US voices support for new Syrian government at UN Security Council

In a significant departure from long-standing policy, the United States has extended its support to the new Syrian government in Damascus, declaring a shared objective to stabilize the war-torn country and rebuild its institutions. The announcement, made during a UN Security Council briefing on Thursday, signals a profound recalibration of U.S. strategy following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad's regime in late 2024.

A fundamental change in relations and security

U.S. Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Tammy Bruce, stated that the situation has "fundamentally changed" since the new government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa joined the U.S.-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS in late 2025. "Damascus is now both willing and positioned to take over security responsibilities, including control of ISIS detention facilities and camps," Bruce told the Council. The U.S. has shifted from partnering with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against ISIS to backing a process to reintegrate northeast Syria under Damascus's authority.

Focus on Kurdish integration and renewed diplomacy

A central pillar of the new U.S. approach is supporting the political integration of Syria's Kurdish population. Bruce highlighted President al-Sharaa's affirmation that Kurds are "an integral part of Syria" and outlined a plan offering full citizenship, constitutional protections for language and culture, and participation in governance. While noting risks remain, Bruce called this U.S.-backed integration the "strongest chance yet" for Kurds to secure enduring rights. The U.S. also declared readiness to support dialogue between Syria and Israel to "turn a new page" in their relations.

International reactions and regional tensions

The policy shift elicited mixed reactions in the Security Council. Russia's envoy, while monitoring the "rapid" developments, urged all parties to avoid actions that could escalate violence and criticized Israel's "ongoing illegal interference" in Syria. Syria's envoy accused the YPG/SDF—a group Türkiye designates as a terrorist organization—of breaching commitments and held it responsible for any ISIS escapes. He also condemned Israeli violations of disengagement agreements. These statements underscore the complex regional dynamics, where Türkiye's legitimate security concerns regarding border threats remain a critical factor for lasting stability.