The UN reported 111 civilian deaths due to sectarian violence in Syria, with the actual number likely higher. Many cases involved summary executions by unidentified armed groups. UN officials called for adherence to international law and investigations into these attacks, stressing the critical need for accountability.
The United Nations confirmed the death of 111 Syrian civilians in recent mass killings during a press briefing held in Geneva. The UN Human Rights spokesperson, Thameen Al Kheetan, indicated that the actual death toll might be significantly higher, as the office is actively engaged in verifying and documenting civilian casualties related to these incidents.
Al Kheetan pointed out that many recorded cases involved summary executions, suggesting that these acts were executed on a sectarian basis predominantly in the Tartus, Latakia, and Hama governorates. He reported that unidentified armed groups, purportedly supporting the security forces of the caretaker authorities, executed these attacks, which included entire families, notably women and children.
UN investigations disclosed disturbing patterns of raiders questioning residents about their sectarian affiliation before determining whether they would be killed or spared. Additional reports indicated that several hospitals in the affected areas suffered attacks, resulting in casualties and damage.
Under the Geneva Conventions of 1949, violence against civilians is strictly prohibited. Moreover, attacks motivated by religious beliefs may constitute genocidal acts under the Genocide Convention and war crimes under the Rome Statute. Al Kheetan cautioned that rampant hate speech and misinformation could exacerbate societal divisions and escalate the ongoing conflict.
Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria experienced substantial political changes, including the dissolution of the governing party by the interim leadership. Sectarian affiliations are significantly intertwined with the Syrian conflict, with the Alawite sect largely supporting the former regime. The recent targeted attacks may reflect retaliatory actions amidst this tumultuous environment.
Violence surged in coastal regions of Syria on March 6, indicating coordinated assaults by sectarian factions affiliated with the previous government against civilians. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, stated that summary executions were carried out by unidentified individuals, including members of the caretaker authorities’ security forces.
Türk emphasized the necessity for accountability regarding these crimes and urged the caretaker authorities to assure military actions align with international human rights and humanitarian standards. He also called for a swift and impartial inquiry into the reported allegations.
The UN’s confirmation of civilian deaths in Syria highlights the severe implications of sectarian violence and emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and adherence to international laws. The call for thorough investigations and the recognition of humanity’s rights under the Geneva Conventions underline the international community’s role in addressing these grave violations.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
