Press release
Syrian Opposition Coalition
Department of Media and Communications
November 8, 2023
The Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) welcomes the approval of the Captagon 2 Act by the Foreign Relations Committee of the US House of Representatives. The Act aims to counter drug trafficking orchestrated by the Assad regime and its affiliated militias. The SOC calls for the swift enactment of this legislation, considering the imminent threat posed by Captagon, manufactured and exported by the Assad regime, not only to Syria and the region but as a genuine menace to international peace and security. The revenue generated from this illicit trade serves as a financial lifeline, bolstering the Assad regime and its associated militias, thereby perpetuating their capacity to commit war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria.
The SOC underscores its appreciation for any sanctions or additional pressures imposed on the Assad regime, recognizing these actions as positive steps that curtail their ability to wield tools of violence and destruction against innocent Syrian civilians. Furthermore, such measures constitute tangible pressure on the Assad regime to adhere to UN resolutions on Syria.
The Assad regime’s transformation of Syria into a narcotic-state within the Mediterranean Basin poses a global threat. The SOC urges the international community to prevent this peril and intensify its efforts to activate a political transition in Syria. Additionally, there is a pressing need to establish an effective mechanism to hold the regime accountable and implement relevant Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolutions 2118 and 2254.
