Regional states voice support for ‘free will’ of Syrians but warn of slide into chaos

Regional countries have urged Syrians to work to avert a spiral into chaos after the militant group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) stormed and captured the capital Damascus. 

In a series of statements released on Sunday, most of the nations in the region said they strongly desired stability in Syria, as well as respect for its territorial integrity and the "free will" of all Syrians.

Qatar’s foreign ministry in a statement warned Syria must not be allowed to slide into chaos.

It said Doha was “closely monitoring the developments in Syria” and emphasized “the necessity of preserving national institutions and the unity of the state to prevent it from descending into chaos.”

“The ministry calls upon all parties to engage in dialogue to safeguard the lives of the citizens,” the statement said, voicing Qatar’s “unwavering support for the Syrian people and their choices.”

Iraq’s government spokesman Basim Alawadi also urged respect for the "free will" of all Syrians and the country's territorial integrity.

"Iraq reaffirms the necessity of respecting the free will of all Syrians and emphasizes that the security, territorial integrity and independence of Syria are of paramount importance," Alawadi said. 

According to a royal statement, Jordan’s King Abdullah II said that his government “stands by its Syrian brothers and respects their will and choices”.

The king told his National Security Council that there was a “need to protect Syria’s security, its citizens” and to work towards “stability and avoid any conflict that may lead to chaos.”

The Egyptian foreign ministry said that Egypt has called on all parties in Syria to preserve the capabilities of the state and national institutions,

The ministry said it was following the situation with great care, affirming its support for the Syrian people and the country's sovereignty and unity.

Israel launches foray into Syrian soil after Damascus falls to militant groups

The Israeli regime forces have launched a foray into Syrian soil and entered the southwestern city of Quneitra near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights after militant groups took control of the Arab country.

A senior United Arab Emirates official urged Syrians to collaborate to avert a spiral into chaos.

“We hope that the Syrians will work together, that we don’t just see another episode of impending chaos,” presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said “terrorist organizations must not be allowed to take advantage of this situation.”

“Opposition groups must be united. We will work for stability and safety in Syria,” he added.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry earlier said it was committed to Syria's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, emphasizing that the future of the Arab country should be determined solely by its people, free from foreign interference.

The ministry called for an urgent end to military conflicts, prevention of terrorist actions, and the initiation of national dialogue involving all segments of Syrian society.

The ministry added that the dialogue should aim to establish an inclusive government representing all Syrians.

It said Iran supports international mechanisms, particularly UN Resolution 2254, to facilitate the political process in Syria.

Iran condemns attack on its embassy in Damascus, urges protection of diplomatic premises

Iran denounces the attack by foreign-backed militants on its embassy in the Syrian capital Damascus.

The foreign ministry asserted that ensuring the safety of all citizens and protecting religious sites and diplomatic missions is essential under international law.

The ministry added that Iran and Syria share a long-standing friendship, and both nations are expected to maintain relations based on mutual interests and international legal commitments.

The former Damascus government said the Western states and their regional allies were aiding militant groups to wreak havoc in the Arab country.

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