Story perspectives

Syria's Minister Calls for Peace Talks with Israel

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said negotiations with Israel aim to end military actions in southern Syria and restore sovereignty.
At the Munich Security Conference, al-Shaibani criticized Israeli incursions and called for mutual security.
Al-Shaibani cited over 1,000 Israeli airstrikes since December 2024 and urged Israel's withdrawal from occupied territories.
He said reconstruction requires international cooperation after some U.S. sanctions were lifted and welcomed the new government's unity and diversity.

History

Historical Context

The 1963 Partial Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, signed by the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom, aimed to curb nuclear testing and promote global security. This historical context resonates today as Asaad al-Shaibani calls for negotiations with Israel amidst ongoing conflict in southern Syria, where over 1,000 Israeli airstrikes complicate efforts for peace and stability in the region.

1 of 2

Story summary

Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said negotiations with Israel aim to end military actions in southern Syria and restore sovereignty.
At the Munich Security Conference, al-Shaibani criticized Israeli incursions and called for mutual security.
Al-Shaibani cited over 1,000 Israeli airstrikes since December 2024 and urged Israel's withdrawal from occupied territories.
He said reconstruction requires international cooperation after some U.S. sanctions were lifted and welcomed the new government's unity and diversity.

1 / 2