Increased Violence in Northwest Syria
The United States is alarmed by the escalation of violence in Idlib and northern Hama. Ongoing Russian and regime airstrikes, along with Read More»
Special Representative Ambassador James Jeffrey Travels to Turkey and Switzerland
Special Representative for Syria Engagement and Special Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Ambassador James Jeffrey and Deputy Assistant Secretary and Special Envoy for Syria Joel Rayburn will travel to Ankara, Turkey for meetings on April 30-May 2, 2019. Read More»
Delivery of Humanitarian Assistance to Rukban
The United States is appalled by the Assad regime’s decision to reject the UN request to deliver a convoy of urgently needed humanitarian aid from Damascus to the Rukban encampment. Read More»
Anniversary of the Khan Sheikhoun and Douma Chemical Weapons Attacks
Anniversary of the Khan Sheikhoun and Douma Chemical Weapons Attacks Read More»
Joint Statement on Syria
The text of the following statement was released today by UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, and U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo. Read More»
Statement from the President on the Liberation of ISIS-Controlled Territory
I am pleased to announce that, together with our partners in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, including the Iraqi Security Forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces, the United States has liberated all ISIS-controlled territory in Syria and Iraq—100 Percent of the “caliphate.” Read More»
Joint Statement on the Eighth Anniversary of the Syrian Conflict
Eight years ago today, tens of thousands of Syrians took to the streets to claim the right to express themselves freely, call for reform, and demand justice. The Assad regime’s brutal response, and role in the conflict that followed, resulted in the largest humanitarian crisis since World War II. Read More»
Escalation of Attacks Against Idlib, Syria
The United States views with grave concern escalating violence in recent days in Idlib and neighboring areas prompted by Russian and Assad regime airstrikes and artillery. Despite Russia’s claims Read More»
U.S. Humanitarian Assistance in Response to the Syria Crisis
Today at the at the Third Brussels Conference on “Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region,” the United States announced more than $397 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people of Syria as part of the Regional Refugee and Resilience Plan for 2019-2020. Read More»
Statement by Ministers of the Global Coalition To Defeat ISIS/DAESH
We, the Ministers, Secretaries General, and Heads of Delegations of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, met in Washington today at the invitation of United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to review the significant progress of the past year against ISIS and to discuss the next stage in the campaign to ensure the enduring ... Read More»
Delivery of Humanitarian Assistance to Rukban
We welcome the news that the UN and Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) are making a second humanitarian aid delivery from Damascus to the Rukban encampment, providing critical food, medical care, warm clothes, and shelter materials. This follows the successful delivery that took place in November 2018. We recognize the courageous efforts of the UN ... Read More»
Foreign Terrorist Fighters in Syria
The United States calls upon other nations to repatriate and prosecute their citizens detained by the SDF and commends the continued efforts of the SDF to return these foreign terrorist fighters to their countries of origin. Read More»
Remarks at a UNSC Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria
"We must not lose sight of the fact that what is truly needed is unimpeded, sustained humanitarian access, both in Rukban and throughout Syria..." Read More»
Treasury Designates Iran’s Foreign Fighter Militias in Syria along with a Civilian Airline Ferrying Weapons to Syria
January 24, 2019 WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took action against two Syria-based, Iran-backed militias composed of foreign nationals, an Iranian airline linked to designated Iranian airline Mahan Air and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF), and an Armenian general sales agent (GSA) providing ... Read More»
Statement by White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders on Syria
We have started returning United States troops home as we transition to the next phase of this campaign. The United States and our allies stand ready to re-engage at all levels to defend American interests whenever necessary Read More»
Meeting Readout of The Secretary’s Special Representative on Syria Engagement in Gaziantep
The Secretary’s Special Representative for Syria Engagement Ambassador James Jeffrey and Special Envoy for Syria and Deputy Assistant Secretary Joel Rayburn visited Gaziantep December 8 to meet with U.S. and Turkish military officials, Syrian refugees, civil society actors, and political groups working on Syria. Read More»
Briefing With Special Representative for Syria Engagement Amb Jeffrey
Briefing With Special Representative for Syria Engagement Ambassador James F. Jeffrey Read More»
No Breakthrough at Astana Meeting
The latest “Astana group” meeting on Syria did not yield an agreed list of members for the Syrian Constitutional Committee and thus failed to produce progress toward advancing the political process in this tragic conflict. Read More»
Treasury Designates Illicit Russia-Iran Oil Network Supporting the Assad Regime
the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating nine targets in an international network through which the Iranian regime, working with Russian companies, provides millions of barrels of oil to the Syrian government. The Assad regime, in turn, facilitates Read More»
Sanctions Announcement on Iran
The United States today sanctioned an international network by which the Iranian regime and Russia are providing millions of barrels of oil to the Assad regime in exchange for the movement of hundreds of millions of dollars to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force, and for onward transfer to terrorist organizations such as Hamas and ... Read More»
Briefing on Syria
What we’re looking for is the enduring defeat of ISIS, a reinvigorated and irreversible political process in Syria led by the Syrian people and facilitated by the UN, and de-escalation of the conflict that will include all Iranian-commanded forces departing from the entirety of Syria. Read More»
Delivery of Humanitarian Assistance to Rukban
We welcome the news that the UN is finally able to begin delivering aid to the Rukban encampment from Damascus. This delivery comes after months of pressure from the United States, the UN, the UN Security Council, and wider international community for the Syrian regime to allow the UN to deliver critically-needed assistance to the ... Read More»
Under Secretary Hale’s Meeting With Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Onal
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale met Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal to discuss the U.S-Turkish bilateral relationship and regional affairs... Read More»
Decision by De Mistura To Finish His Tenure as UN Special Envoy for Syria
In his four years and four months as UN Special Envoy for Syria , Staffan de Mistura has worked tirelessly to find a solution to the Syrian crisis, saved lives by working to deescalate the violence that has engulfed the country, and eased suffering by constantly pressing for unhindered delivery of vital medical and humanitarian ... Read More»
Joint Statement on Syria
The text of the following statement on Syria was released by the Governments of Egypt, France, Germany, Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Read More»
President Trump at the UNSC briefing on Counterproliferation
"The Syrian regime’s butchery is enabled by Russia and Iran. The Iranian regime exports violence, terror, and turmoil. It illicitly procures sensitive items to advance its ballistic missile program and proliferates these missiles all across the Middle East." Read More»
Remarks by President Trump to the 73rd Session of UNGA
"The ongoing tragedy in Syria is heartbreaking. Our shared goals must be the de-escalation of military conflict, along with a political solution that honors the will of the Syrian people. In this vein, we urge the United Nations-led peace process be reinvigorated. But, rest assured, the United States will respond if chemical weapons are deployed ... Read More»
Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Syria
We consider any assault on Idlib to be a reckless escalation of the conflict. If Assad, Russia, and Iran continue down the path they are on, the consequences will be dire. The world will hold them responsible. And no number of Security Council meetings will ever change that. Read More»
U.S. Treasury Imposes Sanctions on Assad Regime’s Key ISIS Intermediary and
Qatirji maintains strong ties to the Syrian regime and facilitates fuel trade between the regime and ISIS, including providing oil products to ISIS-controlled territory. Read More»
The U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Supporters of the Syrian Regime
Today, the United States imposed financial sanctions on four individuals and five entities that have facilitated weapons or fuel transfers, or provided other financial or material support, to the Assad regime in Syria. Read More»
U.S., U.K., and France on the Fifth Anniversary of the CWs Attack in Ghouta
On the fifth anniversary of the horrific Ghouta Sarin attack, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France reiterate their condemnation of the use of chemical weapons by the Assad regime. Read More»
Syria Stabilization Efforts Continue With Coalition Contributions
Our diplomats are working closely with the Department of Defense to support upcoming operations in eastern Syria by the Syrian Democratic Forces, and with Coalition capitals to support stabilization initiatives that enable Syrians to voluntarily and safely return to their homes in Raqqa and other former ISIS strongholds. Read More»
U.S. Welcomes Saudi Contribution for Stabilization Efforts in Syria
The United States applauds today’s announcement by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of its generous contribution of $100 million for ongoing, Coalition-supported stabilization efforts in areas liberated from ISIS in Syria. Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting With UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura
Secretary Pompeo and Special Envoy de Mistura agreed that all parties needed to move ahead on the political track and that any discussion of reconstruction was premature absent a political solution leading unalterably to both constitutional reform and free and fair elections as described in UN Security Council Resolution 2254. Read More»
Issuance of Death Notices in Syria
The Syrian regime’s recent notices confirming the deaths of thousands of political prisoners in its custody affirms what the international community has long suspected and can never forget: the regime has systematically arrested, tortured, and murdered tens of thousands of Syrian civilians in response to their legitimate and nonviolent calls for their freedom, rights, and ... Read More»
U.S. Condemns Deadly Attacks in Syria’s Sweida Province
The Department of State strongly condemns today’s barbaric ISIS-claimed attacks that took place in Syria’s southwestern Sweida province, deliberately targeting and killing scores of civilians and injuring many more. We extend our condolences to the families of these innocent victims. Read More»
Statement on the Continued Success of Operations to Defeat ISIS in Syria
We congratulate the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on their successful operations to liberate al-Dashisha, Syria, from the scourge of ISIS. Dashisha since 2013 has been a key stronghold and transit route for ISIS fighters, weapons, and suicide bombers between Syria and Iraq. The SDF now controls the area, with Iraqi Security Forces controlling the Iraqi ... Read More»
Evacuation of the White Helmets From Southwest Syria
The United States welcomes the safe evacuation of more than 400 members of the Syrian Civil Defense, otherwise known as the White Helmets, and their families from southwest Syria. We are glad that these brave volunteers, who have saved thousands of lives, are now out of harm's way. Read More»
Meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS at NATO HQ
This meeting was also an opportunity for Ministers to discuss and pledge immediate stabilization assistance to support areas of Syria liberated from ISIS in Coalition-supported operations. Read More»
Readout of the Meeting in Morocco of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS
Senior diplomatic representatives from the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS met today in Morocco to review the global campaign. Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition Brett McGurk provided an update on progress in Iraq and Syria and outlined the Coalition’s increasing focus on defeating ISIS’s global networks. Read More»
Reported Violations of the Southwest Ceasefire
The United States remains deeply troubled by reports of increasing Syrian regime operations in southwest Syria within the boundaries of the de-escalation zone negotiated between the United States, Jordan, and the Russian Federation last year and reaffirmed between Presidents Trump and Putin in Da Nang, Vietnam in November. Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
The two discussed issues and concerns related to Syria and the bilateral relationship. Secretary Pompeo reemphasized the U.S. commitment to the southwest ceasefire arrangement that was approved by President Trump and President Putin one year ago. Read More»
Funding for the Syrian Civil Defense and UN International Impartial and Independent Mechanism
The President has authorized the United States Agency for International Development and the U.S. Department of State to release approximately $6.6 million for the continuation of the vital, life-saving operations of the Syrian Civil Defense, more commonly known as the White Helmets, and the UN’s International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM). Read More»
Preserving the Southwest De-escalation Zone in Syria
The United States remains concerned by reports of impending Syrian government operations in southwest Syria within the boundaries of the de-escalation zone negotiated between the United States, Jordan, and the Russian Federation last year and reaffirmed between Presidents Trump and Putin in Da Nang, Vietnam in November. The United States remains committed to maintaining the ... Read More»
On the Occasion of Eid al-Fitr
This holiday marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, charity, compassion, and reflection. Eid al-Fitr reminds all of us in the United States and abroad, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, to maintain the spirit and lessons of Ramadan throughout the year: to promote peace, to be of service to those who are suffering and ... Read More»
Support for Ongoing Defeat ISIS Operations in Syria
We welcome the launch on Sunday of operations by the Syrian Democratic Forces against ISIS terrorists in Dashisha, Syria. Read More»
U.S.-Turkey Joint Statement
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey Mevlüt Çavusoğlu and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met on June 4 in Washington, D.C. They reaffirmed that Turkey and the United States remain committed to addressing their common concerns in a spirit of allied partnership. Read More»
Amendments to the Terrorist Designations of al-Nusrah Front
The Department of State has amended the designation of al-Nusrah Front – an al-Qa’ida affiliate in Syria – to include Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and other aliases. Read More»
Amb Haley on Syria Assuming the Presidency of the Conference on Disarmament
It is shameful that a regime that continues to use chemical weapons to murder its own people has the audacity to accept the presidency of the very organization that established the Chemical Weapons Convention. Read More»
Assad Regime Intentions in the Southwest De-escalation Zone
The United States is concerned by reports of an impending Assad regime operation in southwest Syria within the boundaries of the de-escalation zone negotiated between the United States, Jordan, and the Russian Federation last year and reaffirmed between Presidents Trump and Putin in Da Nang, Vietnam in November. Read More»
Secretary Pompeo On the Occasion of Ramadan
"On behalf of the United States Department of State, I offer best wishes to Muslims around the world for a peaceful and blessed Ramadan." Read More»
Launching of Operations To Liberate Final ISIS Strongholds in Syria
The United States, the Global Coalition, and local partners, including the Syrian Democratic Forces, are launching operations to liberate the final ISIS strongholds in Syria. The fighting will be difficult, but we and our partners will prevail. Read More»
Secretary Pompeo at a Press Availability With Jordanian FM Ayman Safadi
"We must not let Syria again become a safe haven for ISIS or for any other terrorist group." Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Remarks With Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir
"Iran destabilizes this entire region. It supports proxy militias and terrorist groups. It is an arms dealer to the Houthi rebels in Yemen, and Iran conducts cyber hacking campaigns. Read More»
Acting Secretary of State Sullivan at a Press Availability in Toronto, Canada
"The U.S. will remain committed in Syria until ISIS is defeated and the so-called caliphate completely eliminated. We will work to ensure local forces enabled by our regional partners and allies will consolidate these gains, stabilize liberated territories, and prevent the return of ISIS. We will not leave a vacuum that can be exploited by the ... Read More»
Amb Satterfield Before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Middle East
"While preventing the use of chemical weapons in Syria is our immediate concern, the Administration’s priority remains the defeat of ISIS... Read More»
Amb Haley at an Emergency UN Security Council Meeting on Syria
"We did not give diplomacy just one chance. We gave diplomacy chance after chance. Six times: That’s how many times Russia vetoed Security Council resolutions to address chemical weapons in Syria. Our efforts go back even further. In 2013, the Security Council passed a resolution that required the Assad regime to destroy its stockpile of ... Read More»
Statement by President Trump on Syria
"The nations of Britain, France, and the United States of America have marshaled their righteous power against barbarism and brutality. Tonight, I ask all Americans to say a prayer for our noble warriors and our allies as they carry out their missions. We pray that God will bring comfort to those suffering in Syria. We ... Read More»
UNSC to Hold Emergency Meeting on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria
The United States, along with Cote d’Ivoire, France, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, has called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council in light of the latest allegations of a chemical weapons attack in Douma Read More»
On the Chemical Attack in Douma
The regime’s history of using chemical weapons against its own people is not in dispute, and in fact nearly one year ago on April 4, 2017, Assad’s forces conducted a sarin gas attack on Khan Sheikhoun, which killed approximately 100 Syrians. Read More»
Joint Statement on First Anniversary of Chemical Attack on Khan Sheikhoun, Syria
Today marks one year since the heinous attack on the town of Khan Sheikhoun, where Asad’s forces unleashed sarin nerve gas with tragic consequences for hundreds of men, women and children. Read More»
Amb Haley at a UNSC Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria
"A responsible Security Council would express its outrage that at least 1,700 civilians were killed during a military campaign that we demanded to come to a halt. " Read More»
Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Syria Ceasefire Implementation
In the past 16 days, over 500 civilians have died, and some reports put the death toll even higher. This is unacceptable. Thousands of Syrians are in desperate need of medical care, but none of the UN’s list have been evacuated. Read More»
Statement by the Press Secretary on Russian & Syrian Regime Attacks on E Ghouta
The United States condemns the ongoing military offensive that the Assad regime, backed by Russia and Iran, is perpetrating against the people of Eastern Ghouta. After repeatedly delaying the passage of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2401, which demanded a 30-day cessation of hostilities across Syria, Russia has gone on to ignore its terms and to kill innocent civilians under ... Read More»
Amb Currie at a UNSC Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria
"Despite the unanimous call for a ceasefire, the regime’s attacks continue unabated. Hundreds of Syrians have been killed or injured since we passed the resolution on Saturday." Read More»
Amb Haley After the UN Security Council Votes for a Ceasefire in Syria
"It is critical that the Assad regime and its allies comply with our demand to stop the assault on eastern Ghouta and immediately allow food and medicine to reach everyone who needs it." Read More»
Ambassador Haley on the Suffering in Eastern Ghouta in Syria
00,000 Syrian civilians trapped in eastern Ghouta are living in a “hell on Earth.” That is because attacks by the Assad regime and its backers against these civilians grow worse by the day. Read More»
Amb Haley at a UN Security Council Meeting on Syria
The Assad regime has become a front for Iran, Hezbollah, and their allies to advance the irresponsible and dangerous agenda for the Middle East. On every front of this conflict, we find fighters imported by Iran from Lebanon, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Read More»
Escalation of Violence in Eastern Ghouta and Idlib, Syria
The United States is extremely concerned about escalating violence in Idlib, the Damascus suburbs of Eastern Ghouta, and other areas of Syria threatened by ongoing regime and Russian airstrikes. Read More»
Chemical Weapons Attack in Saraqib, Syria
The United States is gravely alarmed by continued allegations of the use of chlorine gas by the Syrian Regime to terrorize innocent civilians, this time in Idlib Province near Saraqib. Read More»
Remarks by President Trump in State of the Union Address
"Last year, I also pledged that we would work with our allies to extinguish ISIS from the face of the Earth. One year later, I am proud to report that the coalition to defeat ISIS has liberated very close to 100 percent of the territory just recently held by these killers in Iraq and in ... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Call with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey
President Trump invited closer bilateral cooperation to address Turkey’s legitimate security concerns. The leaders discussed the need to stabilize a unified Syria that poses no threats to its neighbors, including Turkey. Read More»
Remarks on Russia’s Responsibility for the Ongoing Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria
The recent attacks in East Ghouta raise serious concerns that Bashar al-Assad’s Syrian regime may be continuing its use of chemical weapons against its own people. Whoever conducted the attacks, Russia ultimately bears responsibility for the victims in East Ghouta and countless other Syrians targeted with chemical weapons since Russia became involved in Syria. Read More»
The Situation in Northwest Syria
We continue to be supportive of addressing the legitimate security concerns of Turkey as a NATO Ally and critical partner in the effort to defeat ISIS. However, we urge Turkey to exercise restraint and ensure that its military operations remain limited in scope and duration and scrupulous to avoid civilian casualties. Read More»
Remarks on the Way Forward for the United States Regarding Syria
The United States will maintain a military presence in Syria focused on ensuring ISIS cannot re-emerge. Our military mission in Syria will remain conditions-based. We cannot make the same mistakes that were made in 2011 when a premature departure from Iraq allowed al-Qaida in Iraq to survive and eventually morph into ISIS. Read More»
Remarks on the Way Forward for the United States Regarding Syria
The United States will maintain a military presence in Syria focused on ensuring ISIS cannot re-emerge. Our military mission in Syria will remain conditions-based. We cannot make the same mistakes that were made in 2011 when a premature departure from Iraq allowed al-Qaida in Iraq to survive and eventually morph into ISIS. Read More»
Statement by the President on the Iran Nuclear Deal
I hereby call on key European countries to join with the United States in fixing significant flaws in the deal, countering Iranian aggression, and supporting the Iranian people. If other nations fail to act during this time, I will terminate our deal with Iran. Those who, for whatever reason, choose not to work with us ... Read More»
Letter to D-ISIS Coalition Partners on the Progress of the Past Year
The fight is still ongoing in Syria. As I write this letter, SDF units are engaged in operations to remove ISIS from the Euphrates River Valley, and we anticipate these operations will continue over the first quarter of 2018. The focus will then shift to stabilization, and the United States is prepared to remain in ... Read More»
Humanitarian Evacuations in Eastern Ghouta, Syria
The United States welcomes the urgent and long awaited medical evacuations that took place over the past forty-eight hours from Eastern Ghouta in Syria. We also extend our gratitude to the humanitarian and medical professionals on the ground for their compassion and tireless work. Their dedication and efforts to save lives in the most difficult ... Read More»
Heather Nauert On Recent Round of Syria Talks in Geneva
We commend United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura and his team for their efforts in the latest round of Syria talks in Geneva. We also note the constructive participation of the Syrian opposition delegation, which stands in contrast to the obstructionism and procrastination of the Syrian regime delegation. .. Read More»
Statement On Riyadh Opposition Conference
The United States notes the successful conclusion of the Riyadh II conference of the Syrian opposition and its work to bring together a diverse array of groups to form a unified delegation that can enter into substantive negotiations in the upcoming round of UN sponsored talks in Geneva. Read More»
Amb Haley Condemns Russian Veto of a UNSCR to Renew the Work of the Independent Group Investigating CW Use
“Assad and ISIS will no longer be on notice for the use of chemical weapons by Russia’s actions today. The message to anyone listening is clear: in effect, Russia accepts the use of chemical weapons in Syria.” Read More»
Readout of the Meeting of the Small Group of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS in Jordan
Senior diplomatic representatives from the Small Group of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS met today in Jordan to review our global campaign to defeat this terrorist organization. Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition Brett McGurk provided an update on progress in Iraq and Syria. Read More»
Joint Statement by the President of the United States and the President of the Russian Federation on Syria
The two Presidents affirmed that these steps must include full implementation of UNSCR 2254, including constitutional reform and free and fair elections under UN supervision, held to the highest international standards of transparency, with all Syrians, including members of the diaspora, eligible to participate. Read More»
Amb Haley on the Release of an Independent Report on CW Use in Syria
"Today, the OPCW issued a report concluding that the chemical weapon sarin was used in the March 30 attack on the Syrian town of Ltamenah... Read More»
Joint Investigative Mechanism Report on Khan Shaykhun and Um Housh
"This new report confirms unequivocally what the United States and many in the international community have stated publicly for many months – that the Assad regime carried out the heinous April 4 attack killing approximately 100 innocent Syrian civilians, including many children, and injuring hundreds more." Read More»
Ambassador Haley on the Release of a Report on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria
The findings issued today by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and United Nations’ Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM) have concluded that the Assad regime used chemical weapons on over 100 innocent civilians using the poison gas sarin in Khan Sheikhoun, Syria, on April 4, 2017. Read More»
Press Availability in Geneva, Switzerland
"As we’ve said many times before, the United States wants a whole and unified Syria with no role for Bashar al-Assad in the government..." Secretary Tillerson Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Haley on Russia’s Veto of the Renewal of the Joint Investigative Mechanism on Chemical Weapons
"Russia has once again demonstrated it will do whatever it takes to ensure the barbaric Assad regime never faces consequences for its continued use of chemicals as weapons." Read More»
Secretary Tillerson on Raqqa’s Liberation From ISIS
We congratulate the Syrian people and the Syrian Democratic Forces, including the Syrian Arab Coalition, on the liberation of Raqqa. The United States is proud to lead the 73-member Global Coalition that supported this effort, which has seen ISIS’s so-called caliphate crumble across Iraq and Syria. Read More»
Remarks by President Trump on Iran Strategy
"This regime has fueled sectarian violence in Iraq, and vicious civil wars in Yemen and Syria. In Syria, the Iranian regime has supported the atrocities of Bashar al-Assad’s regime and condoned Assad’s use of chemical weapons against helpless civilians." President Trump Read More»
Amb Haley at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian and Political Situation in Syria
Ambassador Haley highlighted the success of last week's high-level meeting to address humanitarian needs in Syria, but cautioned Member States against complacency. Read More»
Joint Statement From the Ministerial Discussion on Syria
Ministers of Canada, Denmark, Egypt, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Jordan, Netherlands, Norway, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States met September 18 to discuss Syria and related issues. They agreed on the following points, which will guide their united efforts: Read More»
Heather Nauert On Civilian Victims of Syrian and Russian Airstrikes in Idlib and Hama Provinces
These attacks fit an all-too-familiar pattern in which medical facilities and personnel are victims of strikes by the Syrian regime and its Russian allies. Read More»
U.S. Humanitarian Assistance in Response to the Syrian Crisis
Maintaining its steadfast commitment to getting lifesaving support to the people of Syria impacted by conflict wherever they are, the United States today announced more than $697 million in additional humanitarian assistance. Read More»
Remarks by President Trump to the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly
"We seek the de-escalation of the Syrian conflict, and a political solution that honors the will of the Syrian people. The actions of the criminal regime of Bashar al-Assad, including .. Read More»
Fourth Anniversary of the Chemical Weapons Attack at Ghouta, Syria
We condemn in the strongest possible terms the use of chemical weapons anywhere, by anyone, under any circumstances. We reiterate our commitment not to tolerate such use and to ensure that those responsible face serious consequences. Read More»
Statement on the Murders of Syrian Civil Defense Workers in Idlib
These cowardly acts of masked men took the lives of civilian volunteers who work tirelessly as first responders in order to save lives in incredibly dangerous environments. Read More»
Remarks at a Press Availability
"The second condition we have is that Iran’s military influence, the direct presence of Iranian military forces inside of Syria, they must leave and go home, whether those are Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces or whether those are paid militias, foreign fighters, that Iran has brought into Syria in this battle.... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump and Prime Minister Hariri of Lebanon in Joint Press Conference
"With the support of Iran, the organization is also fueling the humanitarian catastrophe in Syria. Hizballah likes to portray itself as a defender of Lebanese interests, but it's very clear that its true interests are those of itself and its sponsor -- Iran. Read More»
Amb Haley at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the Middle East
Hizballah is a destructive terrorist force. It is a major obstacle to peace. And the dangers it poses are getting larger, not smaller. Read More»
US Applauds New EU Sanctions on Syrian Officers and Scientists Involved in the Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria
This action follows sanctions designations recently undertaken by the United States, similarly aimed at holding the Syrian regime accountable for its repeated use of chemicals weapons on the Syrian people, including the April 4 Khan Shaykhun attack. Read More»
SPE McGurk at the Small Group Session of the Global Coalition To Defeat ISIS
"Local governance in Raqqa in the initial phases will be led by a Raqqa civilian council now based just north of Raqqa in Ayn Issa. This council includes nearly 120 individuals, most of whom stayed in Syria during the civil war and escaped from Raqqa and other towns within the province as ISIS moved in... Read More»
Release of FFM Report on April 4, 2017, Khan Shaykhun Sarin Attack
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Fact Finding Mission (FFM) issued a report confirming that sarin or a sarin-like chemical weapon was used on April 4, 2017, in Khan Shaykhun, Syria. Read More»
Readout of Special Presidential Envoy McGurk’s Trip to Syria
On June 28-29, Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Brett McGurk was in Syria to consult with local partners on the campaign to defeat ISIS. He also witnessed first-hand the humanitarian and stabilization assistance that is underway in liberated areas north of Raqqa Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Nikki R. Haley on World Refugee Day
“The United States gives more humanitarian aid than any other country, but money alone is not enough—we must also work to end the conflicts that drive these people from their homes, while tearing apart their countries." Read More»
Secretary Tillerson On World Refugee Day
"As we mark World Refugee Day, we will continue to aid those who have been forced from their homes, address the root causes of their displacement, and foster long-term solutions to humanitarian crises." Read More»
Ceasefire in Southwest Syria
"We will judge ceasefire in southern Syria by results, not words." Read More»
SDF Begins Raqqah Offensive
"The fight for Raqqah will be long and difficult, but the offensive would deliver a decisive blow to the idea of ISIS as a physical caliphate" - Lt. Gen. Steve Townsend. Read More»
Ambassador Haley at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria
"According to one Syrian human rights group, in just the month of April, the Assad regime killed nearly 500 civilians. That brings the total number of Syrians killed by the regime in just the past five months to over 2,000. The same group reports that the total number of civilians killed by all parties during ... Read More»
Statement from President Donald J. Trump on Ramadan
"This year, the holiday begins as the world mourns the innocent victims of barbaric terrorist attacks in the United Kingdom and Egypt, acts of depravity that are directly contrary to the spirit of Ramadan. Such acts only steel our resolve to defeat the terrorists and their perverted ideology. .." Read More»
Secretary Tillerson wishes Muslims around the world a peaceful and blessed Ramadan
"This time reminds us all of the common values of harmony and empathy we hold dear..." Read More»
President Trump’s Speech to the Arab Islamic American Summit
"If we do not act against this organized terror, then we know what will happen. Terrorism’s devastation of life will continue to spread. Peaceful societies will become engulfed by violence. And the futures of many generations will be sadly squandered." Read More»
Treasury Sanctions Additional Individuals and Entities In Response to Continuing Violent Attacks on Syrian Citizens by the Syrian Government
"As long as the Syrian government continues its campaign of brutal violence against its own people, Treasury will continue targeting the finances of anyone enabling Assad, and will continue intensifying pressure on Assad’s regime in support of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Syria." Read More»
Acting Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs Stuart Jones on Syria
"The Syrian regime has authorized the extrajudicial killings of thousands of detainees using mass hangings at the Saydnaya military prison" - Acting Assistant Secretary Jones Read More»
Secretary Tillerson’s Meeting With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed the importance of defeating ISIS, de-escalating the violence in Syria, and ensuring that humanitarian assistance reaches hundreds of thousands of civilians throughout the country... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Meeting with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov of Russia
President Trump emphasized the need to work together to end the conflict in Syria, in particular, underscoring the need for Russia to rein in the Assad regime, Iran, and Iranian proxies.... Read More»
Statement on Russia, Turkey, and Iran’s De-Escalation Zones Plan for Syria
The United States supports any effort that can genuinely de-escalate the violence in Syria, ensure unhindered humanitarian access, focus energies on the defeat of ISIS and other terrorists, and create the conditions for a credible political resolution of the conflict. Read More»
Readout of President Trump’s Call with President Vladimir Putin
President Trump and President Putin agreed that the suffering in Syria has gone on for far too long and that all parties must do all they can to end the violence. Read More»
Ambassador Nikki Haley Meets with Raed Saleh, Head of the Syrian White Helmets
Ambassador Haley and Mr. Saleh discussed continued U.S. support for the White Helmets, who risk their lives every day as the first responders, rescuing and giving medical care to civilians caught in the brutal fighting in Syria. Read More»
Treasury Sanctions 271 Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Center Staff in Response to Sarin Attack on Khan Sheikhoun
“These sweeping sanctions target the scientific support center for Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad’s horrific chemical weapons attack on innocent civilian men, women, and children... Read More»
Statement on Syria Bombing
The United States strongly condemns today's barbaric attacks against innocent civilians, including women and children, in northern Syria. Read More»
Press Availability on Syria
" I hope that what the Russian Government concludes is that they have aligned themselves with an unreliable partner in Bashar al-Assad... Read More»
Ambassador Haley at a UN Security Council Meeting on the Situation in Syria
The moral stain of the Assad regime could no longer go unanswered. His crimes against humanity could no longer be met with empty words. Read More»
Remarks With National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster on Syria
We feel the strike itself was proportional because it was targeted at the facility that delivered this most recent chemical weapons attack. Read More»
Statement by President Trump on Syria
I ordered a targeted military strike on the airfield in Syria from where the chemical attack was launched. Read More»
Amb Haley at an Emergency UN Security Council Meeting on Chemical Weapons in Syria
We cannot close our eyes to those pictures. We cannot close our minds of the responsibility to act." Read More»
Secretary Tillerson on Chemical Weapons Attack in Syria
Anyone who uses chemical weapons to attack his own people shows a fundamental disregard for human decency and must be held accountable. Read More»
Statement on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria
Using starvation as a weapon of war is unconscionable. The Council should strongly condemn the Syrian regime and its allies for their immoral denial of essential goods and medicine as a tool to force their own people to surrender.... Read More»
Secretary Tillersaon’s Remarks With Turkish FM Mevlut Cavusoglu
"Our discussions today reaffirmed that we will prevent the resurgence of Daesh in previously held territory, and aggressively stop the emergence of new terrorist threats on the ground as well as the recruitment of terrorists online... Read More»
Amb Haley Meets with UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura
Ambassador Haley and Special Envoy de Mistura agreed that all sides must come to the next round of talks prepared to negotiate in good faith. Read More»
Secretary Tillerson on the President’s Executive Order
To our allies and partners around the world: Please understand this order is part of our ongoing efforts to eliminate vulnerabilities that radical Islamist terrorists can and will exploit for destructive ends. Read More»
Explanation of Vote on a Draft UN Security Council Resolution on Syria Chemical Weapons
"ISIS’ barbarity is no excuse for Assad’s barbarity. Both used chemical weapons. Both should face the consequences... Read More»
Ambassador Haley after UN Security Council Consultations on the Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria
"You are either for chemical weapons or you’re against it. People died because of this, and the United States isn’t going to be quiet... Read More»
Amb Haley at Informal Consultations of the UN General Assembly on the UN Counterterrorism Architecture
"The United States will not hesitate to stand against the forces of terrorism, and that includes standing against the states that sponsor it, in particular the Islamic Republic of Iran.... Read More»
READOUT OF THE VICE PRESIDENT’S MEETING WITH PRIME MINISTER YILDIRIM OF TURKEY
The Vice President thanked Prime Minister Yildirim for Turkey's significant contributions to the counter-ISIS campaign, and expressed his condolences for Turkish loss of life in the fight against terrorism... Read More»
Presidential Memorandum Plan to Defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria
ISIS attacks against our allies and partners continue to mount. The United States must take decisive action to defeat ISIS.... Read More»
Readout of the President’s Call with King Salman bin Abd Al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia
They agreed on the importance of working jointly to address challenges to regional peace and security, including the conflicts in Syria and Yemen... Read More»
READOUT OF THE PRESIDENT’S CALL WITH RUSSIAN PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN
The call lasted approximately one hour and ranged in topics from mutual cooperation in defeating ISIS to efforts in working together to achieve more peace throughout the world including Syria. Read More»
President Trump’s Inaugural Address
"Every four years, we gather on these steps to carry out the orderly and peaceful transfer of power, and we are grateful to President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama for their gracious aid throughout this transition." Read More»
SDF & Syrian Arab Coalition have continued their progress, isolating Raqqa.
Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesperson, Col John Dorrian, on Coalition efforts against ISIL in Syria January 17, 2017 The Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian Arab Coalition have continued their progress, isolating Raqqa. Since their operation started November 5th, our partner forces liberated 3,172 square kilometers of terrain and moved within five kilometers of Tabaqah Dam ... Read More»
Treasury Sanctions Syrian Officials In Connection With OPCW-UN Findings Of Regime’s Use Of CW On Civilians
The U.S. Department of the Treasury is taking action in response to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) - United Nations (UN) Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM) findings that the Syrian regime used industrial chlorine as a weapon against its own people. Read More»
Military strategies pursued by the regime and its backers will only lengthen the war and generate more extremists
"After more than five years of tragedy, this much remains clear: It is only through a political solution that ultimately the country can be unified, the country can be rebuilt, and the violence can actually be stopped" Read More»
Amb Sison following the adoption of UNSCR2336 on Syria
"we are concerned at reports of a regime offensive, supported by Hizballah militia, in Wadi Barada. The Security Council's adoption of this text should be seen as a strong signal that such activities must cease." Read More»
Unanimous Renewal by the UN Security Council of the Joint Investigative Mechanism
We welcome the unanimous adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2319 to renew for another year the vital work of the Organization for the Prohibition Chemical Weapons (OPCW) - United Nations Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM) whose mission it is to determine attribution of confirmed chemical weapons (CW) use in Syria. Read More»
Amb Power at a UNSC Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria
"Today, I would like to specify some of the names of those involved since 2011 in killing and injuring civilians by conducting air and ground-based Syrian government military assaults on cities, residential areas, and civilian infrastructure." Read More»
SECRETARY KERRY’S CALL WITH UN SPECIAL ENVOY FOR SYRIA STAFFAN DE MISTURA, APRIL 13, 2016
Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC April 13, 2016 The below is attributable to Spokesperson John Kirby: Secretary Kerry spoke with United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura this morning to discuss today’s resumption in Geneva of UN-led Syria negotiations. Secretary Kerry reaffirmed strong U.S. support for the talks to focus ... Read More»
JOINT STATEMENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, AS CO-CHAIRS OF THE ISSG, ON CESSATION OF HOSTILITIES IN SYRIA, FEBRUARY 22, 2016
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC February 22, 2016 The United States of America and the Russian Federation, as co-chairs of the International Syria Support Group (ISSG) and seeking to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Syrian crisis with full respect for the fundamental role of the United Nations, are fully determined to ... Read More»
STATEMENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL SYRIA SUPPORT GROUP, FEBRUARY 11, 2016
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC February 11, 2016 Meeting in Munich on February 11 & 12, 2016, as the International Syria Support Group (ISSG), the Arab League, China, Egypt, the EU, France, Germany, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Oman, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, ... Read More»
Show More ∨