Faisal Al-Qasem, a Druze journalist of Syrian origin with Al Jazeera network, reported that the negotiations for a security arrangement between Syria and Israel "have reached an advanced stage under U.S. sponsorship and with Turkish participation, after more than 90% of the disputed issues have been resolved." According to him, "There is no discussion about opening a crossing toward As-Suwayda nor about establishing a special zone. Israel sees As-Suwayda as an integral part of Syria, and its proposal regarding the province amounted to one demand - a guarantee that residents will live in security like other Syrians. This demand was included in the negotiation process following a request from Druze in Israel to their government."