U.S. Calls for De-escalation in Syria, Condemns Attacks on Civilians

The United States expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Syria, urging all parties to de-escalate tensions and protect civilians amidst recent clashes. Speaking before the UN Security Council, a representative from the United States emphasized the importance of upholding international law and holding those responsible for atrocities accountable.

Escalating Violence and Humanitarian Concerns

The representative highlighted the alarming rise in violence in northwest Syria, stating that the recent collapse of the Assad regime lines in the region was a direct consequence of the regime’s

refusal to engage in the political process outlined in Resolution 2254. This vacuum, compounded by the distraction of Iran, Russia, and Hizballah in other conflicts, provided an opportunity for rebel groups to make gains. While emphasizing that the U.S. had no involvement in the recent rebel offensive, the representative acknowledged concerns about the group leading it, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is designated as a terrorist organization by both the United States and the UN.

The representative stressed the urgent

need for humanitarian access to all those affected by the fighting, praising the work of the UN and NGOs operating on the ground. They called on the international community to support these organizations in providing essential aid to internally displaced persons and others in dire need.

Accountability for Atrocities and Chemical Weapons Use

While condemning the actions of HTS, the U.S. representative also strongly criticized the Assad regime and its Russian backers for perpetrating further atrocities. They pointed to the regime’s persistent attacks on schools and hospitals in Idlib and Aleppo, resulting in civilian casualties since November 27, as blatant violations of international law.

“The regime’s and its Russian backers’ attacks on civilian infrastructure are not justifiable under any circumstances,” the representative stated.

The representative further emphasized the need for accountability for the Assad regime’s long history of chemical weapons attacks, a fact attested to by the White Helmets, who have repeatedly brought the regime’s use of these weapons to the world’s attention.

Long-Term Peace Requires Political Solution

Ultimately, the representative underscored that lasting peace in Syria can only be achieved through a political solution that includes all Syrians. They reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting the Syrian Opposition’s efforts to achieve freedom, dignity, and safety for all citizens. The representative also urged Russia to abandon its support for Assad’s intransigence and to engage constructively in UN-mediated talks.

“Recent events serve as a stark reminder that Syria will never be at peace until Assad accepts a settlement that gives all Syrians a voice in the country

’s future,” the representative concluded.

The United States reaffirmed its commitment to defending its personnel and military positions in northeast Syria, ensuring the continued fight against the resurgence of ISIS. This commitment underscores the U.S. recognition that the fight against terrorism remains a critical component of any lasting peace in the region.

What is the current situation in⁢ northwest Syria, and what are the U.S.’s concerns regarding it?

## ​Interview: U.S. Calls ⁣for De-escalation in Syria

**Host:** Joining us today is [Guest Name], [Guest Title/Affiliation], to⁢ discuss the⁢ escalating situation in Syria​ and the⁢ recent U.S. statement at ⁢the UN Security Council.‌ Welcome to the show.

**Guest:** ​Thank you ⁤for having me.

**Host:** The U.S. expressed its deep concern over the‌ situation in Syria, ‌particularly the rise in violence‌ and attacks⁢ on ⁣civilians. Can you elaborate ​on why the U.S.‌ is so alarmed?

**Guest:** Absolutely. The situation in northwest Syria⁣ is incredibly dire. ⁤We’ve seen a recent surge in violence, resulting in significant civilian casualties. This situation is fueled, in part, by the collapse of Assad regime ⁤lines and the‍ subsequent vacuum that has emerged. This allowed rebel groups, including the UN and‍ U.S. designated⁢ terrorist organization ⁣HTS, to seize territory.‌ The U.S. is deeply‌ concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding and the ⁤potential for further destabilization‍ in the‌ region. [[1](https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15909.doc.htm)]

**Host:** The U.S. statement mentioned Resolution 2254. Could you‍ explain ⁤its relevance to ​the current situation?

**Guest:** Resolution 2254, adopted by the UN Security ​Council in 2015, outlined a political roadmap for a peaceful resolution to the ‍Syrian conflict. ​It ​calls for‌ a ceasefire, the formation of a transitional governing body, ⁣and a new constitution leading to free and fair elections. Unfortunately, the Assad regime has consistently refused to engage‍ in⁢ this process meaningfully, contributing to the ongoing violence and‌ instability.

**Host:** The U.S.⁢ also stressed the need for humanitarian access. What are the immediate humanitarian concerns in Syria?

**Guest:** The humanitarian situation is catastrophic. Millions of Syrians ⁣are internally displaced, facing ‍dire conditions. They ‌are in desperate‌ need of food, clean water, medical care, and⁢ shelter. It’s⁣ crucial that all parties involved allow unimpeded ‌access for humanitarian organizations to reach those in need. We ⁣commend the work of​ the UN and NGOs operating on the ground, and urge the international community to provide them⁢ with​ the necessary support. [[1](https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15909.doc.htm)]

**Host:** Thank you [Guest name] for providing‍ such valuable ​insight into

this complex situation. ‌We’ll continue to follow ‍developments closely.