UN envoy condemns Israel’s occupation of Syria, warning it destabilises fragile security situation

The United Nations’ special envoy for Syria has condemned Israel’s occupation of southern Syria and its ongoing air strikes on Syrian territory, saying it risks further destabilising an already-fragile situation in the country.

Upon the rapid takeover of Syria by former rebel forces and the collapse of the late Assad regime on 8 December, Israel launched a barrage of strikes on the country’s defence capabilities and infrastructure while advancing forces to occupy territory further into Syria all the way to the south of the capital Damascus.

In a statement, the UN special envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen warned that Israel’s actions in Syria are “unacceptable and risk further destabilising an already fragile situation, heightening regional tensions, and undermining efforts toward de-escalation and a sustainable political transition.”

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Expressing his concern over Israeli forces’ continued violations of the 1974 ceasefire agreement between Tel Aviv and Damascus, Pedersen called on Israel “to cease violations, uphold its international obligations, and refrain from unilateral measures that exacerbate conflict.”

The UN envoy further called on all parties to respect Syria’s sovereignty, unity, independence and territorial integrity, stating: “Constructive dialogue and strict adherence to international agreements and international law are essential for security in Syria and the broader region.”

His comments came as new Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa also condemned the persistent Israeli assaults, stating on the sidelines of yesterday’s emergency Arab summit in Egypt that Tel Aviv “justifies its aggression for alleged security concerns, but it reflects expansionist intentions.”

Al-Sharaa refrained from giving away any strategy or stance he potentially has toward that threat, however, saying “how will we respond? This is something we should not disclose now.”

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