Syrian Coalition Outlines its Position on the International Anti-ISIS Alliance

The Syrian Coalition said in a statement that that “the UN Security Council passed resolution No. 2170 to form an international alliance to fight terrorist organizations in Iraq and Syria. This UN resolution is consistent with the position of the Syrian Coalition towards fighting terrorism, as evidenced by the Free Syrian Army’s declaration of war on ISIS in early 2014, which led to the expulsion of ISIS from many areas in northern Syria. It should be noted that the Syrian people, who have risen up against Assad’s authoritarian rule, will not allow any side to impose its own agenda by the force of arms and under any pretext or cover. This is our position in principle. Moreover, the Syrian Coalition’s position on the international anti-ISIS alliance is determined by certain national principles, and more importantly by the following important factor: that the international coalition must not limit its strikes to terrorist organizations, but must seek to eliminate the root cause of terrorism, namely the dictatorial Assad regime that has been practicing state terrorism against the Syrian people and sponsoring terrorist organizations, whether in secret or in public.” The statement went on: “The Syrian Coalition believes that any military action of this kind cannot achieve its objectives unless it is coincided with a comprehensive political solution to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people and ensure stability in Syria, Iraq and the entire region. We also stress that any participation on our part in the military operations against ISIS, and in filling the vacuum that will ensue after expelling it from areas under its control is contingent on providing support, training and air cover for the Free Syrian Army. A buffer zone must also be established in order to shelter the growing number of Syrian refugees and allow the Syrian Coalition and the Interim Government to move into Syria and serve the Syrian people, in line with their aspirations for a better future.” (Source: Syrian Coalition)