Israel’s Occupation Still Syria’s Most Serious Challenge, Says Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani
Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani has said that Israel’s ongoing occupation of Syrian territories remains one of the most serious and enduring challenges facing the country. He stressed that the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Syrian land is a non-negotiable condition for any long-term stability.
Speaking at a panel session during the Doha Forum 2025, Al-Shaibani noted that Syria is working to establish calm, balanced, and constructive relations with all regional and international partners. He added that traditional political alignments often obstruct Syria’s reconstruction and stabilisation efforts, which the new government aims to overcome.
The foreign minister highlighted that the new Syrian government began its work with strong public backing despite limited resources and the heavy political and economic burden inherited from previous administrations. He said the progress achieved over the past year is promising but requires “more serious and continuous effort” in the next phase.
Al-Shaibani said that Syrian diplomacy remains transparent and focused on broadening its partnerships. He added that internal security is directly connected to stability in the wider region, making cooperation essential.
Reaffirming Damascus’s long-standing security position, the minister said Israeli policies continue to threaten Syria’s stability. He reiterated Syria’s commitment to the 1974 disengagement agreement, emphasising that it remains a key part of the country’s defence and diplomatic framework.
He also stated that Syria has received backing from several countries that support a security arrangement with Tel Aviv, singling out the United States as a principal supporter of this approach.
