Syria has requested to join the International Partnership Against Impunity for the Use of Chemical Weapons, marking a significant step by Damascus toward international efforts to establish accountability for chemical weapons attacks. The announcement was made on Friday, on the anniversary of a deadly 2013 chemical attack on areas near Damascus during the rule of former president Bashar al-Assad. Syria announced its intention to join the partnership in a joint statement with France commemorating the victims of the 2013 attack. The International Partnership Against Impunity for the Use of Chemical Weapons was launched by France in January 2018 and brings together dozens of countries committed to preventing the use of chemical weapons and supporting efforts to identify those responsible for such attacks.

France welcomed Syria's request, describing it as a clear demonstration of the country's commitment to accountability, justice and combating impunity. Damascus and Paris said they commemorated the victims of the 2013 attack and expressed sympathy and solidarity with their families. The two countries also reaffirmed their commitment to efforts aimed at establishing the truth, ensuring justice and holding those responsible for chemical weapons crimes accountable. The announcement represents a notable change in Syria's stated position toward international accountability, particularly given the controversy surrounding the use of chemical weapons during the country's prolonged civil war.

The August 2013 attack occurred during the height of Syria's civil war, when forces loyal to Assad were accused of using chemical weapons against areas then controlled by rebels. According to US intelligence assessments and rights groups, more than 1,400 people, including men, women and children, died in the attack. The Assad government denied responsibility, but subsequently agreed to surrender its chemical weapons arsenal in an effort to avert threatened US military strikes. The issue of chemical weapons remained a major international concern throughout the Syrian conflict.

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Survivors and medical workers who witnessed the aftermath of the 2013 attack documented the devastation, with medics and others risking their lives to record and share videos from the affected areas. They also provided accounts to journalists, including international news organizations, describing the impact of the attack on civilians. Assad remained in power for more than a decade after the 2013 attack before being ousted in 2024 by Islamist-led rebels. Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led the rebel offensive, subsequently became Syria's president.

The political transition has opened a new chapter in Syria's relations with international governments and institutions, including efforts to address alleged crimes committed during the civil war. Syria's request to join the International Partnership Against Impunity for the Use of Chemical Weapons now places accountability for chemical weapons use among the issues facing the country's new leadership. France's support for the move signals its willingness to work with Damascus on justice and accountability efforts. The two governments said they would continue supporting efforts to uncover the truth about past chemical weapons attacks and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

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