Syrian Minister Hind Kabawat Urges UK Parliament to Place Greater Trust in New Leadership

A prominent Syrian government minister has made a direct appeal for the British government to transition away from conditions-based humanitarian assistance as its primary method of support for Syria. Speaking before the Foreign Affairs Committee, Hind Kabawat, Minister for Social Affairs and Labour, called for a new approach that directly engages with the country's new leadership.

While the UK was a vital supporter of the Syrian opposition during nearly 14 years of civil war, it has faced questions over its diplomatic approach since the new government took over in late 2024. Ms Kabawat emphasized the need for Britain to show increased trust in current Syrian authorities as they work to rebuild institutions and revive the devastated economy.

“We want to thank you for the years you supported us, we know how many families you saved from starvation,” she told the committee, adding, “You need to trust us more, you need to trust the institution.”

Ms Kabawat explained that the Syrian government is seeking direct support to build sustainable institutions rather than relying on humanitarian packages distributed through the UN. “We don’t want a humanitarian basket any more,” she stated. “We want to build a system, a social protection system that can last.”

Although the UK was the first country to lift sanctions on Syria following the collapse of the Assad regime, engagement has remained cautious. Former British envoy to Syria Ann Snow was the first European diplomat to enter the country, and National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell later travelled to Damascus to meet President Ahmad Al Shara. However, a British ambassador has yet to be appointed, and former embassy grounds remain unrepaired.

Charlotte Leslie, director of the Conservative Middle East Council, warned MPs that the absence of a British embassy is fostering a growing sense of abandonment among Syrian groups, creating a diplomatic vacuum that could be exploited by other regional actors such as the Muslim Brotherhood.