UNSC: A3+ Group Urges for an Inclusive Transition in Syria

The A3+ Group at the UN Security Council—comprising Algeria, Somalia, Sierra Leone, and Guyana—called for an inclusive transition in Syria on Friday in New York, emphasizing that achieving lasting peace necessitates the engagement of all segments of Syrian society.

“The A3+ firmly believes that a successful and inclusive transition must be Syrian-led and Syrian-owned, with the strong backing of the international community. This process must remain aligned with the principles of Security Council Resolution 2254,” stated Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Amar Bendjama, while addressing the Security Council regarding the situation in Syria on behalf of the A3+ Group.

In this critical moment, the diplomat reiterated the essential role of the United Nations, emphasizing the need for the A3+ group “to safeguard the independence and operational capacity of the United Nations agencies.”

The A3+ commended “the recent announcement of a new transitional government by the interim authorities, and looks forward to subsequent steps that will help ensure an inclusive political process.”

“We underline that lasting peace requires the engagement of all components of Syrian society. Inclusivity is not desirable. It is essential for sustainable coexistence and national reconciliation. This includes empowering women, youth and communities,” Bendjama stressed.

The A3+ Group also applauded “the ongoing dialogue between the interim authorities and various Syrian communities.

Differences can and must be addressed through dialogue and reconciliation, not through confrontation.”

Additionally, the A3+ called for “the dissolution of all military factions, and for their smooth integration into the new Syrian army,” underscoring that “this step is critical for national unity, and establishing a stable security environment.”

Bendjama further emphasized “the importance of ensuring accountability for all violations of international humanitarian law, and international human rights law committed throughout the Syrian conflict,” pointing out that “justice and accountability are vital elements of reconciliation.”

“The pain of the Syrian people runs deep, but we believe in their resilience, and their capacity to find a durable solution to their challenges, with the full support of the international community, including this Security Council,” he assured.

On another front, the A3+ reiterated “its unwavering support for Syria’s unity Syria’s sovereignty, Syria’s independence and Syria’s territorial integrity,” stressing that these are not abstract ideals but fundamental principles that must be respected by all.

In this regard, they expressed “serious concern over repeated attacks and violations of Syria’s sovereignty” by the Zionist entity.

“The A3+ strongly condemns this military operation that violate international law. including the United Nations charters. In particular, Article 2, which prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any states. And we call for full compliance with the 1974 Disengagement Agreement,” Bendjama stated.

The A3+ group urgently calls for “the immediate end to Israeli incursions into Syrian territories, and the complete withdrawal of its forces,” reiterating that “the Golan Heights remains Syrian under international law, as reaffirmed by Security Council Resolution 497.”

Emphasizing that Syria’s path to reconstruction necessitates unwavering support from the international community, Bendjama stated, “conditions must be created to prevent the resurgence of terrorism which threaten both Syrians and broader international peace and security.”

The diplomat characterized the humanitarian situation in Syria as “dire,” highlighting that “the rising needs, coupled with unilateral sanctions, have worsened the plight of civilians, even as more than 1.5 million displaced persons returned home since November last year.”

“These circumstances do not create a conducive environment for the safe, voluntary and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced persons,” he cautioned.

In this context, he urged donors to “honor their financial pledges to humanitarian operations in Syria.”

“We must help Syrians rebuild their lives and communities, these include investing in infrastructure, in education, and in healthcare to lay the foundation for long-term stability and prosperity,” he emphasized, also advocating for the lifting of unilateral sanctions, whose initial justifications are no longer valid.

Bendjama asserted that “lasting stability and prosperity will require a comprehensive approach, one that promotes security, economic recovery and inclusive governance.”

“All efforts that risk derailing the transitional process in Syria must be avoided. Now, more than ever, the Security Council and the international community must stand united in support of Syria and its people,” he concluded.