In a bold diplomatic move, Syria’s newly formed government has recalled its ambassadors from both Moscow and Riyadh — a decision analysts say reflects President Ahmad al-Shara’a’s intent to rebrand Syria’s foreign policy and distance it from the legacy of his predecessor, Bashar al-Assad.
Diplomatic Reshuffle Signals Policy Reorientation
Syria’s Foreign Ministry confirmed Monday that the ambassadors to Russia and Saudi Arabia — Bashar al-Jaafari and Ayman Soussan respectively — have been recalled. Until replacements are named, both embassies will operate under chargé d’affaires.
“This is part of a broader restructuring of Syria’s diplomatic corps,” a senior ministry official told The Media Line, emphasizing that the move follows the formation of the new cabinet under President al-Shara’a, who officially took office in March.
The reshuffle is widely interpreted as a strategic pivot by the new leadership to assert its autonomy and redefine international partnerships.
Breaking from Assad’s Inner Circle
Both al-Jaafari and Soussan are longtime figures within the Assad regime, known for defending Syrian policies during the height of the civil war and amid deepening international isolation. Their removal is seen as part of al-Shara’a’s efforts to purge remnants of Assad-era influence from key state institutions.
A Syrian political analyst speaking anonymously noted:
“Reassigning diplomats closely tied to Assad is a strategic step. It sends a message domestically and internationally: this is a new era in Syrian diplomacy.”
Moscow and Riyadh: A Delicate Balancing Act
The recall from Moscow is particularly notable, given Russia’s central role in keeping Assad’s government afloat during the war. Although ties between the Kremlin and Damascus remain officially strong, Syria’s decision to reshuffle its ambassador in Moscow could signal subtle dissatisfaction or a recalibration of priorities.
Meanwhile, relations with Saudi Arabia have been cautiously warming over the past two years, culminating in Syria’s return to the Arab League in 2023. However, with Riyadh increasingly asserting a leadership role in regional diplomacy, Syria may be seeking a more dynamic envoy who aligns with al-Shara’a’s vision.
What’s Next?
The Syrian government has yet to announce replacements, but foreign policy experts anticipate a new generation of diplomats who reflect President al-Shara’a’s desire to modernize Syria’s international image, particularly with Gulf states, China, and neutral players in Europe and Africa.
“This is less about breaking ties and more about reshaping them,” said a former Syrian diplomat now based in Europe. “Al-Shara’a wants Syria to be seen as credible and independent, not simply as an extension of old alliances.”
As Damascus turns a new page, all eyes are on who will be entrusted with advancing Syria’s next chapter on the global stage.
