I interviewed the Syrian ambassador to the US a couple years ago for an article. He expressed his country’s great desire to have talks with the U.S. and make peace with Israel. So I think that the desire is there and has always been there. Official public statements also indicate this. But of course, the Syrian posiiton has always been clear on the Golan Heights, Damascus wants it all back. The two countries were close to making a deal not too long ago. But the environment was ripe. Today, the Israeli leadership has changed so dramatically that I wonder ifIsrael is ready for peace?

Great article, that gives a hint that this triangle-USA-Israel-Syria might work. Although as you say the new regime in Israel is an unknown quantity.  But Israeli Establishment always thought it is easier to talk to other Arab countries than with the Palestinians. Because land is easier to deal with than rights, especially Jerusalem and refugee issues.

Will Syria look at the fate of the Palestinians and refuse to make an agreement with a right- wing Israeli regime? Do you feel as a Syrian American that Palestine is the issue that Syria should not avoid when talking to Israel?

These 2 countries had an off and on dialog for years. But they never made it to the final stage. it seems so easy actually, because compared to the Palestinian complex this is a no brainer. See www.jpost.com of today.

I have been to the Golan Heights and its clear that the return of this land can be part of a new trust and agreement between the 2 countries. I think that the people in both countries would welcome it. As you visit Syria every summer, wondered what your take on this is? Can Syria with the help of Turkey or the USA take a new direction?