"The United Nations expresses deep concern over the security tensions in the Syrian coast."
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, expressed deep concern on Friday, March 7, about the escalating security tensions in the coastal areas of Syria during a press conference held at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed that Guterres strongly condemns all acts of violence in Syria, calling on the parties involved to protect civilians and immediately cease hostile actions.
Dujarric pointed out that the Secretary-General is greatly concerned about the possibility of escalating tensions in Syria, especially at a time when reconciliation and peaceful political transition are supposed to be top priorities, after 14 years of ongoing conflict. He emphasized that Syrians deserve "sustainable peace, prosperity, and justice," urging the international community to support this crucial path towards stability in the country.
Meanwhile, UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen expressed grave concern about reports of clashes in the coastal areas of Syria and civilian casualties.
Pedersen stressed the need for all parties to exercise restraint, warning that any further escalation could destabilize Syria and undermine the political transition process.
The UN envoy emphasized that all parties must abide by international law and respect the protection of civilians in all Syrian regions, calling for refraining from any actions that could exacerbate the humanitarian and security situations.
These statements come amid escalating violent clashes in the Syrian coast between the forces of the interim Syrian authority and armed groups "loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad," with reports of "violence against civilians."
The United Nations continues to call for an end to hostile actions and the enhancement of efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in Syria, emphasizing the importance of supporting civilians and protecting their rights in this critical phase.
