The UN Security Council has convened an emergency meeting as rebel forces’ territorial advances escalate violence in Northern Syria.
At a Glance
- Syria remains embroiled in conflict, necessitating urgent civilian protection and political discourse.
- UN Special Envoy Geir O. Pedersen strives for resolution through Syrian Government dialogues.
- UN Security Council divided on strategies including sanctions and foreign military roles.
- Humanitarian conditions deteriorate with escalating violence and mass displacement.
Background on the Situation
In Syria’s northern regions, rebel factions have rapidly expanded their reach, leading to dire consequences for civilians and worsening the region’s already precarious situation. As a result, the Syrian government, backed by African nations like Mozambique and Sierra Leone, has requested urgent intervention from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The developments mark another phase in Syria’s enduring conflict, now exacerbated by alarming levels of violence and displacement.
Reports indicate that 2024 is on track to be the most violent year since 2020, driven by increased regional hostilities and activities like Israeli airstrikes. The UN Secretary-General has emphasized the necessity for de-escalation to prevent civilian harm and destabilization. This urgency is underscored by more than 540,000 people fleeing to Syria from Lebanon in a short timeframe, a situation demanding robust humanitarian response.
Strategic Deliberations by the UN
The UNSC meeting aims to explore international strategies for reducing tensions and constructing a path toward peace. Central discussions are expected to revolve around sanctions, the presence of foreign military forces, and the role of President Assad’s government in ongoing peace efforts. The council remains divided, with countries such as France suggesting a potential lift on sanctions contingent upon political achievements in Syria.
The speaker for France affirmed his country’s readiness “once there is a tangible and verifiable progress in the political process to start lifting the sanctions”.
Envoy Geir O. Pedersen is leading dialogues with Syrian authorities and regional parties. A resumption of the Constitutional Committee’s work and adherence to Security Council resolution 2254 (2015) are vital for nourishing peaceful development, alongside proposals for a nationwide ceasefire. Meanwhile, the humanitarian distress grows, with increased needs for donor funding and cooperation with UNHCR for displaced Syrians.
BREAKING – UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting on Syria Tuesday: diplomatic sources https://t.co/VN1GDvRAz3 pic.twitter.com/dJcraH1fI0
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) December 2, 2024
Challenges and Humanitarian Impacts
The escalating conflict has induced civilian casualties, displaced tens of thousands, and severely damaged essential infrastructure in regions like Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama. Amidst security risks, UN operations providing essential aid in affected zones have faced substantial hurdles. As a result, both NGOs and the UN are channeling relief efforts through border crossings from Türkiye, endeavoring to meet the massive humanitarian demands.
“All parties must protect civilians and civilian objects, including by allowing safe passage to civilians fleeing hostilities”. – Mr. Dujarric
The current conflict, in its 14th year, has been further strained by February 2023 earthquakes and ongoing regional tensions. An estimated 16.7 million individuals require humanitarian aid in 2024, a historic high since the crisis began in 2011. Renewed combat led by factions such as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham threatens to destabilize the precarious peace even further, making the UNSC’s actions even more critical.
Sources
2. UN chief calls for ceasefire amid sharp escalation in northwest Syria
