United Nations, Dec 2 (IANS) – UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir O. Pedersen, has issued a stark warning about the escalating violence in Syria, emphasizing the urgent need to protect civilians and pursue "meaningful and substantive" negotiations to end the conflict.
Rising Tensions and Humanitarian Risks
Recent advances by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group designated as a terrorist organization by the UN Security Council, have dramatically shifted frontlines, exacerbating risks to civilians.
Pedersen highlighted the 14-year-long war’s toll on Syria, warning of severe implications for both regional and international peace.
He stressed that protecting civilians and infrastructure must remain a top priority, urging all parties to comply with international law.
"This is a clear message to all parties engaged in hostilities of any kind, " Pedersen stated.
Call for Political Resolution
Pedersen reiterated that military solutions cannot resolve Syria's conflict and urged Syrian parties and international stakeholders to prioritize political dialogue.
He emphasized the importance of UN Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015), which outlines a roadmap for a peaceful resolution, including constitutional reforms and free elections.
"Without meaningful negotiations, Syria faces further division, deterioration, and destruction, " Pedersen warned, underscoring the need for urgent international engagement to prevent further bloodshed.
As the conflict deepens, the UN envoy's call reflects growing concerns over Syria's stability and the broader implications for Middle Eastern and global security.