Volker Türk Condemns Escalation of Violence in Syria

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has strongly condemned the recent surge in violence in northwest Syria, calling for an immediate end to the killing of civilians.

In a statement released from Geneva, Türk expressed grave concern over reports of coordinated attacks allegedly carried out by elements of the former government and local armed groups. The attacks have reportedly resulted in entire families— including women, children, and hors de combat fighters—being killed. Unconfirmed reports indicate that summary executions, including those on a sectarian basis, have been committed by unidentified groups, caretaker authorities' security forces, and elements associated with the former government.

Türk stressed that the caretaker authorities must back their commitments to the rule of law with concrete actions to protect civilians. He urged them to take all necessary measures to prevent further human rights violations and to ensure accountability for those responsible. "There must be prompt, transparent, and impartial investigations into all killings and abuses," he said, emphasizing that those responsible must be brought to justice in accordance with international legal norms.

Beyond the immediate violence, Türk warned that the ongoing surge in hate speech, both online and offline, highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive transitional justice process. "This process must be nationally-owned, inclusive, and centred on truth, justice, and accountability," he said.

The UN continues to call for the protection of civilians and for all parties involved in the conflict to uphold their obligations under international law.