agreements signed by several Arab nations under the Abraham Accords. Analysts note that Syria’s insistence on U.S. mediation reflects both the strategic importance of the Golan Heights and a desire to leverage American influence in any potential diplomatic process.  

The statement signals that while Syria is not yet ready to engage in direct dialogue with Israel, it recognizes the potential role of strong U.S. leadership — particularly from President Trump’s administration — in facilitating a future path toward negotiation.