Overview

• The Prime Minister’s Office said talks are underway and any outcome depends on demilitarizing southwestern Syria and safeguarding the Druze community.
• Blue and White leader Benny Gantz backed pursuing a U.S.-supported accord while insisting Israel retain critical positions in Syria to protect Golan residents and preserve operational freedom against threats.
• Gantz added that any deal must ensure protection for Israel’s Druze allies and cautioned against Turkish influence modeled on Iran’s networks.
• Syrian President Ahmad al‑Sharra told the UN that Syria is open to dialogue and remains committed to the 1974 ceasefire, while previously saying Israel should withdraw as part of any security understandings.
• U.S.-mediated diplomacy included a September 17 meeting in London where Syrian and Israeli officials, with envoy Tom Barrack, discussed a draft to update the 1974 disengagement framework.