Syrian Crisis Deepens as UN Restructures Presence, Calls for Political Solution
Humanitarian Situation Deteriorates Amid Violence
The humanitarian situation in northwest Syria has taken a dire turn, with more than 300,000 people driven from their homes in recent days. The exodus is fueled by a sudden and massive offensive into government-controlled areas led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group designated as a terrorist organization by the United Nations Security Council.
“The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate,” said Adam Abdelmoula, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria. “Many displaced people are seeking refuge in the northeast, while others remain trapped in frontline areas, unable to escape.” He emphasized the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian action, calling on all parties to protect civilians and aid workers and to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law.
Abdelmoula underlined the UN’s unwavering commitment to the Syrian people, stating, “The United Nations remains steadfast in its commitment to stay and deliver life-saving assistance to the people of Syria during this critical time. We are strategically reducing our footprint by relocating non-critical staff outside the country,” he clarified, addressing recent rumors, “This is not an evacuation and our dedication to supporting the people of Syria remains unwavering. Rumors suggesting that the United Nations is evacuating all staff from Syria are false.” The UN’s operations within the country are ongoing, with personnel on the ground ensuring the continuation of vital humanitarian efforts. “Whether delivering food, water, or medical assistance, we are committed to reaching those in need – wherever they may be,” Abdelmoula stated.
UN Envoy Pushes for Geneva Talks
Meanwhile, on the political front, Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, has called for urgent talks in Geneva to pave the way for an “orderly political transition.” Speaking to reporters in Doha, Qatar, Pedersen reiterated his call for de-escalation, calmness, the avoidance of bloodshed, and the protection of civilians in line with international humanitarian law.
Pedersen stressed the need for “the start of a process that leads to the realization of the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.” He disclosed that he had recently met with ministers from Iran, Russia, and Türkiye, as well as representatives from the United States, France, Great Britain, Germany, and the European Union.
“I have called for urgent political talks in Geneva to implement Security Council resolution 2254,” he announced, referring to the 2015 text unanimously adopted by the Security Council, which set out a roadmap for peace in Syria and aimed to initiate a Syrian-led political process. “I’m pleased to say that the ministers and all I’m talking to are backing this call. My hope is that I will be able to announce a date for this very soon,” Pedersen concluded.
What is the UN’s strategy for addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis in Northwest Syria?
## A deepening crisis: Interview with UN Coordinator on Syria
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. We’re focusing today on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Northwest Syria, with reports of intensified fighting and a mass displacement of civilians. To help us understand the situation better, we are joined by Adam Abdelmoula, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria. Welcome to the program, Mr. Abdelmoula.
**Abdelmoula:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Mr. Abdelmoula, the situation on the ground appears to be rapidly deteriorating. Can you tell us more about what’s happening and the impact on civilians?
**Abdelmoula:** The situation is indeed dire. Over the last few days, we’ve seen a sudden and massive offensive by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) into government-controlled areas. This has triggered a wave of displacement, with over 300,000 people fleeing their homes, seeking refuge mainly in the Northeast. Many are trapped in frontline areas, unable to escape, and face unimaginable hardship. [[1](https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/12/1157951)]
**Host:** The UN has been working tirelessly to provide assistance to the Syrian people. What are the main challenges you’re facing in delivering aid amidst this escalating conflict?
**Abdelmoula:** The primary challenge is access. The fighting is intensifying, making it increasingly difficult and dangerous for aid workers to reach those in need. We remain committed to delivering life-saving assistance, but we need all parties to guarantee safe passage for our personnel and ensure the protection of civilians.
**Host:**
Given the complexity of the situation, what is the UN’s strategy moving forward?
**Abdelmoula:** We are taking a two-pronged approach. First, we are strategically reducing our footprint by relocating non-critical staff to ensure the safety of our personnel. This is a precautionary measure, allowing us to maintain a core team on the ground to continue delivering essential aid. Simultaneously, we are calling for a political solution to this protracted conflict. A lasting peace is the only way to truly alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people.
**Host:** Mr. Abdelmoula, thank you for shedding light on this unfolding crisis. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this conflict.
**Abdelmoula:** Thank you. We urge the international community to increase its support for the Syrian people and to work tirelessly towards a peaceful resolution to this devastating conflict.
