Damascus Governor Denies Controversial Israel Remarks; Administration Clarifies Official Stance
Damascus (Quds News Network)- Damascus Governor Maher Marwan has sparked controversy over statements made during an interview with US-based NPR. The remarks, shared in a voice clip, suggested a softened stance on the occupation state of Israel and triggered backlash. Marwan clarified that his comments referred solely to Syria’s internal peace.
The political administration’s media office issued a statement, distancing the state’s official stance from Marwan’s remarks on foreign affairs. The statement, quoted by LBCI, emphasized that only General Commander Ahmad Al-Sharaa or Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani are authorized to represent Syria’s official foreign policy.
Marwan’s Initial NPR Interview
In the NPR interview, Marwan commented on Israel’s actions, stating:
“Israel may have felt fear after Assad’s regime fell and the opposition gained control. This fear led to minor advances in the Golan, some bombings, and similar actions. Fear is natural. We have no fear of Israel, and our problem isn’t with Israel.”
He added, “We don’t want to interfere in anything that threatens the security of Israel or any other country.”
Marwan also noted that some Syrians desire peace and coexistence, stating: “We want peace. We can’t match Israel, and we can’t match any other nation.”
According to NPR, Marwan called on the United States to facilitate improved relations between the new Syria and Israel.
Clarification and New Statements
Amid backlash, Marwan issued a clarification through social media. He asserted that his remarks did not advocate for normalization with Israel, adding, “Such matters are not within my jurisdiction as Damascus Governor.”
Marwan explained that his hour-long interview focused on “domestic peaceful coexistence” and highlighted the exhaustion Syrians feel after years of revolution. He stressed that his intention was to discuss the need for internal peace, not foreign relations.
Admitting potential miscommunication, Marwan stated: “I may have expressed myself inadequately, but only God knows my intentions.”
Leadership Response
Days earlier, General Commander Ahmad Al-Sharaa warned Israel in a Times interview against continuing airstrikes in Syria. He demanded Israel’s withdrawal from territories occupied after Assad’s regime fell.
However, Al-Sharaa also stressed that Syria would not be used as a base for attacks against Israel or other nations. His primary focus, he affirmed, remains stabilizing Syria.
