Syrian leader calls for justice, urges Israeli withdrawal

Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa vowed to uphold the Syrian people’s right to see ousted president Bashar al-Assad held to justice, Asharq Al-Awsat reported on November 12th. 

In an interview with The Washington Post, Sharaa claimed U.S. President Donald Trump supports Syria’s stance on the withdrawal of Israeli forces to the pre-December 8th borders, the day Assad’s regime was overthrown. 

Sharaa’s meeting at the White House marked the first meeting by a Syrian leader since the nation became independent in 1946. In regards to Israeli military actions, he stated Israel had violated the 1974 disengagement agreement following Assad’s removal from power. He cited over 1,000 Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory since December 8th, including the bombing of the presidential palace and the ministry of defence, adding no response was made in order to facilitate the rebuilding of Syria. Sharaa warned Israeli military actions stem not from security concerns but “expansionist ambitions.”

He referred to ongoing security negotiations with Israel, saying progress has been made but a final deal requires Israel’s withdrawal to pre-December 8 borders. He added “the United States is with us in these negotiations”, noting Trump’s commitment to “push as quickly as possible” towards a solution. 

In reference to Russia, Sharaa acknowledged the complexity of relations between the two nations as Assad remains under Moscow’s protection. However, he also noted Russia’s authority as a permanent United Nations member, signifying its influence on votes regarding Syria’s future. He proclaimed: “We will preserve our rights as Syrians to call for bringing Assad to justice”.

Sharaa also emphasised rebuilding relations with Washington after decades of hostility, highlighting shared security and economic interests. He linked stability to lifting sanctions, calling it essential for recovery.

Reflecting on Syria’s long fight against ISIS, he established the nation shoulders its own security and urged integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces under state command, a process that has been ongoing. 

Asharq al-Awsat via The Washington Post, Maghrebi.org