Syria marked the first anniversary of the fall of the Assad regime with a wave of congratulatory messages from world leaders and international organizations, each framing the moment as both symbolic and consequential. The statements arrived as celebrations filled public squares across the country, where government-organized events carried the theme “Let’s complete the story.”
US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack praised Syrians of all communities for their endurance. “To every Syrian Sunni, Alawite, Kurd, Christian, Druze, Arab, Turkmen, Circassian, and all who call this ancient land home, after so many years of pain, today we celebrate your shared hope rising again,” he said. Barrack called the moment a chance for unity and prosperity.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also marked the anniversary, acknowledging the early steps of the transition and the role of international partners. He said, “We honor the resilience of the Syrian people and reaffirm our support for a peaceful, prosperous Syria that includes its minorities and is at peace with all its neighbors.”
European Leaders Emphasize Stability and Justice
European officials focused on justice and the need for a Syrian-led political process. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said the collapse of the Assad regime and the end of Sednaya prison abuses must remain a point of no return. He urged accountability and security for Syrians.
EU Chargé d’Affaires to Syria Michael Ohnmacht observed the end of dictatorship opened a “new phase.” He said the EU supports the transition and welcomes the commitments of authorities since December 2024. European Council President Antonio Costa stated that Syrians are taking steps toward a more stable and inclusive future and reaffirmed continued humanitarian and political backing.
Regional Partners Signal Commitment to Cooperation
Turkey, Qatar, and several Arab states aligned their messages around stability and regional cooperation. Turkish President Erdogan congratulated Syrians after “years of injustice and grave sacrifices,” adding that Ankara would support Syria’s territorial integrity and its role as a center of regional security. The Turkish Foreign Ministry said it would continue supporting Syrian stability “in the strongest possible way.”
Qatar’s embassy in Damascus called the anniversary the start of an era of recovery. The embassy said Syria “brought joy to Arabs, Muslims, and all free people of the world.” Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Muhammad Al Khulaifi stressed that the partnership between the two countries has “never been stronger.”
Syria’s Transition an Opportunity for Renewal
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the anniversary a chance to rebuild communities and heal divisions. He cited progress in services, access, and returns of displaced people and urged the international community to support a Syrian-owned transition. He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to a free, sovereign, and unified Syria.
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani linked her country’s recent mutual recognition with Syria to shared experiences of struggle. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the fall of the Assad regime “a bright day” and wished Syrians security and prosperity.
Messages also arrived from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, and Yemen, reflecting broad regional engagement in Syria’s transition. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a telegram praising bilateral cooperation, following President Ahmad al Sharaa’s October visit to Moscow.
As celebrations continue across Syrian communities at home and abroad, officials say the anniversary marks both remembrance and expectation, setting the tone for the country’s next year of continued transitional growth.
