The United Nations secretary general, António Guterres, expressed optimism about the potential fall of the Assad regime in Syria, calling it a beacon of hope in the troubled Middle East region. Speaking at a meeting with South Africa’s international relations minister, Ronald Lamola, Guterres emphasized the importance of a smooth political transition in Syria that respects the rights of all minorities.
Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting the Syrian people in choosing their own destiny and building a united, sovereign Syria with its territorial integrity restored. He acknowledged the challenges facing the Middle East, including the ongoing tragedy of Palestinian suffering in Gaza, but also highlighted signs of hope emerging from the end of the Syrian dictatorship.
Lamola echoed Guterres’ sentiments, emphasizing the need for an inclusive political process in Syria that would lead to lasting peace. The Syrian crisis, stemming from the Arab Spring movement, has resulted in immense loss of life, humanitarian crises, and displacement. Lamola called for international consensus on resolving the crisis and warned against external involvement that could further complicate the quest for peace.
Geir Pederson, the UN envoy for Syria, cautioned against mishandling the transition in Syria, citing the risk of renewed civil strife. With nearly 14 years of civil war, Syria faces the challenge of navigating a delicate transition period following the potential ousting of Assad by Islamist rebel alliance Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
Lamola urged the UN Security Council and the international community to prioritize a political solution over military intervention in Syria. He called for stability in the region and emphasized the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity in line with international law and the UN Charter.
As Israel conducted air strikes in Syria and deployed soldiers in a buffer zone, Lamola urged restraint and called for allowing the Syrian people the space to determine their future. France and Germany also joined in urging Israel to avoid jeopardizing the possibility of a peaceful transfer of power in Syria.
In conclusion, Lamola stressed the importance of inclusive, Syrian-led dialogue to facilitate a peaceful transition and sustainable political solution reflective of the will of the Syrian people. The international community must work together to support Syria in this critical period and avoid further destabilizing the region.
