The UN reports escalating violence against Alawite communities in Syria, including summary executions, while confirming ongoing humanitarian aid efforts. The arrest of former President Duterte highlights accountability for extrajudicial killings in the Philippines. In Sudan, healthcare crises deepen amid ongoing conflict, leaving thousands in dire need of medical assistance.
The UN human rights office (OHCHR) has reported increasing violence against Syria’s predominantly Alawite communities, including summary executions of entire families. OHCHR spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan confirmed that 111 fatalities have been documented, although estimates suggest the true toll could be nearing 1,000. Security forces, allied with Syria’s Caretaker Authorities, have allegedly targeted communities in areas once under the control of ousted President Bashar Al Assad. Mr. Al-Kheetan stated, “Many of the cases documented were of summary executions.” These attacks seem to take a sectarian form, with specific areas, such as Tartus, Latakia, and Hama, being notably affected.
Attacks have included armed raiders interrogating residents about their sectarian affiliation, leading to executions based on their responses. Survivors have reported witnessing male family members executed in front of their families. Additionally, hospitals have faced assaults, with medical staff and patients becoming targets.
In a more optimistic development, the UN has welcomed an agreement between the Caretaker Authorities in Syria and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This pact aims to integrate fighting units into the national army, recognizing the Kurds as essential to the state. The UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, expressed hope that this agreement would contribute positively to a political transition in line with Security Council resolution 2254, promoting a new constitution and fair elections.
On the humanitarian front, the UN has confirmed ongoing aid deliveries from Türkiye into northwest Syria. Stéphane Dujarric reported that approximately 31 trucks have transported essential supplies, including food and hygiene kits, to assist those displaced by violence. The response endeavours to mobilize further assistance for the vulnerable populations in dire need.
Former Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte has been apprehended in Manila following an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant related to his controversial drug policy. The ICC has scrutinized the extrajudicial killings under Duterte’s “war on drugs” initiative, previously condemned by the OHCHR. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani emphasized the importance of addressing impunity and protecting affected families amid ongoing grievances about justice.
In Sudan, dire healthcare conditions prevail, particularly in North Darfur, which has faced escalating violence since conflict erupted nearly two years ago between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. Over 200 healthcare facilities in the state capital El Fasher are non-operational, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The UN reports overwhelming challenges for a healthcare system already straining to meet basic needs.
Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 70 percent of hospitals in conflict-affected regions are no longer functional, leaving millions without essential medical care. Attacks on healthcare facilities have also surged, with nearly 150 recorded incidents since the war’s inception, indicating a critical healthcare emergency in Sudan.
This article highlights significant human rights violations and humanitarian crises in Syria and Sudan. The violence against Alawite communities in Syria raises severe concerns, in addition to the ongoing struggles faced by healthcare systems amid conflict in Sudan. Positive developments, such as the agreement between Syrian authorities and Kurdish forces, and continuing humanitarian aid deliveries, offer glimmers of hope amidst these dire conditions. The arrest of former President Duterte also underscores accountability for international crimes related to human rights abuses.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
