UN Secretary-General Calls for Urgent Action on 14th Anniversary of Syrian Civil War
Antonio Guterres emphasizes the critical need for support and rebuilding efforts as the conflict's humanitarian crisis deepens.
On March 13, 2025, the United Nations marked the 14th anniversary of the Syrian civil war, prompting Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to urge immediate action to secure the country's future.
Guterres condemned the extensive human suffering resulting from the conflict, which has seen the deployment of chemical weapons, barrel bombings, and prolonged sieges, weaponizing both food and medicine.
The civil war, which began in March 2011 as protests against President Bashar Assad's regime, escalated into a complex conflict involving various factions and foreign powers.
Estimates indicate that over 500,000 people have lost their lives, while more than 13 million Syrians have been displaced, with approximately 6.7 million seeking refuge in neighboring countries and beyond.
The civil war has led to substantial destruction of infrastructure, resulting in severe humanitarian crises characterized by shortages of essential supplies such as food, water, and medical care.
Guterres highlighted the 'unimaginable hardship' endured by the Syrian people, particularly citing the indiscriminate violence against civilians and the destruction of critical facilities, including hospitals, schools, and homes.
Despite the dire circumstances, he noted the persistent calls for freedom and dignity among the Syrian populace.
In December 2024, the Assad regime experienced a significant setback following a major offensive by opposition forces, notably Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham.
This development has provided a potential opportunity for rebuilding and reconciliation, although Guterres cautioned that progress remains precarious.
He stressed the necessity for all violence to cease and called for a credible, independent investigation into ongoing civilian casualties.
Recent reports from the UN indicate that sectarian violence continues to plague the coastal region of Syria, with a recent ambush by armed groups loyal to the ousted Assad regime resulting in the deaths of at least 16 security personnel, according to the Syrian Ministry of Defense.
Guterres noted that the caretaker authorities are purportedly committed to establishing a new Syria founded on inclusive principles for all citizens.
He emphasized the urgent requirement for bold and decisive measures to ensure safety and dignity for every Syrian, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, or gender.
He reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to assisting the Syrian people in an inclusive political transition that fosters accountability and facilitates national healing.
Guterres articulated that ensuring Syria transitions from the shadows of war into a future defined by dignity and the rule of law is paramount.
He appealed to the international community to support the Syrian populace in their quest for a more peaceful and inclusive future.
Guterres condemned the extensive human suffering resulting from the conflict, which has seen the deployment of chemical weapons, barrel bombings, and prolonged sieges, weaponizing both food and medicine.
The civil war, which began in March 2011 as protests against President Bashar Assad's regime, escalated into a complex conflict involving various factions and foreign powers.
Estimates indicate that over 500,000 people have lost their lives, while more than 13 million Syrians have been displaced, with approximately 6.7 million seeking refuge in neighboring countries and beyond.
The civil war has led to substantial destruction of infrastructure, resulting in severe humanitarian crises characterized by shortages of essential supplies such as food, water, and medical care.
Guterres highlighted the 'unimaginable hardship' endured by the Syrian people, particularly citing the indiscriminate violence against civilians and the destruction of critical facilities, including hospitals, schools, and homes.
Despite the dire circumstances, he noted the persistent calls for freedom and dignity among the Syrian populace.
In December 2024, the Assad regime experienced a significant setback following a major offensive by opposition forces, notably Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham.
This development has provided a potential opportunity for rebuilding and reconciliation, although Guterres cautioned that progress remains precarious.
He stressed the necessity for all violence to cease and called for a credible, independent investigation into ongoing civilian casualties.
Recent reports from the UN indicate that sectarian violence continues to plague the coastal region of Syria, with a recent ambush by armed groups loyal to the ousted Assad regime resulting in the deaths of at least 16 security personnel, according to the Syrian Ministry of Defense.
Guterres noted that the caretaker authorities are purportedly committed to establishing a new Syria founded on inclusive principles for all citizens.
He emphasized the urgent requirement for bold and decisive measures to ensure safety and dignity for every Syrian, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, or gender.
He reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to assisting the Syrian people in an inclusive political transition that fosters accountability and facilitates national healing.
Guterres articulated that ensuring Syria transitions from the shadows of war into a future defined by dignity and the rule of law is paramount.
He appealed to the international community to support the Syrian populace in their quest for a more peaceful and inclusive future.
