Diplomatic sources in Paris reported that Syria, during negotiations with Israel, has insisted on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Syrian territory as a precondition for a security agreement - a demand that continues to delay progress.

This reflects Syria’s position. Annahar has learned that a meeting is expected tomorrow, Wednesday, between French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and U.S. envoy to Syria Tom Barrack, who is mediating between Israel and Syria. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, attending a meeting of the 27 countries on Ukraine in Paris, has also joined the negotiations.

Barrot welcomed his Syrian counterpart Asaad al-Shaibani in Paris yesterday.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss strengthening bilateral relations in support of a stable new Syria, following the minister’s visit to Damascus in January 2025 and President Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s visit to Paris in April 2025.

The minister praised Syria’s decision to join the international coalition against ISIS and welcomed the operation carried out on January 3, 2026, in coordination with the United Kingdom and the Syrian transitional authorities.

He further expressed France’s full support for the Syrian transitional authorities’ efforts to uncover the truth behind civilian violations on the coast and in Sweida between March and July last year. He also reaffirmed his backing for a transitional process that respects all segments of Syrian society.