UN chief praises resilience and courage of Syrian people
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres paid tribute to the resilience and courage of the Syrian people
NEW YORK, United States (MNTV) — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres paid tribute to the resilience and courage of the Syrian people, saying they “never stopped nurturing hope despite enduring unimaginable hardship,” as the country marked one year since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Calling the anniversary a moment to honor sacrifices and renew national aspirations, Guterres said the United Nations remains “fully committed” to supporting Syrians in making the political transition succeed.
“Today marks one year since the fall of the Assad government and the end of a decades-old system of repression,” he said in a statement.
Guterres stressed that what lies ahead is more than a political transition. He described it as a historic opportunity to rebuild “shattered communities” and heal Syria’s deep social and political divisions.
“It is a chance to forge a nation where every Syrian — regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender, or political affiliation — can live securely, equally, and with dignity,” he said.
He noted that the past year has shown meaningful change is possible when Syrians are empowered and backed by the international community, adding that the challenges ahead are “not insurmountable.”
While humanitarian needs remain immense, Guterres cited progress in restoring essential services, expanding humanitarian access, and creating pathways for refugees and internally displaced people to return.
“The international community must stand firmly behind this Syrian-led, Syrian-owned transition,” he said, calling for respect for Syria’s sovereignty, the removal of barriers to reconstruction, increased humanitarian funding, and the promotion of long-term economic development.
“On this anniversary, we stand united in purpose — to build a foundation of peace and prosperity and renew our pledge to a free, sovereign, united, and inclusive Syria,” he added.
Syria is marking one year since the fall of Assad, an event that opened a transformative chapter in the country’s modern history.
On Dec. 8, 2024, the Baath Party’s rule — in place since 1963 — collapsed after opposition forces seized Damascus and Assad fled to Russia.
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