Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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September 18, 2025 Peace and security
The success of the political transition in Syria depends on the broad participation of all communities and population groups. This prerequisite was emphasized by the Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, in his address to the Security Council.
According to Pedersen, Syria urgently needs international assistance on a scale commensurate with its needs and ambitions. The return of the private sector to Syria is also essential, which requires political stability, regional and global support, and the easing of sanctions and export controls.
External intervention
The special envoy condemned ongoing external interference, including from Israel. He cited media reports of the killing of several Syrian soldiers, as well as the Israeli landing south of Damascus and further strikes in early September. "Such external interference is unacceptable and must end," Pedersen stated.
Relative stability
Speaking of situation in As-SuwaydaPedersen noted that the ceasefire announced on July 18 is generally holding. He welcomed the joint efforts of the United States, Jordan, and Syria, as enshrined in the September 16 statement. According to the Special Envoy, it is crucial that decisions simultaneously "guarantee the sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria" and address "the legitimate concerns of the Druze community for their security, human rights, and political future."
Political transition
"The international community must support Syria and resolutely oppose foreign interference. But equally, the success of the transition will depend, first and foremost, on whether the state acts as a state for all, not only in words but also in deeds," the Special Envoy said.
He also added that Ahmed al-Sharaa will be the first Syrian president since 1967 to personally participate in debates during the UN General Assembly High-Level Week in New York.
"The United Nations stands ready to support efforts on all fronts," Pedersen reiterated.
Rebuilding the country
In turn, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher emphasized that more than 70 percent of Syrians need support, 9 million suffer from acute food shortages, about 7 million remain internally displaced, and more than 4 million are refugees in neighboring countries.
According to him, despite significant funding cuts, the UN and its partners provide vital humanitarian assistance to nearly 3.5 million people across Syria every month. However, donors have provided only 18 percent of the required funds, which is already leading to the closure of hospitals, women's and girls' centers, and the reduction of other programs.
He also stressed that millions of Syrians, returning to their native places After years of displacement, they need help to rebuild their communities.
Fletcher called on UN Security Council members to maintain stability through continued engagement to prevent violence, to adequately fund humanitarian efforts, and to support the reconstruction of Syria.
"Turn promises into concrete investments and expand support for major recovery, reconstruction, and development programs, creating livelihoods, rebuilding homes, and restoring essential services. Ultimately, this is restoring hope," he said.
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