Israeli Media Claims Russia Mediates Secret Security Talks Between Tel Aviv and Damascus
Israeli media outlets have reported that Russia is secretly working to bring Tel Aviv and Damascus closer to signing a security agreement. According to these sources, the initiative is pursued with the approval of the United States, and the talks are being conducted through Azerbaijan.
Citing Al-Mayadeen network, these media have stated that Moscow is acting as a mediator between Israel and the governing administration in Damascus, led by Abu Mohammed Jolani. Meetings and communications are taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital. Israeli sources say that high-level officials from both sides continue to travel to this city.
A security source referenced by Israeli media acknowledged that despite Russia’s efforts, deep disagreements and mistrust persist between the two parties, though signs of progress in some areas of dialogue have emerged in recent weeks.
The report further notes that Moscow-Damascus relations are strengthening, with Russia having transferred its troops and military equipment to the coastal areas of Latakia last month. Observers suggest this move could have regional security implications.
According to the same sources, Tel Aviv prefers Russia’s military presence in southern Syria to be more prominent than Turkey’s role. Within this context, Assad Al-Shaybani, the foreign minister of the governing administration in Damascus, traveled to Moscow last Wednesday and met with Sergey Lavrov, describing his visit as an effort to elevate bilateral relations to a strategic level.
