The Shura Council of the Muslim Brotherhood in Syria affirmed the group’s continuity, stressing that the group “will remain a national group independent in its decision-making” and remains committed to what it described as the “moderate Islamic approach”. The affirmation came in a statement issued at the close of the council’s fifth ordinary session.

In the statement, dated 27 September, the council said the group would remain committed to “the dignity and rights of the Syrian individual”. It said the group would work to strengthen national unity, reject sectarianism and factionalism, and consolidate civil peace and coexistence through dialogue with the various national forces.

The council’s position was part of a series of stances and orientations announced after it discussed developments in Syria, the political, economic and security challenges facing the country, and regional and international developments and their repercussions for Syria and the region.

The council praised the diplomatic moves undertaken by the Syrian government, which it said culminated in the removal of Syria from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, following the lifting of economic sanctions. It expressed hope that these developments would help strengthen stability and restore Syria’s Arab and regional role.

A Pluralistic System and a Constitution Put to a Referendum

The Shura Council affirmed its commitment to Syria’s unity in land and people and to guaranteeing equal citizenship rights for all Syrians and communities. It rejected all forms of demographic change under any circumstance or pretext.

The council welcomed the start of the People’s Assembly’s work, stressing the importance of the assembly’s legislative role in completing the requirements of the transitional phase and establishing regulated political pluralism. It also called for drafting a permanent constitution that reflects the aspirations of Syrians and is put to a popular referendum.

The council said building a stable Syria requires the participation of all its components in political life, development and the building of state institutions. It said this should happen within a pluralistic system based on the rule of law, guaranteed political freedoms and regulated party activity.

On transitional justice, the council stressed the importance of launching a “serious path” that reveals the truth, does justice to victims and ensures accountability. It described this as a pillar for achieving national reconciliation and consolidating civil peace and stability.

The council also called on the Arab and international communities to provide economic and humanitarian support to Syria and to contribute to reconstruction and to improving living conditions, in order to strengthen the country’s capacity for recovery and stability.

Positions on Lebanon, Israel and Iran

On Lebanon, the council affirmed the need to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and the independence of its decision-making, and rejected interference in Lebanese internal affairs. It said this would preserve relations between the two countries and safeguard the interests of both peoples.

The council condemned repeated Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, as well as the incursions and the establishment of military sites and bases in southern Syria. It declared its rejection of any attempt to undermine Syria’s unity and sovereignty or to support projects of partition and secession.

It also warned against Iranian interference in Syrian affairs and against attempts to rebuild influence by forming groups or backing armed forces outside state institutions. The council considered that this threatens the country’s unity, security and stability.

The council condemned what it described as “repeated Iranian attacks” on the Gulf Arab states and Jordan. It called for respect for the sovereignty of states and the security of their peoples, and for an end to anything that threatens regional security and stability.

The council welcomed the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defence among Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, stressing the importance of cooperation among these countries in strengthening regional security and confronting shared challenges.

Palestine and Countries Supporting Syria

The Shura Council renewed support for the rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the right to self-determination and to establish an independent state, and the right to defend their land and people in the face of occupation. It called on the international community to shoulder its responsibilities in ending the occupation and protecting Palestinian rights.

The council thanked Turkey for supporting the Syrian people and for the efforts and assistance provided during the transitional phase. It valued Qatar’s positions and backing of efforts to rebuild the state, as well as the humanitarian aid and continued support Qatar provides.

The council also praised Saudi Arabia’s support for efforts to rebuild the state and strengthen stability, and thanked Jordan for its supportive positions and humanitarian assistance. It valued the positions of the Arab and foreign countries backing Syria on its path of recovery and reconstruction.

In closing the statement, the Shura Council affirmed its aspiration for “a united, free, stable Syria” whose people enjoy dignity, justice and security.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.