Syrian Foreign Minister Asad Al-Shibani announced on Saturday that Damascus is evaluating the possibility of joining the Makkah Defense Alliance. He made this statement during a session on the foundations of regional security at the 22nd Manama Dialogue 2026. Al-Shibani emphasized that there are no tensions with Jordan, while highlighting the Israeli aggression against Syria.
According to Al-Shibani, Syria has been subjected to over 1,000 Israeli attacks in less than two years, resulting in the deaths of dozens of people. He questioned the logic of demands to control borders and limit arms while Syria's sovereignty is being violated daily. The minister called for a return to the pre-December 8, 2024 lines and the activation of the 1974 disengagement agreement.
Al-Shibani stressed that the Golan Heights is Syrian territory, and UN Security Council Resolution 497 is the reference point in this matter. The resolution, adopted unanimously in 1981, states that Israel's decision to impose its laws and administration on the occupied Syrian Golan is null and void. He also denied any tensions between Syria and Jordan, citing close security, intelligence, and military cooperation between the two countries.
The Syrian minister pointed out that a joint council between Syria and Jordan was formed in the first years after the fall of Bashar Al-Assad's regime, with its third meeting scheduled for next month. He emphasized that border security is a shared responsibility among neighboring countries, highlighting the existing cooperation between Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Jordan.
Al-Shibani expressed Syria's support for Gulf countries and Jordan in the face of any aggression, condemning rocket and drone attacks. He believes that stability in the Gulf is a natural extension of Syria's security. The minister also underlined the need for coordination and information sharing to combat cross-border smuggling networks.
Regarding Syria's internal situation, Al-Shibani described the country's joining of the international coalition against ISIS as a "historic step." He stated that the legitimacy of arms comes solely from the state. The minister also mentioned that Syria has started holding accountable those responsible for violations during the Al-Assad regime era.
Over 3.7 million Syrians have returned to their homes, according to Al-Shibani. He emphasized the importance of national sovereignty and the need for cooperation among countries to address regional security challenges. The Syrian Foreign Minister's statements reflect the country's positions on various regional and international issues.
Key points
- Syria is studying the possibility of joining the Makkah Defense Alliance.
- Israel has launched over 1,000 attacks on Syria in less than two years.
- Syria and Jordan have close security, intelligence, and military cooperation.
