UN Secretary-General Alarmed by Escalation of Violence in Syria, Condemns Israeli Airstrikes

Kokcha News Agency: UN Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced alarm over the continued escalation of violence in Suweida, a Druze-majority region in Syria, which has reportedly resulted in hundreds of casualties, including civilians, and has displaced many others.

Guterres unequivocally condemned all violence against civilians, including reports of arbitrary killings and actions that exacerbate sectarian tensions, undermining the prospects for peace and reconciliation after 14 years of brutal conflict.

The Secretary-General extended his heartfelt condolences to all Syrians and called for an immediate de-escalation of violence, urging measures to restore calm and facilitate humanitarian access.

He also took note of the statement by the Syrian Presidency condemning the violations and committing to investigating and holding those responsible accountable, while emphasizing the need for transparency in the process.

Guterres further condemned Israel’s escalatory airstrikes on Suweida, Daraa, and central Damascus, as well as reports of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) redeploying troops in the Golan Heights.

He called for an immediate cessation of all violations of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and urged respect for the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement.

The Secretary-General reiterated the importance of supporting a credible, orderly, and inclusive political transition in Syria, in line with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015).