UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of violence in Syria, particularly highlighting the extensive violations of the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Guterres urges all parties involved to de-escalate tensions and cease hostilities to restore stability.
In a statement released on Thursday, Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN chief, emphasized the alarming number of Israeli air strikes targeting various locations in Syria. \"The secretary-general is particularly concerned over the hundreds of Israeli air strikes on several locations in Syria, and stresses the urgent need to de-escalate violence on all fronts, throughout the country,\" Dujarric stated during a daily press briefing.
The UN Secretary-General reiterated the importance of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, condemning any actions that undermine this pact. He called on all parties to uphold their obligations, including ending unauthorized military presence in the separation area and refraining from actions that could destabilize the ceasefire and the Golan region.
Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces reported significant damage to Syria's air defenses, claiming to have destroyed over 90 percent of identified strategic surface-to-air missile systems. In the past weeks, coordinated strikes by Israeli fighter jets have targeted Syria's most strategic military assets, including fighter jets, helicopters, missiles, UAVs, radars, and rockets, as well as key air bases.
The resurgence of hostilities has led to a humanitarian crisis, with over 1.1 million people displaced from their homes amid shortages of food and fuel, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Despite security challenges, the UN and its partners have managed to provide food support to more than 700,000 people in northwest Syria since the escalation began.
OCHA continues its humanitarian efforts as security conditions permit, with ongoing operations in cities like Damascus, Tartous, Latakia, and Raqqa. The international community remains vigilant, hoping for a swift de-escalation to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the conflict.
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UN chief urges de-escalation, new Syrian govt pledges 'rule of law'
cgtn.com
