UN Security Council delegation makes landmark visit to Damascus

A delegation comprising representatives from all member states of the United Nations Security Council arrived in Damascus on Thursday, marking the body's first collective visit to Syria in 14 years. The high-level diplomatic mission toured areas devastated by the prolonged conflict, including the heavily damaged Jobar neighborhood, and held talks with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. The visit signifies a potential turning point in Syria's international relations following the fall of the Assad regime.

Symbolism of the Visit and Tour of Damaged Areas

According to Syria's state news agency SANA, the delegation was shown the destruction in Jobar, attributed to strikes by the former regime of Bashar al-Assad. Accompanied by Syria's UN ambassador, Ibrahim Olabi, the envoys also visited historic sites in Old Damascus. The timing of the visit coincides with the first anniversary of the collapse of Assad's government, which ruled for nearly 25 years before he fled to Russia in December of last year.

Damascus Hails Visit as International Support

The Syrian Foreign Ministry framed the visit as a demonstration of international backing for the "new Syria" and its efforts to rebuild, restore sovereignty, and stabilize the country. In a statement, it noted that the Security Council's engagement represents a "rare moment of consensus" on the Syrian issue among all its permanent and non-permanent members, the first such unanimous diplomatic move in over a decade.

Context of Syria's Transition and Regional Implications

President Sharaa leads a transitional administration formed in January, following the end of the Baath Party's rule that began in 1963. This landmark UN visit underscores a cautious international re-engagement with Damascus. For Türkiye, a key neighbor with deep security interests in Syria's stability, such diplomatic developments are closely monitored as they impact regional security, refugee returns, and the future political roadmap for its southern border.