Global Reactions to Assad’s Overthrow and Syria’s Future

World powers have expressed a mix of caution, hope, and determination following the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad by Islamist-led rebels, urging stability and peace in Syria and the surrounding region. Here is a summary of key reactions:

• Russia: Moscow placed its troops on high alert, though it acknowledged that rebel forces had “guaranteed” the security of Russian military bases in Syria. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized that Syria should not fall into the hands of a “terrorist group.”
• United States: President Joe Biden reiterated that the U.S. would engage with all Syrian groups to establish a transition from the Assad regime to a more independent and sovereign Syria. He also called for Assad to be held accountable for his actions.
• China: The Chinese government expressed hope for Syria’s return to stability, closely monitoring the developments in the country.
• Iran: Iran’s foreign ministry stated that it expected to continue “friendly” relations with Syria, adjusting its approach according to the new political dynamics.
• Turkey: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan promised that Turkey would work to “heal Syria’s wounds” and ensure the country’s unity, integrity, and security.
• United Nations: UN envoy Geir Pedersen described the rebel takeover as a “watershed moment” for Syria and expressed cautious hope for a future of peace, reconciliation, and dignity.
• France: President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the end of Assad’s regime, calling it “barbaric,” and praised the Syrian people’s courage and patience.
• Germany: Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated Germany’s readiness to contribute to a political solution for Syria, criticizing Assad for his brutal oppression of the Syrian people.
• United Arab Emirates: UAE official Anwar Gargash urged Syrians to work together to avoid descending into chaos, stressing the importance of cooperation.
• United Kingdom: Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the “real opportunity” presented by Assad’s removal for a peaceful and stable Syria, calling for the protection of civilians and minorities.
• European Union: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged EU support to rebuild a Syrian state that protects all minorities. EU diplomat Kaja Kallas called Assad’s fall a “long-awaited” development that exposed the weakening of Assad’s backers, Russia and Iran.
• Israel: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saw Assad’s overthrow as a significant blow to Iran’s influence in the region, calling it a result of Israel’s efforts against Iran and Hezbollah.
• Ukraine: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga welcomed Assad’s departure, pointing to the failure of authoritarian regimes reliant on Putin’s support.
• Afghanistan (Taliban): The Taliban congratulated the Syrian people and rebels, hoping for an independent Islamic government free from external interference.
• Iraq: Iraq urged respect for the “free will” of the Syrian people and emphasized Syria’s security, territorial integrity, and independence.
• Japan: Japan expressed hope that violence would cease and that all Syrians would enjoy their basic human rights and prosperity.
• Red Cross: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) warned of the immense humanitarian needs in Syria after years of conflict and suffering.

As Syria enters a new phase following Assad’s fall, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely, hoping for a peaceful transition and a future free from the devastation of civil war.