New York: A senior UN official has expressed concerns about the impact of regional instability on Syria, emphasizing the country's fragile state in the wake of its political transition. Syria, which has been on a path to recovery following the overthrow of the Assad regime last December, remains vulnerable after nearly 14 years of civil war.
According to EMM, UN Deputy Special Envoy Najat Rochdi highlighted in a briefing to the Security Council that the risks of further regional escalation could undermine the progress made towards peace in Syria. She noted that meetings with senior officials in Damascus, including interim foreign minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, focused on positive developments in international relations and the need for an inclusive political transition.
Ms. Rochdi emphasized the importance of establishing a new People's Assembly as a transitional legislative authority and welcomed the recent presidential decree appointing a supreme committee for elections. She also discussed the 10 March agreement between interim authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate the Kurdish-led group into the national army, viewing it as a historical opportunity to restore Syria's sovereignty.
The Deputy Special Envoy addressed ongoing security concerns, including violent incidents in regions like Homs and Hama, and attacks on specific communities. She noted positive steps by interim authorities to ease tensions, such as a fatwa prohibiting revenge killings. However, she reported persistent security challenges, including Israeli military actions in southern Syria and ISIL activities, and called for respect for Syria's sovereignty.
Ms. Rochdi highlighted the return of nearly 600,000 people to Syria from neighboring countries despite the fragile situation. She also welcomed international economic measures, such as the US sanctions waiver and the EU's lifting of economic sanctions, aimed at revitalizing Syria's economy.
UN deputy relief chief Joyce Msuya informed the Council of Syria's dire humanitarian situation, with three-quarters of the population requiring aid. She warned about the threat of unexploded ordnance and a worsening cholera outbreak, exacerbated by a regional drought impacting agricultural output.
Ms. Msuya emphasized the need for more funding to support humanitarian efforts, as the current appeal has received only a fraction of the required resources. She assured that the UN and partners are working to provide critical assistance and enhance coordination to address Syria's pressing needs.