U.S. Embassy in Damascus Calls for Inclusive Transition in Syria
By Kardo Roj
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The U.S. Embassy in Damascus reaffirmed on Wednesday the necessity of a comprehensive political transition in Syria, emphasizing that the country should not pose a threat to its neighbors in the future.
The statement was released in observance of the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism Leading to Terrorism, highlighting Washington’s concerns over Syria’s stability and the potential risks associated with its transition.
Preventing Extremism and Foreign Exploitation
In a post on its official social media pages, the U.S. Embassy stated, “On Intl. Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism, we highlight the need for an inclusive transition in Syria to keep Syria from becoming a source for international terrorism & to deny foreign malign actors the opportunity to exploit Syria’s transition for their own objectives.”
The statement underscores growing concerns in Washington that, without a properly managed transition, Syria could become a breeding ground for extremist groups and a battleground for external actors seeking to advance their own agendas.
U.S. Position on Syria’s Future
The United States has long advocated for a political resolution to the Syrian conflict based on UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which calls for an inclusive political transition, constitutional reforms, and free elections. However, the complex geopolitical landscape—marked by foreign interventions, internal divisions, and ongoing instability—has made progress toward such a transition difficult.
While the U.S. has supported opposition groups and humanitarian efforts in Syria, it has also imposed sanctions on individuals and entities linked to human rights violations and destabilizing activities in the country. The latest statement from the embassy reinforces Washington’s stance that any future Syrian government must prevent the country from becoming a safe haven for terrorism.
Regional and International Concerns
Syria’s decade-long conflict has had profound implications for regional security, with neighboring countries such as Jordan, Iraq, and Lebanon frequently expressing concerns over the spillover effects of violence and extremist activities. Additionally, U.S. officials have repeatedly warned against the influence of Iran, Russia, and Turkey in shaping Syria’s future to serve their strategic interests.
By calling for an “inclusive transition,” Washington signals its intent to push for a political process that minimizes external interference while ensuring that extremist elements do not gain a foothold.
The Road Ahead
Despite international calls for a resolution, Syria remains in a fragile state, with ongoing security challenges, economic struggles, and humanitarian crises affecting millions of Syrians. As diplomatic efforts continue, the U.S. statement signals that Washington remains engaged in shaping the country’s future, urging a transition that prioritizes stability, security, and the prevention of extremist threats.