U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack stated that Syria and Israel are close to reaching a “de-escalation” agreement, under which Israel would halt its attacks while Syria agrees not to move any heavy machinery or equipment near the Israeli border.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Barrack said the agreement would be the first step toward a broader security deal currently under negotiation between the two countries.

Syria and Israel are engaged in talks aimed at securing a deal that Damascus hopes will lead to a cessation of Israeli airstrikes and the withdrawal of Israeli forces that have advanced into southern Syria.

Barrack added that U.S. President Donald Trump has been working to broker an agreement between the two sides, with hopes of announcing it this week. However, progress has been limited so far, and the Jewish New Year holiday has slowed the process.

The U.S. envoy noted, “Syria and Israel are approaching the talks in good faith.”

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa stated that Israel “must return to the status before December 8, 2024, and we have made it clear that we will not pose a threat to anyone.”

He emphasized that “the success of any agreement with Israel would pave the way for other accords that help promote peace across the region.” ⁽¹⁾