UN envoy says Syria conflict not over; SC urges 'inclusive' process
4 Min Read
Geir Pedersen has expressed grave concern over the escalating military tensions, particularly the clashes between US-backed SDF and Turkish-backed factions.
-
The UN envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, during a meeting with the foreign ministers of the Arab Contact Group on Syria in Aqaba, Saturday, December 14, 2024 (AP)
United Nations special envoy Geir Pedersen called Wednesday for "free and fair elections" and humanitarian assistance for Syria, expressing hope for a political solution in the northeast, after Bashar al-Assad's ouster this month.
Addressing reporters in Damascus, Pedersen expressed hope for "free and fair elections... after a transitional period," also calling for "immediate humanitarian assistance" for the war-torn country and saying that "hopefully we will see a political solution" in the Kurdish-held northeast.
Earlier, Geir Pedersen warned that the conflict in Syria is far from over, stressing that "there have been significant hostilities in the last two weeks before a ceasefire was brokered."
Pedersen expressed serious concern about the military escalation in the region, warning that it "could be catastrophic," particularly the ongoing clashes between the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkish-backed factions.
In response, Washington reportedly brokered a ceasefire extension in the strategic town of Manbij, aiming to stabilize the situation. "The Manbij truce is extended through the end of the week, and we will, obviously, look to see that ceasefire extended as far as possible into the future," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.
Additionally, UN Migration Chief Amy Pope cautioned against a "large-scale return" of refugees to Syria, stating that it "will only destabilize the country further." She highlighted the departure of tens of thousands of refugees, especially from religious minorities, due to fears for their safety.
On the diplomatic front, international pressure is mounting for an "inclusive and Syrian-led" political process to meet the aspirations of all Syrians. The UN Security Council issued a statement emphasizing the importance of a political process that ensures the safety and democratic rights of all Syrians.
Head of Syrian negotiation body calls for transitional national govt
The head of the Syrian Negotiations Commission, Badr Jamous, called on Tuesday for a comprehensive national conference to be organized by a transitional government tasked with drafting a new constitution reflecting the aspirations of the Syrian people.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council, Jamous emphasized the need for a referendum on the new constitution and progress toward free and fair elections in a safe and neutral environment under UN supervision.
"It is time to lift the economic sanctions imposed on Syria and increase humanitarian and relief support to rebuild the country," Jamous asserted.
He expressed the Commission's readiness to cooperate with the current authorities in Damascus to build a new Syria. Jamous urged the formation of an inclusive transitional national government representing all segments of Syrian society, ensuring significant roles for women and youth.
Highlighting the importance of UN Security Council Resolution 2254, adopted in 2015, he described it as a roadmap to meet the Syrian people's aspirations. He also stressed the urgent need to establish a fund to support refugees and displaced persons wishing to return to Syria.
The Syrian Negotiations Commission, established in December 2015, represents a broad spectrum of Syrian opposition groups. It is recognized by the UN as the sole representative of the Syrian opposition in UN-led negotiation processes.
Jamous’ remarks come amid ongoing debates within the Syrian new regime forces and renewed calls for resolving divisions among factions. The statement reflects growing international and domestic pressure for a political solution to Syria’s enduring conflict.
