UNSC warns of escalating violence, humanitarian crisis in Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) expressed deep concern over the rising violence and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria during a session held on Wednesday.
Geir Pedersen, U.N. Special Envoy for Syria, warned of “dangerous new levels” of tension in the region, driven by a surge in violence that threatens international peace and security.
He highlighted an increase in attacks by the Islamic State (ISIS), particularly in Syria’s central desert, and called for a nationwide ceasefire and a collective approach to combat terrorist groups.
Joyce Msuya, U.N. Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, reported worsening conditions in Syria’s northeast and northwest.
She revealed that recent attacks by militias affiliated with the government forces and Iran against areas held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Deir ez-Zor had killed at least 25 civilians and displaced 3,500 families, though many have since returned.
Msuya emphasized that displacement in Syria remains at staggering levels, with over six million Syrians living as refugees abroad and 7.2 million displaced internally. She also underscored the severe funding shortfall for humanitarian aid, with less than one $1 billion received out of the $4.1 billion required for 2024.