International Call for De-escalation in Syria Amid Renewed Violence
The United States, Germany, France, and Great Britain have issued a joint statement urging the conflicting parties in Syria to de-escalate amid rising violence and humanitarian concerns. They have emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and infrastructure in the war-torn country. The statement, released by the U.S. State Department, stresses that the escalating conflict only highlights the urgent need for a political solution led by Syrians, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which advocates for peace talks between the government and the opposition.
Recently, a coalition of rebels led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) managed to gain control of Aleppo, prompting a counteroffensive from President Bashar al-Assad. In response, significant airstrikes have returned to the region, with reports indicating that the Russian Air Force bombed targets in Aleppo for the first time since 2016. Activists have reported that these airstrikes have resulted in at least twelve fatalities, including eight civilians, and many others injured. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has confirmed attacks targeting clinics and residential areas in the city.
As the violence escalates, residents of Aleppo express growing fear over potential bombings. Khalid Imad, a local resident, shared his concerns with the German Press Agency, mentioning that many people are refraining from visiting large markets due to fears of airstrikes aimed at displacing rebel forces. Instead, they are opting to shop in smaller streets where they feel relatively safer.
Further complicating the situation, airstrikes by the Syrian army have also been reported in Idlib, a city controlled by rebel fighters, leading to additional civilian casualties and destruction of homes according to the White Helmets, also known as the Syrian Civil Defense.
The statement from the NATO allies calls for all parties involved to prioritize humanitarian access and prevent further displacements amidst the ongoing violence. Stakeholders familiar with the situation underline the importance of adhering to the frameworks established by the UN, reiterating the necessity for a dialogue-driven approach to securing lasting peace in Syria.
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