United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark warning to the international community regarding the situation in Syria. Speaking to reporters in New York, Mr. Guterres emphasized the critical need for an “inclusive, credible, and peaceful” political transition in Syria that is led by the Syrian people themselves. He expressed concern that without such a transition, there is a real risk that progress in the country could unravel.
“The people of Syria stand at a moment of history – and a moment of opportunity. That opportunity cannot be missed,” Mr. Guterres stated. He highlighted the decades of brutal rule that the Syrian people have endured and stressed that this moment represents a chance for them to realize the peaceful change they have been striving for since the protests of 2011.
The Secretary-General underscored the importance of fully integrating all communities into a new Syria and respecting the rights of women and girls. He emphasized that the process must be guided by the principles outlined in Security Council resolution 2254. Mr. Guterres called for a process that is inclusive and just, focusing on facilitating a transition that meets the aspirations of the Syrian people.
While acknowledging the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria, Mr. Guterres emphasized the need for adequate funding for humanitarian and recovery efforts in the country. He appealed to the international community to show generosity and support for the Syrian people in their time of need.
In addition, the Secretary-General pledged support for those who are still living with the anguish of uncertainty over missing loved ones in Syria. He announced the appointment of Karla Quintana of Mexico to head the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in Syria, a General Assembly-mandated body tasked with addressing the issue of missing persons in the country. Mr. Guterres called for international mechanisms to be supported in their efforts to protect human rights and ensure accountability for crimes committed in Syria.
Mr. Guterres also highlighted the ongoing conflict in Syria, noting that the situation is far from over. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing civilian protection and called for an end to Israeli airstrikes in Syrian territory, which he described as violations of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Secretary-General also expressed concern about the presence of military forces in the Syrian Golan Heights, stressing that only UN peacekeepers should be present in the area.
Overall, Mr. Guterres painted a picture of a critical moment in Syria’s history, where the future of the country hangs in the balance. He called on the international community to support the Syrian people in their quest for a peaceful and inclusive transition and emphasized the need for continued humanitarian assistance and support for those affected by the conflict. The Secretary-General’s warning serves as a reminder of the urgency of the situation in Syria and the importance of concerted international efforts to address the crisis.
