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Biderson to the Security Council: Foreign Fighters Still Pose a Threat to Syria
The UN Special Envoy to Syria, Geir O. Pedersen, briefed the UN Security Council, warning that foreign fighters still pose a serious threat to Syria's security and stability. He called for the launch of a comprehensive program to reform the security sector and disarmament.
Pedersen confirmed that the transitional phase should lead to a new constitution that reflects the will of the Syrians, guarantees the protection of minorities, and holds perpetrators of violations accountable, regardless of loyalties and affiliations.
He pointed out that the country is experiencing a state of relative calm, warning of the risk of renewed violence. He also emphasized that Israeli violations constitute a breach of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Regarding the humanitarian situation, Pedersen noted that delivering aid to Sweida governorate remains hazardous, calling for safe and sustainable access. He praised the work of the fact-finding committee in the governorate.
He also emphasized that the success of upcoming elections requires transparency, openness, and the participation of all Syrians, with fair representation of women. Pedersen warned that the threat of terrorist organizations persists and urged interim authorities to take decisive measures to confront them.
Moscow at the Security Council: Holding Responsible for Violence and Kurdish Integration Necessary for Stability in Syria
The Russian representative at the UN Security Council stressed the need to hold those responsible for violence in Sweida and the Syrian coast accountable, warning of "alarming signals" from religious and ethnic minorities who do not feel safe within the country.
He underscored the importance of uniting the Syrian people and achieving national reconciliation to address current challenges. He confirmed that integrating the Kurds into a unified Syrian state is a crucial step in this direction.
The Russian delegate also called for ending the Israeli occupation of the Golan Heights and implementing the 1974 disengagement agreement.
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