After arriving in Damascus on Monday, he met with the head of the caretaker administration, Ahmed Al-Shara. The special envoy said that all countries, including Israel, should pay attention to the sovereignty, unity, independence and territorial integrity of Syria.
At the same time, international support is needed to advance an inclusive and credible political process led by Syrian citizens and the sanctions imposed on the country.
According to Geyer Pedersen, the United Nations is committed to supporting the transitional process in Syria and the shared priorities of the country’s civilians in accordance with the terms of Security Council Resolution 2254.
The Special Envoy will continue to hold talks with various stakeholders in Syria in the coming days.
In December 2024, the Assad regime in Syria, which had been suffering the agony of war for the past 14 years, has fallen, after which ordinary citizens have a chance to move towards a stable and peaceful future.
However, the country is currently facing a huge humanitarian and economic crisis and a large part of the population is dependent on humanitarian aid.
Concerned about violent incidents
Meanwhile, the United Nations Humanitarian Office (OCHA) has expressed concern over the escalation of violent conflict in northeastern Syria.
At least three people were killed and 14 wounded in shelling and attacks in Manbij and Ain al-Arba, along with other areas near eastern Aleppo, from January 16 to 18, according to UN partners.
A few shops were also reportedly damaged in a car explosion at a market in Minebiz. These incidents have forced people to flee their homes and hampered the delivery of humanitarian assistance.
These conditions have affected the repair of the Tishreen Dam and more than four lakh people are now suffering from water and electricity shortages for more than six weeks.
Damage to basic facilities was also reported in al-Raqqa and al-Hasakeh. More than 24,000 displaced people are living in dire conditions in more than 200 emergency centers in northeastern Syria.
Protection of civilians
The UN reiterated that all parties must ensure the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law.
A UN spokesman said on Monday that civilians must always be protected and provided with essential items, whether they remain in their homes or are displaced.
“All parties must cooperate to conduct safe, unhindered humanitarian operations.”
Meanwhile, the United Nations, along with its partner agencies, is busy delivering food, cash, clothing, health supplies and other essential items to the needy population.
Since November 27, 32 lakh people have been given bread and 4 lakh people have been given food aid across the country.