Syrian, Israeli Ministers Expected to Meet in Baku Amid Southern Syria Security Talks

Syrian and Israeli officials, including Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, are holding high-level meetings in Baku to address escalating security issues in southern Syria, particularly following deadly clashes in the Druze-majority Sweida province. These talks follow prior meetings in Paris and Baku and occur amid increased diplomatic activity, including al-Shaibani's unprecedented visit to Moscow, which is believed to be linked to recent communications between Russian and Israeli leaders. The discussions, brokered with U.S. involvement, aim to de-escalate tensions and include proposals such as transferring Druze provincial oversight to the U.S., withdrawal of government and tribal forces, formation of local Druze councils, and restrictions on armed groups near the Israeli border. Israel has conducted military strikes in Syria targeting government sites, citing protection of the Druze community, while the U.S. brokered a ceasefire after the July 18 clashes. The ongoing dialogue marks a rare direct engagement between two countries technically at war since 1948 and reflects efforts by all sides to manage conflict in a historically volatile region.