- Al-Safadi’s Visit to Damascus Delivered Jordanian and Arab Messages to Syria’s New Leadership
- Jordan affirms Syria’s unity, security, and stability, rejecting its division.
- Strong and historical ties exist between the Jordanian and Syrian peoples, regardless of governing systems.
- Syria belongs to all Syrians, and words must now be translated into actions.
- Jordan opposes Israeli incursions into Syrian territories.
- The previous Syrian regime was the world’s largest source of Captagon drugs.
- A visit to Syria might occur after electing a parliament representing all Syrians.
- Arab support is required to thwart any resolution of the Palestinian issue at Jordan’s expense.
- King Abdullah II is highly respected internationally, and Western nations value his advice.
Amman - Speaker of the Senate Faisal El-Fayez described Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Al-Safadi’s visit to Syria as significant. The visit followed the Aqaba meeting, which discussed developments in Syria and ways to restore its security and stability, as well as Jordanian-Syrian relations.
El-Fayez, in an interview with the program "Qasara Al-Qawl" on RT Russia, hosted by journalist Salam Masafar, stated that Safadi’s visit carried several messages to the leader of the new administration in Syria, Ahmad Al-Sharaa. These messages emphasized the decisions made during the Aqaba meeting, which called for a peaceful political transition process in Syria under the auspices of the United Nations and the Arab League. They also reaffirmed support for the Syrian people, respect for their choices, and backing for a peaceful transition that represents all political and social forces.
Safadi’s messages further stressed the importance of preserving Syria’s unity, territorial integrity, sovereignty, security, and stability, while rejecting any form of division. They also highlighted the need to guarantee the rights of all citizens and establish a democratic system with a new constitution. Moreover, this system must represent all political spectrums, recognizing Syria as a mosaic society that includes various sects and religions. Therefore, the Foreign Minister’s visit was regarded as highly significant.
El-Fayez further stated that Al-Safadi carried a message condemning Israel’s incursions into Syria’s buffer zone and called for Israel’s withdrawal from occupied areas. He urged the UN Security Council to take action to stop these violations.
Explaining the delay in Al-Safadi’s visit, El-Fayez highlighted Jordan’s balanced foreign policy under King Abdullah II. Jordan consulted with Gulf states, Egypt, Iraq, and other Arab nations to unify positions before engaging with Syria’s new leadership.
The Aqaba meeting brought together the Arab Ministerial Liaison Committee—including Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, and Egypt—along with the Arab League Secretary-General. Foreign ministers from Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, and Turkey, as well as representatives from Germany, France, the UK, the US, the EU, and the UN envoy to Syria, also attended.
El-Fayez emphasized the historical ties between Jordan and Syria, dating back to the Emirate of Transjordan, based on mutual respect. He also pointed out the long-standing economic and trade relations between the two nations.
Discussing the outcome of the Aqaba meeting, El-Fayez noted that while the Syrian regime has changed, the meeting’s objectives remain intact. The focus is on resolving Syria’s crisis, ideally through cooperation from Bashar Al-Assad, as previously proposed by Turkish President Erdogan. Unfortunately, the Assad regime failed to respond.
With the new Syrian administration calling the current phase transitional, El-Fayez mentioned a planned national conference in three months, which could lead to elections or the drafting of a new constitution.
El-Fayez stressed the importance of parliamentary elections in Syria, as the parliament would approve the constitution. A new constitution drafted by the national conference should undergo a public referendum, followed by parliamentary elections supervised by the United Nations. This would ensure representation for all Syrian communities.
Regarding Syria’s future governance, El-Fayez shared his personal view that a presidential system would be most suitable, allowing Syrians to elect their president directly, regardless of religious or ethnic background. However, he emphasized that the final decision rests with the Syrian people.
Regarding the impacts and repercussions of the current situation in Syria on Jordan, El-Fayez stated that Syria is our neighbor, and what happens there will undoubtedly affect Jordan. If chaos prevails in Syria, it will have a negative impact on us; however, if security and stability are restored, it will have a positive reflection. Syria holds a special position for Jordan—while some countries are geographically distant, neighbors like Iraq and Jordan will be directly affected by the Syrian situation, whereas other countries may experience indirect effects. If chaos spreads in Syria, the repercussions will not only affect its neighbors but also the entire region.
Concerning regime change in Syria and the new geopolitical equations resulting from this change, El-Fayez said we need to go back to October 7th to understand what happened and its outcomes. Unfortunately, the result has been the destruction of Gaza, with more than 45,000 martyrs, and over 100,000 injured and wounded, in addition to those still trapped under the rubble.
He also mentioned that Gaza's economy has been completely destroyed, and its situation is tragic. The resistance and Hamas’ capabilities now are not what they were before. While there is still resistance, and we support resistance against any Israeli occupation, the resistance in Gaza has reached a stage unlike the previous one.
He added, “If we look at Hezbollah, when it engaged in war with Israel, part of southern Lebanon was occupied, causing significant destruction. Moreover, Hezbollah’s primary weapons supply route through Syria has now been cut off, and Iran’s influence in the region has declined. Unfortunately, the current dominance in the region belongs to Israel, which now occupies Gaza, parts of southern Lebanon, and areas in Syria, including what remains of the Golan Heights. They have also taken control of Syria’s water sources—this is a dangerous development. Sadly, this is the outcome we face following the events of October 7th.”
Regarding drug smuggling from Syria into Jordan and whether it has stopped with the new Syrian administration or might continue, El-Fayez said that dangerous networks supported by the former Syrian regime were behind the smuggling operations. Therefore, he could not confirm that it has ended. He pointed out that Syria was previously the world’s largest producer of Captagon, accounting for 80% of global production. These smuggling and drug manufacturing networks generated revenues of 6 to 7 billion dollars annually for Syria and the militias within it. However, if the new government gains full control over Syrian territories, Fayez believes the drug smuggling issue will end or at least decrease significantly compared to the previous regime.
When asked about the possibility of regional and international recognition of the new Syrian regime, El-Fayez stated that most Western countries have sent representatives to meet with Ahmad Al-Sharaa, and Arab nations have also begun dispatching delegations. However, for international recognition of the new Syrian administration, actions must match the promises made. Al-Sharaa has promised a transitional government for three months, followed by a national conference leading to elections and the drafting of a new constitution. El-Fayez expressed hope that actions will outweigh words.
On the matter of Syrian refugees returning, El-Fayez explained that Jordan has faced challenges since the Syrian uprising began in 2011, leading to an influx of refugees. Jordan has struggled to manage this large number. He emphasized that refugee returns must be voluntary, and while many are willing to return, the current situation in Syria remains uncertain, with a lack of security, stability, and economic opportunities. Refugees in Jordan have jobs and receive aid from the UN. Until Syria stabilizes and refugees feel safe and secure, many may hesitate to return.
El-Fayez stated that Syrian refugees in Jordan are treated as guests rather than refugees, living among Jordanian citizens in various cities. He cited a statement from a Syrian tribal leader who expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II and the Jordanian people for their hospitality and care.
Addressing concerns about Syria repeating Iraq’s experience following the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime—which led to the dissolution of the Iraqi army, sectarian violence, and chaos—El-Fayez explained that in Iraq, Paul Bremer dissolved the Iraqi army, which was a grave mistake. King Abdullah II had advised President Bush against dissolving the Iraqi army and harming Baath Party members, as most were compelled to join the party to sustain government operations. However, Bremer dismantled state institutions, leading to subsequent chaos.
In Syria, El-Fayez noted, there is no Bremer-like figure. Turkey may play a significant role in Syria’s political process, but it is not in Turkey’s interest to see chaos there. Despite concerns over Kurdish influence, Turkey supports Syria’s territorial integrity and stability. Fayez dismissed suggestions that Turkey has ambitions in Syria, particularly in Homs or northern Syria, emphasizing Turkey’s interest in stability.
Regarding Israel’s exploitation of Syria’s situation, El-Fayez lamented that events since October 7th have led to Israeli dominance. Israel has advanced into Syrian territories, reaching areas just 20 kilometers from Damascus, and systematically destroyed Syria’s remaining weapons to weaken the country.
Concerning fears of terrorism spreading, El-Fayez affirmed that combating terrorism is a priority for Jordan. King Abdullah II has consistently led efforts against terrorism and extremism through collaboration with Arab and international partners. El-Fayez emphasized Jordan’s vigilance in preventing any terrorist acts, highlighting the strength of Jordan’s monarchy, institutions, and security forces. He stated that Jordan has overcome many challenges since 1921, including the Arab Spring, under the wisdom of King Abdullah II.
El-Fayez expressed optimism about Jordan’s future, noting the unity of the Jordanian people behind the King during crises. He stated that Jordan will overcome current regional challenges through the King’s wisdom, public awareness, and the strength of its security and armed forces.
Regarding a possible official or parliamentary visit to Damascus, El-Fayez said such a visit is premature but might occur in the future once a parliament is formed.
On whether Jordan might initiate a mini-Arab summit on Syria, El-Fayez referred to the Aqaba meeting, which sent significant messages to Syria’s new leadership. He suggested that any upcoming Arab summit would likely focus on the Palestinian issue, stressing the need for a unified Arab position to present to the new U.S. administration under Trump. El-Fayez highlighted Jordan’s efforts, led by King Abdullah II, to achieve a just solution for Palestine.
Responding to concerns about Trump’s past proposals, such as the “Deal of the Century,” which would grant Israel 75% of historic Palestinian lands, El-Fayez noted King Abdullah II’s firm rejection of the plan. He emphasized that Jordan cannot bear the demographic burden of four million Palestinians. El-Fayez stressed the importance of Arab support for the King’s efforts to counter any unfair settlement.
El-Fayez concluded by reaffirming Jordan’s unwavering position on a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as Palestine’s capital. He emphasized Jordan’s commitment to supporting Palestinian resistance against Israeli occupation and aggression, as well as its determination to secure Palestinian rights.