U.N. agencies call for immediate ceasefire in Syrian coastal region
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – International humanitarian agencies called on Saturday for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Syria’s coastal region, urging all parties to spare civilians, civilian infrastructure, and humanitarian operations.
In a joint statement, U.N. Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, and Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis, Ramanathan Balakrishnan, emphasized adherence to International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Law to ensure the protection of civilians and facilitate the urgent delivery of aid.
The agencies said that the situation remains highly volatile, with reports of civilian casualties and mass displacement.
While the exact number of deaths and injuries remains unverified, thousands have reportedly fled their homes in the coastal areas, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, the statement noted.
It added that humanitarian operations have been severely disrupted, with all missions to and within the affected regions suspended.
” Curfews and movement restrictions continue to hinder access to essential services.”
The humanitarian agencies extended their deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The international community has been urged to intervene to prevent further escalation and facilitate the restoration of aid operations, according to the statement.
On March 6, the Syrian coastal region, particularly Latakia Governorate, experienced intense clashes between the General Security forces of the Syrian caretaker government and armed groups loyal to the ousted Assad regime.
The violence erupted when pro-Assad insurgents launched coordinated attacks in areas like Jableh, leading to significant casualties among security personnel. In response, the government forces deployed reinforcements, including airstrikes targeting insurgent positions.
The unrest resulted in over 1,000 deaths, with approximately 745 civilians killed, many from the Alawite community. The conflict has also caused mass displacement and heightened sectarian tensions, challenging the new government’s efforts to stabilize the region.