Regional spillover is exacerbating the conflict in Syria, which is already growing in complexity and severity. Airstrikes by Israel and the United States in Syria have resulted in civilian and military casualties, including advisors from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. The situation in Syria is deteriorating on all fronts, with ongoing frontline skirmishes in the north, increasing ISIL attacks in central and northeast regions, and violence and instability in southern Syria. The conflict continues to cause civilian casualties and displacement, making the status quo unsustainable.
Geir Pedersen, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, emphasized the urgent need to de-escalate tensions in the region, starting with a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. He also called for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, stressing the importance of fighting Security Council-listed terrorist groups in a manner that prioritizes the safety of civilians and aligns with international law. The situation in Syria requires immediate de-escalation to prevent further humanitarian crises and loss of life.
Mr. Pedersen provided an update on efforts to convene the Syrian Constitutional Committee, which has been stalled. The Committee, composed of representatives from the Government, opposition, and civil society, aims to address the political future of Syria. However, its ninth session, scheduled for July, did not take place due to disagreements over the venue. Russia no longer considers Switzerland a neutral location, and the Syrian Government did not accept Geneva as an alternative, despite it being the agreed-upon location for meetings according to the Committee’s Terms of Reference. Mr. Pedersen is exploring alternative venues to resume the Committee’s work and facilitate a peaceful resolution in Syria.
The conflict in Syria is further complicated by regional spillover and foreign interference, making it challenging to find a peaceful resolution. As the situation worsens, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international law in combating terrorist groups. The ongoing violence, airstrikes, and attacks in Syria continue to cause suffering and displacement for civilians, highlighting the urgent need for de-escalation and humanitarian intervention. The international community must work together to address the root causes of the conflict and support efforts to establish peace and stability in Syria.
In conclusion, the conflict in Syria is escalating, with airstrikes, frontline skirmishes, and attacks by terrorist groups contributing to civilian casualties and displacement. Mr. Pedersen’s call for de-escalation and a ceasefire in Gaza underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to prevent further humanitarian crises. The Syrian Constitutional Committee remains a key avenue for addressing the political future of Syria, but challenges related to venue and foreign interference must be overcome to resume its work. The international community must prioritize the protection of civilians and work together to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Syria.
