In a stark reflection of the challenges facing Syria, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made a significant visit to Damascus, where she met with Ahmed al-Scharaa, the transitional president of Syria. The trip, highlighting the delicate status of the country, unfolded under the pall of rising violence and uncertainty, particularly following recent escalations in the coastal region around Latakia.
During her visit, Baerbock was greeted without a handshake by al-Scharaa, a repetition of an earlier slight that many interpreted as indicative of the fraught relations between Germany and the new Syrian leadership. This encounter was laden with complexities, both politically and socially, as Baerbock aimed to express Germany's concerns about ongoing violence and the humanitarian crisis emerging from the political turmoil.
Baerbock remarked on Syria's precarious condition, describing it as being “on a knife's edge.” Her assessment came in light of recent incidents where supporters of the ousted Assad regime attacked security forces in Latakia, resulting in significant casualties. Human rights organizations have recorded at least 1,500 deaths tied to the violence that broke out in early March 2025, emphasizing the severe implications of this unrest for ordinary Syrians.
On Citing the devastation in the Jobar district of Damascus during her meeting with local leader Mahmud Abu Fahand, Baerbock expressed her grim observations of the areas heavily impacted by the civil war, reinforcing the gravity of the humanitarian crisis faced by the region. “We are trying to figure this out to be honest,” Baerbock candidly noted, capturing the uncertainty surrounding the future of Syria after the chaotic period of conflict that has thrown the nation into despair.
With the Syrian state reeling from the visible aftermath of war and violence, the stakes are extremely high. This sentiment is echoed by calls for accountability as the new regime grapples with the need to stabilize the state while addressing historical grievances that could inflame existing tensions. Al-Scharaa has committed to punishing those responsible for the recent violence, declaring, “We will hold anyone accountable who participated in the bloodshed against the civilian population.”
The implications of the recent violence in Latakia have rekindled fears of the remnants of Assad's era and the autocratic tendencies that some believe could re-emerge if the new government fails to address the concerns of its populace. This situation raises profound questions about Syria's future path. Can the new leadership emerge as a stabilizing force, or will it perpetuate cycles of violence, much like the country experienced prior to the civil unrest?
A researcher who specializes in conflict dynamics in Syria noted that many Alawites, a sect associated with the former regime, find themselves in a precarious position following the changes in power. The researcher explained that, “The problem was that many mosques in the country called for people to fight alongside the official security forces. The people were incited.” This kind of incitement has escalated tensions further, complicating peace efforts.
Human rights advocates have been sounding alarms as the historical context lingers in the background. The new government is under pressure not just from international observers but from many within Syria who are wary of unaddressed crimes against humanity perpetrated during Assad's reign. Ammar al-Selmo from the White Helmets emphasized that failure to address these past crimes and the accountability of perpetrators can hinder the recovery processes: “Any delay in justice and accountability is why what happened in Latakia occurred.”
This prevailing sentiment reflects a dire need for comprehensive measures that foster reconciliation among Syria's various groups. Building a unified national identity is critical; however, the vicious cycle of retribution threatens to unravel the work of organizations like the White Helmets, which focus on facilitating dialogue among diverse communities for peaceful coexistence.
As Baerbock navigated the delicate political landscape, she emphasized to al-Scharaa and his foreign minister the urgencies of controlling extremist groups within the new regime. She pointed out, “It is now up to you to ensure that extreme groups in your ranks are held in check.” Her visit was also symbolic, highlighting a broader commitment by Germany to engage with the evolving situation in Syria, reflecting a dilemma faced by many in the international community—supporting a transition toward peace, while avoiding inadvertently enabling extreme elements.
In the backdrop of this political wrangling lays a vital narrative on the multi-religious, multi-ethnic fabric of Syria, which needs to be acknowledged for peace to be achievable. The new Syrian constitution asserts a respect for all “heavenly religions,” with discussions around how to implement this in practice continuing to unfold within communities. Imam Omar al-Sagheer, speaking to the importance of unity, stated, “All parts of the Syrian population will play their role, without discrimination based on race, confession, or religion.” This inclusive approach could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the national ethos, provided it translates into actionable policies from the new leadership.
In conclusion, the international community, while poised to respond to the ongoing turmoil, must cautiously weigh its engagement strategies with the new administration in Syria. Baerbock's visit reflects broader questions of policy direction—navigating between aiding a nation in distress while holding its leaders accountable for maintaining humanity and stability for its citizens. Syria’s future hinges not just on political maneuvers but also on the delicate balance of addressing historical grievances, ensuring accountability, and fostering a genuine dialogue among its diverse population.
