Syria’s President Promises New Phase of Governance Amid Reconstruction Challenges
In an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes,” Syrian President Bashar al-Assad declared that Syria has entered a new phase following years of conflict, emphasizing his government’s commitment to establishing a state founded on justice and full sovereignty, reports 24brussels.
During a tour of the devastated municipality of Jobar in Damascus, Assad lamented the extensive destruction and the deep psychological scars left on generations after 14 years of war.
“The world was unable to stop this tragedy, but it has a responsibility to support Syria,” he stated, criticizing economic sanctions as detrimental to the country’s reconstruction efforts. “Anyone who obstructs the lifting of sanctions is complicit in the crimes committed,” he added, highlighting the urgency for international support.
On regional dynamics, Assad noted that his government does not intend to threaten neighboring countries, asserting that Syria has refrained from provoking Israel since power shifted in Damascus. However, he condemned Israel’s airstrikes on the presidential palace, calling them “a declaration of war.”
Regarding recent violence in the coastal region and Sweida, he insisted that these issues are internal matters and promised that all perpetrators of civilian crimes would face justice, irrespective of their political or religious affiliations.
Assad further announced that general elections will be organized once essential infrastructure is rebuilt and official documentation is assured for citizens, aiming to strengthen a democratic framework where all can exercise their right to vote.
As the international community watches closely, the reconstruction of Syria presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the government amid ongoing tensions and the need for reconciliation after years of upheaval. The potential for significant political reform hinges on addressing the myriad effects of prolonged conflict and external pressures.
