Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry issued a condemnation Sunday of what it called acts of rioting and attempted vandalism directed at the UAE’s embassy and the residence of its mission head in the Syrian capital.
“The Foreign Ministry expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s condemnation and denunciation of the acts of rioting, assaults, and attempted vandalism that targeted the Embassy of the brotherly United Arab Emirates and the residence of its Head of Mission in the Syrian capital, Damascus, as well as the unacceptable offenses directed at the national symbols of the brotherly United Arab Emirates,” the statement said.
Syria’s foreign ministry had earlier drawn a line between lawful protest and threats to diplomatic premises, reaffirming what it described as a “firm and unwavering” rejection of any attacks or attempts to approach foreign embassies in the country. While acknowledging citizens’ right to express their views, the ministry said such expression must remain within legal bounds and must not compromise public security.
Social media footage had shown crowds gathered outside the UAE mission in Damascus. The UAE itself had already spoken out Saturday, characterizing the incident as “acts of rioting” and calling on Syrian authorities to fulfill their obligation to protect diplomatic missions on their soil.
