Historic Push for Israel-Syria Peace: Activist Delivers Urgent Message to Knesset

In a groundbreaking moment at Israel’s parliament this week, Syrian activist Shadi Martini delivered a powerful message straight from Damascus, echoing the words of Syria’s transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa. "We have an opportunity like this only once in a hundred years," Martini quoted al-Sharaa as saying during a recent meeting in the presidential palace. The urgency was clear: this window for peace won’t stay open indefinitely.

Martini, a longtime advocate for humanitarian ties between Syrians and Israelis, shared insights from his conversation with al-Sharaa, focusing on the potential for normalization and regional stability. Yet, tensions linger. Discussions in Damascus revealed concerns over Israeli military actions in Syrian territory, with al-Sharaa questioning how peace talks can progress amid such conflicts. Still, Martini remains optimistic, sensing a growing realization in Syria that peace with Israel could unlock economic prosperity and stability.

This historic message was conveyed to Israeli lawmakers during a regional security caucus at the Knesset, marking a rare dialogue. Martini, who once fled war-torn Aleppo and now champions multifaith cooperation, stood alongside Saudi and Israeli voices, calling the moment "historic." He noted Syria’s keen observation of Saudi Arabia’s openness to Israel, hinting at the broader economic incentives tied to President Donald Trump’s regional vision. The question remains: will Israel seize this chance, or let the promise of prosperity slip away?

Speculation about a U.S.-brokered Israel-Syria agreement has intensified, especially following recent meetings between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Netanyahu, speaking on FOX Business, teased the possibility of discreet diplomacy, suggesting that surprises—much like the Abraham Accords—could be on the horizon. A White House spokesperson affirmed Trump’s commitment to fostering peace across the Middle East.

Challenges persist, as Martini highlighted unresolved issues like Gaza, the need for a ceasefire, and the contentious matter of the Golan Heights. Yet, he believes the first step lies in returning to the 1974 armistice line. While peace with Israel remains a divisive topic in Damascus, Martini senses a shift in Syrian sentiment, with more recognizing the necessity of this path. Israeli lawmakers, he noted, appeared receptive, offering hope that direct communication from Syria might pave the way for clarity and progress.