UN Warns of Spiraling Violence in Northwest Syria

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over escalating violence in northwest Syria, particularly in the Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama governorates, where hostilities have resulted in significant civilian casualties and the displacement of over 48,500 people. Both UN Secretary-General António Guterres and other officials have called for an immediate cessation of fighting, emphasizing the obligations of all parties under international humanitarian law. The situation has deteriorated following a surge in attacks by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a designated terrorist group, and retaliatory airstrikes from Syrian forces and their ally Russia. The humanitarian crisis continues to grow, with essential services disrupted and civilians at heightened risk. UN representatives have underscored the urgent need for a political resolution to the ongoing conflict, which has persisted for nearly 14 years, leading to significant suffering among the population. Aid operations have largely been suspended due to security concerns, exacerbating the dire conditions for those affected by the violence.