UN deputy envoy monitors escalating violence in Homs amid attacks on civilians
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Najat Rochdi, expressed deep concern on Sunday over the escalating security situation in Homs, central Syria, following reports of attacks on civilians and property.
In a statement via the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Rochdi said, “I am closely following worrying developments in Homs including reports of attacks against civilians and property. I am also following efforts of the Interim Authorities to address the situation.”
The recent unrest in Homs stems from a violent incident in the town of Zaidal, south of the city, where a couple from the Bani Khalid tribe was found murdered in their home. Disturbingly, the wife’s body was reportedly set on fire, and sectarian graffiti was found at the crime scene. This gruesome act led to a retaliatory attack in the city’s al-Muhajireen neighborhood, where armed groups fired indiscriminately, damaged homes, and set several houses ablaze.
In response to these events, the Internal Security Forces in Homs imposed a temporary curfew from 5:00 PM to 5:00 AM, hoping to restore order and prevent further violence. The curfew has heightened tensions in the city, which has long been a site of complex security dynamics due to its ethnic and sectarian diversity.
Rochdi’s comments reflect the international community’s ongoing concern about the situation in central Syria. The UN remains closely engaged with the efforts of local authorities, including the transitional government, to stabilize the region. The UN has not yet issued a formal call for external intervention but continues to monitor the situation.
The violence in Homs highlights the fragile security landscape in Syria, where both sectarian strife and criminal activity threaten the lives of civilians.