Syria has shifted its position in ongoing peace talks with Israel by no longer demanding the return of the Golan Heights, territory captured by Israel in 1967. Instead, Damascus is prioritizing Israeli recognition of its new government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa. Additionally, Syria seeks the withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) from southern Syrian areas occupied since January 2025, as well as the establishment of security arrangements along the border. The first phase of the expected normalization between the two countries includes signing a security and military agreement and respecting the existing separation of forces agreement. Syria is also reportedly seeking backing from the United States for these arrangements. These developments mark a notable change in Syria’s negotiation stance, focusing on formal recognition and territorial adjustments in southern Syria rather than reclaiming the Golan Heights.