AANES vows to protect UN institutions amid Syrian unrest
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Department of Foreign Relations in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) reaffirmed on Tuesday its commitment to safeguarding United Nations institutions and ensuring their neutrality amid ongoing developments in Syria.
In an official statement, the department stressed that UN agencies must remain impartial and continue their humanitarian role in serving all citizens without exception. “We reaffirm our full commitment to protecting UN institutions and keeping them neutral from the developments on the Syrian scene, ensuring the continuation of their humanitarian and impartial role,” the statement read.
The announcement followed a protest held in front of the UNHCR office in Qamishli, where some demonstrators engaged in inappropriate behavior, including writing offensive phrases on the premises.
According to the department, the protest was organized to denounce recent massacres and human rights violations committed against residents of several Aleppo neighborhoods, including Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, Bani Zaid, and al-Siryan.
The statement noted that the shocking scenes of violence, coupled with the rise of hate speech on social media platforms and certain official media outlets, prompted some participants to act irresponsibly. “Among these actions was the writing of phrases inconsistent with the status and role of this UN institution,” the department added.
Officials emphasized that the Autonomous Administration immediately addressed the matter in coordination with UN agencies based in Qamishli. The department said it worked to contain the incident in accordance with international laws, norms, and the principles of the Administration.
The Foreign Relations Department underscored that protecting international institutions is essential to maintaining their humanitarian mission in Syria, particularly at a time when civilians across the country continue to face grave challenges.
The Autonomous Administration has consistently highlighted its role in ensuring stability and safeguarding humanitarian operations in northeast Syria, where the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) maintain security against ongoing threats.
The department concluded by stressing that cooperation with UN agencies will continue, with a focus on preserving their impartiality and ensuring their ability to deliver aid and services to all communities.
By Atoun Jan