UAE Backchannel Diplomacy: Bridging Israel-Syria Tensions

The UAE has initiated indirect talks between Israel and Syria, focusing on security and intelligence. These discussions, led by UAE, Syrian, and former Israeli intelligence officials, aim to ease growing tensions between the two nations. This effort comes amidst Israeli strikes in Syria and ongoing sectarian violence.

The United Arab Emirates has established a secret communication channel to facilitate talks between Israel and Syria, sources revealed. This initiative comes as Syria's new leadership seeks support to navigate its complex and tense relationship with Israel amid ongoing regional conflicts.

The confidential discussions, conducted by UAE, Syrian, and former Israeli intelligence officials, aim to build confidence and address security concerns. These talks began shortly after Syrian President Ahmed Sharaa visited UAE and are focused on technical aspects of regional security, excluding Israeli military activities in Syria.

The mediation effort emerged before recent Israeli strikes in Syria, which Israel claims were a response to perceived threats to the Druze community. Syria's government has condemned these strikes as provocative and part of a broader campaign against Islamist influence in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)