‘A mess’, ‘new political reality’: Global leaders react to deepening conflict in Syria

The conflict in Syria, which began as a series of protests against President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in 2011, has evolved into a complex struggle involving multiple factions, foreign interventions, and severe humanitarian consequences.

A man rides his motorcycle past a burning government armoured vehicle south of Hama, Syria, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. (AP)

Taking to social media,  Donald Trump called for the United States to stay out of the conflict:

“Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, & THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT. LET IT PLAY OUT. DO NOT GET INVOLVED!”

Trump’s message reflects his broader “America First” policy, advocating for limited US engagement in foreign conflicts, particularly those that do not directly affect American interests.

Turkish President Erdogan articulated a vision for Syria that emphasised the importance of a peaceful resolution. He remarked:

“There is now a new reality in Syria, politically and diplomatically. And Syria belongs to Syrians with all its ethnic, sectarian, and religious elements.”

Suriye’de artık siyasi ve diplomatik olarak yeni bir gerçeklik vardır. Ve Suriye tüm etnik, mezhebî ve dinî unsurlarıyla Suriyelilerindir.

Kendi ülkesinin geleceğine karar verecek olan da Suriye halkıdır.…

— Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) December 7, 2024

Erdogan expressed Turkey’s desire for Syria to regain stability, adding, “As Turkey, our wish is for our neighbour Syria to quickly regain the peace, stability, and tranquillity it has been longing for 13 years.” His stance highlighted Turkey’s emphasis on Syria’s territorial integrity and the importance of a peaceful transition that reflects Syria’s diverse communities.

Al-Jalali, representing the Syrian government, framed the conflict as a battle for the country’s identity, rather than simply a territorial dispute. He asserted:

“The true battle our country is fighting is the battle for … national identity. The geographical battle is a secondary one, which our heroic army and armed forces have been fighting since 2011 and continues to this day.”

Germany has been vocal about the need for diplomatic solutions. Minister Tobias Lindner expressed concerns over the escalation of the conflict, particularly in relation to the Russian military’s involvement. He stated:

“We urge all parties to de-escalate and to remind them of their obligation to protect civilians. There must be no foreign escalation. Russian airstrikes on civilian targets are particularly worrying.”

Lindner underscored the importance of a political resolution under the UN framework, specifically referencing Resolution 2254, which calls for a political transition in Syria.

👇👇👇 https://t.co/f4QBr7kDN9

— Dr. Tobias Lindner (@tobiaslindner) December 7, 2024

“What we need now is a political process, a solution in the UN framework of resolution 2254,” he added, urging all parties to focus on diplomacy rather than further military action.

I am closely following developments in Syria. I urge all parties to protect civilians and respect minority rights.

Only a Syrian-led political solution will resolve the conflict and bring much needed security and stability. 2/2

— Hamish Falconer MP (@HFalconerMP) December 6, 2024

Hamish Falconer echoed the international community’s concerns regarding the escalation of violence and its potential impact on civilians. He called for diplomatic efforts to avoid further military intervention and civilian harm. Falconer joined other world leaders in stressing the importance of political dialogue as the only path to stability in Syria.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed solidarity with the Syrian people and hailed the development as a turning point. “I pay tribute to the Syrian people, to their courage, to their patience,” Macron said, reflecting on the long and arduous struggle faced by Syrians over 13 years of civil war.

The barbaric state has fallen. At last.

I pay tribute to the Syrian people, to their courage, to their patience. In this moment of uncertainty, I send them my wishes for peace, freedom, and unity.

France will remain committed to the security of all in the Middle East.

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) December 8, 2024

Macron further stated, “The barbaric state has fallen. Finally.” He emphasized France’s enduring commitment to regional stability, adding, “France will remain committed to the security of all in the Middle East.”