In an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes,” the president emphasized that Syria has entered a new phase after years of war, and that his government is committed to building a state based on justice, legality, and full sovereignty.

During a tour with the network’s team through the war-ravaged municipality of Jobar in the capital, the head of State lamented the magnitude of the destruction and the psychological trauma experienced by entire generations over 14 years of war.

“The world was unable to stop this tragedy, but it has a responsibility to support Syria,” he said, while denouncing that the economic sanctions imposed are hindering the reconstruction process.

Anyone who obstructs the lifting of sanctions is complicit in the crimes committed, he added.

Regarding the regional situation, the president stated that his government does not wish to pose a threat to any country and reaffirmed that Syria has not provoked Israel since the change of power in Damascus. However, he denounced the fact that the presidential palace was bombed by Tel Aviv twice, which he described as “a declaration of war.”

Regarding the recent violence in the coastal region and in Sweida, Al-Shara maintained that this is an internal matter and that all those responsible for crimes against civilians will be brought to justice, regardless of their political or religious affiliation.

He also announced that general elections will be held once the basic reconstruction of infrastructure is completed and official documentation is guaranteed to citizens, with the aim of consolidating a democratic state where everyone can exercise their right to vote.

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