US announces formation of intelligence-sharing cell between Israel, Syria

The United States has announced that Israel and Syria have agreed to set up a joint communications cell to coordinate several security issues, mainly the exchange of intelligence and efforts to reduce military escalation between the two sides.

In the same context, Israel confirmed that it took part in security talks with the Syrian side in the French capital, Paris. The talks were held under US mediation and sponsorship, and aimed to “discuss ways to enhance regional stability”, as well as to explore “opportunities for economic cooperation”.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement that the talks were held as part of “the vision of US President Donald Trump to advance peace efforts in the Middle East”.

Netanyahu’s office added that “the Israeli delegation stressed during the meetings the need to ensure Israel’s security and prevent any potential threats on its borders”.

The statement said Israel “expressed its commitment to supporting stability and security in the region”, while also stressing “the importance of making progress in areas of economic cooperation that would benefit both sides”.

The move comes amid ongoing US efforts to reopen communication channels between regional parties whose relations have been tense for years.