The United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting due to the sharp aggravation of the conflict in Syria. The focus was fighting in the south of the country in the province of Eswaid, as well as a number of Israeli aircraft at military facilities and strategic infrastructure in the Damascus capital. On July 18, the Ukrinform Agency reported on July 18.
The Assistant Secretary-General of the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific Region, Hared Hari, recalled that the Secretary General of Anthony Guterrash strongly condemns any violence against the civilian population. He expressed deep concern due to actions that exacerbate inter -religious confrontations, undermine the hope of the Syrian people into peace and impede the political transformation of the country after 14 years of war.
According to Hiari, the clashes between representatives of the armed formations, in particular the communities of "friends" and national security forces, together with a series of Israeli aircraft, pose a serious threat to Syria stabilization. He emphasized that the path to security and stability in the province of Es-Suide and in the whole country is possible only through comprehensive national reconciliation, which should include representatives of all social and religious groups.
During the meeting, Greek Foreign Minister Georgos Herapetritis strongly condemned attacks on civilians and objects of religious heritage. He especially noted the recent attacks on the Greek Catholic Church of St. Michael in Savar, as well as a terrorist attack near the Orthodox Church of St. Elijah. According to the Greek diplomat, these incidents confirm the need to ensure reliable protection of the Christian community and other ethnic and religious minorities in Syria.
Herapetritis also emphasized the importance of transparent and rapid investigation of cases of violence in accordance with international standards. This was commented in the context of the statement of Syria's transition administration to reach a truce with the “Prisa” group and its intention to hold the perpetrators responsible.
UN Security Council participants called on all parties to the conflict immediately to stop the fighting and actively work on national reconciliation, which is key to restoring peace and stability in the country after many years of war.
