During a visit to Paris, Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa confirmed that indirect talks are ongoing between Syria and Israel, mediated by third parties, in an effort to ease tensions and avoid further escalation.
“There are indirect negotiations taking place through mediators to calm the situation and prevent it from getting out of control,” Sharaa said.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted Sharaa at the Élysée Palace, strongly condemned Israeli airstrikes on Syria, stating that such actions will not ensure Israel’s long-term security.
“You don’t ensure your country’s security by violating the territorial integrity of your neighbors,” Macron said during a joint press conference.
European Sanctions and Political Transition
Sharaa criticized the continued European sanctions on Syria, arguing there is no justification for them under the current administration. Macron, however, hinted that gradual lifting of sanctions could happen if Syria’s new leadership brings stability and respects human rights.
This visit marks Al-Sharaa’s first official trip to Europe since the fall of long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad. During the trip, Sharaa met with Farid al-Madhan — known as "Caesar" — the former military photographer who exposed torture and abuse under Assad’s regime.
Madhan’s evidence played a major role in the 2020 U.S. law imposing economic sanctions on Syria and prompted legal action in Europe.
France's Strategic Interest and Aid Concerns
France is now seeking to increase its influence in Syria, both politically and economically, as Russia’s dominance in the region weakens. French companies, like logistics giant CMA CGM, have already started securing long-term contracts — including a 30-year deal to operate the Latakia port.
At the same time, French NGO Mehad has raised concerns over worsening humanitarian conditions in Syria and called on Macron’s government to accelerate the disbursement of humanitarian aid.
“Macron’s strong words must be backed with swift action,” said Mehad director Mego Terzian.
A Push for Justice and Stability
France emphasized that Sharaa’s visit is part of its support for a democratic and peaceful Syria. Officials also stated that Sharaa must show commitment to justice, especially regarding past human rights violations.
> “We invited him here specifically to push him to go further in the fight against impunity,” said French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.
Sharaa previously led the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which played a central role in Assad’s ouster. He remains under a UN travel ban, and France likely had to secure an exemption for this visit.
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