Berlin, Germany – The German newspaper “Bild am Sonntag” revealed the escalation of the political debate in Berlin regarding the return of Syrian refugees to their country, as prominent politicians in the Christian Social Union (CSU) party called on Foreign Minister Johan Wadephul to develop a clear strategy for the return of Syrians and to conclude agreements with Damascus, starting with the deportation of criminals and those who pose a security risk.
Alexander Hoffmann, head of the parliamentary group of the Christian Social Union party, said that “it is absolutely necessary and correct to make agreements with Syria that allow for the deportation of criminals and potential threats first,” noting that this is in line with the government coalition agreement.
The party’s general secretary, Martin Hooper, also called for a “comprehensive return strategy for Syrians,” arguing that the end of the civil war in Syria necessitates swift action.
Background of the visit to Damascus
These calls come after Foreign Minister Vadful’s visit to Damascus on October 30, 2025, where he met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, and was briefed on the extent of the destruction in the Harasta suburb of rural Damascus, stressing that “a return in the near term is not possible” due to the widespread destruction and the lack of security and living guarantees.
Division within the German government
Bild highlighted that the disagreement between the Foreign and Interior Ministries regarding Syrian refugees has become increasingly apparent. The Interior Ministry opposes Vadful’s approach and insists on accelerating deportations, starting with criminals and rejected asylum seekers.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt is leading this effort, indicating that deportations could begin as early as 2025, with asylum protection being revoked for those who travel to Syria.
The position of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
In contrast, Vadfull stressed that forced returns can only be imposed in very exceptional cases, calling for a focus on voluntary returns and affirming that his ministry is in constant contact with the Syrian authorities.
Berlin also announced the allocation of €81 million in humanitarian aid for 2025 and an additional €4 million for the reconstruction fund.
Negotiations and anticipated agreements
According to German government sources, the Interior Ministry is working on a new agreement with Damascus, similar to the one planned with Afghanistan, to facilitate the return of refugees and the extradition of criminals.
The Syrian government has expressed interest in repatriating its citizens but has requested German investments and legal guarantees.
The Syrian Foreign Minister is expected to visit Berlin in early 2026 to discuss cooperation and reconstruction mechanisms. Reports indicate that German companies are ready to invest in infrastructure projects, but they believe that political and security stability is a prerequisite.
Political and media controversy
The newspaper Bild described Minister Vadfull as a “deceptive politician working against his own party,” criticizing his refusal to expedite deportations.
It considered the return of Syrian refugees “one of the most sensitive political issues in Germany today,” especially given the increasing domestic pressures and the rise of the far right in opinion polls.
