UN Envoy to Syria Geir Pedersen resigns after seven years
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Geir Pedersen, the United Nations Special Envoy to Syria, announced his resignation on Thursday, September 18, 2025, concluding nearly seven years of diplomatic efforts in the war-torn country. Pedersen informed UN Secretary-General António Guterres of his decision to step down for personal reasons, a move that has been widely anticipated following significant political developments in Syria. His resignation comes shortly before the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, where Syria’s interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is set to address the assembly for the first time since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad.
Appointed in 2018, Pedersen’s tenure was marked by efforts to implement UN Security Council Resolution 2254, aimed at facilitating a political solution to the Syrian conflict. Despite numerous challenges, including the rise of ISIS and the complex dynamics between various factions, Pedersen remained committed to his role, emphasizing the resilience of the Syrian people and the importance of international support for a peaceful transition.
The political landscape in Syria has undergone significant changes in recent months. In December 2024, President Bashar al-Assad was ousted during a swift offensive led by rebel forces, culminating in the establishment of an interim government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa. This transition has led to a reevaluation of international involvement, with the new government expressing a preference for internal solutions and a cautious approach toward foreign mediation.
Pedersen’s resignation reflects the evolving political dynamics in Syria and the shifting role of international actors in the country’s future. While the United Nations continues to monitor the situation, the emphasis has increasingly been placed on supporting the Syrian people and their institutions as they navigate this critical period of transition.