First, as you've made clear, the humanitarian situation across
Syria remains dire, borne out of over a decade of conflict and
the actions of the regime. This includes its recent decision to
blockade aid into Rukban camp, which has led to severe food
scarcity. We call on the regime to permit commercial access into
Rukban camp and to ensure all routes for humanitarian access -
including into North West Syria - are sustained and predictable.
Short-term, last-minute decisions are not appropriate as the UN
continues to make clear. Access should be granted for as long as
humanitarian needs demand it.
Second, in light of the UN sanctions report published last week,
I wanted to underscore that our sanctions against the Assad
regime have a clear purpose: they are designed to hold to account
those responsible for committing abhorrent atrocities over the
last 14 years, including perpetrators of serious human rights
violations and chemical weapons use. We have taken clear steps to
ensure that sanctions and any tools aimed at holding the Assad
regime accountable do not impact the wider Syrian population or
the delivery of humanitarian support. We resolutely support those
affected by the ongoing devastating conflict.
Third, the only route out of this crisis is via a comprehensive
and sustainable political settlement. This month's parliamentary
elections in Syria were held with the aim of sustaining Assad's
dictatorship and giving a semblance of popular legitimacy to his
unreformed and undemocratic regime. In response, we have seen
protesters inside Syria boycott the elections and demand a fairer
and more transparent process. Legitimate elections in Syria can
only be a product of a genuine political process in line with
UNSCR 2254, which allows for the participation of all eligible
Syrians, including members of the diaspora.
President, I end by recalling that it is in Assad's power to end
this intolerable conflict and to take responsibility for the
human rights violations and abuses that Syrians have endured. It
is time to deliver on the legitimate demands of the Syrian people
and to make a genuine commitment to peace in line with resolution
2254.
