The United States strongly condemns the violence perpetrated against civilians in the Suwayda governorate of Syria that started in July. Ambassador Dorothy Shea, Acting U.S. Representative to the United Nations called on “all parties to adhere to the ceasefire arrangement.”
Suwayda is an area in southern Syria, primarily inhabited by the Druze community, with smaller Christian and Bedouin populations. Clashes between local Druze and Bedouin communities escalated into significant violence in mid-July at which point Syrian government troops entered the fray. At least 800 people have been killed according to press reports.
Ambassador Shea reiterated the need for Syrian authorities to hold perpetrators of mass killings accountable.
“We welcome the Syrian government’s actions to conduct comprehensive investigations and hold accountable all perpetrators of the recent violence, as well as its steps to increase the flow of aid, restore public services, and return displaced persons to their homes. We also welcome the Syrian government’s pledge to fully cooperate with the UN to investigate crimes and to coordinate with the relevant UN agencies to support the flow of vital humanitarian aid.”
“A united, representative Syria requires a consistent, transparent, and credible justice system,” stressed Ambassador Shea.
“It is now on the Syrian government to take steps to arrest, detain, and pursue measures against those individuals who committed crimes and who are actively contributing to Syria’s instability.”
The United States does not seek to dictate the shape of Syria’s government or constitution. But following the recent violence, “two things should be clear,” said Ambassador Shea:
“First, there is absolutely no place for sectarian violence. The Syrian government must act decisively and consistently to protect everyone – no matter their ethnicity or religion. There must be zero tolerance – and swift justice – for any member of Syria’s military that abuses the trust placed in them. Second, every Syrian deserves to have a voice in how their country is governed.”
“The Syrian people fought for more than 13 years not just to rid themselves of Bashar al-Assad, but also for the right to decide their own fate. The only way Syria will stabilize is if all Syrians have a stake in the country’s future and if they collectively share power,” said Ambassador Shea.
“That is why we are urging the Syrian government – and leaders across the country – to engage in meaningful dialogue about their shared future.”
Time for Permanent Peace in Syria
U.S. President Donald Trump, center, meets with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, left, and Interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia. (File)
The United States strongly condemns the violence perpetrated against civilians in the Suwayda governorate of Syria that started in July. Ambassador Dorothy Shea, Acting U.S. Representative to the United Nations called on “all parties to adhere to the ceasefire arrangement.”