Jordan, Syria, US agree on roadmap to stabilize Sweida, southern Syria

Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Safadi joined Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shaibani and Thomas Bark, the US Ambassador to Turkey and Washington’s Special Envoy for Syria, in Damascus for a meeting aimed at advancing efforts to end unrest in Sweida Governorate and to establish a framework for southern Syria’s stability.

The discussions, which followed earlier rounds in Amman on July 19 and August 12, culminated in the signing of a joint roadmap anchored in Syria’s sovereignty and unity. The plan, according to the three parties, is designed to consolidate the fragile ceasefire in Sweida while laying out phased steps toward reconciliation, governance reform, and reconstruction.

- A shared vision for stability -

The roadmap stresses that “Syria’s stability, security and prosperity are vital to regional stability,” and calls for a comprehensive Syrian-led political process to rebuild state institutions, ensure equal citizenship, and entrench the rule of law.

Jordan and the United States pledged to support Damascus in reconstruction, reconciliation, and countering extremism, while Syria committed to reforms that enhance accountability and inclusivity.

- Key commitments in the roadmap -

Among the measures agreed upon:

1. Accountability and investigation: Syria will invite the Independent International Commission of Inquiry to examine the latest incidents in Sweida and prosecute those responsible.
2. Humanitarian access: Aid delivery will be guaranteed through UN agencies and international partners, with Jordan and the US backing logistics and funding.
3. Basic services: Damaged infrastructure and essential utilities will be restored, supported by donor funding secured through Jordan and the US.
4. Security guarantees: Police under Syria’s Interior Ministry will secure the Sweida–Damascus highway, replacing armed civilian groups, to enable safe civilian and commercial movement.
5. Detainee releases: In cooperation with the ICRC, the three sides agreed to expedite prisoner exchanges and the release of detainees.
6. Reconstruction: Damascus will draw up plans for rebuilding destroyed villages, while Jordan and the US work to secure donor support.
7. National unity: Syria will initiate programs to promote pluralism, combat hate speech, and may introduce legislation to criminalize incitement.
8. Local dialogue: Jordan will convene Sweida’s diverse communities, Druze, Christians, Sunnis, and Bedouins, for reconciliation talks under Syrian coordination.
9. Transitional arrangements: Plans include establishing a representative provincial council, reviving civil institutions, and creating a locally inclusive police force.

- Regional security and monitoring -

The United States committed to working with Syria on security understandings with Israel regarding southern Syria, with Jordan playing a supportive role. A trilateral mechanism will be established to oversee the implementation of the roadmap, ensuring respect for Syria’s sovereignty.

- Signing of the agreement -

The document was formally signed by Safadi, Shaibani, and Bark, with all three underscoring their shared determination to prevent further escalation.