UN Independent Commission Warns of Rising Violence in Syria

ARK News.. The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria has raised alarms over the increasing violence in the country, stressing the urgent need for true justice, accountability, and an end to lawlessness.

Marking the 14th anniversary of the Syrian revolution, the commission called for a renewed commitment to peace, justice, and human rights.

Commission Chairman Paulo Pinheiro stated: "While we reflect on this first anniversary since the previous government collapsed and the subsequent euphoria, the horrifying violence of the past two weeks reminds us of the enormous challenges ahead."

Pinheiro emphasized that Syrians need a fresh commitment to peace, justice, and human rights to break the cycle of violence and ensure accountability for all perpetrators, regardless of their affiliations.

The commission expressed deep concern over the recent wave of violence, particularly in Syria’s coastal region, where reports indicate that many civilians, including women and children, have been killed. An investigation is currently underway.

The commission praised the Syrian government’s decision to conduct an independent investigation into these events but stressed that the inquiry must remain impartial, free from interference, and transparent to the Syrian public.

Additionally, the UN commission warned against the spread of misinformation online, citing fake videos falsely attributed to recent events. It also condemned increasing hate speech on social media, cautioning that it could fuel further violence.

The commission reaffirmed the necessity of holding accountable all those responsible for crimes in Syria since 2011—whether under the previous regime or armed groups. It called for:

Preserving evidence of war crimes, including official documents and mass grave sites, to support future justice efforts.

Ensuring the rehabilitation of former detainees, particularly those released in December 2024, helping them reintegrate socially and legally.

Uncovering the fate of thousands of missing persons in cooperation with civil society and international organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Call to Ease Economic Sanctions

The commission also urged the international community to lift broad economic sanctions, warning that continued economic deterioration could lead to renewed instability.

As Syria navigates this critical juncture, the UN commission reiterated that peace and accountability remain the only paths toward lasting stability.

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