EU Hosts Syria Donor Conference as New Leaders Face Challenges

The Brussels meeting marks Syria's first participation, aiming to secure aid for recovery amid political instability and humanitarian crises.

The European Union is hosting its ninth annual donor conference for Syria, with the country's interim government participating for the first time since Bashar al-Assad's ouster in December.
Syria's interim leadership, headed by former Islamist rebel Ahmad al-Sharaa, seeks international recognition and aid to rebuild infrastructure and stabilize the country after 14 years of civil war.
Violence in coastal regions, including sectarian attacks targeting the Alawite minority, has raised concerns about the inclusivity and stability of the new government.
The EU has eased some sanctions on Syria but continues to tie further support to commitments for an inclusive and peaceful political transition.
The conference comes as U.S. funding cuts threaten global humanitarian aid efforts, prompting calls for increased support from Arab nations and other international donors.