Top diplomats from the United States, Turkey, the European Union, and several Arab nations have stressed the importance of preventing Syria from descending into chaos. During a meeting in Aqaba, Jordan, they discussed Syria’s situation following the fall of President Assad’s regime.
With Assad’s ouster, concerns about regional instability have intensified. The diplomats advocate for preserving Syrian state institutions and support a Syrian-led transition plan that enables a political system reflecting the aspirations of the entire Syrian population.
This system should be established through free and fair elections, supervised by the United Nations. Russia and Iran, Assad’s main supporters, were not invited, nor was any Syrian representative present.
Arab diplomats also previously called for a “peaceful transfer of power” in Syria, involving all political and social factions. U.S. Secretary of State Blinken mentioned direct contact with HTS, a major power in Syria after Assad’s fall, although regarded by the U.S. and others as a terrorist group.
He emphasized the importance of engaging with HTS regarding their behavior and governance during the transition. Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan stated Turkey won’t allow terrorists to hijack Syria’s transition.
Blinken previously urged Turkey in Ankara not to obstruct the Kurdish-led SDF in securing camps holding ISIS fighters. The SDF is a key U.S. ally against ISIS, but Turkey views it as an extension of the PKK, which has fought Turkey for decades.
Turkey reopened its embassy in Damascus today, which had been closed for twelve years due to Syria’s civil war.
Source: NOS