Israel’s recent escalation in Syria is emblematic of its broader strategy to reshape the Middle East to its advantage.

Washington, D.C. | www.adc.org | December 12, 2024 – The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) envisions an Arab world free of foreign intervention and imperialism. Our longstanding position supports a region that is democratic, sovereign, and respectful of the human and civil rights of all, most notably every religious, ethnic, and political group. As we observed the historic developments in Syria over the weekend, we reaffirm our commitment to justice, sovereignty, freedom and the self-determination of the Syrian people. 

We call on the Biden Administration to immediately lift all sanctions on Syria so those in the country are given the opportunity to receive the support immediately, to thrive and prosper. Further, we ask our U.S. government and its allies to support the transition to a new government in Syria that respects the self-determination of all Syrians and preserves Syria’s territorial integrity. The new government must be secular and respect the rights of all minorities in the country. 

ADC categorically opposes external and imperial meddling, particularly during this critical moment. There are longstanding and ongoing efforts by the United States, Israel and other foreign nations to weaken and divide Syria. 

In under a week Israel has invaded and occupied land in Syria, which violates Syria’s sovereignty and international law. Israel’s recent escalation in Syria is emblematic of its broader strategy to reshape the Middle East to its advantage. Under the guise of defense, Israel has normalized aggression against its neighbors, with over 480 airstrikes in recent days and incursions into Syrian territory along the occupied Golan Heights. These actions, including the creation of a self-declared “sterile defense zone,” blatantly violate international law and exploit Syria’s internal instability to consolidate control. Such expansionist policies not only deepen regional tensions, but also reflect a concerning disregard for sovereignty and human life

This U.S. backed strategy is responsible for the on-going genocide in Gaza, and the devastation happening in Lebanon. These policies by our government must end immediately, and steps need to be taken to respect and acknowledge the self-determination of Syrians.