Watchdog urges Damascus, SDF to protect civilians
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Sunday called on Syrian government forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to protect civilians and respect human rights during their operations.
“The parties should not arbitrarily block aid delivery or destroy or block access to critical infrastructure,” the organization said in a report.
HRW said Damascus and the SDF must provide full support to displaced persons, including those suspected of affiliation with the Islamic State (ISIS) and their family members held in camps, and ensure that no one in their custody is subjected to harassment, arbitrary detention, or ill-treatment.
“In the propaganda ping-pong between the SDF and Syrian government forces around who is committing which abuse, civilians are paying the highest price,” said Adam Coogle, Deputy Middle East Director at Human Rights Watch. ” Taking or holding territory militarily shouldn’t come by violating the rights of people living there.”
The HRW urged Damascus and the SDF to take all feasible measures to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian objects during military operations, stressing that attacks must be proportionate—meaning that expected civilian harm or damage to civilian structures must not be excessive in relation to the concrete and direct military advantage anticipated.
The organization added that parties should ensure civilians are allowed to flee safely and receive assistance, even if they choose not to leave.
The organization noted that the establishment of humanitarian corridors does not absolve parties of their obligation to avoid civilian casualties and to allow aid to reach those who remain.
The HRW said it had received credible reports that electricity and water were cut off from residents of Kobani and Hasakah for several days during the clashes.
It also stated that the organization was unable to verify the status or affiliations of detainees, adding: “Under international law, detainees must be treated humanely and should be promptly released at the end of active hostilities. Parties are prohibited from arbitrarily arresting civilians and should immediately and unconditionally release unlawfully detained civilians and allow them to return. All have the right to be in touch with their families.”