UNSC: A3+ Group Reaffirms Its Strong Commitment to Syria’s Unity, Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity
On Tuesday in New York, the “A3+” group at the United Nations Security Council reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to Syria’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. The group called for non-interference in the country’s internal affairs and an urgent lifting of unilateral sanctions imposed on Syria.
This statement was delivered by Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amar Benjama, on behalf of the “A3+” group, which comprises three African non-permanent members of the Security Council—Algeria, Sierra Leone, and Somalia—along with the Republic of Guyana from the Caribbean region, during a briefing session on Syria.
“The A3+ group reiterates its firm commitment to the unity of Syria, along with its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, especially as the country grapples with significant security, humanitarian, political, and economic challenges,” he stated. He emphasized that “these fundamental principles cannot be maintained without civil peace among various local communities and the cessation of external interference in Syria’s domestic matters.”
Benjama noted that “the ongoing airstrikes conducted by the Israeli military against military sites within Syrian territory, coupled with statements from Israeli officials regarding their forces’ presence in Syria and their intentions to establish a ‘demilitarized zone’ in the southern part of the country, exacerbate security challenges.” The “A3+” group considers these actions violations of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
After condemning these “irresponsible statements and actions that heighten regional insecurity,” Benjama reminded stakeholders that the Golan Heights is recognized as occupied Syrian territory, as affirmed by Security Council Resolution 497, and called for full compliance with the 1974 disengagement agreement.
The group asserted that the challenges facing Syria “require complete support and solidarity from the international community,” emphasizing the need to “build an inclusive Syria for all its citizens without discrimination or exclusion.”
The “A3+” group reiterated the importance of establishing a committee to promote civil peace and reconciliation and to facilitate communication between local communities, asserting that this initiative is “essential for achieving lasting peace” in Syria.
In this context, the group underscored the necessity of resolving conflicts through dialogue and negotiations, urging an immediate end to hostilities to enable humanitarian assistance to reach those in need and to protect civilians. They reaffirmed their support for the efforts of the UN Special Envoy aimed at assisting the transitional Syrian authorities in organizing an inclusive political process led by Syrians and facilitated by the United Nations.
Regarding the humanitarian situation in Syria, described as “catastrophic,” the group called for increased efforts to improve conditions, highlighting that these challenges demand ongoing support and solidarity from the international community towards the Syrian people.
“They are experiencing one of the worst refugee crises in the world,” they emphasized, urging the international community to ensure the safety and dignity of both internally displaced individuals and foreign Syrian refugees, and to facilitate their voluntary return.
“Over 1.2 million internally displaced persons returned home in November 2024, but obstacles hindering their return persist,” the source clarified.
“If we are genuinely committed to supporting the transition process in Syria, we must provide Syrians with the resources needed to rebuild their country. Without a rapid economic recovery, it will be difficult to secure a prosperous and stable future for the Syrian people,” he emphasized. The group also reiterated its strong belief that “lifting unilateral sanctions is essential.”
