Demilitarization and Druze: The Demands Netanyahu Is Making to Syria

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday that Israel is engaged in direct security negotiations with Syria. The talks, according to Netanyahu, are aimed at securing Israel's interests, with a primary focus on the demilitarization of southwestern Syria.

The prime minister's statement marks the first official confirmation of the high-stakes talks, which have been hinted at for weeks. A central component of the discussions is also reportedly the protection of the Druze population in the region.

The talks come despite a recent escalation of military actions. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda leader whose forces overthrew the Assad government last year, claimed that since a previous "de-escalation" agreement, Israel has carried out over 1,000 strikes and more than 400 ground incursions into Syrian territory.

Sharaa, speaking at an event in New York, expressed concern that Israel might be intentionally stalling the negotiations. The earlier de-escalation reports, brokered by US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, stipulated that Syria would not move heavy military equipment near the Israeli border.

Netanyahu's confirmation signals a complex and delicate diplomatic process, where official talks are proceeding even as military tensions remain high. The negotiations are a critical effort to stabilize a volatile border region and address Israel's long-standing security concerns.