Options for US Mediation of an Israel-Syria Peace Process

With the crisis in Gaza, a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict seems increasingly remote. At the same time, the need to engage all parties to the conflict in negotiations is more pressing than ever. Prior to the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas, a reinvigorated peace process between Israel and Syria appeared well within reach. Starting in February 2007, the parties participated in indirect talks mediated by Turkey for nearly two years. The new Obama administration has also signaled that it will place greater importance on reinvigorated diplomacy in the Middle East. Given Syria's ties to Hamas, an agreement between Israel and Syria might in turn create opportunities for advancing the Israeli-Palestinian process.

Will the war in Gaza derail or redouble interest in a negotiated settlement between Israel and Syria? The answer depends in large part on how the new US Administration handles this moment of crisis and opportunity. An expert panel will explore Israeli and Syrian interest in engaging in a new round of negotiations, and options for US mediation. The panel will also consider what role Turkey could play in building on the momentum of the proximity talks, and implications of the process for future engagement with Iran and for the wider Arab-Israeli peace process.

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