15 May 2026 14:55 UTC · UK Government · GOV.UK Speech · Source · Email X Link

UK Government welcomes progress on Syria transition

Key points

Welcomes political transition progress and trials of former regime figures
Urges continued humanitarian access, NE Syria integration, and return to Syria–Israel dialogue

TL;DR

Welcomes legal proceedings against former Assad regime figures and progress on political transition, while noting more work is needed for inclusivity.
Offers appreciation to the United Nations and partners for 11 years of cross-border aid from Türkiye, noting over 65,000 operations and a shift to commercial methods.
Notes 15.6 million people in Syria remain in need and emphasizes the need for unfettered humanitarian access and a permissive operating environment.
Encourages integration of North‑East Syria into unified state structures, greater female representation, de‑escalation in the region, and a return to direct talks between Syria and Israel; looks forward to the Special Envoy’s Office move to Damascus.

Original text

We welcome the progress on Syria’s political transition, including the start of legal proceedings against former Assad regime figures. These individuals committed heinous crimes. Their trials are a powerful step towards accountability and justice. We will continue to support the Syrian Government in their efforts to uphold the rule of law for all Syria. Of course, there is more work to be done to fully deliver an inclusive political transition. We encourage continued efforts to integrate North-East Syria into unified state structures. We also note that women remain underrepresented across Syria’s political and security institutions. We encourage this Council’s continued focus on the Women, Peace, and Security agenda to support Syria in addressing this vital aspect of the transition. Second, the UK offers our appreciation to the UN and all partners involved in the cross-border aid operations from Türkiye into Syria over the last 11 years. In that time, over 65,000 operations provided vital humanitarian support to communities across northern Syria. We welcome the operation’s successful conclusion and a shift to more sustainable commercial methods. However, as we’ve heard today, the humanitarian situation remains challenging with 15.6 million people still in need. So it is vital that humanitarian partners continue to enjoy unfettered access and a permissive operating environment. Third, we welcome Syria’s firm commitment to peaceful co-existence with its neighbours. Still, the situation in the region remains volatile with risks to Syria’s stability and economic recovery. De-escalation and dialogue are more important than ever, and we urge a return to direct talks between Syria and Israel with the objective of supporting long-term peace. President, the UN can play a vital role in supporting Syria’s reconstruction and stability. We look forward to the timely move of the Special Envoy’s Office to Damascus. The UK will continue to work with the UN, this Council, and the wider international community, alongside the Syrian government, to deliver a more peaceful and prosperous future for the Syrian people.

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UK Government welcomes progress on Syria transition

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