The UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria made urgent appeals on Tuesday for all parties in the Syrian conflict to comply fully with international humanitarian law and safeguard civilians in light of a notable increase in hostilities.
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic has voiced significant alarm regarding the escalating violence, cautioning that Syria is being pulled into the broader regional conflict. The Commission highlighted that the violence seen in previous years should not happen again, as it would plunge Syria into a new phase of catastrophic conflict.
The recent escalation of violence has heightened the misery of civilians and also pulled Syria into more significant regional unrest. The Commission emphasized that the conflicting parties must honor international humanitarian law by safeguarding civilians and infrastructure. They noted that ongoing neglect of these duties would worsen the humanitarian crisis.
The report highlighted indiscriminate assaults, targeted residential zones, and the damage to vital infrastructure. The UN observed that these actions breach international law, extend the conflict, and obstruct peace-building initiatives. The Independent Commission emphasized that prioritizing accountability for these violations is essential to avert further escalation.
Geir O. Pedersen, the Special Envoy for Syria at the UN, also released a statement voicing concern about the present situation. He emphasized the critical necessity for de-escalation and urged all parties to participate in constructive dialogue. Pedersen urged in his official statement that this is a moment for everyone to move away from military choices, focus on the welfare of the Syrian citizens, and go back to negotiations.
Pedersen highlighted the significance of establishing a supportive atmosphere for meaningful political discussions in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. He emphasized the importance of establishing trust via localized ceasefires, access to humanitarian aid, and exchanges of prisoners to facilitate a broader political resolution. The UN’s revitalized emphasis on compliance with international law and safeguarding civilians provides a structure for alleviating the persistent crisis in Syria. Nonetheless, achieving these objectives relies on the dedication of the conflicting parties and the backing of the global community. The stakes are considerable, and the consequences of doing nothing are severe.
This urgent appeal arises at a crucial moment, with the fate of millions of Syrians at stake. The UN maintains its call for peace, justice, and accountability, encouraging all parties to place the welfare of the Syrian people above military goals. The UN continues to advocate for a countrywide ceasefire in Syria to enable humanitarian access and ease the suffering of the civilian population. UN Security Council Resolution 2254 urges the global community to back these initiatives and strive for a lasting political resolution.
