Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani marked a symbolic and politically charged moment on April 25 by raising the new Syrian flag at United Nations headquarters, a gesture he described as a “declaration of a new existence” and the end of a painful chapter in Syria’s history.
In his first official appearance in the United States since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Shaibani addressed the UN Security Council, presenting the vision of Syria’s transitional government. He emphasized Damascus’s commitment to regional stability, political reform, and cooperation with the international community while calling for urgent sanctions relief and an end to Israeli military operations on Syrian territory.
New Government and New Direction
Speaking before the Security Council, Shaibani said, “I am pleased to address you after raising the flag of Syria next to those of 193 nations—a flag that symbolizes change, dignity, and the will of a people who refused to surrender.” He underscored that the current Syrian government seeks to consolidate peace and justice and has granted international organizations access to the country for the first time since the conflict began.
Shaibani highlighted reforms including unifying military factions, curbing drug trafficking, and cooperating with global bodies on chemical weapons. He also announced the planned formation of commissions for transitional justice and missing persons and noted the symbolic return of some Syrian Jews as evidence of the nation’s rejection of sectarianism.
Sanctions and Stability
A central theme of Shaibani’s address was the economic toll of international sanctions. He warned that restrictions continue to stifle recovery, drive reliance on foreign aid, and obstruct investment. “Sanctions burden our country and prevent capital from entering. Their removal is essential to rebuild and achieve stability,” he said.
The Foreign Minister called on the United States and its allies to lift sanctions as a gesture toward supporting Syria’s political transition and humanitarian recovery.
Israeli Strikes Condemned
Syria denounced ongoing Israeli airstrikes as violations of sovereignty and threats to regional stability. Shaibani called on the UN to pressure Israel to cease operations and abide by the 1974 disengagement agreement. “Syria does not pose a threat to any country in the region, including Israel,” he said.
UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen echoed calls to halt Israeli incursions and emphasized the fragility of Syria’s current transition. He welcomed Shaibani’s participation, calling it a reflection of ongoing developments and noting progress such as the formation of the Syrian People’s Provisional Council and a constitutional declaration.
Cautious Support from the UK
Britain’s Deputy UN Representative James Kariuki welcomed Syria’s political progress and urged continued reconciliation, economic reform, and accountability. He warned, however, that Israel’s military activities risk undermining regional security and stressed the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty.
As Syria seeks international re-engagement, Shaibani’s visit signals a clear diplomatic push to reshape perceptions of Damascus and shift the country from pariah status to participant in shaping the region’s future. Whether the international community will reciprocate remains to be seen.
