Overview
- The German government confirmed that Syrian transitional president Ahmed al‑Scharaa delayed his two‑day Berlin trip, which had included meetings with Chancellor Friedrich Merz and President Frank‑Walter Steinmeier, citing Syria’s internal situation.
- Damascus published a reported 14‑point plan featuring a ceasefire, the integration of SDF and Kurdish security units into Syria’s defense and interior ministries, and the transfer of control over Deir ez‑Zor, Raqqa, border crossings, and key oil and gas fields to the central government.
- The SDF had not confirmed the deal at the time of reporting, while U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, described as a mediator, hailed the development and a meeting between al‑Scharaa and SDF leader Mazlum Abdi was signaled.
- Civil society groups and minority associations in Germany called al‑Scharaa’s reception unacceptable, citing alleged abuses, and said a large protest in Berlin would proceed despite the postponement.
- Berlin’s outreach sought talks on reconstruction and refugee returns, yet the initiative faces strong domestic resistance tied to human‑rights conditions and to al‑Scharaa’s past leadership of HTS under previous UN sanctions.