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Syria takes legal action against rioters who attacked, vandalised UAE embassy
Under Syrian law, a peaceful demonstration is considered a legitimate right guaranteed by law as a form of expression, provided it adheres to frameworks and remains non-violent
- PUBLISHED: Sun 5 Apr 2026, 4:59 PM
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Syria's Ministry of Interior revealed on Sunday, April 5, that it has already begun legal proceedings against those involved in the riots and attacks on the UAE mission based in Damascus.
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The authority drew a line between the attacks on the UAE embassy and what is permitted by law under "peaceful demonstrations" by emphasising the latest riots were considered unacceptable behaviour, constituting a clear violation of national laws.
Under Syrian law, a peaceful demonstration is considered a legitimate right guaranteed by law as a form of expression, provided it adheres to legal frameworks and remains non-violent.
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On Saturday, the UAE strongly condemned and denounced acts of rioting, attempted vandalism, and attacks that targeted its embassy and the residence of the Head of Mission in Damascus.
The Emirates also called on Syria to uphold its obligations to protect the embassy and its personnel, investigate the circumstances surrounding the attacks, prevent their recurrence, and take all necessary legal measures to hold those responsible accountable.
In response, the Syrian ministry clarified that such actions will be met with strict legal measures and that internal security units have already begun reinforcing security procedures around diplomatic missions. There has also been increased protection to ensure their safety and prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
The authority has also initiated necessary investigations and is pursuing those involved in the attack on the embassy premises and the security personnel assigned to protect it. Legal proceedings against them are being carried out in accordance with due process, it revealed.
All citizens in the country were urged to comply with the law and act responsibly in a manner that preserves public security, the dignity of citizens, and the sovereignty of the country.
The incident had drawn criticism across the region and raised concerns over diplomatic security amid the Israel-US-Iran war,
Earlier, the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates reaffirmed its firm rejection of any attack on or attempt to approach embassies and diplomatic missions accredited to Syria. The ministry emphasised that these premises are protected under international law and diplomatic agreements, and are considered a symbol of relations between states and peoples.
Saudi Arabia also condemned the rioting, assaults, and attempted vandalism, describing the acts as an unacceptable attack on the national symbols of the brotherly UAE.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) also strongly condemned the incident. In a statement on Saturday, GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi emphasised the importance of Syrian authorities holding those responsible for these attacks and the disrespect shown toward UAE national symbols accountable.
