The UN Security Council is meeting in an emergency session to address the evolving Syria crisis, leading many to wonder how the international community will respond.
At a Glance
- UN Security Council convenes to discuss Syrian rebel gains and regional impact.
- Special Envoy Geir O. Pedersen engaging with the Syrian Government and regional forces.
- Humanitarian crisis in Syria worsened by recent violence and natural disasters.
- Need for a ceasefire and resumed work on Syria’s political reconciliation highlighted.
Assessing the Situation in Syria
The UN Security Council will conduct an emergency meeting following a significant offensive by Syrian rebel groups. These groups have captured key regions in the north, prompting the Syrian government, with backing from African nations such as Mozambique and Sierra Leone, to call for immediate discussions. The primary focus of the meeting is to assess how these developments have impacted local civilians and regional stability, with various response strategies on the table.
The situation continues to deteriorate, with 2024 on track to be the most violent year in several years. Increased Israeli airstrikes and heightened regional tensions further exacerbate the crisis. The humanitarian situation is dire, with cholera outbreaks, food insecurity, and an estimated 16.7 million people needing assistance.
#BREAKING UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting on Syria Tuesday: diplomatic sources pic.twitter.com/9UxiZmiXc9
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) December 2, 2024
International Responses and Challenges
The international community is grappling with how best to respond. Special Envoy Geir O. Pedersen is in active engagement with the Syrian Government and regional partners to address the conflict. There is a pressing need for de-escalation across the region, including in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. France has suggested that sanctions could be lifted if there is verifiable progress in Syria’s political process.
“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”.” – Speaker for France –
Despite calls for a nationwide ceasefire and a resumed political process under resolution 2254 (2015), the Security Council remains divided. Differing views on sanctions, foreign military presence, and the Assad regime’s role highlight the challenges in reaching a unified decision.
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
Looking Ahead
The need for cooperation with the UNHCR to ensure humanitarian aid and protection for returnees is critical. The UN has emphasized the necessity of a return to a facilitated political process. The recent violence underscores the urgency for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a focus on civilian protection.
“The Secretary-General is alarmed by the recent escalation of violence across northwest Syria” – UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric
The UN’s operations have been largely suspended in affected areas due to security risks, further complicating aid delivery. NGOs and the UN are utilizing cross-border routes from Türkiye to bring essential aid into northwest Syria. These efforts highlight the international community’s dedication to alleviating the sufferings of those affected.
Sources
1. UN chief calls for ceasefire amid sharp escalation in northwest Syria
