UN commission raises alarm over violations, rights challenges in Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria on Tuesday raised concerns over continuing human rights violations, accountability gaps and threats to civilians across the country, while acknowledging progress during Syria’s political transition.
In an oral update to the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council, the Commission said that Syria had undergone significant changes since the fall of the former Assad regime, including the establishment of the People’s Assembly and Constitutional Court and the return of millions of refugees and internally displaced people. It also noted advances in integration efforts in northeastern Syria.
However, the Commission warned that the transition remains fragile and that serious violations continue.
It added that it was “deeply alarmed” by continued Israeli military activity and the expansion of Israel’s occupation in Syrian territory. The Commission indicated that Israeli ground incursions, patrols, raids and house searches in Quneitra and Daraa had affected civilians and displaced some residents.
The Commission pointed out that it had identified 49 Syrians, including two children, detained by Israeli forces on Syrian territory as of September, with some reportedly transferred to Israel and held incommunicado. It warned that such actions could violate international law and may amount to war crimes.
The Commission called for comprehensive accountability for violations committed during Syria’s conflict and transition, warning that selective justice could fuel grievances and undermine reconciliation.
Regarding Suwayda, it said the fate of missing persons, detainees and displaced families remained unresolved one year after a roadmap aimed at addressing the crisis.
In northeastern Syria, the Commission said it was investigating alleged violations committed during hostilities involving the former Syrian Democratic Forces, including civilian killings and the disappearance of SDF-aligned fighters. It also renewed calls for the protection and repatriation of foreign children and families detained over alleged links to the Islamic State group.
The Commission urged Syrian authorities and the international community to strengthen human rights protections and prevent the recurrence of past abuses.