Germany Reopens Embassy in Damascus After 13-Year Closure

The move marks a cautious step toward re-engagement with Syria's interim government following the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock oversaw the reopening of the embassy during her visit to Damascus on March 20, 2025.
The embassy will operate with a small political team, while consular and visa services remain based in Beirut due to security concerns.
Germany's re-engagement reflects its focus on inclusivity, minority rights, and accountability in Syria's political transition under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Recent clashes between Assad loyalists and the new government forces resulted in over 1,000 deaths, primarily affecting Assad's Alawite minority.
The reopening follows a historic agreement between Syria's interim government and the Kurdish-led authority in the northeast earlier this month.