U.S. President Joe Biden has called for deposed Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad to be held "accountable" and described the current situation in Syria as a "historic opportunity"

President Biden Calls for New Syrian Constitution through UN Process

U.S. President Joe Biden has called for deposed Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad to be held "accountable" and described the current situation in Syria as a "historic opportunity" for its people. In his first comprehensive response following Assad's fall to a coalition of Islamist-led rebels, Biden expressed optimism about Syria's future.

"The regime’s collapse is a fundamental step toward justice. For the Syrian people, who have endured immense suffering, this is a historic opportunity," Biden stated. He pledged Washington’s support for Syria's reconstruction and commitment to helping establish an independent, sovereign state through a United Nations-led process.

However, Biden issued a warning about some factions within the victorious rebel coalition. "Some of these groups have been involved in past terrorist activities and human rights violations. The United States will monitor their actions closely," he said.

He also stressed the risk of a power vacuum, which could be exploited by the Islamic State (ISIS) to re-establish itself in Syria. Biden reassured that the U.S. would not allow this, revealing that American forces have already conducted a dozen airstrikes against ISIS targets within Syria.

Additionally, Biden addressed the case of American journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in Syria in 2012. He confirmed that U.S. authorities believe Tice is still alive, though his exact location remains unknown.

The Biden administration has emphasized that this transitional period in Syria presents a critical chance for reform and reconciliation, with the United Nations playing a pivotal role in drafting a new constitution for the war-torn nation.