The situation in the Syrian capital, Damascus, has taken a dramatic turn as opposition forces declared victory overnight on State television. As reports continue to emerge from the region, the United Nations Secretary-General has emphasized that the future of Syria should be determined by the Syrian people themselves.
In a statement following the developments in Damascus, the UN chief highlighted the need for an orderly political transition to establish renewed institutions in the country. He emphasized that his Special Envoy, Geir Pedersen, would be working with all Syrians towards this goal.
Mr. Pedersen, who was attending a high-level meeting of Arab States in Doha at the time, called for urgent political talks in Geneva to secure a peaceful future for Syria. His appeal received widespread support from countries such as Iran, Russia, Türkiye, the United States, France, Great Britain, Germany, and the European Union.
Amidst the political turmoil, the Secretary-General renewed his call for calm and urged all parties to avoid violence during this sensitive period. He stressed the importance of protecting the rights of all Syrians without distinction and emphasized the need to respect diplomatic and consular premises and personnel in accordance with international law.
The Secretary-General also underscored the importance of an inclusive and comprehensive political transition that meets the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. He reiterated the need to restore Syria’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity. The UN remains committed to helping Syrians build a country where reconciliation, justice, freedom, and prosperity are shared realities for all, as this is the path to sustainable peace in Syria.
The recent developments in Damascus were triggered by a lightning advance by armed opposition forces, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), on November 27. The conflict has uprooted more than 370,000 people within Syria, with many seeking refuge in the northeast and others trapped in front-line areas, unable to escape.
The UN’s top aid official in Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, highlighted the rising civilian casualties, including women and children, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian action. The UN has pledged to respond to support people in need, including providing essential supplies such as food, water, fuel, tents, and blankets.
The rapid advancement of opposition forces has seen them take control of key cities such as Aleppo, Hama, Homs, and now Damascus. Despite suggestions of international intervention, the situation on the ground remains volatile and uncertain.
As the world watches the events unfolding in Syria, the UN continues to emphasize the importance of a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Secretary-General has called for unity and cooperation from the international community to support the Syrian people in their quest for a better future. The UN stands ready to provide assistance and support to all those in need, as the humanitarian crisis in Syria continues to escalate.
