Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa has revealed that his government is engaged in indirect talks with Israel in an effort to halt Israeli attacks on Syria.
During a news conference in Paris, al-Sharaa stated, "There are indirect negotiations (with Israel) via mediators to calm and contain the situation so matters don't reach a point where both sides lose control."
He further added, "We are trying to speak to all the countries that are in contact with the Israeli side to pressure them to stop interfering in Syrian affairs."
Al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of Israel adhering to the United Nations-brokered 1974 disengagement agreement with Syria, which involves withdrawing to the designated boundary to allow for the return of UN peacekeepers.
Since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad, Israel has expanded its presence in Syrian territory and conducted numerous attacks to prevent the reestablishment of military capabilities. Israel's actions have raised concerns about its prolonged military presence in Syria.
Israel has established a buffer zone in southern Syria to protect the Druze minority and recently announced the deployment of Border Police inside Syrian territory for the first time.
"The Israeli interventions have violated the 1974 agreement. Syria remains committed to upholding this agreement since our arrival in Damascus," Al-Sharaa affirmed.
Reports indicate that the United Arab Emirates has facilitated back channel talks between Israel and Syria, focusing on security, intelligence cooperation, and confidence-building measures. However, UAE officials deny any direct involvement in mediating talks between the two nations.
CNN has reached out to the Israeli Prime Minister's Office for comments on the ongoing discussions.
CNN's Eugenia Yosef contributed to this report.