UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in the Druze-majority Suweida governorate in southern Syria, which has left dozens dead or injured, including civilians, according to his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday.
“He is alarmed by reports of arbitrary civilian killings, sectarian incitement, and looting of private property. The Secretary-General strongly condemns all violence targeting civilians, particularly actions that risk fueling sectarian conflict,” Dujarric said during a daily press briefing.
Guterres has called on Syria’s interim authorities and local leaders to take urgent steps to de-escalate the situation, ensure the protection of civilians, restore order, and prevent further incitement. He also urged the authorities to conduct transparent investigations and hold perpetrators accountable for any violations.
The UN chief is also concerned about Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory and urged Israel to respect Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
Guterres reiterated the importance of pursuing a credible, orderly, and inclusive political transition in Syria in line with the principles outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015), Dujarric added.
