Syrian rebels announced the end of Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year regime, a significant development after over 13 years of civil conflict. This military offensive raises concerns of renewed instability in the region. Global leaders responded with mixed reactions, emphasizing the need for stability, support for Syrian unity, and caution against external interference. Key figures from the EU, UN, Israel, Iran, and neighboring countries expressed hopes for a peaceful transition while stressing the importance of protecting civilians and avoiding chaos.
(Reuters) – On Sunday, Syrian rebels declared on state television the end of Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year regime, marking a significant milestone after more than 13 years of intense civil conflict.
This announcement follows a rapid military offensive, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of instability in a Middle Eastern region already fraught with turmoil.
Global Reactions to Assad’s Ouster
**URSULA VON DER LEYEN, PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION** ‘The oppressive dictatorship of Assad has crumbled. This pivotal shift in the region brings both opportunities and challenges,’ Ursula von der Leyen remarked on X. ‘Europe stands prepared to assist in maintaining national unity and rebuilding a Syrian state that safeguards the rights of all minorities.’
**KAJA KALLAS, EU HIGH REPRESENTATIVE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS** ‘The downfall of Assad’s regime is a welcome and long-anticipated development, reflecting the diminishing support for him from Russia and Iran,’ she noted on X. ‘Our foremost goal is to ensure safety in the region, and I will collaborate with all constructive partners in Syria and beyond,’ she added.
**ROBERTA METSOLA, PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT** ‘The dictator has been overthrown. It is evident that the 24 years of Assad’s brutal governance in Syria have come to an end, as his regime lies in ruins.’ ‘We are at a crucial juncture for the region and for the millions of Syrians yearning for a future characterized by freedom, stability, and safety. The forthcoming hours and days will be crucial,’ Roberta Metsola stated on X.
**BASSEM AL AWADI, SPOKESPERSON FOR THE IRAQI GOVERNMENT** Iraq is monitoring the developments closely and emphasizes the importance of non-interference in Syria’s internal matters or favoritism towards any side, the spokesperson mentioned in a statement.
**IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY** Iran respects Syria’s sovereignty and unity, urging for an ‘immediate cessation of military conflicts, prevention of terrorist activities, and the initiation of national dialogue’ involving all segments of Syrian society, the ministry stated. Tehran remains committed to supporting international efforts aimed at progressing the political process and maintaining its long-standing friendship with Syria.
International Perspectives and Statements
**GEIR PEDERSEN, UN SPECIAL ENVOY FOR SYRIA** The UN’s Special Envoy for Syria highlighted the clear desire among millions of Syrians for stable and inclusive transitional arrangements. ‘Today represents a pivotal moment in Syria’s history—a nation that has endured nearly 14 years of profound suffering and immense loss. This dark chapter has left lasting scars, yet today we cautiously anticipate the dawn of a new era marked by peace, reconciliation, dignity, and inclusivity for all Syrians.’
**BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER** The fall of Bashar al-Assad, a critical figure in the Iranian axis, is a historic moment and a direct outcome of the pressures exerted on Hezbollah and Iran by Israel, he asserted. ‘We will not permit any hostile entities to establish a presence at our border,’ Benjamin Netanyahu added.
**EGYPTIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY** Egypt has urged all Syrian stakeholders to safeguard the state’s capabilities and national institutions, emphasizing its support for the Syrian populace, sovereignty, and national unity.
**EMMANUEL MACRON, FRENCH PRESIDENT** ‘The era of barbarism has concluded. Finally. I honor the bravery and resilience of the Syrian people. In this uncertain time, I wish them peace, liberty, and unity,’ stated the French president on X. ‘France remains committed to ensuring the security of everyone in the Middle East.’
**JOE BIDEN, AMERICAN PRESIDENT** ‘President Joe Biden and his administration are closely monitoring the extraordinary developments in Syria and are in ongoing communication with regional partners,’ the White House announced.
**DONALD TRUMP, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES** ‘Assad is no longer in power. He has fled his country. His protector, Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, has abandoned him,’ Donald Trump remarked on Truth Social. ‘Both Russia and Iran are currently weakened—one by the situation in Ukraine and a faltering economy, the other by Israel’s successful military actions.’
**RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY** The Russian ministry reported that Bashar al-Assad has departed his position and the country after facilitating a peaceful transition of power, though it did not disclose his current whereabouts. Russia stated it did not engage in discussions regarding his exit and that its military bases in Syria are on alert but not in immediate danger. Moscow is in communication with all Syrian opposition factions and calls for an end to violence.
**KING ABDULLAH OF JORDAN** King Abdullah expressed respect for the choices made by the Syrian populace, as stated by the royal court. He urged for the avoidance of any conflicts in Syria that could lead to chaos, stressing the importance of protecting the security of neighboring countries.
**QATAR FOREIGN MINISTRY** The Qatari Foreign Ministry reiterated its call for an end to the crisis in Syria, in alignment with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 of 2015, which outlines steps for a ceasefire and political transition. The ministry stated it is closely monitoring the situation in Syria and advocates for the preservation of the state’s unity.
**SAUDI ARABIA** Saudi Arabia has engaged in discussions with all regional parties about Syria and is committed to preventing any chaotic outcomes for the nation, a Saudi official reported. ‘We are in communication with all regional stakeholders, including Turkey, and remain vigilant regarding the situation,’ the official added, noting that the kingdom is unaware of Bashar al-Assad’s location.
**HAKAN FIDAN, TURKISH FOREIGN MINISTER** Syria has reached a moment where its citizens will shape the future of their own country. ‘Today brings hope,’ Hakan Fidan stated at a press conference in Doha. He emphasized that the Syrian populace cannot achieve this alone and that Turkey values Syria’s territorial integrity. A new, inclusive Syrian administration must be established without aspirations for revenge. Turkey calls on all parties to exercise caution and vigilance, ensuring that terrorist organizations do not exploit the situation. Opposition groups must unify. We are committed to fostering stability and security in Syria, the minister concluded.
**DANIEL SHAPIRO, U.S. DEPUTY SECRETARY OF DEFENSE** ‘The United States will continue to maintain its presence in eastern Syria and take necessary actions to prevent the resurgence of the Islamic State,’ stated Daniel Shapiro, Deputy Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, at the Manama Dialogue security conference in Bahrain. He urged all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians, especially minorities, and to adhere to international standards.
**ANNALENA BAERBOCK, GERM