Syria and Israel Reportedly Near Historic Peace Accord by End of 2025, Including Withdrawal from Occupied Territories

Reports suggesting a comprehensive peace treaty might be finalized between Syria and Israel by the close of 2025 herald a potentially transformative chapter in the Middle East's complex geopolitical landscape. This prospective breakthrough would signify a fundamental paradigm shift in the relationship between the two nations, which have been locked in open confrontation for decades. Central to the proposed agreement is the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from all Syrian territories occupied during recent military actions, specifically including the strategically vital summit of Mount Hermon.

Direct communications between the involved parties are already underway, lending considerable weight to the rumors surrounding the deal. One intriguing proposal suggests the Golan Heights region could be transformed into a “Garden of Peace,” hinting at the possibility of joint economic and development projects. This initiative aims to pivot the focus from antagonism toward constructive collaboration. The Golan Heights, a territory spanning approximately 1,800 sq. km, has been under Israeli control since 1967, and was formally annexed in 1981—a move that lacks broad international recognition, including from the United Nations. This historical backdrop underscores the deep-seated security and stability requirements for both Damascus and Jerusalem.

According to Lebanese sources, the current negotiations may reflect a significant change in priorities for the Syrian side. The new administration, led by Ahmed ash-Shaaraa, which assumed power in December 2024, is reportedly concentrating on achieving international legitimation and securing the withdrawal of troops from territories occupied since January 2025. This strategic pivot, shifting the emphasis from reclaiming all territorial claims to gaining political recognition for the new government, acts as a catalyst for progress. Media reports indicate that Syria is not insisting on the full return of the entire Golan Heights area. Ahmed ash-Shaaraa, the de facto head of Syria since December 2024, has been actively pursuing international recognition, evidenced by his recent visit to the White House on November 11, 2025.

Concurrently, Israel’s stance remains resolute. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar emphatically stated in June 2025 that the Golan Heights would remain an integral part of Israel regardless of any final peace settlement. Analysts suggest this declaration could potentially become a stumbling block to the full success of the talks, as the return of the Golan has traditionally been a non-negotiable prerequisite for Damascus. Furthermore, the international community—specifically Qatar, Jordan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Germany—has previously voiced apprehension regarding Israel’s plans to expand settlements within the Golan region.

The successful realization of this settlement, targeted for the end of 2025, hinges on the capacity of both sides to view the other not merely as an adversary, but as a mirror reflecting their own aspirations for security and prosperity. The current de facto demarcation line, which runs through a demilitarized zone monitored by UN forces, could potentially be superseded by a new framework founded upon cooperation. Achieving this outcome demands that all participants undertake a profound re-evaluation of their internal assumptions regarding what constitutes an immutable position.