Syrian Interim Leader Promises Justice Amid Mass Killing Allegations
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Synopsis
Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged to hold accountable those responsible for recent violence in the coastal provinces, particularly targeting remnants of the former regime. He condemned attacks on security forces and civilians, asserting that justice will be served without exception.
Key Takeaways
- Accountability for violence is a top priority.
- Formation of a High Committee for Civil Peace.
- Condemnation of foreign intervention efforts.
- Urgent need for investigation into civilian killings.
- Continued commitment to Syria's unity.
Damascus, March 10 (NationPress) Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa pledged to ensure accountability for those implicated in the recent violence in the coastal areas, specifically targeting the remnants of the previous regime whom he accused of instigating assaults on both security forces and civilians.
In a televised statement, al-Sharaa condemned the slaying of security personnel and civilians in the provinces of Latakia and Tartous, attributing the surge in violence to the remnants of the fallen regime and their foreign allies, who he claimed aim to destabilize Syria and provoke sectarian conflict.
He reaffirmed that all individuals involved in crimes against state forces or civilians would be brought to justice without exception, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Al-Sharaa also condemned any efforts to fragment Syria, cautioning against calls for foreign intervention or internal discord.
“Syria will remain united with the will of its people and the strength of its army,” he declared.
Additionally, al-Sharaa announced the establishment of a High Committee for Civil Peace, which will directly engage with communities in the coastal region to address their concerns and promote stability.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, also condemned the killings of civilians in Syria, demanding a comprehensive investigation into the executions of non-combatants and accountability for those responsible.
“We are receiving extremely disturbing reports of entire families, including women, children, and hors de combat fighters, being killed,” Turk stated. He further urged the creation of a thorough and credible justice process at the national level that guarantees fairness, inclusivity, and accountability.
Violent confrontations erupted on Thursday in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartous between Syrian security forces and armed groups opposing the new government in Damascus.
On Friday night, additional army and interior ministry forces were deployed to Tartous and Latakia. Local authorities established a curfew amid the escalating violence. The interim defense ministry of the country announced the closure of roads leading to the area.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based war monitor, reported that 745 civilians have been killed in coastal Syria in recent days.
