Security Council
The situation in the Middle East - Security Council, 9798th meeting
Delegations Accuse Each Other of Being Responsible for Recent Hostilities
A vast swathe of Syrian territory — containing approximately 7 million people — has come under the control of non-State actors, including the terrorist group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham and armed opposition groups, the Organization’s senior official for that country told the Security Council today, as he warned that more bloodshed could be on its way.
Stressing that “the situation is in flux”, with an unclear information environment, he said that these developments have provoked different reactions among the Syrian people — “a grave threat for some, a signal of hope for others”. Armed actors in the north-west — including Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham – have offered reassurances to all civilians, including minorities, through a series of public pronouncements. Nevertheless, some women leaders have expressed particular fears and are seeking reassurances.
In the ensuing discussions, many delegates, voicing deep concern over the recent intensification of hostilities in Syria, urged all parties to de-escalate and prioritize dialogue. Several speakers accused their counterparts of being responsible in the uptick of violence and the ongoing conflict.