In a landmark press briefing in Aqaba, Jordan, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken addressed the international response to the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria. Blinken highlighted the rapid transformation of the country, describing it as “a pivotal moment” for Syrians to reclaim their future after decades of dictatorship.
Blinken detailed a unified set of principles agreed upon by the United States and its regional and international partners to guide Syria’s transition. “Today’s agreement sends a unified message to the new interim authority and parties in Syria on the principles crucial to securing much-needed support and recognition,” he said. These principles include the formation of an inclusive, representative government, respect for human rights, safeguarding state institutions, and preventing Syria from becoming a haven for terrorist groups.
A Syrian-Led Transition
Blinken emphasized the importance of a “Syrian-led and Syrian-owned” political transition, drawing on UN Security Council Resolution 2254 as a framework. He underscored the need for humanitarian aid to flow freely and for Syria’s chemical weapons stockpiles to be secured and destroyed.
The Secretary also highlighted pressing needs such as fuel and wheat shortages, which are being prioritized by the U.S. and its partners. “The United States is already the leading supplier of humanitarian assistance to Syria, but all of us will need to do more,” Blinken stated, promising strengthened international efforts to deliver aid and support the interim authority.
Challenges Ahead
While hopeful, Blinken acknowledged the challenges Syria faces. He noted the lingering threat of ISIS and other extremist groups, the country’s devastated infrastructure, and the enduring psychological scars of repression. “This is a moment of vulnerability, one where ISIS will seek to regroup,” he warned, calling for vigilance and international cooperation to maintain security gains.
Blinken praised Syrians’ resilience, citing grassroots efforts to rebuild communities and celebrate newfound freedoms. “Look at what we’ve seen in the past few days – people reclaiming their streets, their mosques, their public squares,” he said.
U.S. Commitments and Expectations
The Secretary reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Syria’s transitional government as long as it adheres to the principles outlined in the joint communique. He also reaffirmed the U.S. determination to resolve the fate of missing individuals, including American journalist Austin Tice, believed to be held captive in Syria.
Blinken noted that sanctions under the Caesar Act could be reassessed as Syria progresses toward inclusive governance. However, he cautioned that sustained action, not just words, would be required to gain trust and support from the international community.
Regional and Global Implications
Blinken’s visit to Aqaba follows intensive diplomatic efforts with regional leaders in Qatar, Türkiye, and Egypt to address broader Middle Eastern crises, including negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza. He described these efforts as vital to regional stability.
Blinken concluded with a message of hope and resolve: “The Syrian people are determined to break with the past and shape a better future. We’re determined to work with them to realize that promise.”
This historic agreement marks a major step in Syria’s transition, signaling broad international support for a new chapter in the country’s history.