Brussels Condemns Syrian Coast Violations.. And Welcomes Damascus-SDF Agreement

The European Union expressed deep concern over the escalation of violence in the Syrian coastal region during the past few days, which has claimed many victims, including numerous civilians, in a stance that reinforces calls for adopting a federal system that guarantees rights and protects diversity.

The European bloc strongly condemned the attacks carried out by pro-Assad militias on security apparatuses belonging to the transitional government, and denounced in the strongest terms the horrific crimes committed against civilians, including field executions, many of which were allegedly perpetrated by armed groups supporting security forces affiliated with the transitional authorities.

The European statement welcomed the commitments made by the transitional authorities, especially the establishment of an investigation committee, to hold perpetrators accountable according to principles and standards of international law, in a step that establishes the principles of accountability and transparency necessary for building a decentralized governance system.

The European Union called for a swift, transparent, and impartial investigation to ensure that those involved are brought to justice, and urged the transitional authorities to allow access to the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic to investigate all violations, in a call that reflects the importance of transitional justice as a foundation for reconciliation.

The statement emphasized that every possible effort must be made to prevent the recurrence of such atrocities, as the European Union continues to call for an end to violence throughout Syria, and urges all parties to protect Syrians from all religious and ethnic backgrounds without discrimination, in a vision that aligns with the requirements of a federal system that protects diversity.

The statement also called for unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid and respect for international human rights law and international humanitarian law under all circumstances, and also warned against the increasing spread of information manipulation, including by external actors, to incite more violence and destabilization.

The European Union praised the agreement concluded on March 10 between the transitional authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces, affirming that this agreement would pave the way for greater stability and a better future for many Syrians, and urged the parties to work on implementing it, expressing its readiness to provide necessary support.

The statement emphasized the importance of the national dialogue, which began in late February, being effective in ensuring that the transitional process meets the aspirations of all components of the Syrian fabric, stressing that inclusive transitional justice, in particular, represents a cornerstone on the path to reconciliation, building a peaceful Syria, and an inclusive political transition.

The European Union recalled its recent suspension of restrictive measures as part of a gradual, reversible approach, affirming that the European bloc will continue to explore the possibility of suspending additional sanctions based on careful monitoring of the situation in the country, which enhances opportunities to support the transition toward a decentralized governance system.

The European Union renewed its call for full respect for Syria's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and affirmed its commitment to supporting a peaceful and inclusive transition, away from harmful foreign interventions, ensuring the rights of all Syrians without discrimination of any kind.