Syria: Syria said Wednesday that there will be no humanitarian corridor across the border, stressing that the provision of humanitarian aid is exclusively coordinated via state institutions.
According to Anadolu Agency, the state news agency SANA reported that a Syrian government source emphasized the non-existence of a humanitarian corridor across the border. The source clarified that humanitarian aid delivery is exclusively coordinated through direct engagement with state institutions in the capital, Damascus, to ensure safe and organized distribution to all entitled recipients, including those in the Suwayda province and other regions.
The statement followed a meeting on Tuesday in Paris between Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and an Israeli delegation, aimed at discussing de-escalation and non-interference in Syria's affairs. The concept of a 'humanitarian corridor' has been repeatedly proposed by Israel to justify its involvement in Syrian internal matters.
On the same day, Israeli Druze leader Mowafaq Tarif met with US envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack in Paris, advocating for the establishment of a humanitarian corridor across the border. This proposal is seen by Syrian officials as an attempt to meddle in Syria's internal affairs. Israel has no direct border with Suwayda, and such a corridor would need to traverse neighboring Daraa province or the Damascus countryside, a demand firmly rejected by Damascus.
The Syrian government source reiterated that Damascus has provided 'all necessary facilities and approvals to the relevant UN organizations to perform their humanitarian duties.' The source highlighted that Syrian national and relief convoys continue to operate regularly, demonstrating Syria's commitment to addressing all humanitarian needs in collaboration with its international partners.
Suwayda has experienced a ceasefire since July 19, following a week of intense armed clashes between Druze groups and Bedouin tribes, as well as Israeli military attacks. Although Israel has claimed its actions are to protect Druze communities, the majority of Druze leaders in Syria have openly opposed any foreign intervention, reaffirming their support for a unified Syrian state.
Syria's transitional administration, established after the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, is focused on reinstating stability across the nation after nearly 25 years of authoritarian governance.