US supports peaceful transfer of power in Syria - Blinken
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (photo: Getty Images)
On Sunday, December 8, the regime of dictator Bashar al-Assad finally collapsed in Syria. The US expressed its strong support for the peaceful transfer of power to an accountable Syrian government after the rebels seized control, states US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
"During this transitional period, the Syrian people have every right to demand the preservation of state institutions, the resumption of key services, and the protection of vulnerable communities," he emphasized.
Blinken also stated that the US would support international efforts to hold Assad’s regime and its supporters accountable for the atrocities and abuses committed against the Syrian people, including the use of chemical weapons and the unjust detention of civilians.
According to the Secretary of State, the US has taken note of statements made by the leaders of the rebel coalition Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Meanwhile, the US urges all parties to respect human rights, take all necessary precautions to protect civilians, and adhere to international humanitarian law.
"As they take on greater responsibility, we will assess not just their words, but their action," Blinken concluded.
US President Joe Biden congratulated the fall of Assad's regime. He called what is happening in Syria a fundamental act of justice that will provide the Syrian people with a historic opportunity.
