Türkiye urges international community to 'step up' support to secure Syria's future

Türkiye's UN envoy Ahmet Yildiz on Tuesday urged increased international support for Syria as that country faces a critical juncture in its transition.

"The new era in Syria presents a historic opportunity for both the Syrian people and the region. The Syrian people cannot afford to miss this chance," Yildiz told a Security Council session on Syria.

He reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment "to spare no effort in providing all necessary assistance to ensure a stable, united, and secure Syria."

"At this critical moment, the international community must step up and extend its support to help the Syrian people overcome the challenges they face," Yildiz said.

Stressing the importance of inclusive governance in Syria, Yildiz noted that the new interim government "has demonstrated common sense and due diligence" since the fall of the 14-year Assad regime.

However, Yildiz condemned "attempts and provocations" in coastal areas that he said were aimed at derailing the transition.

"The wave of violence began with organized and simultaneous attacks orchestrated by remnants of the former regime," he said, emphasizing that the attacks must "not be mischaracterized as a sectarian conflict between Damascus and the Alawite community."

Yildiz also urged the eradication of terror groups from Syria, and emphasized that "there is no place for DAESH or PKK/YPG/SDF in Syria's future."

He said eliminating the groups is crucial in achieving a politically unified Syria.

On the Israeli military's continued actions in Syria, Yildiz said: "We strongly condemn Israel's continued military escalations and urge this Council to take immediate and decisive action."

Urging the international community to lift sanctions, he further stressed the need to increase support for humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Syria.

"Our collective efforts are essential in providing humanitarian and reconstruction aid to Syria," he said.