Greek Foreign Minister Urges Vigilance on Syria’s Islamist Regime Amid Violence
Greek Foreign Minister Giorgios Gerapetritis has called on the U.S. and Europe to closely monitor Syria’s Islamist regime following violent clashes, urging the inclusion of religious minorities in governance. Amidst reports of civilian casualties, he emphasized gradual sanction relief and underscored Greece’s commitment to international law in relation to Turkey’s maritime claims, while fostering a strategic partnership with India to counterbalance Chinese influence.
The situation in Syria has intensified, with Greek Foreign Minister Giorgios Gerapetritis emphasizing the urgent need for both the United States and Europe to monitor the Islamist regime closely. Following a weekend of violence that resulted in hundreds of deaths, Gerapetritis urged the international community to ensure that religious minorities, particularly Orthodox Christians, are included in Syria’s governance framework. He stated that any lifting of sanctions should be gradual and reversible, pending compliance with international law.
The violence stemmed from clashes between the Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) faction, which is now in control, and supporters of the ousted leader Bashar al-Assad. Casualty reports vary, with estimates exceeding 1,000 deaths, including numerous civilians. The United Nations expressed alarm over the reported killings of families in northwest Syria, urging an immediate halt to hostilities.
During this turmoil, Syria’s transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, underscored the need for national unity amidst ongoing challenges. Despite the bloodshed, al-Sharaa, striving to distance the HTS from its past connections with al-Qaeda, highlighted the group’s interest in promoting education, especially for women. Meanwhile, a meeting was called by Russia and the U.S. at the U.N. Security Council to discuss the escalating violence.
Additionally, Gerapetritis voiced concerns regarding Turkey’s Blue Homeland Doctrine, which claims maritime rights that infringe upon Greek waters. He reaffirmed Greece’s commitment to international law while noting improvements in Greece-Turkey relations. Furthermore, he highlighted Greece’s strategic partnership with India, aimed at fostering a Middle East-Europe corridor to challenge China’s influence through the Belt and Road Initiative, stressing the necessity for alternative trade routes.
Amidst this complex geopolitical landscape, Gerapetritis advocated for the expansion of Greece’s role as a stabilizing force in the Eastern Mediterranean, reinforcing the importance of cooperation and strategic alliances with international partners.
In conclusion, the Greek Foreign Minister’s observations shed light on the complexities surrounding Syria’s internal strife and the broader implications for regional stability. With significant civilian casualties reported, it is vital for the international community to advocate for the inclusion of minority voices in governance. Additionally, heightened vigilance regarding Turkey’s maritime claims and enhanced cooperation with India signals Greece’s proactive approach to navigating geopolitical tensions while emphasizing legal adherence.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
