Syrian President Assails Israel at UN, Vows Golan Heights Will Remain Syrian

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad addressed the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, launching a strong condemnation of Israel. He accused Israel of violating Syrian sovereignty and undermining regional stability, citing over 500 airstrikes and 1,200 incursions into Syrian territory, resulting in the detention of approximately 300 Syrian civilians. Assad reiterated Syria's demand for a full Israeli withdrawal, stating, "We are committed to the 1974 agreement and call for an Israeli withdrawal to the lines of December 8, 2024." He rejected Israeli attempts to impose a de facto reality and its attacks, which he claimed harm security and stability.

Regarding the Golan Heights, Assad declared, "The Golan will remain Syrian land and all annexation measures are null and void by Security Council Resolution 497." He urged UN members to uphold international law. "We ask our friends to reflect what international law says," he stated.

In contrast to his accusations against Israel, Assad highlighted Syria's actions concerning international supervision of weapons of mass destruction. He reported that "42 chemical bombs were dismantled" and that Syria has rejoined the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, operating with full transparency with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Assad concluded his address with a conciliatory message, noting, "The historic opportunity for peace exists for those who want to live in peace, a just peace that preserves everyone's rights."