European parliament warns on violence in northeast Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press)– Members of the EuropeanParliament warned on Thursday that ongoing violence in northeast Syria could amount to war crimes, expressing concern over the humanitarian situation and voicing support for efforts aimed at preserving stability in the region.
In a statement regarding the situation in northeast Syria, the European Parliament said that extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention, forced displacement, and attacks on civilian infrastructure “may amount to serious violations of international humanitarian law and, in some cases, to war crimes.”
Lawmakers expressed “deep concern” over the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the region and called on the European Union to increase its humanitarian assistance to affected populations.
The Parliament welcomed the recent agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian government, affirming its “strong support” for the ceasefire and for the recognition of the civil and educational rights of Kurds. It urged all parties to adhere to the existing arrangements.
Members of the European Parliament also called on regional actors, including Turkey, to refrain from undermining the ceasefire through military action or by supporting any armed groups.
“The stability of northeast Syria is essential for a comprehensive and just political transition,” the statement said, calling on the Syrian authorities to ensure the protection of fundamental rights for all communities, including Arabs, Kurds, Sunnis, Shiites, Alawites, Christians, Druze, and Yazidis.
The Parliament further expressed concern about the risks posed by escaped ISIS members and affiliates from detention centers and camps in northeast Syria. It warned that transferring responsibility for detainees to Iraq could create uncertainty and dependence on the capacities and political will of other states.
Lawmakers urged EU member states to repatriate all their nationals, particularly children, from al-Hawl Camp and al-Roj Camp, and to bring adults to justice in fair trials.
They stressed that any cooperation with Syria should remain conditional on “tangible progress” in civilian protection, adherence to the ceasefire, and respect for human rights and minority rights.