By: ATN News
United Nations: The United Nations Security Council convened to address the intensifying crisis in Syria, marked by escalating violence, dire humanitarian conditions, and a stalled political process. UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir O. Pedersen, alongside Ramesh Rajasingham, Director of Coordination at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs OCHA, delivered stark updates on the deteriorating situation.
Escalating Violence and Ceasefire Efforts
Pedersen painted a grim picture of the escalating conflict, with increased hostilities in the north-west and north-east regions, leading to significant civilian casualties and displacement. He emphasized the urgent need for a nationwide ceasefire, citing the persistent violence as a barrier to political progress. "A comprehensive ceasefire is imperative to advance any meaningful political dialogue," Pedersen stated.
Humanitarian Crisis
Ramesh Rajasingham, Director of Coordination at OCHA, detailed the catastrophic humanitarian situation, noting that over 16 million Syrians require aid, with women and children being the most affected. The compounded effects of conflict, economic collapse, and climate change have led to severe water shortages and outbreaks of water-borne diseases. "The humanitarian conditions are dire and worsening by the day," Rajasingham warned.
Despite these challenges, Rajasingham highlighted the UN's efforts to provide relief, including the installation of water treatment stations and rehabilitation of irrigation systems. However, he stressed that funding shortfalls severely constrain these efforts. The cross-border aid operations from Türkiye, which have been a lifeline for millions in north-west Syria, remain crucial. The Syrian government's recent extension of authorization for the Bab Al-Hawa crossing until January 2025 was welcomed, but Rajasingham called for continuous enhancement of crossline assistance.
Political Process Stalled
Pedersen expressed concern over the stalled political process, underscoring that recent Syrian parliamentary elections do not substitute for the comprehensive political solution envisioned in Security Council resolution 2254 (2015). He called for a renewed commitment from international stakeholders to support a Syrian-led political process facilitated by the UN.
International Responses
The United States reiterated its stance against normalizing relations with the Syrian regime without a genuine political solution, condemning the recent elections as illegitimate. The US representative also criticized Russia for obstructing progress towards resolution 2254.
Switzerland emphasized the need for predictable humanitarian aid delivery and called for open-ended authorizations for other border crossings. Malta urged increased funding for the UN’s humanitarian response and highlighted the importance of gender equality and resilience programming.
The United Kingdom stressed the need for sustained humanitarian access routes and reiterated that sanctions against the Syrian regime aim to hold perpetrators of atrocities accountable. The Republic of Korea and Ecuador highlighted the potential for regional escalation and called for immediate de-escalation and inclusive political dialogue.
France called for the Syrian regime to end its obstruction of the political process and ensure the safe return of refugees. China emphasized respect for Syria’s sovereignty and the cessation of unilateral sanctions, while Slovenia underscored the importance of addressing human rights violations and ensuring women’s participation in the peace process.
Japan reiterated its support for a political solution aligned with resolution 2254 and highlighted its contributions to early recovery assistance.
The Russian Federation criticized Israel and the US for their destabilizing actions in Syria and condemned unilateral sanctions. Iran echoed these sentiments, calling for the lifting of sanctions and condemning foreign military presence in Syria.
Iran: Iran's representative condemned Israeli aggression and the continued illegal presence of US forces in Syria, which he described as the main source of instability. He called for the immediate lifting of unilateral sanctions and criticized the politicization of humanitarian aid.
Conclusion
The Security Council meeting underscored the complex and multifaceted nature of the Syrian crisis, highlighting the urgent need for a coordinated international response. Calls for de-escalation, increased humanitarian funding, and a comprehensive political solution resonated throughout the session, reflecting the shared concern for Syria’s future.
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