In a recent interview with the Jewish Journal, Syria’s self-declared president Ahmad Sharaa — formerly known as Abu Muhammad al-Julani, a former Al-Qaeda figure — made a striking statement claiming that Syria and Israel share “common enemies” and could potentially cooperate on regional security. His comments have raised eyebrows amid ongoing Israeli military operations in Syria and Palestine.

 

Syria and Israel have remained in a state of conflict since 1948, with diplomatic relations completely severed. Israel has occupied the Syrian Golan Heights since 1967, a move condemned internationally. In recent years, Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian territory, claiming to target Iranian-linked groups, while causing repeated civilian casualties. Against this backdrop, Syria’s leadership has traditionally condemned Israeli actions, particularly its treatment of Palestinians and occupation of Arab land.

 

Julani’s remarks come just days after fresh Israeli airstrikes in Syria’s Latakia and Tartous governorates, which reportedly killed one and injured three. Despite these ongoing attacks, the Syrian leader stated that “the era of endless tit-for-tat bombings must end” and hinted at a desire to pursue dialogue with Israel, provided there is “honesty and a clear path to coexistence.” These statements have been widely interpreted as a potential softening of Syria’s historical stance against normalization with Israel.

 

Julani’s interview could signal a major policy shift, indicating a possible opening to normalize ties with Israel — even as Israel maintains its occupation of Syrian territory and continues bombing Gaza. The phrasing of “common enemies” is being viewed as a strategic signal, possibly referencing regional powers like Iran or extremist groups. However, any move toward normalization would face significant internal and regional resistance, especially given the current scale of Israel’s actions in both Syria and Palestine.

 

While the political narrative hints at future cooperation, the humanitarian situation in both Syria and Palestine remains alarming. Civilian deaths from Israeli airstrikes in Syria continue, while Palestinians in Gaza suffer daily from intense military operations. Critics argue that floating the idea of normalization while these crises continue raises ethical concerns and risks sidelining the human cost of ongoing conflicts.

 

 

There has been no official Israeli response to Julani’s statements. However, the choice to deliver these remarks to a Jewish media outlet, amid fresh attacks on Syrian soil, has drawn criticism. Observers believe this could be an early attempt to test public and regional response to normalization. Many Syrians and Palestinians may view the comments as a betrayal, particularly at a time when Israeli policies in Gaza and the Golan Heights remain aggressive and uncompromising.

 

Julani’s remarks have opened the door to speculation about a potential shift in Syria’s approach to Israel. While no formal steps toward normalization have been announced, the rhetoric suggests a new direction may be under consideration. Given the continued Israeli occupation and military activity, whether such a shift gains momentum — or faces immediate backlash — remains to be seen in the weeks ahead.