UN chief Guterres visits Syria for first time in 17 years

In late July 2026, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Damascus, Syria, for the first visit by a UN chief in 17 years. He met with Syria's leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, and called for global support for the country, describing it as a 'moment of possibility' following the fall of the Assad regime.

Guterres urged the international community to back Syria's reconstruction and stability. The visit marks a significant diplomatic step after years of civil war and isolation. Separately, Egypt expressed condolences to Syria over a deadly traffic accident.