Syria Inquiry Commission welcomes ceasefire, urges civilian protection

The Commission urged continued efforts to protect civilians, including facilitating the return of displaced people and ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches North and East Syria.

Paolo Pinheiro, the head of the Commission, said: "We welcome efforts to stabilize the region and now hope for a full end to hostilities and a sustainable solution, including addressing the humanitarian crisis and meeting needs for food security, water, and electricity."

The Commission called on all parties to strictly comply with international humanitarian law in any future operations in northeastern Syria, adhering to principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, and urged the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure from further harm.

Commissioner Mounia Ammar added: "We are alarmed by reports of the killing of fighters who surrendered their weapons and other civilians, as well as the desecration of bodies." The Commission is investigating alleged violations of international humanitarian law and human rights and will issue reports later.

The Commission emphasized the urgent need to deliver humanitarian aid without obstacles, warning of the dangers posed by severe cold, lack of electricity, water, food, and fuel to the most vulnerable groups, particularly infants who have died in displacement camps in Idlib and Kobani.

The Commission stressed its deep concern for the safety of children in the region, highlighting the special protection afforded to them under international humanitarian law.

ANHA