The New Flag of Syria is Raised at the UN While Support for Political Transition is Requested.

More than four months after the downfall of former Syrian President Bashar Al Assad, the United Nations raised the new national flag of Syria in a ceremony held on the morning of this Friday. The new banner, which features three stars, officially replaces the previous one associated with the ousted regime, which had two stars. Syria’s interim foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, was responsible for raising the new insignia, which now flies alongside the flags of other UN member states.

During a recent Security Council meeting, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Petersen, reported on the progress of the country’s interim authorities in implementing measures aimed at reforming the political system. Among these actions, he highlighted the formation of a broader and more diverse cabinet, as well as initial plans to establish an interim People’s Assembly.

However, Petersen warned that the process is still fragile and incomplete, and many Syrian citizens are uncertain about their role in the country’s future. He emphasized the importance of including all sectors of society, stating that greater political inclusion and robust economic actions are required to achieve a successful political transition. “Without these two elements, the consequences would be unacceptable,” he asserted.

Moreover, the special envoy stressed the need for the new leadership to expand political participation and address historical grievances, especially following recent violence against Alawite communities on the country’s coast. Economically, he urged the lifting of sanctions affecting the Syrian economy, highlighting the importance of sustained international support to revitalize the country.

The humanitarian situation in Syria remains alarming, with more than 70% of the population in need of aid and over half facing food insecurity. Although improvements have been observed in some areas, particularly in regions of Aleppo and the northeast, humanitarian workers pointed out that the lack of funding threatens critical operations. Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Joyce Msuya, emphasized the urgent need for more resources to sustain and expand assistance, reporting that to date, less than 10% of the funds required for the first half of 2025 have been received. Without immediate support, she warned, hospitals and food distribution services are at risk of collapse.