Syrian Activist Addresses Israeli Lawmakers on Peace Opportunities
This week, Syrian political activist Shadi Martini made a noteworthy appearance in Israel’s parliament. He conveyed a message from Ahmed Arshala, the transitional president of Syria. “We only have this opportunity once in a century,” Martini relayed, quoting Arshala from a conference held at the Presidential Palace. He emphasized, “The windows will not remain open forever.”
In a conversation with a news platform, Martini, who leads the Multifaith Alliance and has long advocated for cooperation between Syrians and Israelis, discussed the dialogue around potential normalization and regional security. However, he noted that there were points of tension as well.
Martini confirmed that President Arshala was aware his message could be communicated to Israel. “It wasn’t off the record. It was honest and accurate. The message was ‘action now,’” he stated.
Context of the Peace Talks
Reflecting on discussions at the Damascus Conference, which took place shortly after Eid al-Adha in June, Martini mentioned concerns over Israeli incursions into Syrian territory. Yet, he remained optimistic. “I definitely felt there was an opportunity,” he said. It seems that Arshala is personally invested, but there’s also a broader recognition that for Syria to attract investment and achieve stability, changes must occur.
Recently, Martini shared the same sentiment with Israeli lawmakers during the inaugural meeting of the Regional Security Caucus Committee, which was led by Knesset members. Having fled Syria in 2012 at the onset of war, he now directs a hospital in Aleppo. His presence, alongside Saudi analysts and Israeli officials, marked what he described as a “historic” moment.
Syria’s Outlook and Regional Dynamics
Martini indicated that Syria is closely observing Saudi Arabia’s willingness to establish relations with Israel under specific conditions. Both nations are questioning if a shift is possible, given the current circumstances, especially as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has met with President Trump in the White House recently.
In light of discussions, a White House spokesperson confirmed that “President Trump welcomes greater peace efforts in the Middle East and around the world.” When pressed for further details, Netanyahu expressed belief in the existence of a current opportunity for peace.
“I remember President Wilson saying, ‘I believe the Open Covenant has arrived openly.’ There are a few variations,” he mentioned, adding that he feels an “Open Covenant has secretly arrived.”
Challenges and Next Steps
Martini acknowledged lingering issues, such as the situation in Gaza and the path toward a Palestinian state, as well as the Golan Heights dispute. He argued that the first step should be a return to the 1974 ceasefire. Yet, he also recognized the complexities within Syria regarding peace with Israel, noting that while some extremists remain in the government, a growing number of Syrians see the potential benefits.
Martini observed an encouraging response from Israeli lawmakers, stating, “They really felt they were listening.” He hopes that the message from Syria will contribute to clearer discussions moving forward.
