United Nations: March 10 Agreement historical opportunity for solution

The Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Najat Rochdi, warned that the country "cannot afford another wave of instability," stressing that the risks of escalation in the region are "imminent and severe," threatening to undermine the fragile progress towards peace.

This came during Rochdi's video briefing to the Security Council on Tuesday, where she conveyed the UN Envoy's concern about the repercussions of any new escalation, particularly in Syria, and reiterated the UN Secretary-General's call for restraint from Israel and Iran.

Rochdi referred to the Special Envoy's meetings in Damascus and his recent visit to Lebanon, describing them as "constructive and cooperative," particularly regarding transitional justice and the issue of missing persons. She also welcomed the formation of a higher committee for parliamentary elections.

Rochdi emphasized Syrian women's aspirations for greater representation in the legislative process, citing repeated demands for "justice, accountability, inclusiveness, and the protection of individual rights."

Regarding NE Syria, she described the March 10 agreement as a "historic opportunity" to resolve outstanding issues, welcoming progress in student registration for exams, the exchange of detainees, and the return of some families from al-Hol camp.

For her part, Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, said that "three-quarters of the population still need assistance," noting the worsening food and drought crisis, and continued displacement despite some returns. She emphasized that the humanitarian response plan has only received 14% funding so far.

Msuya concluded with a warning: "We now have a window of opportunity that may not last. We must act quickly to achieve a better future for Syrians."

Sh-S

ANHA