Golan Heights 'are Syrian territory,' UN chief Guterres stresses during Damascus visit

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, during his first visit to Syria since 2009, stated that the Golan Heights are Syrian territory and condemned Israeli violations of Syria's sovereignty. He also discussed post-war reconstruction and pledged UN support for Syria's recovery.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, during his first visit to Syria since 2009, declared that the Golan Heights are Syrian territory and condemned Israeli actions in the region. Speaking at a press conference alongside Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani after meeting President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus on Saturday, July 25, 2026, Guterres said: "Violations of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity are unacceptable and must cease." He also addressed post-war reconstruction, promising UN support, and noted the UN's absence from Syria since 2011. Guterres is scheduled to speak with women's groups, civil society, and address the Syrian parliament before concluding his trip.