Syria’s Leaders Pledge to Join Global Fight Against Islamic State

New administration commits to international coalition

After years of territorial losses to the extremist group Islamic State (IS), the newly formed Syrian government has announced its intention to take part in the worldwide campaign against the terrorist organization.

President Najib Al‑Hassan addressed the nation on Saturday, stating, “We will no longer tolerate the presence of IS on Syrian soil. Our government will cooperate fully with the international coalition to eradicate this threat once and for all.”

The declaration comes after IS once controlled large swaths of Syria, imposing brutal rule and causing massive displacement. While the group has been largely pushed back, isolated pockets remain in the desert regions of Deir ez‑Zor and the al‑Hasakah governorate.

In a joint press conference with representatives from the United Nations and the United States, Syrian officials outlined a three‑phase plan:

• Phase 1: Strengthen intelligence sharing with coalition partners.
• Phase 2: Deploy combined air and ground operations targeting remaining IS strongholds.
• Phase 3: Launch reconstruction and reconciliation programs to prevent the group’s resurgence.

International allies welcomed the move. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked, “Syria’s participation is a critical step toward a lasting defeat of Islamic State and a more stable Middle East.”

Humanitarian groups, however, cautioned that military action must be paired with robust aid efforts. “Without addressing the underlying grievances that fuel extremism, any victory on the battlefield could be short‑lived,” warned Maria Gonzales, director of the Relief Initiative for Syria.

As the Syrian government prepares to mobilize its forces, the eyes of the world remain on the country’s ability to balance security operations with the urgent need for reconstruction and reconciliation.