Statement by Ambassador , UK Permanent
Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on
Syria.
I would like to make three points.
First, the UK is deeply concerned by the escalating violence in
Suwayda.
We have urged all parties to de-escalate and take immediate
action to protect civilians.
We are alarmed by reports of attacks on medical personnel and
facilities.
Civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be targeted, and
we call on all parties to ensure humanitarian aid can reach those
who need it.
We take note of President Al Sharaa's comments on the importance
of protection of Syria's Druze community and accountability for
those who have committed attacks.
And we urge that investigations and steps towards accountability
take place swiftly.
Second, we are deeply concerned by Israel's escalatory strikes in
Damascus.
We repeat our call for Israel to refrain from actions that risk
destabilising Syria and the wider region.
Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be
respected.
We welcome the news that a ceasefire has been agreed.
And we urge all parties to commit to maintaining it.
Third, this is a critical moment for Syria and for the stability
of the region.
My Foreign Secretary travelled to Damascus earlier this month,
where he held productive talks and heard from the Syrian
Government and ordinary Syrians about their aspirations for the
country.
A peaceful and secure future for the Syrian people requires all
of Syria's communities to be protected and fully included in the
political transition.
So we call on the Syrian Government to prioritise genuine
inclusivity and representation in the appointment and election of
People's Assembly members and in all further elements of the
political transition.
An accountability process is also critical to ensuring stability
and lasting peace.
We urge the Syrian Government to investigate human rights
violations and abuses by all parties and ensure those responsible
are held to account.
We look forward to seeing the Syrian Government's report on the
violence in the coastal areas in March.
This is a crucial step towards justice and reconciliation for the
Syrian people.
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