Netanyahu Does Not Rule Out An Agreement with Syria and Calls for a Buffer Zone

SadaNews: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that reaching an agreement with Syria is possible, and he expects Syria to establish a demilitarized buffer zone from Damascus to Mount Hermon and other areas.

Netanyahu spoke during a visit today, Tuesday, to Israeli soldiers who were injured in clashes in the village of Beit Jinn in the Damascus countryside last Friday when an Israeli force entered the village and faced resistance from the locals.

He said, "Through understanding and goodwill, an agreement can be reached with the Syrians, but Israel is determined to prevent the positioning of terrorists and hostile acts near the border and to defend the Israeli towns near the border, including the northern border."

He emphasized that Israel is "determined to defend its Druze allies and to remain safe from any ground attack from the border areas," indicating that he expects Syria to work on establishing a weapon-free zone from Damascus to the buffer zone, especially Mount Hermon.

He explained that his government is determined to keep southwestern Syria weapon-free and will continue to control the areas it currently holds.