Damascus governor declares desire for peace with Israel
- Damascus Governor Maher Marwan calls for peaceful relations and stresses that Syria poses no threat to Israel.
- Marwan blames the previous Assad regime for creating gaps between the U.S. and the Syrian people.
- The new leadership seeks to change historical animosities towards Israel and calls for support from the international community.
In December 2024, Maher Marwan, the newly appointed governor of Damascus, publicly announced a new direction for Syria's foreign relations, particularly concerning Israel. Speaking in an interview, Marwan emphasized that the Syrian people desire peaceful coexistence and have no animosity towards Israel, outlining a vision that contrastingly reflects the historical tensions between the two nations. Although Syria and Israel have been in a state of war since the establishment of Israel in 1948, Marwan insisted that Syria does not want to engage in any actions that threaten Israeli security. He noted that the previous Assad regime had created gaps between Syria and the United States, which he hopes to bridge through diplomacy and dialogue. Marwan's statements come at a time of significant change in Syria, following the downfall of the Assad regime amid ongoing conflicts in the region. He articulated a need for international support, particularly from the United States, to foster trust between the Syrian government and its citizens as well as to promote stability in the region. By extending an olive branch to Israel, Marwan acknowledges the complexities that such overtures entail, especially given Israel's concerns over radical factions near its borders. Notably, he enlisted the support of the U.S. to communicate these sentiments to Israel, highlighting a pragmatic approach toward regional dynamics and security. In addition to his peace overtures, Marwan acknowledged the historical fears that Israel may harbor towards Syria, noting that while it is natural for Israel to be cautious due to previous conflicts, the new Syrian leadership seeks to dispel such fears. By expressing a desire for mutual understanding and coexistence, Marwan hopes to redefine Syria's stance in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape marked by historical animosities. As discussions about forming healthier diplomatic ties unfold, Israel's response has been firm; it stresses the importance of maintaining security for its citizens and monitors the developments closely. This dialogue reflects a potential shift in the region's power dynamics and the quest for stability amidst a backdrop of longstanding conflicts and crisis.