The head of Syria’s transitional phase, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, affirmed that “Syria deserves to live in security and peace,” noting that “this serves the interests of the region and the world.”

In an interview with the American program 60 Minutes on CBS News, al-Jolani said, “We have not provoked Israel since our arrival in Damascus, and we would rather not pose a threat to it or to any other country.”

He emphasized that “Israel’s targeting of the presidential palace was not meant to send a message, but rather to declare war,” but clarified that Damascus “does not wish to engage in wars.”

He also pointed out the “need for Israel to withdraw from any territory it occupied after December 8, 2024,” adding that “Syria will be open to international partnerships that respect its sovereignty.”