UK Permanent Representative to U.N.: Syria is one of the most tragic crises in the world and Iran is part of the problem

NEW YORK — In a statement to Asharq al-Awsat newspaper on World Refugee Day, the UK Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Barbara Woodward, described what is happening in Syria as one of the most tragic crises in the world, stressing Iran’s role in perpetuating and worsening the conflict.

Woodward warned against the failure of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to renew the authorization to send humanitarian aid across the Syrian border, which will expire in June, and considered the ending of aid a death sentence for the Syrian people.

She also called for the reopening of the Al-Yaroubiyah and Bab al-Salam border crossings, in addition to extending the work of the Bab al-Hawa border crossing.

Woodward stated that Iran is part of the problem not only in Syria, but also in Yemen through its continued military support of the Houthi militias instead of urging a ceasefire and moving towards a political solution to deliver humanitarian aid to about 16 million Yemenis.

Woodward welcomed the efforts made by Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the U.S. to work towards a ceasefire.

International efforts for a ceasefire in Yemen were intensified months ago. However, Houthi forces continue their attacks on Marib and other Yemeni cities, despite U.N. and international efforts to end the lengthy and devastating conflict.