During a UN Security Council open debate on June 10, 2026, titled “Advancing Political Solutions in the Middle East: Mediation and Dialogue for Lasting Peace,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that “any escalation of conflict in the region casts a shadow on Syria.”
Guterres noted that, after 13 years of violence, Syrians have finally begun moving toward peace. He recalled a visit by Security Council members to Damascus six months ago, where they observed the requirements for a successful transition, including inclusivity, the rule of law, transitional justice, social dialogue and reconstruction.
He affirmed that continued UN support and engagement in Syria would help advance these goals. Guterres also stressed that consolidating peace requires respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, warning that further military action or regional instability could undermine recent progress.
International Backing for State Institutions
Several Security Council members expressed support for Syria’s transition and efforts to strengthen state institutions. Pakistan’s representative said that Syria, under its new leadership and recent decisions, is moving toward greater stability, while noting that the country continues to face challenges related to occupation.
Panama’s representative emphasized the importance of supporting Syrian state institutions. He said his country backs efforts to strengthen those institutions and advance national reconciliation. France’s permanent representative to the UN stated that Syria deserves full international support in its pursuit of peace.
Sovereignty and Regional Security Concerns
Several delegations also highlighted the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, Saudi Arabia’s representative condemned Israeli incursions into Syrian territory, describing them as a violation of sovereignty and international law. He called for an immediate withdrawal from the occupied Syrian Golan.
Russia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, urged Israel to comply with the 1974 Disengagement Agreement with Syria. China’s representative similarly stated that the Golan is Syrian territory and called for an Israeli withdrawal while also stressing the need to combat terrorism.
US Deputy Representative to the UN Jennifer Lovetta said Washington remains committed to supporting peace and stability in Syria as it continues its integration into the international community. She added that Syria has made progress in combating terrorism, addressing drug smuggling and closing the chemical weapons file.
The UK’s Permanent Representative, James Kariuki, said the country has witnessed significant progress in reconstruction and stability efforts. He welcomed ongoing cooperation between the UN and Syria in support of a comprehensive political transition but expressed concern that Israeli incursions in southern Syria could threaten recent gains.
Somalia’s Deputy Permanent Representative, Muhammad Rabi Yusuf, called for Israel’s immediate and unconditional withdrawal from occupied Syrian territories. Greece’s Permanent Representative, Aghlaya Balta, reiterated her country’s support for a unified and sovereign Syria that preserves its territorial integrity and ensures the participation of all Syrians in shaping their future. She added that lasting security and prosperity can only emerge through an inclusive political process.
