Turkiye calls for inclusivity, stability in post-Assad Syria

In the wake of the Syrian opposition’s capture of Damascus and the declared end to President Bashar al-Assad’s rule, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has called for unity and fair treatment of all Syrians.

Speaking at a press conference during the Doha Forum on Sunday, Fidan emphasized that the transition must prioritize inclusivity and avoid retribution.

“All minorities in Syria should be treated equally,” Fidan said. “The principle of inclusiveness must never be compromised. There must never be a desire for revenge.” He further stressed the importance of reconstruction, declaring, “It is time to unite and reconstruct the country.”

Fidan urged the opposition to reassure neighboring countries that a new Syria would be a stabilizing force in the region. “The new Syria will address the existing problems, will eliminate the threats,” he stated.

The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011 as peaceful protests against Assad, escalated into a devastating war involving global powers. The fighting has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions. The fall of Damascus followed a swift offensive by opposition forces, who seized several strategic cities last month. Celebrations erupted across Syria, with large crowds gathering in the streets. Meanwhile, Assad’s whereabouts remain unknown.

Fidan called for calm from all parties within Syria and the international community, warning against actions that could further destabilize the region. When asked about Assad’s location, Fidan declined to comment directly but suggested the former president was no longer in Syria. Reflecting on Assad’s failure to reconcile with the Syrian people during the Astana peace process, he remarked, “Since 2016, we de-escalated the situation and basically froze the war. However, the regime did not use this opportunity to reconcile with its own people.”

Despite the challenges, Fidan expressed optimism about Syria’s future, noting that the fall of Assad offered an opportunity for the country’s citizens to determine their own path. “Today there is hope,” he said. He called on the international community to support the reconstruction efforts and help millions of displaced Syrians return home.

Turkiye, which currently hosts around three million Syrian refugees, has been a critical player in regional diplomacy throughout the conflict.