Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, addressed the UN Security Council, emphasizing the critical need for uninterrupted humanitarian assistance in Syria.
He highlighted the severe needs, the importance of cross-border aid, and the necessity of a political solution to end the prolonged crisis.
The Critical Importance of Aid Access
Humanitarian organizations must have the capacity to deliver lifesaving assistance in Syria, where the need is more pressing than ever.
The current authorization for the UN to use the Bab Al Hawa border crossing is set to expire in less than 20 days, threatening the lifeline for 4.2 million Syrians in the North-West.
Ambassador Kariuki stressed that the cross-border response is the most efficient and predictable route to those in need, calling for access to be granted without arbitrary deadlines or conditions, in line with international humanitarian law.
The Broader Impact of Syria’s Conflict
The devastating impact of Syria’s conflict extends beyond its borders, affecting millions of refugees in neighboring countries like Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey.
Recognizing World Refugee Day, Kariuki acknowledged the generosity of these host countries and the grim reality for many Syrians who cannot return home due to violence and dire humanitarian conditions.
Despite aspirations for voluntary repatriation, the actions of the Assad regime have hindered safe returns, with reports of over 4,700 returnees detained since 2014.
The Necessity of Political Progress
A comprehensive political settlement, as outlined in Security Council resolution 2254, is essential to resolve Syria’s enduring humanitarian crisis and ongoing displacement.
The Syrian opposition’s commitment to this resolution during their annual conference and the innovative solutions proposed by civil society organizations highlight the potential for progress.
Kariuki urged the Assad regime to engage constructively with the UN-facilitated political process, emphasizing that it remains the only viable path to lasting peace in Syria.
Key Points from Ambassador Kariuki’s Statement
Topic |
Key Points |
|---|---|
| Humanitarian Assistance | Urgency of renewing Bab Al Hawa border crossing authorization, critical for 4.2 million Syrians in the North-West. |
| Impact on Refugees | Recognition of the ongoing refugee crisis, need for safe conditions for voluntary returns, commendation of host countries’ support. |
| Political Solution | Emphasis on the importance of a political settlement as per Security Council resolution 2254, call for regime’s constructive engagement. |
The UK’s Commitment to Syria
The UK’s approach to addressing the increasing threat of Daesh in Syria involves a multifaceted strategy. This includes military action, counter-terrorism initiatives, disrupting Daesh’s finances, preventing the flow of foreign fighters, supporting stabilization efforts, and countering propaganda.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) has conducted numerous airstrikes against Daesh targets in Syria and Iraq, playing a pivotal role in the Global Coalition against Daesh, which comprises 83 partner countries committed to defeating the terrorist group.
The UK’s Efforts Against Daesh
- The UK leads in counter-terrorism and counter-extremism strategies.
- Collaborative efforts with coalition partners to stifle Daesh’s financial resources and prevent foreign fighter flow.
The Final Word
Ambassador James Kariuki’s statement at the UN Security Council underscores the UK’s commitment to ensuring humanitarian organizations can deliver vital assistance in Syria.
The call for sustained aid, recognition of the refugee crisis, and emphasis on political progress highlight the multifaceted approach needed to address Syria’s complex and enduring challenges.
By supporting humanitarian efforts and advocating for a political solution, the international community can help pave the way for a more stable and peaceful future for Syria.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Royal Air Force, CSIS, European Parliament (Document) & James Kariuki.
