Syria's neighbouring countries issued a joint statement condemning Israeli aggression against Syria and calling for its withdrawal from occupied Syrian territories, Enabbaldi reported on March 9.

Foreign ministers, defence ministers, military chiefs and intelligence directors from Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Turkey and Jordan gathered in Amman for high-level security talks focused on regional stability. Russian and Iranian officials did not attend the meeting. 

The meetings come as Israel continues to encroach on the country from the southwest corner, including into the southern Damascus countryside. Local Druze communities who live in the area have become a flashpoint between the new regime in Damascus and the Israeli military, which now control the country's southern border with Jordan.

"Israeli interference represents a clear violation of international law and an attack on Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity," the statement read, warning such actions could escalate tensions across the region.

The participating countries urged the UN Security Council to enforce international law, halt Israeli aggression and ensure Israel's compliance with the 1974 disengagement agreement.

Ministers supported outcomes from the Syrian National Dialogue Conference and called for expedited work on a constitutional declaration, emphasising that Syria's stability is critical for regional peace.

The statement strongly condemned terrorism and proposed establishing a joint operations centre to combat ISIS through military, security and intellectual cooperation.

Participants highlighted efforts to fight cross-border drug smuggling, arms trafficking and organised crime while strengthening Syria's capabilities in these areas.

"International support for Syria's reconstruction is essential, including mobilising aid for early recovery and addressing infrastructure challenges," the statement noted, calling for sanctions to be lifted to facilitate rebuilding efforts.

The countries agreed to strengthen economic, trade and investment ties, particularly in infrastructure, energy and transportation sectors.

They also committed to working with the international community to ensure the safe return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.

A second round of meetings will be held in Turkey in April to follow up on these discussions and make further decisions.