For the first time, Syrians are expressing a desire for peace with Israel, signaling a notable shift in the country’s political landscape. Journalist Furat Alali from Damascus emphasized the change, stating, “We want a future without wars. We want to live.” This sentiment captures the burgeoning discussion among many Syrians about the possibility of normalizing relations with Israel, coinciding with reported direct talks between the two nations. These conversations focus on security issues along their shared border and mark a significant departure from years of enmity, reflecting a new willingness among the Syrian populace to openly voice their opinions and aspirations for peace.
The context for this shift includes a reorientation of U.S. foreign policy, particularly following President Donald Trump’s meeting with Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. This meeting signaled a break from decades of hostility toward the Assad regime, fostering an environment where normalization between Syria and Israel seems achievable. Sources indicate that the U.S. has been instrumental in facilitating dialogue and encouraging Syria’s new leadership to engage with Israel, further opening the door to potential peace talks. While still in early stages, these developments suggest that new diplomatic opportunities may be on the horizon, despite the inevitable complexities involved.
Many Syrians share a collective weariness for the long-standing exploitation of the Palestinian cause, a sentiment illustrated by personal narratives from those affected by the ongoing hardships of war. As Lina Ali, a young pharmacist, articulated, “We feel for the people of Gaza…but we are in a different situation. We are thinking about our own interests now.” This perspective is echoed across generations, with an elderly man reflecting on the futility of decades of Arab nationalism and calling for a turn towards peace. Their voices represent a broader realization that focusing on domestic interests and rebuilding is paramount, rather than remaining entrenched in a narrative centered around external conflicts.
Historically, Syria’s foreign policy has been characterized by its alignment with Iran and Hezbollah, particularly within the framework of the “Axis of Resistance” against Israel. However, the emergence of interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa introduces uncertainties. While some view his leadership positively, as a potential catalyst for change, others remain cautious, recalling the tumultuous past embodied by groups like Jabhat al-Nusra. Nonetheless, Sharaa’s strategy appears to be aimed at gaining international acceptance and lifting sanctions, indicating a pragmatic approach to Syria’s future that some Syrians are accepting with cautious optimism.
Joseph Braude, founder of the Center for Peace Communications, has noted the growing public support in Syria for a shift toward economic partnerships and away from pro-Palestinian militancy, which has often been exploited by leaders to justify authoritarianism. There is a notable desire amongst ordinary people to redefine their identities and build new pathways towards peace and development. This emerging consensus reflects a broader yearning in the region for self-determination and stability, suggesting that peace with Israel may be seen as a viable route toward reconstruction and recovery from prolonged conflict.
As different segments of Syrian society voice their support for normalization with Israel, the overarching sentiment is one of disillusionment with years of suffering. Many individuals have articulated a strong desire for peace, indicating that improving relations with Israel, the U.S., or any other entity that could aid in alleviating their plight is worth pursuing. As one interviewee voiced, “If normalization with Israel, or America, or whoever can bring us comfort, then I’m on board.” Such statements epitomize a renewed hope among many Syrians for a future characterized by peace and prosperity, highlighting a transformative moment in the region’s ongoing narrative.
