Syrian President Demands Israeli Withdrawal to 2024 Lines at UN

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad addressed the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, calling for an Israeli withdrawal to the lines of December 8, 2024, and reaffirming commitment to the 1974 disengagement agreement. "The Golan will remain Syrian territory. Any attempt to harm our sovereignty will be thwarted," Assad declared, but immediately followed with a conciliatory message: "The opportunity for a historic peace still exists for those who wish to live in peace, a just peace that preserves everyone's rights."

Assad criticized Israeli actions within Syrian territory, which he claimed aim to impose facts on the ground and undermine Syria's legitimacy. He asserted that Israel stands out for its transgressions, citing approximately 500 airstrikes and artillery attacks, over 1,200 ground incursions, and nearly 300 arrests of Syrian citizens. According to Assad, these actions threaten regional stability, contradict global trends, and remind Syrians of a "painful period they have barely escaped."

In addition to tensions with Israel, Assad addressed the issue of chemical weapons stockpiles in his country. He reported that 42 chemical bombs have been destroyed so far and emphasized that his regime is in close contact with the International Atomic Energy Agency on the matter.