Syria’s Fragile Transition: U.S. Urges Accountability and Inclusion at UN Security Council
The United States has taken a firm stance on Syria’s ongoing transition, emphasizing the need for accountability, inclusivity, and stability during a recent UN Security Council session. With the country at a critical juncture following the fall of the Assad regime, the U.S. ambassador’s address highlighted persistent challenges and fragile progress. Her remarks underscored the importance of a representative political process to secure a peaceful future for all Syrians.
Addressing Sectarian Violence and Accountability
The ambassador expressed gratitude to Special Envoy Geir Pedersen and others for their efforts amid recent sectarian violence in western Syria’s coastal regions. She noted that the Council’s March 14 presidential statement demands that interim authorities hold perpetrators of mass killings accountable and prevent further atrocities. Consequently, the U.S. expects swift action to protect civilians, regardless of their ethnicity or beliefs, as a fundamental step toward stability.
Pushing for an Inclusive Political Process
A key concern raised was the lack of meaningful inclusion of Kurdish, Druze, Alawite, and Christian communities in the political process. The ambassador stressed that only a truly representative framework will reassure Syrians of their place in the nation’s future. Moreover, she cautioned that the draft constitution and cabinet selections must reflect non-sectarian governance, warning that failure to do so could reignite conflict.
The SDF Agreement: A Step Toward Unity
The March 10 agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate northeast Syria was welcomed as a modest first step. However, the ambassador emphasized that its success hinges on detailed implementation, including a unified security structure to counter ISIS and Iranian-backed militias. Additionally, she urged nations to repatriate citizens from Al Hol and Al Roj camps to prevent further radicalization.
Combating Foreign Influence and Ensuring Stability
Finally, the U.S. condemned Hezbollah and Iran’s destabilizing actions along the Lebanese-Syrian border, calling for the removal of foreign fighters. She encouraged interim authorities to collaborate with international organizations, such as the OPCW, to dismantle Assad’s chemical weapons program and foster a Syrian-led transition.
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