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Are Syria and Israel close to peace?
While talks have resumed and both sides are engaging diplomatically, significant hurdles remain. Syria demands a clear timeline for Israeli troop withdrawal and security guarantees, but progress is slow. Clashes and military tensions continue, indicating that peace is still a work in progress rather than an imminent reality.
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What are the main issues in Syria-Israel talks?
The core issues include Israel's military presence in territories seized after 2024, Syria's demand for a binding withdrawal timeline, and security arrangements. Additionally, the status of the UN-monitored buffer zone and regional influences, especially Turkey's role, complicate negotiations further.
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Will there be a timeline for troop withdrawal?
Syria is insisting on a clear, binding timeline for Israeli troop withdrawal from territories captured after Assad's fall in December 2024. However, Israel has been accused of stalling talks by using technicalities, making a definitive timeline uncertain at this stage.
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Why are clashes still happening in northern Syria?
Clashes persist mainly between Syria's government forces and Kurdish-led SDF fighters. Disagreements over integration into the Syrian army and control of Kurdish-majority areas, along with regional tensions involving Turkey, contribute to ongoing violence despite diplomatic efforts.
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What role does Turkey play in the Syria-Israel conflict?
Turkey is deeply involved, mainly due to its concerns over Kurdish forces and regional stability. PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan has called for dialogue to ease tensions, and Turkey's stance influences the broader peace process, especially regarding Kurdish integration and regional security.
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Can the US mediate a peace deal between Syria and Israel?
Yes, U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack Jr. is actively mediating, aiming to revive the 1974 disengagement agreement and establish security guarantees. While progress is slow, U.S. involvement remains crucial in facilitating dialogue and reducing regional tensions.