Biden says US will support Syria and neighboring countries even after Assad dynasty collapses

President Joe Biden praised the overthrow of Syria’s dictatorship in remarks Sunday, but warned of the uncertainty of the country’s political transition.

“This is a moment of historic opportunity for the long-suffering Syrian people to build a better future for their proud country,” he said in the Roosevelt Room of the White House. “This is also a moment of risk and uncertainty. As we look to the question of what happens next, the United States can work with partners and stakeholders in Syria to seize opportunities for them to manage risks.” I intend to support you.”

Biden said the United States will support Syria’s neighbors, including Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon and Israel, during the transition period and will send senior officials to the region. He also pledged to continue the mission against ISIS and ensure the security of detention facilities in Syria housing ISIS fighters.

“We are acutely aware of the fact that ISIS is trying to take advantage of the new vacuum to restore its capabilities and create a safe haven. We will not allow that to happen,” Biden said. Ta.

He added that the US military conducted more than a dozen precision airstrikes targeting ISIS camps and operatives in Syria on Sunday.

But he pointed out that ISIS is not the only threat. Biden said the United States would remain vigilant, adding that some of the rebels who toppled Assad’s regime had their own records of terrorism and human rights abuses.

“They are saying the right things now, but as they take on more responsibility, we will evaluate not only their words but also their actions,” he said.

The US will also assist “all Syrian groups” in establishing independent and sovereign governments. The pledge includes humanitarian aid to support Syria after 13 years of civil war.

Biden also said his administration is committed to returning Austin Tice to his family. Thais, an American journalist, was abducted in Damascus in 2012 and detained by the Syrian government. Biden said the United States believes Tice is alive.

Syrian rebel forces seized control of the capital Damascus on Sunday. Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced that President Bashar al-Assad has resigned and departed the country, ending his family’s decades-long dictatorship in Syria.

“We don’t know where he is, but we have information that he is in Moscow,” Biden said, later adding that Assad should be held accountable.

Assad became the country’s leader in 2000 after the death of his father. Assad’s allies included Russia, Iran, and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Biden said all three allies are now “much weaker” than they were when he took office.