The humanitarian crisis in Syria is worsening, with the U.N. warning of an impending catastrophe due to escalating violence and a collapsing economy. In a recent report, the U.N. Commission highlighted severe human rights abuses and a dire need for international humanitarian assistance, while emphasizing the risk of a larger regional conflict that may further endanger civilians.

The humanitarian crisis in Syria continues to escalate, with United Nations investigators warning that the situation may soon spiral out of control due to escalating violence and a deteriorating economy. Paulo Pinheiro, chair of the U.N. Syria Commission of Inquiry, expressed concern over the increasing poverty and despair among the Syrian population, which has endured 13 years of civil war. Pinheiro emphasized the negative impact of shifting global attention away from Syria, stating, “As world attention and resources shift to other grave political or humanitarian crises, Syria descends further into a quagmire of misery and despair.”

The report presented to the U.N. Human Rights Council detailed the precarious conditions within Syria, where arbitrary detentions, torture, and forced disappearances are prevalent. The commission indicated a surge in violence along various frontlines, with numerous military factions employing heavy artillery against perceived political opponents. This violence has led to widespread human rights violations, deepening fears of a large-scale war.

Specifically noted in the report is the ongoing conflict in the northwest region, where groups such as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham and factions of the Syrian National Army engage in efforts to maintain control, committing egregious acts against civilians. The commission reported that Syrian government forces have intensified their military operations in Idlib, resulting in civilian casualties due to unlawful attacks using cluster munitions in populated areas. “Such attacks may amount to war crimes,” the report asserts.

In a further statement, the report highlighted the role of Russia’s airstrikes in exacerbating civilian suffering, indicating that precautions to minimize harm to civilians were inadequate. In response, Syria’s ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva criticized the commission as biased, questioning its legitimacy and calling its findings a reflection of a Western narrative.

Heightened tensions in the region, particularly due to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Lebanon, were also discussed, with Pinheiro noting the implications of increased Israeli airstrikes and retaliatory actions involving Iranian-affiliated groups in Syria. The U.N. special envoy for Syria, Geir O. Pedersen, warned of the imminent threat of a wider regional conflict that could further endanger the Syrian populace.

The humanitarian outlook remains dire, with more than 306,000 civilians reported killed since the war began. Approximately 16.7 million Syrians—three in every four people—require humanitarian assistance, with millions experiencing acute food insecurity. Pinheiro lamented the international community’s failure to adequately fund the U.N.’s humanitarian response plan, highlighting the shrinking economy and the resultant loss of social infrastructure due to ongoing violence and corruption.

Syria has suffered through a prolonged civil conflict that began in 2011, resulting in catastrophic humanitarian consequences. The ongoing violence has destabilized the nation, causing massive displacement and severe economic hardship. The United Nations has highlighted the urgent need for international attention and intervention, emphasizing the worsening conditions faced by millions of Syrians affected by the crisis. As various factions continue to engage in combat, civilians endure the brunt of violence and significant humanitarian challenges persist, requiring comprehensive global support and action.

In summary, the humanitarian crisis in Syria presents a grave situation as violence escalates and economic stability deteriorates. The findings of the U.N. Syria Commission of Inquiry underscore the urgent need for international intervention and support to address the misery experienced by millions. With significant human rights violations taking place and a lack of funding for humanitarian efforts, the international community is urged to acknowledge and respond to the critical needs of the Syrian populace to prevent further degradation of the social fabric and health of the nation.

Original Source: www.voanews.com

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