Christians in Latakia seek respect from new Sunni Muslim leaders
- After Bashar al-Assad's regime was overthrown, Geir Pedersen visited Damascus to assess the ongoing situation.
- The new rulers, primarily led by HTS, are urged to ensure justice for families of those disappeared since 2011.
- A successful transitional process in Syria requires lifting sanctions and addressing human rights issues.
In early December 2024, following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad, the new leaders of Syria, primarily led by the Sunni Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), are facing significant challenges. Geir Pedersen, the United Nations special envoy for Syria, highlighted the mixed emotions of the Syrian people, expressing both hope and fear during his visit to Damascus. Pedersen indicated that the newly formed interim government is encouraged to implement reforms and address past injustices, especially concerning the estimated 100,000 Syrians reported missing since the civil war began in 2011. He also emphasized the importance of lifting Western sanctions to facilitate rebuilding efforts and ensure the return of displaced people to their homes. Pedersen's remarks signal a potential shift in international relations with Syria, contingent upon the new leadership's adherence to human rights standards and cooperation with various factions within the country. As the situation remains precarious with ongoing hostilities, including attacks from the Syrian National Army (SNA) against Kurdish forces, the stability of Syria's future hinges on the new government's ability to foster peace and address the needs of all ethnic and religious groups within its borders.