U.N. envoy urges political solution amid escalating violence in Syria
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, called on Sunday on Syrian and international stakeholders to prioritize a political resolution to the crisis, in line with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254.
In a statement released on the U.N. mission’s website, Pedersen voiced deep concern over the recent escalation in hostilities.
He highlighted advances by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a U.N.-designated terrorist organization, as well as intensified airstrikes by Syrian government forces, which have led to a significant shift in frontlines.
“In a country torn by nearly 14 years of war and conflict, the latest developments pose severe risks to civilians and have serious implications for regional and international peace and security,” Pedersen said.
The U.N. envoy stressed the urgent need to protect civilians and critical infrastructure, urging all parties to adhere to international law.
He reiterated that a sustainable resolution to the conflict can only be achieved through inclusive political dialogue.
Syrian government forces have lost vast areas in northwestern Syria due to an ongoing attack by the HTS and the Turkish-backed armed opposition factions, aka the Syrian National Army (SNA), that began on Nov 27.