Statement by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad at the UN Security Council Briefing on Syria (18 March 2026)

Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad welcomes Special Envoy Thomas Barrack and other briefers, and stresses that the Middle East remains volatile with a risk of wider conflagration. He urges the insulation of Syria from destabilizing developments as it moves toward recovery and stabilization, and emphasizes a credible, inclusive Syrian-led political process. The envoy notes the importance of completing institutional arrangements, including parliamentary processes in the Northeast and the appointment of 70 remaining members, while reaffirming Pakistan’s support for continued UN engagement. He welcomes the 30 January agreement between the Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces as a constructive step toward national integration, stressing that its effective implementation requires sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and actions that avoid undermining confidence. The security transition is highlighted as central to stabilization, with priorities including integrating armed groups into unified national structures, improving border management, and intensifying counterterrorism efforts against Daesh, given the ongoing threat from foreign terrorist fighters. Economically, improvements exist but remain fragile; sanctions relief has opened space for state activities, banking, transport, energy, and reconstruction, and the activation of the Central Bank of Syria’s sovereign account at the Federal Reserve is welcomed, with an emphasis on strengthening institutions to capitalize on this opening. Humanitarian needs are dire, necessitating scaled-up early recovery efforts, adequate funding, and support for basic services, infrastructure, and livelihoods. The situation in the Golan Heights is condemned, with calls for Israel to vacate the illegal occupation and for adherence to the 1974 Disengagement Agreement and relevant UN resolutions, preserving Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Looking ahead, Syria stands at a critical juncture with opportunities for stabilization and recovery, requiring sustained international engagement and regional cooperation to support an inclusive political process and durable peace. Pakistan urges continued international backing, mentions the ongoing visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Riyadh to press for a swift end to the conflict and a return to dialogue, and calls on the Council to rally behind these efforts.