Why the EU’s Support for Syria’s Political Transition Could Change the Middle East Forever


 

The European Parliament has made a bold call, urging the EU and its member states to stand firmly behind Syria’s transitional forces and support the country’s long-awaited political transition. With the Middle East’s stability hanging in the balance, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have stressed the importance of seizing this historic moment. They believe that a Syrian-led political transition is essential to unite and rebuild the war-torn nation, acknowledging the “bravery, dignity, and resilience” of the Syrian people. The European Parliament’s latest resolution reflects a significant shift in the EU’s stance, pushing for concrete actions that foster unity among all elements of Syrian society, including religious and ethnic groups, women, and peaceful opposition forces.

The MEPs have not shied away from addressing the security risks that continue to plague Syria. They highlighted the “fragile security situation” across the nation, especially in coastal areas. Of particular concern are the revenge killings targeting members of the Alawite community due to their association with former dictator Bashar al-Assad. The European Parliament’s call for inclusivity during the transition period shows a clear understanding that genuine peace can only be achieved if all groups, regardless of their past affiliations, are included in the nation’s future.

In a striking message to Damascus, MEPs have urged Syria’s new authorities to break free from their “notorious long-standing alliances” with Tehran and Moscow. The resolution openly condemns these alliances, claiming that they have brought immense suffering to the Syrian people and destabilized the broader Middle East. The EU wants Syria to revoke Russia’s military presence and strongly criticized Moscow for sheltering Bashar al-Assad and his family, accusing Russia of shielding them from justice. This bold stance highlights the EU’s growing impatience with foreign influences that have prolonged Syria’s misery.

Furthermore, the European Parliament has called on neighboring countries to respect Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. They demanded an immediate halt to any attacks on or occupations of Syrian territory, emphasizing that regional stability cannot be restored if external actors continue to violate Syria’s borders. This strong stance aims to curb foreign interference and protect Syria’s chance for a peaceful transition.

Addressing Syria’s dire humanitarian crisis, MEPs have urged the EU and its member states to extend their humanitarian aid and financial support to neighboring countries hosting Syrian refugees. With 500,000 people internally displaced and 90% of the population living in poverty, the Parliament welcomed the recent allocation of EUR 235 million in humanitarian aid. They emphasized that reconstruction efforts must prioritize critical sectors such as energy, water supply, healthcare, and education, ensuring that the Syrian people’s basic needs are met as they work towards rebuilding their country.

One of the most groundbreaking proposals in the resolution is the call for the EU to explore using frozen assets of the Assad regime to fund Syria’s reconstruction. MEPs believe these funds should be redirected to rehabilitation efforts and compensating victims of Assad’s brutal regime. This measure not only aims to provide much-needed financial resources for rebuilding but also sends a powerful message that those responsible for Syria’s suffering will not profit from their crimes. The European Parliament’s latest resolution represents a crucial step forward in the EU’s commitment to supporting Syria’s political transition and long-term recovery.

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