Syrian Foreign Minister Asad Al-Shibani stated on Saturday that the reconstruction of Syria is facing significant challenges, particularly in the southern region, where there have been over 1,000 Israeli attacks in less than two years, resulting in dozens of deaths. He made these comments during a session on the pillars of regional security at the 2026 Bahrain Dialogue Forum. Al-Shibani emphasized the need to return to the pre-December 2024 lines and reactivate the 1974 disengagement agreement.
Al-Shibani stressed that the Golan Heights is Syrian territory and that UN Resolution 497 is the reference point for the region. He also noted that stability in the region depends on ending the crisis in the Gaza Strip and finding a path to an independent Palestinian state. The minister warned that any settlement that ignores Palestinian rights would be a fragile respite between wars. Furthermore, he highlighted Syria's experience in fighting against militant groups that entered the country and led to a devastating 14-year war.
According to Al-Shibani, Syria has overcome sensitive and difficult stages and has become a strategic partner in regional security and stability. He emphasized that no country in the region can think about its security individually and that Syria's security and stability are achieved through regional integration. The minister also mentioned that there is a strong relationship between Jordan and Syria, with no tensions between the two countries.
Al-Shibani announced that the Higher Strategic Council between Syria and Jordan will hold its third session next month. He also noted that there is significant cooperation between Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria to ensure border security and stability. The minister added that Syria is studying the possibility of joining the Makkah Defense Agreement. He emphasized that any weapon outside the state's control weakens the state itself before harming others and neighboring countries.
Al-Shibani stated that Syria's policy is based on the belief that true security is achieved through strong states that can protect their citizens. He noted that regional stability is measured by the ability to shield societies from the infiltration of chaos and establish a solid foundation for peace. The minister also expressed Syria's condemnation of missile and drone attacks on Jordan and other Gulf countries.
Al-Shibani emphasized Syria's solidarity with Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, and Oman in the face of any aggression. He highlighted that the stability of these countries is an extension of Damascus' security. The minister also mentioned that there is a successful experience in Syria in expelling militant groups that entered the country.
Finally, Al-Shibani's statements reflect Syria's commitment to regional security and stability. The country's experience in fighting against militant groups and its cooperation with neighboring countries are crucial in achieving stability in the region. The international community is closely watching the developments in Syria and its relations with other countries in the region.
Key points
- Syria's southern region has faced over 1,000 Israeli attacks in less than two years.
- Syrian Foreign Minister Asad Al-Shibani emphasized the need to return to the pre-December 2024 lines and reactivate the 1974 disengagement agreement.
- Al-Shibani noted that stability in the region depends on ending the crisis in the Gaza Strip and finding a path to an independent Palestinian state.
