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Deputy Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, Claudio Cordone - Briefing to the Security Council (17 September 2026)

ReliefWeb · Claudio Cordone ·

Executive Summary

Syria is making progress in institutional development and economic integration, including the abrogation of the Court on Terrorism and UN electoral assistance. However, the country faces significant internal and external security challenges, economic pressures, and ongoing Israeli military activity in the south. The UN emphasizes the need for continued reforms, international support, and respect for Syria's sovereignty.

Why It Matters

This briefing highlights the complex and fragile state of Syria's post-conflict transition, balancing institutional reforms and economic recovery with persistent security threats and external interventions.

Key Takeaways

  • Syria is undergoing institutional reforms, including the establishment of parliamentary committees and the abrogation of the Court on Terrorism, alongside preparations for future elections.
    Source evidence · PDF page 1
    In my latest stay in Syria, I have seen further progress in institutional development, while Syrians continue to grapple with dire economic conditions and the country confronts internal and external security challenges.
  • Internal security challenges persist, marked by the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces into the military, local clashes, and concerns over accountability for violence.
    Source evidence · PDF page 3
    Three days after Mazloum Abdi announced the dissolution of the Syrian Democratic Forces and integration into the Syrian military, he was appointed as a Presidential Adviser. There have also been further steps on military, police and civilian administration integration in Hasakah.
  • External pressures continue with ongoing Israeli military activity in southern Syria, violating the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement and raising sovereignty concerns.
    Source evidence · PDF page 4
    Israeli presence and military activity in southern Syria has continued in violation of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, with near-daily incursions, temporary checkpoints, searches of homes and artillery fire, particularly in Quneitra and western Daraa.

Strategic Relevance

The report details the ongoing political, economic, and security dynamics in Syria, crucial for understanding regional stability, international diplomatic efforts, and the challenges of post-conflict reconstruction and governance.

Source Website View PDF

Key Entities

SyriaUnited NationsClaudio CordoneSyrian Democratic ForcesIsraelUnited StatesPeople's AssemblyMazloum Abdi

Best For

Policy MakersInternational Relations AnalystsMiddle East SpecialistsHumanitarian OrganizationsSecurity Analysts

Related Themes

Post-conflict reconstructionRegional securityInternational diplomacyHumanitarian aidState sovereignty

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