Saudi Arabia welcomes Syria’s entry into anti-Daesh coalition

RIYADH — Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji on Monday welcomed Syria’s accession to the international coalition to defeat Daesh, describing it as a positive step toward unity, stability and security in the country.Al-Khuraiji said Syria’s membership, as the coalition’s 90th participant, reflects progress in the government’s efforts to restore stability and meet the aspirations of the Syrian people.He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for the Syrian government’s constructive steps aimed at safeguarding unity and advancing peace.His remarks came as he co-chaired, alongside US Special Envoy to Syria Ambassador Tom Barrack, a meeting of political directors of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh, hosted by the Kingdom in Riyadh with broad international participation.Al-Khuraiji praised Iraq’s decisive efforts and ongoing coordination with the coalition to dismantle the extremist group, and welcomed Syria’s assumption of responsibility for certain detention facilities and displacement camps housing Daesh fighters and their families.He stressed the Kingdom’s support for all measures that contribute to security and stability in Syria.In a speech to the meeting, the deputy foreign minister underscored the importance of sustained international cooperation to counter transnational terrorism, warning that extremist organizations, particularly Daesh, continue to adapt their tactics by exploiting prolonged conflicts, weak institutions and fragile humanitarian conditions.He noted that the continued presence of Daesh in Syria and Iraq complicates the security, humanitarian and political landscape, adding that addressing these challenges requires close coordination to protect civilians and prevent the re-emergence of threats.Al-Khuraiji also reiterated Saudi Arabia’s welcome of the Syrian government’s statement announcing a ceasefire agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces, which includes the integration of autonomous administration institutions into the Syrian state framework.