Spain reopens Damascus embassy after over a decade

Spain resumes diplomatic activity in Syria following Assad's ouster, signaling hope for the country's future.

The Spanish flag is raised at the Spanish Embassy in Damascus, Syria, on January 16, 2025. Photo by David Melero/Getty Images

By Clarisa Sendy and Randy Ahmad

Spain marked a significant step in its diplomatic relations with Syria by raising its national flag at the Damascus embassy on Thursday. This move comes more than a decade after Spain suspended operations at the mission, underscoring a renewed hope for Syria's future following President Bashar al-Assad’s ouster.

The reopening ceremony, led by Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, was a symbolic gesture of Spain’s commitment to Syria. The Spanish national anthem played as the flag was raised, marking a moment of optimism and renewed relations.

“It is an honor for me to be here in person,” Albares said during the ceremony, according to an AFP correspondent. “Raising the Spanish flag again is a sign of the hope we have for Syria’s future and our commitment to the Syrian people for a better tomorrow.”

Spain closed its Damascus embassy in March 2012, a year after Assad’s regime began a violent crackdown on anti-government protests. The suppression of dissent spiraled into a civil war that lasted over 13 years, devastating Syria and causing widespread suffering.

The recent reopening follows a dramatic shift in Syria’s political landscape. Assad was ousted by rebel forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist group with origins in Al-Qaeda, in a conflict that reshaped the nation’s power dynamics.

Spain’s decision to reopen its embassy aligns with a broader trend among Western nations to reengage with Syria. High-ranking European officials, including foreign ministers from France and Germany, have visited the country to meet with the newly appointed transitional administration.

HTS, now in control, has pledged to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of Syria's minorities. The group has sought to reassure the international community of its commitment to stability and inclusivity, despite concerns over its extremist roots.

Ahead of his visit, Albares emphasized Spain’s priorities for Syria. Speaking to public broadcaster TVE, he stated, “The message I want to send is one of support to Syria. But we also have red lines. Syria must be peaceful, inclusive, and respect the rights of all, including women and ethnic and religious minorities.”

Spain’s role in fostering peace

Albares highlighted Spain’s dedication to promoting peace and stability in the region. “This is my first official trip of the year,” he said, “and I wanted to begin in a region where Spanish foreign policy plays a significant role in achieving peace.”

Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares (right), greets the embassy team during a visit to the Spanish Embassy in Damascus, Syria, on January 16, 2025. Photo by David Melero/Getty Images

During his visit, Albares met with members of Syria’s transitional administration and representatives from civil society. The discussions centered on rebuilding trust, ensuring human rights, and paving the way for a peaceful future.

Albares’s trip to Syria followed a visit to neighboring Lebanon, where he announced a 10 million euro ($10.3 million) aid package for the Lebanese army. This aid comes nearly two months into a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, underscoring Spain’s broader commitment to regional stability.

Spain’s reengagement in Syria signals a new chapter in its foreign policy, balancing cautious optimism with clear expectations for inclusivity and respect for human rights. The reopening of the Damascus embassy stands as a testament to the hope for Syria’s recovery and the role of international diplomacy in shaping its future.

As the transitional government works to stabilize the country, Spain’s actions reflect a broader European effort to support Syria while holding its leaders accountable for fostering peace and inclusivity.

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