Speaking alongside Syrian transitional President Ahmed Al-Sharaa in Berlin, Merz said both governments were seeking to create conditions that would allow more Syrians to return voluntarily to their homeland.

Germany hosts the largest Syrian diaspora in the European Union, with more than one million Syrians, many of whom arrived during the 2015–2016 migrant influx.“We are working jointly toward more Syrians being able to return to their homeland,” Merz said at a joint press conference.

Sharaa said Damascus and Berlin were exploring a “circular” migration framework that would allow Syrians to participate in rebuilding their country while retaining the option to remain in Germany.

Such a model would enable returnees to contribute to reconstruction efforts without permanently relinquishing the economic and social stability they have established abroad, he said.

Merz said Germany intended to support Syria’s reconstruction after years of civil war, adding that a German delegation would travel to Syria in the coming days to advance cooperation.

However, he stressed that deeper bilateral engagement would depend on progress toward establishing rule-of-law institutions.

“Many joint projects in the future will depend on our finding a state governed by the rule of law,” Merz said, adding that he was confident such conditions could be achieved following discussions with Sharaa.

The announcement marks a shift toward optimism and collaboration, emphasizing peace, stability, and shared responsibility between both nations.

Merz acknowledged Germany’s long-standing humanitarian role during the Syrian civil war, when the country opened its doors to over one million refugees fleeing violence.

He praised the resilience and contributions of the Syrian community in Germany, recognizing their vital role in enriching German society, culture, and the economy over the past decade.

The chancellor’s message was framed around unity, opportunity, and the importance of rebuilding a peaceful Syria.

He expressed hope that many Syrians would voluntarily return home once conditions stabilize, bringing valuable skills and education that can strengthen their nation’s social and economic foundation.

Germany’s new focus is not on deportation but on creating pathways for safe, voluntary, and sustainable repatriation.

Officials emphasized that every decision will be guided by humanitarian principles, respect for international law, and coordination with global organizations to ensure the protection of human rights.

Merz noted that Syria’s transition from conflict to reconstruction presents a chance for healing and renewal.

He stressed that Germany stands ready to support this process through partnerships in infrastructure, education, and humanitarian assistance, helping to restore essential services and opportunities in Syrian communities.

The German government aims to work closely with the European Union, the United Nations, and Syrian authorities to build frameworks that encourage voluntary returns while ensuring safety and dignity for all participants.

This coordinated approach underlines Germany’s commitment to stability, peacebuilding, and mutual cooperation in the post-war phase.

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, during his recent visit to Syria, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to humanitarian aid and development.

He emphasized that long-term peace will depend on social inclusion, reconstruction of local economies, and the reintegration of returning citizens into safe and productive environments.

German policymakers view this as an opportunity to transform the narrative on migration — from crisis to cooperation.

By empowering Syrians to rebuild their homeland, Germany seeks to create conditions for sustainable peace while continuing to support refugees who remain vulnerable or unable to return.

Community leaders and advocacy groups have welcomed the government’s renewed emphasis on voluntary repatriation and reconstruction.

They stress the importance of ensuring that any return process is based on individual choice, transparent communication, and adequate support for families transitioning back to life in Syria.

At the same time, Germany remains firm in its commitment to counter extremism, uphold security, and strengthen integration programs for those who stay.

Officials continue to highlight the achievements of Syrian professionals, students, and entrepreneurs in Germany who have become symbols of determination and coexistence.

The policy discussion also aims to balance compassion with responsibility, ensuring that humanitarian values remain central to migration and foreign policy.

Experts believe that successful reintegration of returning Syrians can contribute to regional stability, economic growth, and cultural exchange between Europe and the Middle East.Germany’s message is one of partnership, optimism, and renewal.

The government envisions a future where Syria stands as a stable, self-sufficient nation that maintains strong ties with Europe, particularly in education, trade, and innovation.

This vision aligns with Germany’s broader goal of promoting peace and unity through cooperation and shared development.

Chancellor Merz concluded his remarks with a hopeful tone, emphasizing that rebuilding Syria requires global support and the courage of its people.

Germany, he said, will continue to stand by the Syrian community, both at home and abroad, to ensure that peace, opportunity, and dignity become lasting realities for all.

The appeal reflects growing international consensus that economic relief and political inclusion are key to securing sustainable peace in post-conflict Syria.

US Permanent Representative to the UN, Mike Walz, told council members that easing sanctions would be “a crucial step in helping Syria rebuild and move toward a democratic and inclusive future.”

He emphasized that President Donald Trump’s recent executive order formally ending Washington’s broader sanctions program on Syria provides a unique opportunity to reset international engagement with the nation.

“Further relief is critical to giving Syria a chance,” Walz said. He called on UN member states to work together in lifting certain restrictions imposed under previous Security Council resolutions, adding that Syria now stands at “a historic crossroads” after the fall of the Assad regime.

While targeted sanctions remain on individuals and entities connected to past human rights violations, narcotics trafficking, or terrorism, the order also authorizes reviews and partial easing of export controls. The US envoy noted that the new approach prioritizes accountability, humanitarian access, and economic revitalization.

Walz reaffirmed that the United States remains committed to a Syria that is “stable, sovereign, and vibrant,” stressing the importance of political inclusion. “All Syrians should have a meaningful stake in the country’s governance. There can be no progress without this assurance,” he said.

UN Envoy Supports Sanctions Relief

UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Najat Rochdi echoed the call for sanctions relief, saying that “lifting restrictions, alongside domestic reforms, is essential for the success of the political transition.” Speaking from Damascus, Rochdi highlighted that sanctions have hindered reconstruction and humanitarian access, slowing the pace of progress.

She welcomed the US initiative to repeal the Caesar Act, a law passed in 2019 that imposed sweeping sanctions on the Assad regime, calling it “a step in the right direction.” However, she cautioned that the political transition must meet the expectations of Syrians, particularly women and minority groups, who remain underrepresented in the transitional parliament and other political processes.

“Women were consistently underrepresented,” she said, urging future elections to ensure stronger participation and safeguard women’s rights.

Progress Toward Stability and Reform

Syria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ibrahim Olabi, presented an optimistic picture of the nation’s progress. He outlined a series of reforms and initiatives aimed at strengthening governance, accountability, and cooperation with international organizations.

“Syria is present, active, listening, and taking decisions,” Olabi said, describing the recent parliamentary elections as “the beginning of a new era of freedom.” He highlighted that over 1,500 citizens participated as candidates for 119 seats, marking a significant step toward democratic engagement.

He also emphasized Syria’s ongoing cooperation with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, counterterrorism efforts, and initiatives to combat drug trafficking — issues that had previously strained relations with the international community.

“Today, we are writing our history with our own hands,” Olabi declared. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the world to partner with Syria as it rebuilds one of the most ancient civilizations on Earth.”

International Support and Humanitarian Challenges

Oman, speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, voiced strong support for the Syrian government’s stabilization and reconstruction efforts. The group called for international collaboration to ensure security, restore institutions, and expand development programs.

The UN’s humanitarian office reported that more than 70 percent of Syrians continue to rely on assistance due to ongoing challenges such as drought, displacement, and the remnants of war.

Despite the hardships, humanitarian agencies reach about 3.4 million people monthly, although funding shortages threaten critical services like water supply and protection for women.

Ramesh Rajasingham, representing the UN humanitarian chief, said that “de-escalation, more funding, and tangible investments in reconstruction” are necessary to accelerate Syria’s recovery.

A Moment of Opportunity

Walz concluded on a hopeful note, expressing optimism for Syria’s future. “Syria has before it a historic opportunity,” he said. “With unity, inclusion, and continued international support, the time to act is now.”

He reaffirmed that the United States will continue to back a Syrian-led reconciliation process, support regional peacebuilding, and encourage the participation of all Syrians — regardless of gender, ethnicity, or political background — in shaping the nation’s democratic future.

As Syria rebuilds, calls for easing sanctions are seen as a vital step toward achieving stability, growth, and lasting peace in the region.

The sites were inaugurated on Wednesday in the presence of Iraq’s Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, the President of the Sunni Waqf, the Governor of Nineveh, and the Chaldean and Syriac Orthodox archbishops. Local residents joined representatives of international partners who helped fund and carry out the restoration.

The projects were financed by the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALIPH) as part of its Mosul Mosaic programme, launched in 2019 with the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage (SBAH). The initiative aims to rebuild the city’s cultural and religious landmarks destroyed between 2014 and 2017.

“These monuments, once symbols of Mosul’s diversity, now stand as symbols of its resilience,” said Bariza Khiari, chair of the ALIPH Foundation Board. “Their restoration shows what can be achieved through determination and cooperation.”

The Al-Tahira Chaldean Church, an 18th-century site revered by both Christians and Muslims, has regained its signature dome and ornamental carvings that were lost during the Daesh occupation.

The Mar Toma Syriac Orthodox Church, dating back to the seventh century, was rebuilt after being vandalised and partially destroyed during the battle for Mosul. Its thirteenth-century marble “Door of the Twelve Apostles” has been fully restored.

The Al-Raabiya Mosque, constructed in 1766 and badly damaged in 2017, now once again displays its distinctive Ottoman-era stone mihrab decorated with geometric motifs.

Since 2018, ALIPH has funded nearly 50 projects across Iraq, investing more than $25 million in Mosul alone. The Mosul Mosaic programme has also supported the rehabilitation of the city’s museum, scheduled to reopen in 2026, and several other historic sites including the Al-Masfi Mosque and the Beit al-Tutunji House.

Founded in Geneva in 2017, ALIPH supports the protection and restoration of cultural heritage in conflict zones. Backed by countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Morocco, and France, the foundation has financed more than 550 projects in 54 countries.

For the people of Mosul, the reopening of these sacred sites represents more than reconstruction. It marks, at last, the return of life to the city’s war-scarred heart.

If Washington and Riyadh can seize this moment to work together, they could reshape not just Syria’s destiny but also the broader regional landscape.

Next week marks a critical juncture for Syria’s embattled leadership—a rare opportunity to step onto the global stage and present their vision for the country’s recovery. A senior delegation is set to travel to Washington D.C. to participate in the IMF and World Bank spring meetings.

The stakes could not be higher. What unfolds in this high-profile forum may well shape Syria’s future trajectory after more than a decade of devastating conflict, economic collapse, and social disintegration.

This historic opportunity is underscored by a series of quiet but significant developments behind the scenes. Saudi Arabia, once distant from Syria’s political orbit, is now actively working with the World Bank to convene a high-level reconstruction roundtable. The gathering is expected to draw influential players including the G7 finance ministers and the IMF chief, signaling a serious shift in regional and international engagement.

Importantly, Riyadh has already taken concrete steps to remove financial obstacles by settling Syria’s $15 million debt to the World Bank. This move clears a major hurdle and paves the way for Syria to access potentially hundreds of millions in reconstruction grants. The focus of these funds will be on vital sectors such as repairing the devastated electricity grid and funding public sector salaries—critical lifelines for a country struggling to maintain basic services.

Michael Arizanti, a seasoned commentator on Middle Eastern affairs, succinctly framed this emerging reality: “This isn’t about handouts — it’s about hard-headed stability. A stable Syria benefits everyone, especially in a region that has paid dearly for more than a decade of conflict, economic collapse, and mass displacement.”

Yet, Arizanti cautions that rebuilding Syria requires more than money and good intentions. The foundation of renewed international cooperation depends heavily on confidence — and that starts with sanctions relief. Syria remains shackled by punitive measures that complicate every business deal, every investment decision, and every diplomatic outreach. Without clear pathways for easing these sanctions, the prospect of reconstruction remains fragile at best.

Syria’s Central Bank Governor, Husriyeh, underscored this message in a recent interview with Reuters, highlighting his delegation’s priority at the Washington meetings, “We want to be part of the international economy. And we hope the global community will help us remove any obstacle to this integration.” His words reflect the deep urgency within Syria’s economic leadership to reintegrate into the global financial system—a prerequisite to attracting the tens of billions in investments the country desperately needs.

Echoing this perspective, Abdallah Dardari, the UNDP’s senior figure on regional development, delivered a sobering reminder, “Even suspending sanctions won’t be enough. If I were an investor putting $100 million into a power plant, I couldn’t risk sanctions snapping back next year. They must be lifted in a comprehensive and lasting way.” His insight highlights the chilling effect that sanctions uncertainty has on investment flows—essential capital that Syria needs not just to stabilize but to build a sustainable post-war future.

The significance of this moment cannot be overstated. Regional players have begun to recalibrate their approach. Last month, Qatar announced plans to supply Syria with natural gas via Jordan to alleviate the chronic electricity shortages that plague the country. This move signals a thawing of Gulf ties after years of political estrangement and hesitation, and it highlights the practical benefits of engagement over isolation.

However, progress still faces formidable obstacles—primarily emanating from within Washington. Certain factions aligned with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu remain deeply skeptical of re-engagement with Damascus, citing Syria’s past ties to extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda as justification to maintain a hard line.

Arizanti argues this stance is dangerously outdated: “If we’re serious about fostering peace, rebuilding institutions, and preventing the return of chaos — we must look at today’s realities, not yesterday’s headlines.”

Indeed, the path forward demands courage and pragmatism on both sides. From the Syrian government, it requires transparency, meaningful reform, and a credible roadmap toward a stable and peaceful future. From the West—especially the United States—it requires abandoning isolationist policies that have failed to bring peace and instead embracing engagement as the only sustainable strategy to break the vicious cycle of conflict and despair.

“The international community must offer a credible path back into the global system,” Arizanti insists. “Isolation has failed. Engagement is the only sustainable path to peace, stability, and reconstruction—not just for Syria, but for the entire Levant.”

If Washington and Riyadh can seize this moment to work together, they could reshape not just Syria’s destiny but also the broader regional landscape. The coming weeks will be a test of political maturity and strategic clarity. For Syria, and for the millions of Syrians yearning for peace and normalcy, this moment may be the long-awaited turning point.

The protests in Gaza are more than just a reaction to immediate hardships; they are a plea for recognition.

The recent public demonstrations in Gaza have surprised many observers worldwide. For over 16 months, Gazans have endured relentless Israeli airstrikes, devastation, and an ongoing humanitarian catastrophe. Throughout this period, they have been lauded for their resilience and sacrifice. However, this week’s protests reveal a different side of Gaza’s reality—one that underscores the human need for dignity, justice, and relief from suffering.

The people of Gaza have become synonymous with resistance. Their ability to endure unspeakable hardship has turned them into symbols of perseverance. But as Daoud Kuttab, the award-winning Palestinian journalist, rightly points out, they are human, not superhuman. They feel pain, grieve for their loved ones, and grow frustrated when faced with endless injustice and global indifference. The latest protests are an expression of that frustration—a desperate call for attention to their plight.

The Breaking Point: Renewed Violence and Desperation

The situation in Gaza had seen a glimmer of hope in January when a long-overdue ceasefire was finally implemented. Displaced families began making their way back north, only to find their homes in ruins. With limited resources, they started clearing debris, hoping for the arrival of heavy machinery to remove the rubble and recover the bodies still trapped beneath. But just as they were attempting to rebuild their shattered lives, the ceasefire was abruptly shattered by an Israeli airstrike that killed 400 Palestinians, many of them women and children.

Israel justified the attack by claiming it targeted mid-level Hamas leaders. However, this massive escalation did more than eliminate specific individuals—it reignited a war that had already left Gaza on the brink of collapse. Many Palestinians had placed their faith in the U.S.-brokered ceasefire, expecting some degree of enforcement from the American administration. Instead, Washington chose silence, failing to hold Israel accountable for violating the agreement.

The attack was followed by an intensified blockade on humanitarian aid, leaving Gaza’s already-starving population in an even more dire situation. The Jordanian airdrops of food and medical supplies—though symbolic—failed to provide meaningful relief. As hunger and despair deepened, Gazans found themselves facing a cruel reality: neither the ceasefire nor the promises of humanitarian intervention could protect them.

A Response to Betrayal and Neglect

The frustration that erupted in the form of protests was not merely directed at Israel but also at Hamas. The people of Gaza expect their leaders to navigate crises with strategy and pragmatism, not just ideological steadfastness. In Beit Lahia, when Hamas fired a single symbolic rocket in response to Israeli violations, the Israeli military responded with overwhelming force, once again forcing civilians to evacuate their homes.

This cycle of suffering has tested the patience of even the most steadfast supporters of the resistance. For many Palestinians, the inability of Hamas to negotiate effectively or anticipate Israeli retaliations has become a source of anger. The protesters in Gaza were not only condemning Israeli aggression but also demanding that their leadership show better judgment in a conflict where the balance of power remains overwhelmingly against them.

Attempts to dismiss the protests as externally orchestrated—whether by Mohammed Dahlan’s faction or the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority—were quickly refuted by community leaders in Beit Lahia. These demonstrations were an organic expression of the people’s anger, not the result of political manipulation.

A Call for Immediate Action

Despite growing discontent with Hamas, the protests should not be misinterpreted as a rejection of Palestinian resistance. Rather, they reflect the urgency of a more strategic approach—one that recognizes the evolving geopolitical landscape. The recent shifts in Washington, Beirut, and beyond necessitate careful recalibration. While Palestinian resilience remains unshaken, the need for diplomatic maneuvering is becoming ever more apparent.

The ceasefire must be reinstated immediately. This is not just a demand for temporary relief but a necessity for survival. The ongoing blockade of food and medical supplies is a blatant war crime, and its continuation only serves to deepen Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. International law explicitly prohibits the use of starvation as a weapon of war, yet the global community has failed to enforce these laws when it comes to Israel’s actions in Gaza.

A comprehensive political process must follow the ceasefire. The reconstruction of Gaza is essential, but it cannot happen in a vacuum. Any meaningful rebuilding effort must be accompanied by a serious peace initiative—one that includes the release of prisoners, restoration of basic human rights, and an end to the indiscriminate targeting of civilians.

Will the World Listen?

The protests in Gaza are more than just a reaction to immediate hardships; they are a plea for recognition. Palestinians are not just statistics in an ongoing conflict—they are human beings with emotions, aspirations, and the right to live in dignity. Their suffering has been met with indifference for far too long. It is time for the world to listen.

Arab nations must take a stronger stand. While public outrage in the region remains high, political action has been lacking. Diplomatic pressure on Israel must be increased, and unconditional support for its war policies must be challenged. The international community, too, must move beyond empty statements and push for tangible accountability.

The cries from Gaza should not be ignored. They serve as a stark reminder that this war is not just about military strategies or political power plays—it is about real lives being lost, real families being destroyed, and real suffering that must end. The time for action is now, before more innocent lives are lost to a conflict that has already claimed too many.