Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights advocate Tawakkol Karman has called on Western governments and the international community to lift sanctions on the fallen al-Assad regime, stressing that these measures continue to harm the Syrian people. She also urged support for the country’s stability and democratic transition.
Her remarks came during an inspiring speech delivered at the Warwick Economic Summit on January 25 in London, where she conveyed a message of resilience, hope, and triumph, shedding light on three notable victories achieved in the Middle East.
Tawakkol Karman congratulated the Syrian people on their victory over Bashar al-Assad's regime, labeling it a criminal regime responsible for genocide and the use of chemical weapons and explosive barrels against civilians.
Karman highlighted that, despite more than a decade of violence and repression backed by forces aligned with the Syrian regime—including Iran and Shiite militias from Lebanon and Iraq, as well as Russia—the Syrian people have demonstrated remarkable resilience.
She emphasized that Syria's triumph showcases the bravery and perseverance of its citizens, pointing out that this achievement was attained not through vengeance, but through the principles of tolerance and reconciliation, and a steadfast commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.
Sudan: Gradual Progress
In this context, Karman emphasized the efforts of the Sudanese people to confront the Rapid Support Militia, which she characterized as a mercenary group accountable for heinous crimes, including mass killings, sexual violence, and forced displacement.
She voiced her solidarity with the Sudanese in their ongoing struggle, reflecting on the military coup and the betrayal of the Sudanese revolution that led to the downfall of the Bashir regime.
Karman noted that the Sudanese are making significant strides in reclaiming their revolution and dismantling the Rapid Support Militia and the foreign mercenaries among them.
Occupation and Genocide: Ceasefire in Gaza
Turning to Gaza, Karman addressed the events following October 7, describing them as a continuation of decades of occupation and injustice. She commended the ceasefire agreement, which she characterized as a critical step toward ending genocide and achieving peace.
However, Karman stressed the need to address the root causes of the conflict: the Israeli occupation and the denial of Palestinians’ right to self-determination. She called for the establishment of a Palestinian state in accordance with United Nations resolutions and urged the International Criminal Court to prosecute those responsible for war crimes and genocide.
Yemen's Fight for Peace: Striving for Democracy
In her concluding remarks, Karman reflected on her homeland, Yemen, and the 2011 revolution against the dictatorship of Ali Abdullah Saleh. She commended the transitional period that followed the popular uprising, highlighting the extensive national dialogue that resulted in an agreement on a new constitution.
However, Karman expressed regret that this progress was disrupted by the Iran-backed Houthi militia, who staged a coup against the transitional government, overturning the outcomes of the national dialogue.
Karman elaborated on the suffering endured by the Yemeni people under Houthi rule, calling for international solidarity to help Yemen reclaim its path toward peace and democracy.
