Indonesia to Promote Inclusive Political Transition in Syria Following Assad's Downfall

Author: Dian Kencana
December 9, 2024

Gedung Pancasila, part of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' building complex.

SEAToday.com, Jakarta - Indonesia has urged for an inclusive political transition in Syria that benefits all Syrians following the fall of Bashar Al-Assad's regime, which lost control of Damascus to armed opposition forces.

“The Syrian crisis can only be resolved through an inclusive, democratic, and peaceful transition process that prioritizes the welfare and safety of the Syrian people,” stated the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs via social media on Sunday, as monitored by Indonesia Window.

The Indonesian government, while monitoring the evolving situation, expressed concerns over its potential impact on regional stability and the resulting humanitarian crisis.

Indonesia emphasized the importance of maintaining Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity during the transition process. Additionally, the government urged all parties involved to uphold international law, particularly humanitarian and human rights law, to ensure civilian protection.

Meanwhile, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Indonesian Embassy in Damascus has taken all necessary measures to ensure the safety of 1,162 Indonesian citizens currently residing in Syria.

The embassy has also prepared evacuation plans in case the security situation deteriorates further, having previously declared Alert Level 1, the highest security status, for the entire Syrian territory.

Bashar Al-Assad's regime officially fell on Sunday after losing control of Damascus to armed opposition forces on Saturday.

The battle for Damascus marked the final phase of Syria’s civil war, which began in 2011. Intense clashes between regime forces and opposition groups erupted on November 27 in rural areas west of Aleppo.

The opposition's rapid advance overwhelmed the Syrian military, leading to the fall of key regions, including Idlib and Aleppo on November 30, followed by Hama on December 5.