Continued Israeli Activity and Economic Strain Hinder Syria's Recovery

Leila Haddad | AA

Israeli military actions and rising economic challenges are undermining Syria's fragile recovery efforts, as highlighted by UN warnings about sovereignty breaches and humanitarian crises.

Israeli military incursions and compounding economic distress continue to jeopardize Syria's fragile transition despite legislative milestones and mass refugee returns, a senior UN official told the Security Council on Thursday.

Relaying a message from the UN chief, UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Claudio Cordone expressed concern over the ongoing violations of Syrian sovereignty and territorial integrity. He emphasized that respecting the 1974 agreement was crucial and cautioned against addressing security concerns through unilateral actions.

Cordone highlighted that an active Israeli military presence in southern Syria breaches the 1974 Disengagement Agreement through nearly daily incursions and other military activities, particularly in areas such as Quneitra and western Daraa.

Economic Challenges Heighten Humanitarian Concerns

On the humanitarian front, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher highlighted significant regional shipping disruptions affecting Syria. These disruptions across critical maritime routes are driving up freight costs, further exacerbating the country's economic woes.

A 40% increase in diesel prices threatens essential services like bakeries and water pumping. Fletcher reported an alarming rise in the minimum expenditure basket, which has climbed by 33% since June 2025, with critical sectors such as food and education underfunded.

The stress on Syria's economy has forced aid agencies to significantly cut food rations for the most vulnerable families, leading to growing concerns over the humanitarian situation during the approaching winter months.

Human Casualties and Displacement Complicate Recovery

Despite the return of over 2 million internally displaced individuals and 1.8 million refugees since December 2024, Syria still faces staggering displacement figures with 5.5 million people remaining without homes. Nearly 800,000 of these displaced individuals reside in camps where women and children form the majority.

Explosive ordnance contamination remains a particularly severe issue, with recent data showing 880 fatalities, including 269 children, caused by explosive remnants since late 2024, further hindering Syria's recovery prospects.

Highlighting the ongoing dangers, Fletcher remarked, 'You cannot build an economy over a minefield,' pointing out that these deadly remnants obstruct necessary agricultural revitalization.

The Role of Global and Local Engagement

Addressing potential pathways to long-term stability, Yasser Tabara of Syrian Forum called for international engagement favoring merit-based public appointments. He emphasized the need for an international reconstruction conference and better global donor coordination to aid Syria's recovery.

Tabara pointed out that countering banking overcompliance in the private sector is crucial to stimulating Syria's economic revival. These actions are essential for addressing the financial strains exacerbating Syria's humanitarian crisis.

The combined insights of UN officials and civil society leaders underscore the complex challenges Syria faces amid efforts to maintain a fragile peace while navigating economic and security crises.

Implications for Urban Recovery Efforts in Syria

Municipal leaders in Syria must grapple with the compounded effects of Israeli military activities and severe economic disruptions, both of which impede efforts to achieve urban recovery and stability. The challenges faced by cities near the Golan Heights, such as Quneitra, highlight the necessity for diplomatic interventions to restore territorial integrity and civilian security.

Furthermore, municipal governance must address the urgent infrastructure needs exacerbated by explosive hazards, especially in areas critical for agricultural development. Efforts to clear contaminated lands could unlock economic potential and must be prioritized within broader city planning and reconstruction efforts.

The integration of displaced populations into urban settings poses an additional challenge for municipal leaders, requiring strategic planning and resource allocation to support these communities. Building resilient cities capable of addressing such varied needs will demand coordinated international aid and effective local governance.

Questions That Matter

What Israeli military violations impact Syria?

UN Deputy Special Envoy Claudio Cordone stated that Israel's military actions in southern Syria, including incursions and checkpoints, violate the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. This follows a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

What economic issues threaten Syria's stability?

Tom Fletcher reported a 40% surge in diesel prices, affecting bakeries and heating. Additionally, aid agencies have halved food rations due to funding shortages, with critical sectors only 26% funded.