Israel Syria Peace Talks

On May 21, 2008, Syria confirmed reports that they were conducting indirect peace talks, mediated by Turkey, with Israel. Since an Israeli Bomb Raid on Syria targeting a suspected nuclear facility in September, 2007, the two countries have been moving towards formal peace talks.

The talks, which have been going on behind the scenes for months, center around Israel's recognition of the pre-1967 Borders and the return of the Golan Heights to Syria.

However, negotiations are also motivated by Syria's desire to improve relations with the United States and the world, and Israel's hope that Syria will end its support for militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.

Some critics have argued that the peace deal is being pursued as a political diversion for Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, whose administration has been increasingly dogged by scandal.

Fast Facts

1. Talks officially announced on May 21, 2008
2. Mediated by Turkey
3. Israeli motivations: Reducing Syrian support of Hezbollah and Hamas
4. Syrian motivations: Improved relations with US, return of the Golan Heights
5. Criticized as an attempted diversion from the Olmert Corruption Charges

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