UN Envoy to Syria Geir Pedersen calls for urgent action to halt violence in North and East Syria

NEW YORK — During a United Nations Security Council meeting, UN Special Envoy to Syria Geir Pedersen highlighted the grave impact of ongoing military attacks in North and East Syria on civilian safety. He emphasized that bombings and airstrikes in the region are targeting critical infrastructure, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Pedersen urged influential nations, particularly the United States, to take concrete measures to stop the violence. He also welcomed the establishment of communication channels between the Syrian Transitional Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), stressing the need to avoid what he termed a “cycle of retaliation and revenge” following the removal of the authoritarian regime of Bashar al-Assad.

Pedersen expressed alarm over reports of violence, including killings during clashes, severe mistreatment in detention, kidnappings, looting, property confiscation, and the forced eviction of families from public housing.

Pedersen also underscored the challenges faced by women in Syria, who endure discriminatory practices and exclusion from political participation. He called for their active involvement in governance, stating that women demand not just protection but a meaningful role in shaping the country’s future.

French Representative to the UN Security Council Nicolas de Rivière echoed these concerns, urging an immediate end to aggression in northern and eastern Syria and calling for the protection of the rights of all Syrians.

As the violence persists, the international community faces mounting pressure to intervene and promote a sustainable resolution to the conflict.