UN envoy says Syria’s political transition disrupted by surge in violence
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – U.N. Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, warned on Monday that Syria’s political transition has suffered serious setbacks in recent weeks due to a dramatic escalation in violence, resulting in significant loss of life, deepening mistrust, and increasing the risk of further fragmentation.
Addressing the U.N. Security Council during a briefing on the Syrian crisis, Pedersen stated, ” It is clear that some major course corrections on security and the political transition are needed.”
He expressed particular alarm over the recent outbreak of violence in Suwayda, a predominantly Druze region in southern Syria, calling it shocking and unacceptable.
“Syrians are reeling after appalling violence in Sweida – violence that should not have happened, and which also saw unacceptable foreign intervention,” Pedersen added.
Pedersen voiced deep concern over reports of human rights violations, including the abduction of Druze women following the incursion of Syrian security forces into certain areas, as well as reports of the disappearance of women, children, and men under unclear circumstances.
“Let me also stress my concern at reports of abductions of Druze women after the entry of the security forces into particular areas & at reports of women, children & men who are missing.”
He emphasized the need for the Syrian state to exercise exclusive sovereignty over the legitimate use of force and to operate fully within the framework of the rule of law.
Highlighting the broader structural issues, Pedersen called for “a clear vision &programme of security sector reform,” including disarmament and demobilization of armed groups. He stressed that “this process must be applied to “all groups.”
Pedersen concluded his remarks by reaffirming the U.N.’s commitment to a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the Syrian conflict, but warned that continued violence and lack of accountability could further derail efforts for lasting peace.