UN calls for immediate cessation of hostilities in Syria

 Tuesday, December 3, 2024

United Nations (News International / Pakistan New - APP. 03 December 2024) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over the rapid escalation of violence in Syria and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to the UN-facilitated political process. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters during a press briefing in New York that Antonio Guterres is concerned about the recent escalation of violence in northwestern Syria.

He said that all parties must protect civilians. The UN chief stressed the need for a durable solution. He added that he urged all parties to engage with UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen for a comprehensive political solution.

He added that the UN calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, reminds all parties of their obligations under international law and calls for an immediate return to the UN-facilitated political process in accordance with human rights, and Security Council Resolution 2254.

He said that the Syrian people deserve a political horizon that will provide a peaceful future. He said that the United Nations is committed to establishing and delivering and is working to conduct assessments as soon as possible and to scale up humanitarian response efforts. It should be noted that the Syrian conflict, now entering its 14th year, has destroyed millions of lives and livelihoods. The February 2023 earthquakes, combined with rising regional tensions, have deepened the crisis and increased risks. More than 500,000 refugees have fled Lebanon to Syria since September. An estimated 16.7 million people will need humanitarian assistance in 2024, the highest number since the crisis began in 2011. The recent escalation in violence has forced UN operations in Aleppo, Idlib and Hama to largely suspend their activities due to security threats, leaving millions without access to vital assistance.\932