The United States has reaffirmed its unwavering support for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition, emphasizing that the future of Syria lies in the hands of its people. In a press statement delivered today, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to assisting the Syrian people in their pursuit of a credible, inclusive, and non-sectarian governance system. This transition must align with international standards of transparency and accountability, echoing the principles of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.
The U.S. emphasized that for Syria’s future governance to be successful, it must meet specific commitments aimed at restoring the country’s stability, securing the rights of minorities, and ensuring long-term peace.
Key Principles for Syria’s Transition:
- Inclusive Governance:
The United States is advocating for a transition that guarantees inclusive participation across all segments of Syrian society. This includes a non-sectarian political structure where the rights and needs of all ethnic and religious groups are fully respected. - Respect for Human Rights and Minorities:
The new government must uphold the fundamental rights of all Syrians, ensuring the protection of vulnerable communities, particularly religious and ethnic minorities. - Humanitarian Aid and Accountability:
The U.S. stressed the importance of facilitating unimpeded humanitarian assistance to all those affected by Syria’s long-running civil conflict. A future Syria must be committed to the safe and transparent distribution of aid to people in need across the country. - Counterterrorism and Regional Security:
A future Syrian government must ensure that the country does not serve as a safe haven for terrorism, while also ensuring the nation’s security and the safety of its neighbors. - Destruction of Chemical Weapons:
One of the critical conditions for the transition is the securing and safe destruction of any remaining chemical or biological weapons. The United States stressed the need for accountability in the elimination of these weapons to prevent future threats.
A Call for Global Support and Non-Interference
Secretary Blinken emphasized that the political transition process must be Syrian-led, free from external interference. The U.S. calls on all nations to support an inclusive and transparent transition and respect the decision of the Syrian people.
“The Syrian people will decide the future of Syria,” Blinken stated, highlighting the importance of a peaceful, democratic process where Syrians themselves choose their leaders and chart their future. The U.S. has committed to recognizing and supporting a future Syrian government that emerges from this legitimate and inclusive process.
President’s Message on Opposing Tyranny:
Echoing Blinken’s statements, President Biden reiterated the stakes for Syria’s future on Sunday, calling it a “historic opportunity”. “It would be a waste if one tyrant were toppled only to see a new one rise up in its place,” he said, stressing that the opposition groups must demonstrate their commitment to the rule of law and the protection of minorities. The U.S. believes the success of the transition depends on the ability of all Syrian factions to engage in a constructive and inclusive dialogue.
A Path to Peace
The ongoing Syrian conflict, which has devastated the nation for over a decade, has led to immense suffering for millions of Syrians. The U.S. administration sees this as a critical juncture for the country, where the vision for a democratic Syria, free from sectarian division and authoritarian control, is within reach.
The U.S. remains committed to supporting all of Syria’s diverse communities—from the Kurdish population to Arab, Assyrian, and Christian groups—in their fight for self-determination and human dignity. This will include ongoing diplomatic, humanitarian, and technical support for the Syrian people and their efforts to rebuild a nation at peace with itself and its neighbors.
The United States stands ready to provide full support for a Syrian future based on peace, democracy, and human rights, while ensuring that the international community plays a positive role in aiding Syria’s path forward. The ultimate goal is to ensure that Syria does not fall back into the hands of a despotic ruler but instead emerges as a nation where all its citizens are free, equal, and able to contribute to the country’s rebuilding.
Looking Ahead:
With a broad coalition of international partners and regional actors, the U.S. is working to ensure that Syria’s transition aligns with the principles of international law, justice, and human rights. The support of all stakeholders—both within Syria and beyond—is critical to shaping a future where the Syrian people can determine their own fate without fear of retribution or oppression.
As Blinken’s statement concluded, the future of Syria rests with the Syrian people, and it is their voices that will guide the nation’s journey toward a democratic, peaceful, and prosperous future.