UK Condemns Chemical Weapons in Syria and Globally: Strong Statement at UN Security Council

Colleagues, Syria has made significant strides in dismantling the chemical weapons programme established by the Assad regime. It is essential to begin by reflecting on the importance of this endeavour.

Last month marked the anniversary of the tragic Ghouta attack in 2013. We remember and pay tribute to the over 1,400 men, women, and children who lost their lives when the Assad regime deployed sarin nerve agent against its own citizens. The employment of such weapons constitutes a serious breach of international law and stands as one of the most harrowing episodes in the Syrian conflict.

The United Kingdom remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at ensuring accountability and bringing those responsible to justice. In recent months, Syria has made notable advancements. In collaboration with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), it has taken measures to identify and declare legacy munitions and materials.

Sustained Efforts Yield Results

In July, the OPCW Executive Council reinstated Syria’s rights and privileges under the Chemical Weapons Convention, a decision the UK was proud to co-sponsor. This development reflects the international community’s confidence in Syria’s renewed cooperation. However, while this represents a significant milestone, it is not the culmination of our efforts.

Our mission continues as we work with Syria towards the comprehensive and verified dismantling of the remaining chemical weapons from the Assad era, as well as the full execution of its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention. We also commend the recent announcement from the OPCW regarding the verified mechanical destruction of chemical munitions in Syria, the first of its kind since 2014.

The United Kingdom is honoured to assume a leading role in these critical initiatives. Since December 2024, we have contributed over $4.7 million to the OPCW Syria Trust Fund and have pledged nearly $9.5 million in additional bilateral funding for Syrian-led destruction efforts. Our commitment extends to the Syrian-led Breath of Freedom Task Force.

Accountability and Justice for Victims

This Task Force aims to unite Syria, international partners, and the OPCW in sustaining momentum, mobilising technical expertise, and driving tangible progress toward the eradication of chemical weapons in Syria. Progress in the destruction of these weapons must be paralleled by advancements in accountability.

The United Kingdom remains dedicated to supporting the investigative mechanisms of the OPCW. Those accountable for the Assad regime’s use of chemical weapons must be identified and brought to justice. The victims and survivors of these heinous attacks, including those in Ghouta, deserve the truth, justice, and accountability.

We must recognise Syria’s progress and ensure that it receives ongoing international support. This progress must culminate in the complete and verified destruction of the Assad regime’s chemical weapons programme, accompanied by the truth and justice that the victims deserve. Chemical weapons have no place in Syria or anywhere else in the world.