Reports from major international news outlets and statements from the US Department of Defense

Blinken: US Will Recognize New Syrian Government from Inclusive Process; Warns of ISIS Resurgence Risk

Dec 10, 2024, 03:39 PM

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has declared strong support for a peaceful transition of power in Syria to a responsible and accountable government through an inclusive, Syrian-led process. Blinken emphasized that the future of Syria should be decided by the Syrian people, and urged all nations to support an inclusive political process and to refrain from external interference in Syria's affairs. He warned that the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad presents a great opportunity but also carries considerable risk, particularly that ISIS may attempt to use this period to re-establish its capabilities in Syria. Blinken assured that the United States will not allow that to happen and has a clear interest in avoiding the fragmentation of Syria and the export of terrorism and extremism. He also stressed that the new government must uphold clear commitments to respect the rights of minorities, facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid, and prevent Syria from being used as a base for terrorism. Blinken stated that the US will recognize and fully support any future Syrian government that emerges from a credible, inclusive, and non-sectarian governance that meets international standards of transparency and accountability. Additionally, President Joe Biden expressed support for a Syrian-led transition under UN auspices during a phone call with Jordan’s King Abdullah II. The United States remains committed to supporting international efforts to hold the Assad regime and its supporters accountable.