S/PV.9885 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Security Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Jordan, Qatar, the Syrian Arab Republic and Türkiye to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in the meeting: Mr. Geir Pedersen, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria; Mr. Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator; and Ms. Joumana Seif, co-founder of the Syrian Women’s Political Movement and legal advisor at the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Mr. Pedersen. Mr. Pedersen: It has been less than four months since the fall of the former Syrian regime and the opening of a new era in the Syrian Arab Republic’s history. The legacies of 14 years of war and conflict and five decades of one-man rule are huge. So are the immediate challenges facing the Syrians today. The great hopes and huge fears of the Syrian people have been starkly laid bare this past month. Many rejoiced at being able to gather in public spaces without fear to mark the events of 14 years ago, and more recently many were able to openly celebrate Nowruz. But many others faced a harrowing episode of devastating violence on the coast, resulting in mass civilian casualties and heightening fear and anxiety in many quarters about the future. Let me turn to this immediately. On Thursday 6 March, armed groups associated with the former regime attacked and ambushed caretaker authority forces across the coastal region. Reports indicate attacks on military and internal security targets, as well as several hospitals. The scale and sophistication of the attacks were striking, with many claimed by groups of former regime officers. The caretaker authorities have claimed influence from external actors too. That same day, forces streamed to the coast from other parts of Syria, including forces under the control of, or affiliated, or at least nominally associated with the caretaker Ministry of Defence, including foreign fighters and unaffiliated groups taking up arms spontaneously. Serious armed confrontations ensued, resulting in significant numbers of casualties among the warring factions. But far more disturbing was the appalling civilian death toll, including widespread summary killings of civilians and unarmed individuals, including accounts of entire families executed point-blank, and widespread footage of grave violations of a plainly sectarian and retaliatory nature, singling out Alawi. The situation was comparatively calmed after several days. However, we continue to receive reports of harassment and intimidation, including with heavy sectarian overtones. There have been reports of the reinforcement of the security presence in the area. Meanwhile, a leader of former regime remnants has issued a video vowing to continue the fight. The coordinated attack on the caretaker authority, the heavy counter-attacks against that and the mass killings of civilians all came against a background of already-fomenting insecurity on the coast, marked by multiple reports of killings by unidentified perpetrators, looting and kidnapping. And there was a broader context of hate speech and misinformation before, during and after the events. There was a I welcome the clear condemnation by the Security Council and its reaction to those events. Further investigation is needed to fully determine the perpetrators of the shocking violence against civilians. For their part, the caretaker authorities have stated that civilians were killed by forces on both sides, including by what they acknowledged were some volunteer and other associated factions. They announced the establishment of an independent investigative committee tasked with examining violations by all sides and submitting its findings within 30 days. In my dialogue with the caretaker authorities, I have stressed the importance of investigations being effective, transparent, independent and comprehensive, in line with international standards, and that of witnesses not being intimidated and being protected. Findings need to be made public, and those responsible must be held accountable, thereby sending a clear signal that the era of impunity in Syria is in the past. The committee met with my team in Damascus two days ago, and its members are engaging with the relevant United Nations bodies, all of which stand ready to support. The caretaker authorities also announced the formation of a high commission for civil peace in the coastal region. The need to repair deep sectarian fractures and mistrust is huge, and their work alone will not be sufficient. They need to involve the many Syrian civil society organizations that play a crucial role in local dialogue and vital peacebuilding efforts. And, for our part, we have been active in facilitating the necessary contacts to try to contain the aftermath and build a modicum of trust. On 10 March, Mr. Ahmed Al-Sharaa and Mr. Mazloum Abdi signed in Damascus an eight-point agreement that, inter alia, spoke of integrating all civil and military institutions in north-eastern Syria into the Administration of the Syrian State. The agreement spoke of committees, which have until no later than the end of 2025 to work and seek to implement those agreements. We have been encouraging progress on that track, and I welcome that agreement on shared objectives and the first follow- up that has taken place. We will continue and deepen engagement in support of that process. At the same time, we still see worrisome signs that conflict in the north-east is not over yet. Exchanges of fire between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Syrian National Army factions have continued, and there were reports of Turkish air strikes last week that hit SDF-controlled areas. Violence continues elsewhere too. Last week saw worrisome cross-border clashes between Syria and Lebanon after reports of kidnapping and execution of Syrian soldiers and firing of missiles into Lebanon. I welcome the fact that Lebanese and Syrian authorities were able to contain and de-escalate the situation after two days of clashes, and I support all efforts aimed at establishing a stronger dialogue between them. Meanwhile, February and March saw several incidents of reported Israeli air strikes in south-west Syria, Damascus, Homs and the coast. The Israel Defense Forces have also publicly confirmed that they have built multiple positions in the area of separation, which are a violation of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. Such facts on the ground are not easily reversed. I am concerned by Israeli statements on the intention to stay in Syria for the foreseeable future and by demands for the full demilitarization of southern Syria. I appeal to the Security Council to hold Israel to its commitment that that is a temporary presence and stress that Israel must withdraw and respect Syria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and independence. The United Nations continues to engage Israel and the caretaker authorities to that end. On the all-important issue of the political transition, February saw a National Dialogue Conference take place in Damascus after two weeks of travelling I wish to inform the Security Council that my Office was consulted informally, and then formally, towards the end of that process, and we gave advice, including by conveying international best practices and norms. Some of that was taken on board, some was not. I believe that we should build on that and deepen cooperation on the transition going forward. I will be returning to Damascus soon to continue my engagement. I would like to highlight several priority areas for the Council’s attention. First, Syrians await the announcement soon of a transitional Government to be appointed by Mr. Al-Sharaa, and a transitional legislative council that is partially appointed by him and partially elected by a process to be determined by persons whom he appoints. I believe that Syrians will be able to tell whether the members of those bodies reflect the very diverse sources of competency and constituencies in Syria, among both women and men. Secondly, early further moves are advisable on constitutional issues. Caretaker Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani told me that a constitutional committee will be formed to prepare a permanent constitution. That process, and then the securing of popular approval and preparing for free and fair elections, are extremely important undertakings. I look forward to further discussing the assistance of the United Nations that we can provide on those issues, in support of a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned process, in line with my mandate and the core principles of resolution 2254 (2015). Thirdly, the atrocities laid bare the urgent need for credible and efficient accountability for crimes committed over so many years. Syrians have made it clear that they seek not only prosecutions, but also a comprehensive process to address the right to truth, reparation and safeguards against non-recurrence  — the only true signal of the end of an era of impunity. The caretaker authorities are engaging with the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic, the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism and the Commission of Inquiry, with which we are in close coordination. We hope that engagement will translate into real partnership, optimizing all international and Syrian resources and expertise, including within civil society. Fourthly, a clearer way forward on security issues must be developed in a landscape of significant complexity and fragmentation. The goal that armed groups have committed to — one army with no weapons outside State control — cannot be achieved overnight or by declarations. An effective approach to comprehensive security sector reform and disarmament, demobilization and reintegration is needed. The dissolution of the former army and security forces left hundreds of thousands without salaries and fearing exclusion. Meanwhile, many armed groups remain in possession of their weapons and have not yet integrated. Inclusive politics, resources and vetting processes in line with international human rights obligations will all be essential, alongside a genuine nationwide ceasefire. I encourage the caretaker authorities to seek support and partnership, including with the United Nations, on those issues. Sixthly, Syrians need an economic future, and they need serious international support to enable that economic recovery. I welcome the humanitarian pledges made at the ninth Brussels Conference last week to support Syria’s recovery and host communities in neighbouring countries. However, more resources will be needed to ensure that Syria does not fragment over scarce resources and that the Syrian people, including the displaced, have the breathing room and bandwidth to focus on rebuilding not just their own lives but their country. Mr. Fletcher will address that in more detail. However, we also need to see fast and broad sanctions easing, with relevant targeted and sectoral suspensions, including on energy, investments, finance, health and education. Some steps have been taken, but more are needed if Syrians are to be given the chance to recover. Countries of the region have expressed their readiness to step in. Some have announced plans to provide Syria with electricity, and support in that sector is of course critical. It is essential that sanctioning States consider the important restrictions that still persist and hamper response. At the same time, I will continue to make clear to the caretaker authorities that a peaceful, credible and inclusive transition creates the most enabling environment for the further easing of sanctions. Syria stands at a crossroads. Down one road would be a return to violence, instability, monopolies of power, conflict and fragmentation, with Syria’s sovereignty routinely violated by external Powers and regional and international security endangered. That road is totally unacceptable. It cannot be in any responsible actor’s interest and must not come to pass. However, the other road is viable — an inclusive political transition, whereby the Syrian people restore their sovereignty, overcome the conflict, revive their economy, realize their legitimate aspirations and contribute to regional stability. That future requires the right Syrian decisions, but Syrians cannot do it alone. It also requires increased and continued international support. I count on your support, Mr. President.

I thank Mr. Pedersen for his briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Fletcher: As Mr. Pedersen set out, the past month has underscored both the fragility and the hope of this moment of transition in the Syrian Arab Republic — a true crossroads. Today I therefore want to highlight and support four points. First, I have some encouraging news. We are making progress, with thanks to the teams on the ground and those who back us, on a scaled-up, ambitious humanitarian response. We are now using more routes to deliver aid. Since the start of the year, we have expanded cross-border deliveries from Türkiye — a relatively cost-effective route, through which we can now reach warehouses across Syria, including in Damascus and Homs. I am grateful to the interim authorities for their extension of permission to use the Bab Al-Salam and Al-Rai crossings. We are also working to have more efficient procedures for aid delivery. We have a practical, problem-solving engagement with the interim authorities to address ongoing liquidity challenges and further streamline procedures. As I have made clear already, we count on their continued support for further easing registration for humanitarian non-governmental organizations, especially  — as part of the humanitarian reset that I set out last month — as we are allocating a higher proportion of funding for Syrian partners, who are truly at the front lines of that response. We are also proceeding at pace with the transition to our new humanitarian coordination architecture, and we are Through that combination of efforts, we, on members’ behalf, are getting support to millions of people across Syria every month. Infrastructure is being repaired to restore access to water for millions. For example, the Atareb water station in Aleppo resumed operations on 14 March, powered by solar energy and now supporting 40,000 people. Dozens of nutrition centres and mobile teams are screening children and providing services for children and mothers. More than 1,100 operations have been conducted to clear more than 1,700 pieces of unexploded ordnance — a vital part of creating conditions for Syrians to return to their homes and communities. I welcome Qatar’s agreement to provide Syrians with support for electricity supply, via Jordan. And refugees are returning, with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimating that 355,000 have returned since December 2024. That leads me to my second point: we need more funding. We are under no illusion right now about the grim financial outlook for humanitarian support globally. In that bracing funding context, we will deploy our resources as effectively as we can. We have completed a countrywide rapid needs assessment, and we are monitoring displacement and population movements to sharpen our response. I am afraid that we are also having to make brutal choices, including to focus our current appeal on the most vulnerable — only about half of the total number of people who are actually in need of our support. Last year’s humanitarian appeal was only 35 per cent funded, causing us to reduce our humanitarian response by more than half. The outlook now is gloomier. Our initial survey suggests that almost half of United States-funded organizations have received full or partial stop orders, with a 40 per cent cut in humanitarian staff across the country. This year, we are appealing for $2 billion to reach 8 million of the most vulnerable people through June. We have received only about $155 million to date — that is just 13 per cent of what we need. Funding cuts do not mean that humanitarian needs disappear. More than 16 million people  — nearly three quarters of the population  — continue to lack sufficient food, water, shelter and services. To save lives, we therefore need more money. I, like Mr. Pedersen, was encouraged by the generous pledges made to Syria and its people at the Brussels conference last week, including from several countries around this table. In total $6.3 billion was pledged, and I am grateful. I hope that those funds materialize and can be disbursed quickly. My third point, to underline the Special Envoy’s message, is that the protection of civilians and the de-escalation of ongoing conflicts must remain front and centre. While security has improved since December, we are still seeing daily reports of clashes, attacks and other hostilities in a range of areas. As members of the Council responded to in the presidential statement (S/PRST/2025/4), violence in the coastal areas earlier this month, with reports of hundreds of civilians killed — including a United Nations colleague — was horrendous. Our Humanitarian Coordinator will visit the coastal area in the coming days. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced, including some 15,000 to neighbouring Lebanon. Clashes and attacks have also continued in parts of eastern Aleppo, north-east Syria and southern areas, with civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Meanwhile, civilians, including many children, continue to be killed or maimed by explosive remnants of war at truly shocking levels, with more than 600 casualties since December alone. The announcement, as Mr. Pedersen described, of an agreement between the interim authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces gives us some hope that we can reach and respond to humanitarian needs in north-east Syria more effectively. All parties must of course take constant care to protect civilians Fourthly and finally, we need to move with greater urgency to invest in Syria’s recovery, reconstruction and development. The people of Syria want to rebuild their country and their livelihoods. Expanding services will be essential to enable that. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 3.5 million internally displaced persons and refugees are ready to return to their homes in the coming year, but only if they have the basics — shelter, electricity, water, sanitation, education and work. That will require investment, time and consistent engagement — given the complex web of sanctions and other restrictions in place, as well as the magnitude of destruction and needs. Let me repeat, 16 million people  — nearly three quarters of the Syrian population  — lack sufficient food, water, shelter and medicine. I have described the real progress we have made to scale up the international response, despite the security risks, the political challenges and deep funding cuts. We are making, and will make, the toughest choices to ensure that every dollar saves lives. We will demand that civilians be protected and that all Syrians — including women and girls, but especially women and girls — feel that their rights and freedoms are guaranteed. We will press Council members for the support we need to carry on delivering in that way. After 14 years of conflict and devastation, the people of Syria have had barely 14 weeks to chart a new path. There are real reasons for hope, based on how far they have come. But there is no time to spare. Let us be problem solvers rather than problem observers. We need to move with greater urgency, while we can. The price of failure will far outweigh the investment that we are asking for. The cost of hesitation is greater than the risk of decisive action. The people of Syria deserve the chance to see through the monumental task ahead of them and build a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive future. As many Syrians have told me, they want to return to being a community that exports kindness, rather than imports generosity. At a time when international solidarity appears to be in retreat, let us not retreat from meeting this moment with energy and ambition.

I thank Mr. Fletcher for his briefing. I now give the floor to Ms. Seif. Ms. Seif: After the fall of the Al-Assad dictatorship, I moved to Damascus, returning after more than 12 years of exile. I travelled through various neighbourhoods, and I witnessed first-hand the staggering levels of poverty and hardship, with severe shortages of electricity and even the most basic necessities of life. For decades, Syrians endured immense suffering under Al-Assad’s rule, which led to unilateral sanctions that affected not only the regime but also ordinary citizens. Now that Al-Assad is no longer in power, there is no justification for maintaining those sanctions. What Syrians need most is their immediate removal, alongside investment, reconstruction and economic revitalization. Achieving that requires the concerted efforts of both the international community and the Syrian Government. Syria stands at a historic crossroads, with a rare chance to unite and to transition to democracy. I urge the international community to remove those sanctions so our country can finally move forward. As Syria faces ongoing crises, the tragic violence in the coastal cities has further added to the challenges. It began with remnants of the Al-Assad regime attacking security forces. The situation quickly developed into brutal massacres that targeted civilians with acts of revenge, without discrimination. Unfortunately, reports of human rights violations continue, albeit at a reduced scale. Today more than ever, Syrians must create a transparent and inclusive national plan for transitional justice. That requires consultation with victims’ associations and civil society to ensure fair trials, truth commissions, moral and financial compensation for victims and safeguards to prevent future atrocities. All of that requires significant financial resources and technical expertise. I urge the international community to provide those financial resources and support the rehabilitation of our judicial system and the training of its cadres of women and men, including judges, investigators and law enforcement officers, especially concerning crimes of sexual violence and crimes against women. Over the past 13 years, Syrian human rights and civil society organizations have worked tirelessly on human rights and transitional justice. I myself have been part of those legal networks, which have made significant progress, including indicting senior officials and securing international arrest warrants — such as those against Jamil Hassan and Bashar and Maher Al-Assad for using chemical weapons against civilians. Those achievements must support the transitional justice process, alongside the efforts of United Nations institutions dedicated to truth, accountability and justice in Syria  — namely, the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to Assist in the Investigation and Prosecution of Persons Responsible for the Most Serious Crimes under International Law Committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 2011, the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic — which are essential to its success. Also, the ongoing investigations and trials taking place in Europe under the principle of universal jurisdiction must continue to complement the fight against impunity. I come from a Damascene Sunni family who has long faced political persecution, including enduring enforced disappearances, torture and killings since the 1980s. At the age of just 10, I witnessed my youngest uncle’s arrest and disappearance. My father, Riad Seif, was imprisoned for nearly eight years, despite his parliamentary immunity, solely because he advocated for democracy and human rights. In the summer of 1996, my younger brother Iyad disappeared without a trace and, to this day, we know nothing of his fate. Those experiences turned me into a human rights advocate and an early opponent of the Al-Assad regime. They allowed me to meet thousands of fellow opposition members who had endured similar suffering and were all united in resisting tyranny and fighting for democracy, with many sacrificing their lives, including my dear friends Razan Zaitouneh and Samira Khalil. Today I say with firm conviction that a diverse Syria can be managed only through a democratic system that guarantees the rights of all its citizens, without discrimination on any basis, and ensures the participation of all in shaping the future of their country. All of us in the new Syria, especially the ruling authorities, must completely break with the legacy of tyranny, corruption, the monopolization of power, terrorism and sectarianism. We want Syria to be a country that maintains security and stability in the world by adhering to international law. As a member of the Syrian women’s political movement, I emphasize that the right of Syrian women President Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani have repeatedly stressed security and stability in their statements. We emphasize that that can be achieved only through participatory governance, civil peace and the unity of the country. In the past month, key political developments, including the National Dialogue Conference and the constitutional declaration, have sparked concern about a lack of proper deliberation and a failure to address crucial questions about the democratic transition. The most significant flaw in the declaration is the absence of recognition of Syria’s diverse society and the lack of a clear commitment to democratic transformation. Furthermore, the executive branch, led by the President, is granted excessive power, while the legislative and judicial branches are effectively subordinated to it and unable to hold it accountable, preventing any meaningful checks and balances. That contradicts the principle of the separation of powers and fails to establish a truly democratic foundation for the post-conflict transition. Yet, despite those concerns, I still believe in supporting the new Syria and seizing the opportunity to correct past mistakes. That requires amending the constitutional declaration, promoting inclusivity and initiating a national dialogue to ensure stability and a democratic State that protects the rights of all Syrians. Another crucial challenge is forming an inclusive Government and an elected legislative council that truly represent everyone without exclusion. In conclusion, Syria faces a historic opportunity that may not come again. The responsibility now lies with the authorities to embrace the urgent need for reform and with the international community to lift sanctions and actively support reconstruction and recovery. That is essential not only for Syria’s stability but also for the stability of the entire region.

I thank Ms. Seif for her briefing. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark. First of all, I would like to thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Under-Secretary- General Fletcher for their informative and timely briefings. I would also like to thank Ms. Seif for her valuable briefing. Her voice and the voice of Syrian civil society are central to our discussions and to the Syrian political transition. This month marked 14 years since the beginning of the Syrian revolution — 14 years since peaceful civilian protests were met with brutal violence. Since then, hundreds of thousands of civilians have been tortured and killed and millions forced to flee. Last December finally marked a turning point. After years of strife under the Al-Assad regime, the people of Syria now have an opportunity to build a better future. At the same time, the situation in Syria is fragile. Just this month, we witnessed violent attacks, with hundreds of civilians killed, including through summary executions. We of course condemn the widespread killing of civilians in the strongest possible terms. There can be no impunity for those crimes. On a positive note, we welcome the interim Government’s establishment of an investigative committee, and implementation will now be key. The interim Government must protect Syrians of all religious and ethnic backgrounds. Syria is at a critical juncture, as the Special Envoy also emphasized, and now is the time to act. Around this table, we must all do what we can to help lay the groundwork for a brighter future for the Syrian people. The path will be long and there will definitely be setbacks, but we owe it to the millions of Syrians, who have First, we call for a credible, inclusive and transparent Syrian-led and Syrian- owned political transition process — one that is in line with the principles of resolution 2254 (2015). And when we say inclusive, we mean it; we mean inclusiveness. Syrian society in all its complexity and diversity must be represented. As we heard from Ms. Seif this morning, Syria’s women must be able to participate in the political transition process, be it at a civil society or a political level. They represent half the population, and experience shows that women’s participation in peace processes creates more lasting peace and stability. We take note of the temporary constitutional declaration and hope that it will move Syria towards an inclusive transition. All segments of Syrian society should be safeguarded by the constitution. Secondly, accountability and justice for victims of the Al-Assad regime and the civil war are vital. It is key that any transitional justice process be led and owned by the Syrian people. The United Nations stands ready to support. The process should be transparent and impartial. In that process, too, women play a key role. There are skilled Syrian women lawyers, judges and transitional justice experts, just like Ms. Seif, and their knowledge and expertise are most needed. The transitional justice process must be open to all Syrians. It will be a difficult but essential step towards healing. Thirdly, to achieve these goals, the international community needs to support Syria at this critical stage. The humanitarian situation remains catastrophic. The fall of the Al-Assad regime has done little to help Syria’s devastated economy. Seventy per cent of the population is deemed to be in need of humanitarian assistance, and 9 out of 10 people live in poverty. In February, we in the European Union suspended a number of sanctions against Syria. We did so in order to send a very clear signal to the Syrian people of our support towards a better future. We will continue to follow the situation and adjust our policies accordingly. And we will continue to provide much-needed humanitarian and development assistance to the Syrian people. Fourthly and finally, in order to achieve positive change, Syria needs to be safe, and Syria needs to be stable. That requires respect for Syria’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. In that regard, we welcome the dialogue and agreements between the interim Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces. Likewise, we welcome the dialogue and agreements reached with Druze communities. The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) plays an important role in maintaining stability in the occupied Golan Heights, and UNDOF should be allowed to have full freedom of movement. We call for the full implementation of the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement between Israeli and Syrian Forces and for all parties to respect resolution 350 (1974). Accordingly, Israel must withdraw from the area of separation. The Syrian armed forces must provide security to all Syrians — regardless of sect or background — and continue to combat and counter terrorism. We cannot allow the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant to re-emerge. All actors must assist the new Syrian leadership in combating terrorism. In conclusion, Syrians have a unique opportunity to build a new future — a free Syria for all Syrians regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion. Their struggle has been incredibly tough and incredibly long. And I want to assure Council members that Denmark stands with the Syrian people. We will continue to support them through the next chapter, and we encourage all members of the Council to do the same. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I shall now give the floor to those Council members who wish to make statements. It is a great honour to participate in today’s briefing as we witness Syria’s transition. We acknowledge the complexity of the transformation and recognize the growing role of the caretaker authorities in the process. It is essential that the international community continue to support Syria’s transition towards a united, independent and inclusive State. In that regard, I would like to highlight the following three points. First, Syria must, now more than ever, focus on a political transition rooted in inclusivity. The establishment of a transitional Government should prioritize political reconciliation among all ethnic and religious communities. In the light of that, we take note of the agreement to integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces into national institutions and the signing of a constitutional declaration — both significant steps in its political transition. We underscore the importance of reintegrating armed factions in an inclusive manner, and we urge all parties to constructively contribute to that process. We hope the constitutional declaration can serve as the foundation for credible, inclusive and non-sectarian governance in line with resolution 2254 (2015). Secondly, we express deep concern about hostilities within Syria, including recent armed conflicts in Syria’s coastal regions. We would also like to express concern about Israeli military operations in Syria, including today’s air strikes in Dara’a. We emphasize the utmost importance of protecting civilians and stress that further violence should not occur. We acknowledge the efforts of the caretaker authorities to protect all Syrians and their efforts to establish a fact-finding committee to ensure accountability for those tragic events. That step is crucial for fostering national unity and for demonstrating commitment to transitional justice based on the rule of law. Thirdly, we urge stronger international commitment to humanitarian aid and economic recovery in Syria to overcome the pain and destruction of 14 years of conflict. After years of conflict, recent developments have brought hope to Syrian refugees and displaced persons to return to their homes. But as the situation remains uncertain, many of them still face challenges, such as limited access to jobs and basic services. In that regard, we endorse the call for enhanced international support, as reaffirmed in Brussels last week, where we reiterated our commitment to standing with Syria. The Republic of Korea has provided nearly $150 million in humanitarian assistance to Syria and its neighbouring countries over the past decade. We will continue to provide assistance to the people of Syria, partnering with international organizations. As Korea has pledged, 2,400 tons of Korean rice will be delivered to assist food-insecure populations in Syria, in collaboration with the World Food Programme. Furthermore, we share the view that the suffering from the sanctions targeting the former Al-Assad regime continues to hinder the efforts of Syrian people to establish a stable and peaceful society. In that light, we take positive note of a series of recent developments on the suspension of sanctions within the international community, as part of the efforts to support Syria’s swift economic recovery, reconstruction and stabilization. Historic momentum and subsequent developments compel us to reaffirm the United Nations commitment to facilitating a Syrian-led political process — a crucial step towards lasting peace and prosperity for all Syrians. The Republic of Korea remains steadfast in its solidarity with the Syrian people in pursuit of the long- awaited goal, as their aspirations for stability, peace and a brighter future continue to inspire us all. In the time that has elapsed since last December, we have been able to see that the change of Power in the Syrian Arab Republic, unfortunately, has not spared the people of that country from a great many humanitarian and socioeconomic problems, nor from external threats — they not only remain pressing but are even increasing. The future of that Arab republic depends to a large extent on how successful it is in tackling the challenges before it. Therefore, the Syrians are in vital need of multilateral and depoliticized support from the international community. The situation in Syria today is characterized by continued economic decline and frequent outbreaks of violence. Data on the number of people in need, as well as on food security and healthcare, show that putting the country back on the path towards sustainable development will be possible only when a widespread cessation of hostilities is reached and systemic reforms are undertaken. There are no alternatives to that. The Syrian people must finally have the right to live in dignity, peace and well-being. The ongoing clashes in Aleppo and the north-east of the country are a very worrisome development, as they have been claiming lives and destroying civilian infrastructure. But what came as a real shock to all of us was the recent outbreak of violence in the coastal areas of Latakia and Tartus, where hundreds, if not thousands of civilians were killed and injured, mostly representatives of Alawite, Christian and other ethnic and religious minorities. That violence has also triggered new forced displacements of civilians, who were sometimes even compelled to leave Syria. Social networks host a great deal of shocking materials showing the crimes committed against civilians. Of course, the Security Council cannot ignore all of this. In that regard, we are grateful to all Council members for promptly reaching agreement on the Security Council presidential statement (S/PRST/2025/4) adopted in a joint Russia-United States initiative. The statement strongly condemns the massacres in Latakia and Tartus and emphasizes the need for a swift transparent, independent, impartial and comprehensive investigation in line with international standards so as to hold all perpetrators accountable. In that context, we would like to note that the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, sent a letter to the Head of the Syrian State, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, in which he expressed his support for the efforts to promptly stabilize the situation in the country in order to ensure Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity. We hope that the measures undertaken by Damascus, including the establishment of a fact- finding and investigative commission for the coastal areas and the establishment of a high committee to preserve civil peace, will help stabilize the situation in the region. That is an absolute priority in order to build a solid foundation for a new Syria where the rights of all ethnic and religious minorities will be safeguarded. We count on receiving relevant information about that from the Syrian authorities, as well as on their close cooperation with the Special Envoy in the context of the implementation of the provisions contained in the presidential statement. The humanitarian situation in the coastal areas impacted, particularly in rural areas, remains dire. According to UNICEF, there is an acute shortage of food there, access to vital services is limited and school attendance remains at a very low level. Many civilians had to flee in search of safety. We must prevent a further escalation of the crisis, as well as the persecution of the ethnic and religious minorities who have been living in those territories. We followed with concern the recent clashes along the Lebanese-Syrian border, in which both sides used artillery and regular army units. We welcome the decision to have a ceasefire, which came about after a telephone conversation between the Ministries of Defence of Lebanon and Syria. We call on Damascus and Beirut to take all necessary steps to prevent any further incidents on the border and to minimize the risks of their spiralling out of control. Israel’s ongoing air strikes on the Syrian Arab Republic and the continued occupation by West Jerusalem of its territory are no less destructive. We strongly condemn the strikes conducted by the Israel Defense Forces, which have killed or injured more than 20 people in the south of Homs province. We urge West Jerusalem to return to upholding its obligations under the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement between Israeli and Syrian Forces and to withdraw its units from the buffer zone and other Syrian territories occupied since December 2024. The new Syrian leadership has repeatedly stated that they are willing to build peaceful relations with all neighbours, without exception. But through its actions, Israel has destroyed that willingness and is strengthening the voices of radicalized groups within Syria. In the long run, such an approach will not strengthen Israeli security. The terrorist threat also persists in Syria. We call on Damascus to pay special attention to it and prevent the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and other terrorist groups from gaining a foothold on Syrian soil. We are particularly concerned about the issue of foreign terrorist fighters who have showed up there, including during clashes in the west of the country. Decisive measures against them must be undertaken immediately. We note that, on 10 March, a framework agreement was signed in Damascus between Ahmed Al-Sharaa and the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, Mazloum Abdi. The agreement provides for the return of trans-Euphrates area, under the control of the central authorities, and the integration of Kurdish militarized units into Government forces. The good faith implementation of that agreement will help strengthen the unity of Syria and build trust among other ethnic and religious minorities in Damascus who hope that their rights will be protected within a new unified Syrian State. In that regard, we reaffirm that the path to sustainable normalization in Syria lies through an inclusive inter-Syrian dialogue geared towards national reconciliation and a comprehensive political settlement in accordance with the basic principles set out in resolution 2254 (2015). That process should be carried out through calculated, balanced and genuinely inclusive decisions. And those decisions must be met by relevant moves on the part of the international community aimed at improving the economic situation in the country and raising the living standards and quality of life of ordinary Syrians. We are convinced that the United Nations should play a key role in facilitating the Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process. We express our full support for the relevant efforts undertaken by Special Envoy Geir Pedersen.

I thank Special Envoy Geir Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Tom Fletcher for their briefings. We appreciate their ongoing efforts, particularly in the wake of the sectarian violence that swept over coastal regions in western Syria earlier this month. I also thank Ms. Joumana Seif for her briefing, including about her own story and about the indispensable role of women in Syria’s political transition. On 14 March, the Council adopted presidential statement S/PRST/2025/4, which calls on the interim authorities to hold accountable the perpetrators of the mass killings in western Syria and to enact further measures to prevent its recurrence. We expect the interim authorities to act on the Council’s clear message: all parties in Syria must protect civilians from violence, regardless of ethnicity, religion or political ideology. We look forward to the report early next month from the independent investigative committee to examine all atrocities committed, with particular attention to reports of extrajudicial killings. It will also be important to see genuine efforts at reconciliation with the Alawite community from the coastal committee tasked with assisting the interim authorities’ engagement. The interim authorities must also embark on a political process that includes Kurdish, Druze, Alawite and Christian communities — something they have not meaningfully done to date. Only a truly representative process will reassure Syrians that they have a place in Syria’s future. The United States reaffirms its support for a political transition that demonstrates credible, non-sectarian governance as the best path to avoid further conflict. We have concerns that the draft constitution framework is not headed in the right direction, and we are watching closely to see who will be selected for Cabinet positions. While we welcomed the 10 March agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces to integrate the north-east into a unified Syria, real and meaningful progress will be defined by the details of implementation. The agreement is a modest first step in the pursuit of a stable and independent Syria. To be meaningful, that agreement must be finalized with details that include a unified State security structure that ensures that Syria does not pose an external threat to neighbouring States and is capable of defeating the Syrian-based Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham (ISIS) or other violent extremist groups, including Iranian-backed militias. Syria’s security framework must include detailed plans to ensure, first, that ISIS fighters remain in detention; and secondly, that there is continued control of the large population of foreign ISIS terrorists currently contained by the Syrian Democratic Forces. We will see an insurgence of ISIS if that population of approximately 8,200 fighters escapes or is let free. On Al-Hol and Al-Roj, we call on all nations that have citizens inside those camps to repatriate their nationals. It is time to depopulate the camps, which serve as incubators of terrorism, to prevent further radicalization of another generation of ISIS. Actions meant to be significant signposts in Syria’s ongoing transition have fallen short of expectations. We must remain clear-eyed about our outstanding challenges that are faced. Everyone, including Syria’s interim authorities, knows that much more can and needs to be done. For one, there must be expansive representation of Syrian voices on a new committee formed to draft the permanent constitution. Unless Foreign fighters have no role in Syria’s military or governing institutions. This month’s clashes in the coastal region, in which foreign fighters reportedly committed atrocities, were stark reminders of the seriousness of that threat. All foreign fighters need to be removed from their posts immediately, and military units composed of foreign fighters must be disbanded. We condemn and are watching closely recent attempts by Hizbullah and their Iranian backers to create instability on the Lebanese-Syrian border. We call on the Syrian interim authorities and the Government of Lebanon to cooperate and deconflict their military operations so that Iran-backed terrorists cannot regain a foothold in Syria. Finally, we encourage Syria’s interim authorities to further engage with international organizations seeking to support the country’s transition. In that regard, we note recent statements by the Secretary-General and Special Envoy Pedersen expressing readiness to support a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition. We also welcome the recent engagement between the interim authorities and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Technical teams must arrive soon to begin the work of identifying and destroying the Al-Assad regime’s chemical weapons programme. Syria has arrived at a pivotal moment just three months since the fall of Al-Assad. Recent events have underscored Syria’s fragility and increased our concerns that interim leaders may not have moved beyond their jihadi pasts. We have seen the resilience of Syria’s people, who endured 14 years of civil conflict and more than 50 years of a regime’s brutal rule. Advancing accountability and ensuring representative governance is key to an enduring peace and prosperity in Syria. In our capacity as Council members, we must speak with one voice in the coming days and months as Syrians seek to reunify their country and live in peace with their neighbours. The United States seeks peace and security in the region and a stable Syria that is free from external influence, respects the rights of all Syrians and prohibits terrorists from using Syria as a platform. The United States urges the Council to help Syria realize those common objectives.

I thank the Special Envoy, Mr. Pedersen, and the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Fletcher, for their particularly information-rich briefings. I also thank Ms. Seif for her enlightening testimony and also for years of resistance to oppression. In December 2024, after decades of repression and years of the Syrian people’s struggle against dictatorship and violence, the Al-Assad regime fell. The transitional phase that has begun has given rise to many hopes, but also to concerns. The international community must stand by the Syrian people. That is the path that France has chosen. In that regard, we have four priorities. First of all, there must be an end to the violence. The massacres that took place at the beginning of this month in the coastal region show that the risk of Syria breaking up is a reality. France condemned those massacres. It is now necessary that those responsible for the violence, regardless of which camp they are in, be brought to justice. That demand echoes the expectations of a transitional justice that holds accountable those who committed crimes both under the Al-Assad regime and since the regime’s fall. The United Nations has offered its support. I welcome the presence of Ms. Quintana in the audience. In the north-east, the agreement signed between the interim authorities in Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces is a first step towards a negotiated Similarly, the international community has high expectations concerning the dismantling of the chemical weapons programme and cooperation with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). We welcome the OPCW’s recent and first mission to Syria. Secondly, the Syrian people must be free. The transition requires respect for the aspirations of the Syrian people. The road map to which the Damascus authorities have committed themselves is clear: a peaceful political transition in which all the groups that make up the Syrian people are represented, in the spirit of the principles of resolution 2254 (2015). France supports the efforts of Mr. Pedersen to support that process. The United Nations has an important role to play in supporting the ongoing political transition. We encourage the Syrian authorities to build a relationship of trust with the United Nations that will give concrete expression to the community’s support for Syria. At the Paris Conference on Syria on 13 February, the transitional authorities signed a declaration containing specific commitments. Since then, initial results have been achieved, namely, the first session of the national dialogue and the announcement of a provisional constitutional declaration. We call for that national dialogue to continue and for it to involve all the groups that make up Syrian society, without exception. We call for the formation of a representative Government that is recognized as legitimate by all Syrians. The equal participation of Syrian women in decision-making is essential, as are respect for and consideration of all those who belong to the Christian, Kurdish, Shiite, Alawite and Druze minorities; those minorities have been a source of Syria’s wealth for centuries. Thirdly, humanitarian support and economic recovery are required. Everyone knows that the people are enduring very serious privations, that the economy is in ruins and that the infrastructure is devastated. To support the political process, we must continue to work to guarantee humanitarian access and humanitarian work, to support the recovery of the country and to facilitate the safe, dignified and voluntary return of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons. The European Union is actively working to that end. It has suspended certain restrictive measures in such key economic sectors as energy and transport in order to facilitate financial and banking transactions for reconstruction. On 17 March, the Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region mobilized €5.8 billion for Syria and neighbouring countries, including €2.5 billion from the European Union for 2025 and 2026. In order to ensure the convergence of humanitarian aid, a gradual shift towards an approach that is focused on recovery and support for the political transition, those efforts must be supported by continued coordination within the United Nations system. My final point is about peace in the region. In an unstable regional environment, Syria must become a hub of peace and security. That includes resuming dialogue with Lebanon around their shared border. It means stopping military activities in the Golan. We urgently call on Israel to cease the bombing, to withdraw from the area of separation provided for in the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement between Israeli and Syrian Forces and to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. Syria and Israel must take their respective security concerns into account. France will continue to support efforts towards Syria’s recovery, freedom for all Syrians, regional stability and the fight against terrorism. The A3+ would like to thank Special Envoy Geir Pedersen and Under-Secretary- General Tom Fletcher for their valuable briefings. We also listened carefully to Ms. Joumana Seif. At the outset, the A3+ reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Syria  — a country that is today confronting grave security, humanitarian, political and economic challenges. Those fundamental principles cannot be sustained without civil peace among Syria’s diverse communities and the cessation of external interference in the country’s internal affairs. We reiterate our strong condemnation of the summary killings carried out recently in Syria’s coastal provinces. It is imperative to emphasize that civilians — regardless of their background — must be protected in all circumstances, in line with international humanitarian law. The A3+ also reiterates its call for accountability and looks forward to the report of the committee established by the interim authorities to thoroughly investigate the attacks and identify those responsible. The ongoing Israel Defense Forces air strikes against military sites in Syria’s territory further compound the security challenges, as do the alarming statements by Israeli officials about the “indefinite” presence of their forces on Syrian territory and their intention to establish a demilitarized area in southern Syria, all of which violates Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. The A3+ condemns such irresponsible statements and actions, which will only exacerbate regional instability. We stress that the Golan Heights is an occupied Syrian territory, as reaffirmed by resolution 497 (1981), and we call for full respect for the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement between Israeli and Syrian Forces, including its provisions regarding the area of separation. The challenges confronting Syria require the full support and solidarity of the international community. The A3+ stresses the importance of building a Syria that is inclusive of all its citizens free from any form of discrimination and that embraces the aspirations of all Syrians. We believe that the establishment of a committee to promote civil peace and reconciliation and promote and facilitate communication between communities is essential for achieving lasting peace in Syria. In that regard, mechanisms for truth-seeking, transitional justice and community-based reconciliation anchored in Syrian ownership should be encouraged. The A3+ acknowledges the constitutional declaration made on 13 March and emphasizes the need for an inclusive transition process in Syria. In that regard, the A3+ takes note of the agreement signed on 10 March by the leadership of the interim authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces and calls on all actors to support a nationwide ceasefire. Differences should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation, and the guns must be silenced to allow humanitarian access, to protect civilians and to enable early-recovery efforts. The A3+ reiterates its support for the Special Envoy’s efforts to assist the interim Syrian authorities in organizing a political transition, guided by an inclusive, Syrian- led and Syrian-owned political process, facilitated by the United Nations and based on the key principles outlined in resolution 2254 (2015). The humanitarian situation in Syria remains catastrophic, and substantial efforts are required to improve it. All fields have been severely affected by the crisis. To address those challenges, the Syrian people need the continued support and solidarity of the international community, including sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access. The A3+ acknowledges the burden of prolonged displacement and underlines The A3+ takes note of the pledges and commitments made during the Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region on 17 March and hopes that they will soon be fulfilled and that the humanitarian response plan will be fully funded. With one of the most severe crises of displaced persons in the world, displaced Syrians both inside and outside the country must be guaranteed a safe, dignified and voluntary return to their homes. While we note that more than 1.2 million internally displaced persons and refugees have returned home since November 2024, obstacles to return remain. If we are sincere in our commitment to supporting Syria’s transition, we must provide Syrians with the means to rebuild their country. Without rapid economic recovery, it will be difficult to envision a safe and prosperous future for Syria. In that regard, Guyana, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Algeria firmly believe that the swift lifting of unilateral sanctions is essential. The situation in Syria remains volatile, and the international community stands at the crossroads between the hope for a brighter future and the fear of further descent into chaos in Syria. Let us do everything we can to help Syrians, all Syrians, build the country to which they have long aspired. The Security Council must act with unity, with resolve and with humanity to support the Syrian transition process and prevent a relapse into violence. Dame Barbara Woodward (United Kingdom): Like others, I would like to start by thanking Special Envoy Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Fletcher for their briefings. I would also like to thank Ms. Seif for her briefing and for her tireless advocacy efforts. We echo her calls for an inclusive political transition that prioritizes the participation and leadership of women in Syria. I would like to make three points today. First, this month Syrians marked the fourteenth anniversary of the start of the uprising against the Al-Assad regime. At last, they can see the prospect of a more stable and hopeful future. But horrific events this month demonstrate too that this remains a fragile and critical moment in Syria. We welcome the announcement by the interim authorities of the establishment of a fact-finding committee to investigate and prosecute individuals who committed crimes during the clashes in Syria’s coastal areas. A peaceful and secure country is in the interests of all Syrians and the wider region. Diplomacy and dialogue are the best way to achieve that, and we urge all parties to refrain from further violence and to exercise restraint at this critical moment. We are concerned by Defence Minister Katz’s declaration that the Israeli presence in the area of separation and the Golan Heights could be for an unlimited period. That is unacceptable, and Israel must present clear and reasonable timelines for its withdrawal in line with international law. Secondly, we note the progress made in Syria’s political transition. We welcome the constitutional declaration’s provisions on the freedom of expression, religion and women’s rights, alongside the commitment to establish a transitional justice commission. We call for swift implementation of those actions and hope that the declaration will provide a solid foundation for a transition that guarantees the rights of all Syrians. A clear approach on accountability and transitional justice is essential for national reconciliation and to prevent a recurrence of the violence that we saw this month. Progress on that cannot wait. As the interim authorities take those next steps, we call for a consultative and inclusive process and for appointments to the transitional Government to reflect Syria’s rich diversity. In conclusion, the United Kingdom stands with the Syrian people in building a more stable, free and prosperous future.

I thank you, Foreign Minister Rasmussen, for presiding over today’s meeting. I also thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Fletcher for their briefings. I also listened carefully to the statement by the civil society representative, Ms. Seif. China has been closely following the situation in Syria. We sincerely hope that, with the help of the international community, Syria will steadily make progress in its political transition and restore peace and stability at an early date. In that connection, I wish to make the following points. First, the transition process must be inclusive. In coastal areas of Syria, civilians were indiscriminately killed. The inhumanity and brutality of their deaths were outrageous. The Syrian interim authorities have announced the launch of a one-month independent investigation to ensure accountability. We are following its progress and hope that the Syrian interim authorities will carry out their work in a transparent and responsible manner, which is crucial to the international community’s assessment of the credibility of the political transition in the country. China takes note of the recent initiatives taken by the Syrian interim authorities to make progress in the political transition. It is our hope that they will deliver on their commitments in earnest and, guided by the principles of resolution 2254 (2015), engage in broad dialogue and consultation with all constituents in Syria to achieve genuine inclusiveness. The work of Special Envoy Pedersen should be respected and supported by all parties. It is necessary for the Office of the Special Envoy to strengthen its team on the ground. The League of Arab States can play a greater role in the Syrian political process. Secondly, countering terrorism should remain the bottom line, given that, following the change in the situation in Syria, foreign terrorist fighters in Idlib have moved throughout the country, posing an immediate threat to the Syrian people and regional and international peace and security. Foreign terrorist fighters’ involvement in the mistreatment and the killing of civilians in coastal areas is yet a further reminder of the need to remain highly vigilant against terrorist forces in Syria. The Security Council adopted a presidential statement this month (S/PRST/2025/4) that reaffirms its unified position against foreign terrorist fighters. We urge the Syrian interim authorities to fulfil their counter-terrorism obligations and to take decisive measures to combat all Council-listed terrorist organizations, including the East Turkistan Islamic Movement, also known as the Islamic Party of Turkistan. Thirdly, active efforts need to be made to develop and improve people’s well- being. With Syria’s economy in long-term stagnation, an improvement in living conditions is the most pressing aspiration for more than 20 million people. The Syrian interim authorities should consider promoting economic development and improving people’s livelihoods their top priority. We call on traditional donors to scale up humanitarian aid to Syria. The relevant countries should take measures In conclusion, I wish to reiterate that the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria should be respected. The Golan Heights are internationally recognized as occupied Syrian territory. The 1974 Agreement on Disengagement between Israeli and Syrian Forces should be observed. China condemns Israeli air strikes against Syria. Israel should withdraw from Syrian territory without delay.

Pakistan commends Denmark’s excellent stewardship of the Council this month. We thank Special Envoy Geir Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Tom Fletcher for their briefings. We appreciate and support their work and that of their teams. We also listened carefully to Ms. Joumana Seif, especially her most pertinent remarks about Syria moving forward in the best interests of the Syrian people. It is right for the Council to follow closely the situation in Syria — a cradle of civilization and historic land of beautiful people. That brotherly country has unfortunately endured instability and immense suffering in recent years, compounded by internal strife and external interventions. Recent developments offer a crucial opportunity for peace, reconciliation and reconstruction. We remain hopeful that Syria’s new leadership will guide the nation towards an inclusive, stable and prosperous future. If ever there were a right time for the international community to engage and assist with that objective, it is now. The challenges — political, economic, security and humanitarian — confronting Syria demand a holistic and coordinated response. A Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process, based on the principles set out in resolution 2254 (2015) and facilitated by the United Nations, remains the key to sustainable peace. We welcome Syria’s new interim constitution as a critical step towards restoring the rule of law. The National Dialogue Conference, held last month, is also a positive step. We expect that the forthcoming appointment of an interim Government, a legislative council and a constitutional committee will reflect Syria’s diversity and foster inclusive and representative governance. We recognize regional and international efforts, such as the meetings in Aqaba, Riyadh, Amman, Paris and Brussels, which underscore the global commitment to Syria’s peaceful transition and reintegration into the international community. Syria’s economic distress, marked by cash shortages, energy deficits and rising prices, is exacerbating its humanitarian crisis. Economic revitalization is vital to long-term stability. The United Nations transitional action plan aimed at poverty reduction, refugee integration and institutional strengthening requires robust international support. In that regard, the lifting of unilateral sanctions is imperative to facilitating reconstruction and aid efforts. While remaining vigilant against entities with known affiliations to terrorist organizations, a reassessment and drawdown of the United Nations sanctions regime is also warranted to ensure that essential economic and humanitarian initiatives are not hindered. The resurgence of violence — shocking violence — as has been reported, in particular along Syria’s western coast, is deeply concerning. Sectarian strife threatens to undermine a peaceful political transition besides exacerbating the humanitarian challenges. We urge an immediate and permanent end to all violence, the protection of civilians in line with international law and a credible independent investigation into recent incidents. The era of impunity must be consigned to the past, as noted by the Special Envoy. In that regard, we welcome the establishment of an independent committee by the Syrian interim authorities and look forward to its findings. The agreement between Syria’s interim Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces to integrate all civil and military institutions marks a significant step towards national unity. Meanwhile, the persistent terrorist threat, particularly from affiliates of Al-Qaida and the Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham, as well as foreign terrorist fighters, remains a grave concern. The Security Council Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011) and 2253 (2015) concerning Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals, groups, undertakings and entities and its Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team must continue their vigilant assessment to prevent any resurgence of terrorism. The humanitarian crisis in Syria remains dire, with more than 16.5 million people in urgent need of assistance. More than 90 per cent of Syrians live in poverty and more than half the population is food insecure. The international community must intensify its efforts to address those urgent needs while also supporting Syria’s long-term recovery. A durable peace in Syria hinges on a credible political transition, national unity and reconciliation, and inclusive governance. The international community must remain steadfast with the necessary political and economic support. Pakistan stands firmly with the resilient people of Syria in their pursuit of peace and stability.

Panama is grateful for the convening of this briefing on the political and humanitarian situation in Syria and appreciates the briefings delivered by Mr. Geir Pedersen, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, and Mr. Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. We are also grateful for and take note of the briefing by Ms. Joumana Seif, representing civil society. We welcome the participation of the delegations of Syria, Iran, Qatar, Jordan and Türkiye in this meeting. On 1 March, after 14 years of civil war, Syria announced the formation of an interim Government, which, according to the Syrian authorities, is aimed at reflecting the diversity of the Syrian people. That new Government has a historic opportunity to advance an inclusive political process that ensures the participation of all citizens who make up the Syrian State, including women, promoting stability and reconciliation. Seizing that opportunity requires the utmost efforts of the interim authorities in order for the constitutional process to be developed with broad consultation and culminate in the adoption of an inclusive constitution that is able in form and substance to create a balance among the institutions of the State and thus generate credibility and respect on the part of everyone. In the same vein, efforts should be made to put an end to the interim nature of the current authorities by conducting transparent and inclusive elections leading to an elected government, in accordance with the norms of the new constitution. Panama strongly condemns those acts of violence and calls for the investigations announced by the Syrian Government into those terrible events to be carried out in a prompt, transparent, independent and impartial manner, in accordance with international standards. Those investigations must ensure accountability and bring to justice those responsible for those crimes, in order to restore trust in the peace process. In an encouraging development, on 10 March, the Syrian authorities reached an agreement with Syrian Democratic Forces, including the Kurdish community. The agreement, which establishes a ceasefire and the integration of Kurdish forces into the Syrian army, is a crucial step for the internal cohesion of the country. It also guarantees the recognition of the constitutional rights of the Kurds, which will allow them to participate fully in Syria’s political life. That development is a positive signal from the Syrian authorities with regard to the unification of the country and reinforces efforts for a common and peaceful future for all communities. It is equally paramount that the authorities firmly confront the threat posed by the foreign terrorist fighters operating in Syria, including the remaining fighters belonging to the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and other groups. Despite those threats which destabilize the country and the region and require a forceful and coordinated response, given the presence of irregular groups that have led to clashes on the Lebanese-Syrian border, a ceasefire agreement was reached between the two countries on 18 March. That agreement reflects the urgent need for closer cooperation to avoid further escalation of violence. The humanitarian crisis in Syria continues to worsen, affecting more than 16.5 million people who are in urgent need of assistance. The conflict continues to prolong the suffering, with thousands of people displaced in search of safety, which has increased the number of internally displaced persons to more than 7 million. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, more than 2 million people in north-east Syria are living in makeshift camps with limited access to basic services. Moreover, only 40 per cent of health facilities in Syria are fully operational, and 70 per cent of the population relies on humanitarian assistance to survive. The situation requires a strong commitment by the international community to ensure safe and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Syria. In addition to the humanitarian crisis, the presence of chemical weapons and unexploded ordnance continues to endanger the population, hindering recovery and the safe return of displaced persons. Panama welcomes the resumption of dialogue between the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and Syria but reiterates and insists on the need for a verifiable elimination of chemical weapons. The international community must ensure that this commitment is translated into concrete actions to strengthen regional security and disarmament. It is also timely to explore measures that can facilitate Syria’s economic recovery, including the creation of conditions that allow for the promotion of commercial activities, the reconstruction of infrastructure and the restoration of basic services. In that regard, it is essential to consider the timely lifting of the remaining sanctions on the Syrian economy in order to enable an environment conducive to economic development and investment. Those initiatives must go hand in hand with the new Syrian Government’s commitments to ensure security and respect for the rights of the entire population.

I wish to thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Fletcher for their briefings. I also welcome the contribution of Ms. Seif. The aspirations and right of the Syrian people to live in peace, freedom and prosperity in Syria have not changed since the peaceful protests 14 years ago. On the contrary, we can see their resolve to fulfil those aspirations, and their pursuit of justice and peace are as strong as ever. We remain mindful of the sensitive situation in the country, and we continue to express hope. The Brussels Conference, where donors pledged nearly $6.5 billion in aid to support Syria, clearly shows the will of the international community to help the recovery and reconstruction, and its relevance in doing so, with the European Union (EU) and its member States pledging almost €3.4 billion. Moreover, the EU will consider further lifting of sanctions, depending on the developments on the ground. However, that remains a cautious hope, for many wounds from the past remain. There is fear of revenge, impunity and the return of violence. The continued instability is a clear indicator of the frail transition. The interim authorities face the important responsibility to protect its population and to ensure that every Syrian lives in safety, with dignity and without fear, and that their human rights are fully protected and respected. People of Syria — regardless of gender, religion or ethnicity — are the ones who should shape the country’s future. In that regard, we reiterate the importance of a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition, facilitated and assisted by the United Nations and based on the principles contained in resolution 2254 (2015). The Special Envoy has our full support in that regard. Let me make the following remarks on the future of Syria. First, the future of Syria depends on its inclusiveness. It is crucial that Syria’s peaceful political transition be genuinely inclusive. We take note of the recent national dialogue and urge the interim authorities to build on and beyond it. Concrete actions must follow. Only a transition that promotes an open dialogue among all Syrians can restore much-needed trust. Women, youth and civil society have a crucial role to play in that regard. We hope that the recently issued constitutional declaration brings Syria closer to restoring the rule of law and promoting a genuinely inclusive political transition. Secondly, the future of Syria depends on reconciliation and justice delivered. They are the cornerstone of a credible political transition. Laying early groundwork for a much-needed transitional justice is imperative. Accountability and justice for victims are essential for a stable and peaceful Syria. All individuals responsible for crimes committed, regardless of their affiliation, must be held accountable. In that regard, we call on the interim authorities to fully cooperate with the United Nations, including the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic and the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to Assist in the Investigation and Prosecution of Persons Responsible for the Most Serious Crimes under International Law Committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 2011. The events in the beginning of March, when hundreds of people were killed in the Syrian coastal region, clearly show the fragility of the moment. Thirdly, the future of Syria depends on its unity and respect for its sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. In that regard, the agreement on unification of the territories controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces in north-east Syria with the rest of the country is a step in the right direction as it bodes well for an inclusive and representative Syria. We call on all parties — internal and external — to refrain from any activity that could further inflame tensions, escalate conflict, exacerbate the suffering of affected communities, destabilize Syria or jeopardize a credible and inclusive political transition. It is imperative that the new Syria does not leave any room for extremism and terrorism. We stress the obligation to respect Syrian independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and we once again call for full respect of the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement between Israeli and Syrian Forces. Fourthly, the future of Syria should be resilient. First steps are the protection of civilians, critical civilian infrastructure and safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid. Urgent challenges like food insecurity, water scarcity, fuel shortages, landmine contamination, displacement and critical shortages in healthcare require immediate attention. Once the most immediate needs are met, or in parallel, the authorities must work on economic prosperity and opportunity, on rebuilding the health and education system and providing security. The international community stands ready to help. This, together with respect for human rights, the rule of law and democracy, will be the best foundations for a successful and resilient Syria.

Let me thank Special Envoy Pedersen, Under-Secretary- General Fletcher and Ms. Seif, civil society briefer, for their insightful presentations. Since we are discussing the latest developments in Syria, I would like to make the following points. Greece stands in solidarity with the Syrian people and supports Syria’s recovery, which can be assured only through a truly inclusive political transition. The recent atrocities, condemned strongly by the Council’s presidential statement of 14 March (S/PRST/2025/4), have increased the urgency for an inclusive political transition, without foreign interference, while securing the protection of all ethnic and religious communities, including Christians, Alawites, Druze and Kurds, in the spirit of national unity and in keeping with the key principles of resolution 2254 (2015). Safeguarding Syria’s rich cultural heritage and religious monuments is also key, as is demonstrating a clear dedication to international law, including the international law of the sea. The appalling violence in Syria’s coastal region has also increased the urgency for full accountability and transitional justice. The credibility of the interim authorities rests on holding the perpetrators of those attacks accountable. We expect the independent committee to work well and fast to that end. Enhancing accountability and establishing transitional justice is critical. As consistently advocated by Syrian civil society organizations across the board, the only viable future for Syria is one where accountability, concord, dialogue and peace prevail. In that light, Syria must allow the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic to investigate all violations. All Syrian communities should be able to live in Syria without fear. We are closely monitoring developments, including the recent agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and Damascus, as well as the announcement of a constitutional declaration, expecting that they will feed into a viable and inclusive political transition. As part of the European Union (EU) family, Greece has been stressing that the easing of sanctions should be made in a gradual, conditional and reversible manner so as to ensure that our expectations are met with regard to an inclusive transition, accountability for recent atrocities and full respect for international law. Recognizing the severe humanitarian situation on the ground and standing in full solidarity with the Syrian people, Greece made its pledge during the ninth Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region, in support of Syria’s recovery. Overall, the EU has pledged nearly €2.5 billion in support of the country’s recovery for 2025 and 2026. The creation of conditions for the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees must remain among our primary goals. Syrians deserve to go home and to contribute to the rebuilding of their country. We fully support the efforts of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in that regard, as well as collective efforts towards restoring shelters and critical infrastructure in Syria, thus contributing to the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees. Greece reiterates its unwavering support for Syria’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity and condemns all systematic violations of Syrian sovereignty. Lastly, we welcome the recent visit by the interim Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Al-Shaibani, to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and his commitment to work for the elimination of the remaining chemical weapons in the country. In conclusion, let me stress that there is a path towards a prosperous, stable and inclusive Syria. To get there, we believe that the Council’s message must be clear: international legitimacy and recognition lie at the end of a fully inclusive political path, with strong and inclusive State institutions and respect for international law, including the international law of the sea. Those are critical elements for ensuring regional stability and promoting Syria’s long-term security and prosperity.

I now give the floor to the representative of the Syrian Arab Republic.

At the outset, I welcome the presence of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark here in New York, and his attendance in part of the meeting. I thank Denmark for the support that it is providing to Syria and the Syrian people. I also thank you, Madam President, and your team for your leadership of the Security Council’s work this month. In addition, I would like to thank the Special Envoy, Mr. Geir Pedersen; Mr. Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs; and Ms. Joumana Seif for their briefings in this meeting. Syria is moving forward at this pivotal stage in its history. Following the convening of the National Dialogue Conference and based on its outcomes, and with the aim of preparing the legal framework for the transitional phase, the presidency of the Republic formed a committee to draft the constitutional declaration, which was subsequently approved by the President of the Republic. The constitutional declaration affirms the Syrian State’s commitment to preserving the unity of Syrian The constitutional declaration established the system of governance for the transitional phase, defined as a period of five years, and included provisions governing the work of the legislative, executive and judicial branches of Government. It affirmed cooperation with the international community and international organizations on reconstruction, facilitating the return of refugees and displaced persons and achieving national reconciliation. In pursuit of justice, the declaration stipulated the establishment of a transitional justice authority whose purpose is to provide redress to victims and survivors and to honour the martyrs. I would like to draw attention to the presence of Ms. Karla Quintana, Head of the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in Syria, here in the Chamber with us and to welcome her and commend her efforts. We emphasize the importance of searching for the missing persons and achieving progress on that vital humanitarian issue in order to put an end to the suffering of families and to enable them to determine the fate of their loved ones. We look forward to meeting with her and her colleagues shortly. At a time when the Syrian people are looking forward to building a future based on justice, freedom and dignity and to ending bloodshed, tragic events have taken place in Syria’s coastal region. Armed groups, led by members of the former regime’s security apparatus, launched treacherous and condemned attacks on public security, municipal administrations and healthcare centres. Those attacks were followed by violations, summary executions and acts of vandalism and looting committed by some undisciplined volunteer groups. We previously conveyed to the Security Council and to His Excellency the Secretary-General the contents of the paper issued by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates regarding those events, which was officially circulated as document S/2025/152. The Syrian Government condemned those heinous crimes, and the presidency of the Republic formed an independent national committee to investigate the violations perpetrated against civilians, public institutions and members of the security forces and army and to identify those responsible. The committee is to submit its report to the presidency within 30 days. The Syrian leadership affirmed that the new Syria shall be a State governed by the rule of law and that the law shall apply to everyone. It emphasized that any attack on the sanctity, life or property of people constitutes a red line, and that spilling the blood of the innocent will not go unpunished, regardless of the identity of the perpetrators. In accordance with the supreme national interest and the commitment to achieving civil peace among the constituent groups that make up the Syrian people, the presidency of the Republic also formed a high committee to safeguard civil peace and to work on strengthening national unity during this sensitive stage. Moreover, in the context of efforts to consolidate stability, an agreement was signed to integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces into the institutions of the Syrian Arab Republic, while affirming the unity of Syrian territory and rejecting division. The agreement The Syrian Government reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the United Nations and its specialized agencies. The Syrian people eagerly await improvements in humanitarian and living conditions; they look forward to embarking on the path to economic recovery and reconstruction and to getting back onto a path to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. In that context, the Syrian Government renewed the authorization granted to the United Nations and its specialized agencies to use the Bab Al-Salama and Al-Rai border crossings for an additional six months, to expire on 3 September. For the first time, Syria participated — represented by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates  — in the ninth iteration of the Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region. We express deep gratitude and appreciation to the countries and entities that pledged support to the Syrian people during that conference, and we look forward to the fulfilment of those pledges in order to achieve a tangible impact as soon as possible. Syria expresses its deep appreciation to the sisterly State of Qatar and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and to the United Nations Development Programme for the initiative of supplying Syria with gas through Jordan to generate 400 megawatts of electricity. We call upon other countries to adopt similar approaches in order to help alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people as soon as possible. My country stresses the need to move from temporary humanitarian aid towards laying the foundations for comprehensive and sustainable solutions through real and tangible measures, beginning with the complete lifting of the sanctions imposed on the Syrian people, with a view to breaking the shackles of the blockade and allowing Syrians to rebuild their homeland and move towards a better future. We highly value the steps taken by some countries to lift some of the sanctions, and we look forward to the complete and sustained lifting of the sanctions. The Israeli occupation army continues its outrageous violations of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, in violation of international law, the Charter of the United Nations, the relevant resolutions adopted by the Organization and the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. While Israeli occupation forces continue to illegally and forcibly control vast swathes of Syrian territory in the occupied Syrian Golan, the area of disengagement of forces, Quneitra governorate, Mount Hermon and neighbouring areas in the governorates of Dara’a and Rural Damascus, recent weeks have seen repeated attacks by the Israeli forces on various Syrian areas, leading to the martyrdom of several Syrian civilians. The latest such attack, which took place today, targeted areas in Dara’a governorate. In the past few hours, the village of Kouya has been subjected to violent artillery shelling and air strikes, targeting residential neighbourhoods and farms. As a result, six civilians have been martyred, and the death toll is likely to rise seeing as other civilians have been seriously injured and the aggression is ongoing. Syria reaffirms the complaint addressed to the President of the Security Council and the Secretary-General circulated in document S/2025/120 and condemns in the strongest terms the blatant Israeli aggression on its territory, the statements issued by the officials of the occupation entity calling for what it called the disarmament Therefore, my country, Syria, once again calls on the Security Council to shoulder its responsibilities and take firm and immediate action to compel Israel to immediately cease its ongoing aggression against Syrian territory and withdraw immediately and unconditionally from all Syrian territory. My country also calls on all influential countries to play an active and constructive role in that regard. In conclusion, the new Syria is grappling with major entitlements and immense challenges, and it looks forward to the Council’s support at this critical juncture in order to build a better future for all Syrians and in the hands of all Syrian women, men and youth  — a future anchored in the values of citizenship, the rule of law and the advancement of society. Disregard for life and human dignity must come to an end. That requires confronting destructive foreign agendas and attempts to sow discord, spread hate speech and incite violence and terrorism.

I now give the floor to the representative of Islamic Republic of Iran.

We thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Fletcher for their insightful briefings. We listened closely to the views of Ms. Joumana Seif. Regarding the current situation in Syria, I wish to make the following points. First, we strongly condemn the widespread violence of people in Latakia and Tartus since 6 March, which has led to the mass killing of civilians. The interim authorities must take decisive action to end all violence, protect civilians and ensure unhindered humanitarian access. All communities’ rights must be respected and guaranteed, and any attempts to displace minorities  — especially Alawites and Shiites — must stop immediately. We welcome the Security Council’s presidential statement of 14 March (S/PRST/2025/4), which strongly condemns the carnage and calls for a swift, credible, transparent, independent and comprehensive investigation. The interim authorities must ensure full accountability and swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice. Secondly, we stress the need to combat terrorism in Syria and the grave threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters, which endanger regional and global security. That transnational threat demands coordinated action. We echo the Security Council’s call for the interim authorities to take decisive measures and uphold their counter- terrorism obligations. Foreign terrorist fighters must be repatriated, held accountable and prevented from further destabilizing the region. Iran remains committed to fighting terrorism and stands ready to cooperate with legitimate international partners to address that challenge. Thirdly, we express deep concern about Israel’s ongoing violations of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Recent Israeli air strikes, including those on the city of Dara’a, have resulted in civilian casualties and heightened regional tensions. Such aggression constitutes blatant violations of international law and exacerbates instability in the region. Furthermore, Israel’s continued occupation of the Golan Heights remains a significant obstacle to peace and security. Resolution 497 (1981) unequivocally declares Israel’s imposition of its laws in the occupied Golan Heights as null and void and without international legal effect. We call on the Security Council to take decisive action to halt those violations and to compel Israel to withdraw from all occupied Syrian territories, in compliance with international law and the relevant United Nations resolutions. Fifthly, the future of Syria must be determined only by its people, free from any external interference or imposition. Iran supports the establishment of an inclusive Government through free elections and comprehensive national dialogue, ensuring fair representation for all Syrian communities. To ensure national solidarity, the temporary Constitution should also be submitted to a public vote. The Constitution must serve to strengthen national unity, rather than sow division or exacerbate ethnic and religious tensions. Iran emphasizes the necessity of a Syrian-led and Syrian- owned political process, facilitated by the United Nations and grounded in the principles of resolution 2254 (2015). That resolution outlines a clear road map for establishing an inclusive, non-sectarian Government through free and fair elections and comprehensive national dialogue, ensuring fair representation for all Syrians. Iran supports the efforts of the United Nations Special Envoy and stresses that the United Nations must play a central role in that process. Sixthly, we welcome Syria’s return to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation after a 13-year suspension. That development allows Syria to resume its role as a significant member of that body. Iran remains committed to supporting Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and is dedicated to playing a constructive role in achieving lasting peace and stability in Syria and the broader region. In conclusion, we categorically reject the baseless accusations made by the representative of the United States, which are once again intended to distort reality and mislead the international community. For years, under the false pretext of counter-terrorism, the United States has flagrantly violated Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, enabling terrorist groups and backing Israel’s occupation to advance its geopolitical agenda. We must not overlook the fact that the severe humanitarian crisis and economic hardship in Syria come directly from Washington’s unlawful sanctions and its systematic violations of the international and fundamental human rights of the Syrian people. Those are undeniable facts, and the representative of the United States cannot erase them through deception or by levelling baseless accusations against Iran. We seek and support the establishment of sustainable stability and security in Syria and are not involved in any action that would destabilize Syria and the broader region.

I now give the floor to the representative of Jordan.

I thank you, Madam President, for convening this meeting. I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Arab States. I would also like to thank the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Mr. Geir Pedersen, and the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Tom Fletcher, for their briefings. I also thank Ms. Joumana Seif for her briefing. Today the brotherly country of Syria is going through a delicate phase in its history that requires active international political will to ensure peace and stability. For decades, the Syrian people have endured much suffering and pain, and today they deserve the opportunity to live in freedom, safety, dignity and equality. The Arab Group reaffirms its unwavering position of support for the Syrian people and their efforts to rebuild their homeland — on the basis of principles that preserve Syria’s security, sovereignty and unity — and that guarantee the rights of its people and meet their humanitarian and development needs. We reaffirm that international assistance for Syria is not only a moral imperative but an investment in the stability of Syria and the future of the region and all its peoples. In that context, the Group of Arab States once more underscores the importance of intensifying international efforts aimed at supporting the Syrian people in the reconstruction of their homeland through a Syrian-led and Syrian- owned process in which all segments of Syrian society participate, in a manner that guarantees the unity, stability and security of Syria and preserves the rights of all citizens. The Group of Arab States welcomes the outcomes of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference, in particular the emphasis on preserving Syria’s unity and sovereignty over all its territory, and the rejection of any form of fragmentation, division or cession of any part of its land. It stresses that the Conference is only one step on a path that must be completed through a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned inclusive political process that includes all segments of Syrian society for a better future, in line with the spirit and principles of resolution 2254 (2015). The Group also reaffirms the need to support Syria in its reconstruction efforts by mobilizing international support to increase the volume of aid for early-recovery projects, strengthening efforts to rebuild the State and overcoming all related obstacles. As the transitional framework is introduced, following the fall of the former regime and the implementation of related reforms, we stress the need to lift economic sanctions against Syria as soon as possible. Those sanctions undermine the interests of the Syrian people, the recovery of the Syrian economy and the political transition. That must be a component of the international efforts to support peace and prosperity in Syria. The solution to the issue of Syrian refugees lies in their voluntary, dignified and sustainable return to their homeland. However, that requires safe and appropriate conditions for return and for the establishment of the necessary security, living and political conditions. We emphasize that early-recovery projects, especially in the housing, education, health and energy sectors, are vital steps to create conditions conducive to the voluntary, safe and sustainable return of Syrian refugees. In that context, we reiterate that the countries hosting Syrian refugees cannot bear that burden alone. Therefore, the international community must provide the necessary financial and technical support to ensure that host countries can continue to perform their humanitarian role, one that they play on behalf of the international community, until refugees are fully able to return to Syria. We must recall the centrality of Syria’s unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty and emphasize that any violation of that sovereignty, including the Israeli occupation of parts of the Syrian territory, represents a threat to regional stability. In that regard, we condemn the Israeli occupation and attempts to interfere in Syrian affairs, as well as the repeated incursions and attacks by Israeli forces on Syrian territory, including their incursion and shelling of the town of Koya, west of the city of Dara’a, which We call on the Security Council and the international community to shoulder their legal and moral responsibilities and compel Israel to stop its aggression and intentional provocations and to respect Syria’s sovereignty. We also reiterate the need to comply with the 1974 Disengagement Agreement and international law and to immediately withdraw from occupied Syrian territory. We also call for enhanced international and regional cooperation to counter terrorism in all its forms, including the Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham and other terrorist groups and elements. We reiterate the importance of cooperation to combat the smuggling of drugs and weapons and transnational organized crime, which represent an additional threat to the security of Syria and the region as a whole. In conclusion, the Group of Arab States emphasizes that the new Syrian Government shoulders a great responsibility to address the consequences of the previous regime, meet the aspirations of Syrians for a safe homeland and engage in the reconstruction process. Our role is to support Syria and its people in achieving peace, stability and prosperity after years of killing, displacement and destruction.

I now give the floor to the representative of Qatar.

At the outset, allow me to congratulate you, Madam President, on presiding over the Security Council this month. We were also pleased to have had the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark presiding over the meeting earlier today. We thank the Special Envoy, Mr. Geir Pedersen, the Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Tom Fletcher, and Ms. Joumana Seif for their briefings. We align ourselves with the statement delivered on behalf of the Group of Arab States. Last year, the brotherly Syrian people turned a very painful page that had lasted for years. Today they are trying to rebuild a safe and stable country, a country that plays a regional and international role. The State of Qatar has been firm in its principled position in supporting our Syrian brothers and sisters during this critical phase of their history. In accordance with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, we are continuing to support the Syrian people through humanitarian aid and to contribute to recovery and reconstruction efforts and the provision of basic services. Those efforts are reflected in the recent supply of natural gas to Syria via the territory of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and through cooperation among the Qatar Fund for Development, the Jordanian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and the United Nations Development Programme, whereby 400 megawatts of electricity per day are being generated, representing a first step in addressing the acute shortage of electricity and thereby improving basic services. That comes on top of the hundreds of tons of humanitarian aid that the State of Qatar is shipping by air. Efforts also encompass political and diplomatic support. On 28 December 2024, an agreement was reached through the Permanent Representation of the State of Qatar to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons to safeguard the interests of the Syrian Arab Republic. The agreement is contributing to fostering dialogue between Syria and the international community during the transitional phase and promoting cooperation and coordination between the Syrian Government and United Nations and international agencies. The State of Qatar welcomes the convening of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference and regards it as an important step towards achieving consensus The State of Qatar underscores that stability and security in Syria require the State to have exclusive control over weapons through a single national army that reflects all the constituents of Syria in order to pave the way for a peaceful transfer of power through an inclusive, peaceful process. The State of Qatar condemns in the strongest terms the crimes committed by outlaw groups and their targeting of security forces. Qatar welcomes the agreement to integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces into State institutions and sees it as an important step towards consolidating civil peace and stability in the country. Furthermore, we condemn Israeli attacks on Syria, which violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and consider that they, including the recent attacks on Dara’a governorate, the bombing of a number of areas throughout Syria and the ongoing land grab in the buffer zone, constitute a flagrant violation of international law. The international community must act as a matter of urgency to compel Israel to abide by international law and resolutions of international legitimacy and stop its ongoing attacks. The State of Qatar participated in the donors’ conference on Syria held last week in Brussels. The event drew attention to the urgent need to step up humanitarian aid and ensure its unhindered delivery to all affected areas, and to lift the economic sanctions that had been imposed on the former regime, as the reasons for keeping them in place no longer exist and sanctions continue to adversely affect the brotherly Syrian people. In that connection, the State of Qatar welcomes the positive steps that were recently taken to ease the sanctions. In conclusion, the State of Qatar reaffirms its unwavering support for Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity, and we renew our support for all regional and international efforts aimed at establishing security and stability in Syria and fulfilling its people’s aspirations.

I now give the floor to the representative of Türkiye.

I would also like to thank Mr. Pedersen, Mr. Fletcher and Ms. Joumana Seif for their briefings. The new era in Syria presents a historic opportunity for both the country and the people in the region. At this critical moment, the international community must step up and extend its support to help the Syrian people to overcome the challenges that they face. Türkiye, as always, will continue to spare no effort in providing all necessary assistance to ensure a stable, united and secure Syria and will be a good neighbour. We emphasize the importance of inclusive and representative governance in our engagements with the Syrian Administration. Since the fall of the regime, the Administration has demonstrated common sense and due diligence. Türkiye welcomes the convening of the National Dialogue Conference and the announcement of the constitutional declaration. We believe that those efforts will pave the way for a long-awaited inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition process. However, in Latakia and the surrounding areas, we have unfortunately witnessed attempts and provocations aimed at undermining the smooth transition process. The wave of violence began with organized and simultaneous attacks, orchestrated by remnants of the former regime. Those attacks should not be mischaracterized as a sectarian conflict between Damascus and the Alawite community. The international community must recognize that those were coordinated efforts, supported by certain actors, to destabilize Syria. It is essential to remain vigilant against such attempts, The political transition process is multifaceted, encompassing every aspect from the establishment of new institutions to ensuring transitional justice. Leadership and ownership by Syrians, under United Nations guidance and on the basis of the Administration’s consent, will be crucial to the success of the process. There is no place for Da’esh and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK)/People’s Protection Units (YPG)/Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Syria’s future. The eradication of those terrorist groups is essential for achieving a peaceful, independent and politically unified Syria as soon as possible. All terrorist elements must leave the country. The PKK/YPG/SDF must immediately disarm, dissolve and come fully under the control of a national army with a single command structure. We are approaching the agreement reached between the Syrian Administration and the SDF with cautious optimism. However, the proposed implementation timeline has been overly prolonged and must be expedited. Ensuring the swift and full implementation of that agreement is essential to guaranteeing a unified and centralized Administration in Syria. The immediate transfer of responsibility for security in detention centres and camps in the north-east to the Syrian Administration is imperative. Türkiye is ready to cooperate with Syria in that regard. We remain fully committed to the fight against terrorism. Türkiye, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon and Syria convened in Amman on 9 March to discuss regional security and counter-terrorism efforts, working towards a regional mechanism to combat Da’esh and enhance existing efforts. Israeli attacks continue to violate Syria’s sovereignty and pose a threat to the future of the region as a whole. The international community, especially the Council, must speak out against Israel’s increasing aggression towards Syria. We strongly condemn Israel’s continued military escalation and urge the Council to take immediate and decisive action before it is too late. Syria needs the full support of the whole international community to ensure a meaningful and lasting impact on the future of its people. Our collective efforts are essential to providing humanitarian and reconstruction aid to Syria. The reconstruction of critical infrastructure and economic recovery remain urgent priorities. Without restoring normalcy, the return of displaced Syrians to their homeland may not be possible. The international community must prioritize securing funding for humanitarian activities, as that remains a significant challenge. We once again call for the lifting of all sanctions to help Syria overcome its ongoing security and economic challenges. The Syrian people deserve relief from suffering so that they can rebuild their lives in dignity, hope and peace. Türkiye stands ready to support all sincere efforts that benefit the Syrian population and in particular to work with United Nations agencies.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I now invite Council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion of the subject.