United Nations, July 29 (NationPress) UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen emphasized that the Syrian interim authorities need to operate with utmost professionalism and discipline.

He stated, "A sovereign Syria must ultimately hold the monopoly on the legitimate use of force and operate under the rule of law," while addressing the UN Security Council.

Pedersen raised alarms over credible reports detailing widespread violations and abuses in Sweida, encompassing summary executions, arbitrary killings, kidnappings, destruction of private property, and looting. He pointed out that among the alleged perpetrators were members of the Syrian security forces and individuals linked to the interim authorities, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

"Sectarian incitement and abusive conduct, especially during security operations, is simply inexcusable. The state has a clear duty to act professionally and with discipline, even when facing attacks. It must gain control of its forces and ensure visible accountability, which is essential for rebuilding trust, enhancing security, and fostering unity," he urged.

According to Pedersen, Syrians must perceive that the state and its forces are present solely to safeguard them, reflecting the interim president's stated policy. He added, "The gap between that policy and the reality on the ground must close."

Loyalty to the state, he noted, "must be earned through a genuine process that builds a representative state, protects the rights of all, and embraces all segments of society as equal."

Discussing the need for inclusivity in the political transition, Pedersen remarked that many Syrians are concerned about centralized power, lack of transparency, weak checks and balances, and inadequate avenues for public consultation, warning of the risk of "deepening feelings of exclusion and undermining belief in the transition."

He stressed that the formation of a People's Assembly is a pivotal step in the political transition, anticipated to occur in September.

"It is absolutely vital that all major Syrian groups and components are fully included as electors and candidates," Pedersen asserted, highlighting the importance of women's participation in both sectors.

He concluded by stating that the United Nations "is ready to do all it can to help, working with the authorities and all Syrians," adding that "the Syrian political transition simply cannot fail."