Dodi Irawan
DAMASCUS — Syria, through a significant statement from diplomatic figure Al-Scharaa in early 2026, is intensifying diplomatic efforts to achieve a security pact with Israel. This move involves a range of regional states to encourage a more balanced Israeli policy, while simultaneously paving the way for comprehensive peace without sacrificing Damascus' claim to the Golan Heights.
This ambitious initiative emerges amid ongoing regional volatility, signaling a shift in Syria's strategy for addressing prolonged tensions. Al-Scharaa emphasized that the primary goal is to avoid confrontations that harm all parties and to create the long-desired stability in the Middle East.
The Syrian government views the involvement of a group of states, from both the Arab League and other regional powers, as key to providing greater legitimacy and bargaining power in negotiations. This approach is expected to pressure Israel to consider significant concessions for a sustainable peace agreement.
Syria's claim to the Golan Heights remains central to any peace discussions. This strategic territory has been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day War and unilaterally annexed in 1981, an act not recognized internationally. Al-Scharaa stressed that the return of the Golan is a fundamental prerequisite for genuine normalization of relations.
“We are avoiding confrontations and hope to move Israel towards a more balanced policy through cooperation with a task force of states,” Al-Scharaa stated. This declaration reflects Syria's desire to seek pragmatic diplomatic solutions rather than remaining in an endless cycle of conflict.
Damascus' move is seen as a strategic effort on the international stage in 2026. With dynamic global geopolitics, seeking regional allies to mediate peace with Israel could be an effective way to gain international support and leverage.
Although the prospect of such a security agreement may seem difficult to achieve given the long history of conflict, the urgency of peace in the region is increasingly pressing. Various incidents, such as those in Cisjordania with the burning of mosques and mass arrests of Palestinians, demonstrate the fragility of the security situation in the area. (Read also: Cisjordania Ablaze: Mosque Burned, 80 Palestinians Arrested After Attack)
Middle East political analysts believe that Syria's offer has the potential to change the conflict paradigm. However, its success will largely depend on Israel's willingness to negotiate in good faith and the readiness of mediating countries to play an active and impartial role.
Initial discussions on the framework of the security pact will likely focus on demilitarized zones, border security guarantees, and future dispute resolution mechanisms. This process is expected to be highly complex and time-consuming.
The roles of the United States, Russia, and the European Union as global powers will also be crucial in supporting or even mediating these peace efforts. UN support will also provide the necessary international legitimacy for any agreement.
On the other hand, reactions from militant factions in the region, including those affiliated with Syria or opposed to Israel, will be a determining factor. Such a pact must be able to address their security concerns to be long-lasting.
By taking this proactive step, Syria sends a clear signal to the international community that it is ready for dialogue for regional stability. Although the road to peace is fraught with obstacles, this proposed security pact at least opens a new discourse amidst burning tensions.
The government in Jerusalem has not yet provided an official response to Al-Scharaa's proposal as of this report. However, pressure from international allies and internal needs to de-escalate regional tensions might prompt Israel to seriously consider this initiative.
This new chapter in diplomacy is hoped to bring positive change for millions of lives yearning for peace and security in a region long plagued by conflict. The world's eyes are now on the complex dynamics that will unfold at the negotiating table, searching for light amidst the shadows of war.
