UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy Condemns Assad After Syrian Regime's Collapse

David Lammy labels Assad a 'criminal' and pledges caution in dealing with Islamist rebels now in control of Damascus.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy called Bashar al-Assad the 'rat of Damascus' following the Syrian dictator's flight to Moscow after Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) seized control of Damascus.
Lammy emphasized the UK's decision to avoid re-engagement with Assad, citing his use of chemical weapons, human rights abuses, and illicit drug trade as reasons for maintaining a hardline stance.
The Labour government faces pressure to reassess its designation of HTS as a terrorist group, though Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated it is 'far too early' to make decisions on this matter.
The UK has paused decisions on Syrian asylum claims due to uncertainty about the region's future, mirroring similar actions by Austria and Germany.
Concerns persist over potential instability in Syria, with calls for inclusive transitional measures to prevent the replacement of one oppressive regime with another.