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The U.N. Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria raised alarms about escalating violence in Syria, warning that the ongoing sectarian clashes and Israeli airstrikes are threatening the country's already fragile path toward sustainable peace.
In a statement titled "U.N. Syria Commission: Fresh clashes and Israeli intervention threaten fragile peace," released on May 2, the commission expressed deep concern over the recent surge in violence, particularly in rural Damascus and the southern Suwayda governorate, areas that have seen deadly sectarian clashes and confrontations.
More than 100 people have reportedly died in the recent fighting, many of them civilians.
The commission described the violence in the Damascus countryside and Suwayda as a serious setback to Syria's peace prospects. "The recent surge in violence and deadly clashes with sectarian dimensions is deeply troubling for Syria’s path toward sustainable and rights-respecting peace," the commission said. "The spread of violence, including Israeli airstrikes and growing sectarian tensions, risks further destabilizing Syria."
Israeli airstrikes have targeted multiple locations in Syria, including areas in and around the capital Damascus, as well as in Hama, Latakia, Deraa, and Quneitra.
The commission emphasized that these strikes, coupled with military threats and ongoing occupation of the Syrian Golan, exacerbate the risks of fragmentation and further civilian harm.
The commission also expressed concern about Israel’s continued military intervention in Syria, which it says risks further fragmenting the country. "Israeli airstrikes and military actions, as well as attempts to divide Syrian communities, are deepening Syria's instability," it warned.
The commission noted that while a local agreement had reportedly been reached between leaders in Suwayda and officials in Damascus, the interim government remains responsible for ensuring the protection of civilians and addressing the legal violations occurring on the ground.
The commission urged all parties involved in the violence to cease hostilities immediately and explore all avenues for de-escalation and dialogue. It stressed the importance of protecting civilians and maintaining humanitarian access, particularly in areas with significant displacement.
"The interim government must ensure prompt, impartial, transparent, and independent investigations into these violations of international law," the commission stated, highlighting that impunity for past violations has been a consistent driver of the conflict in Syria.
The recent violence follows similar incidents in Syria's coastal areas earlier in March, with confrontations intensifying along sectarian lines. The commission’s investigations into these incidents are ongoing. It noted that the spread of discriminatory incitement, including through social media, is contributing to the escalation of violence.
"The protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and the prevention of further displacement must be prioritized," the commission emphasized, urging the international community to take action to halt the growing violence in the country.
In the wake of increased Israeli strikes, Israeli officials have stated that the airstrikes are aimed at military targets, including a military facility, anti-aircraft systems, and missile infrastructure. Israeli officials also reiterated that they would continue such operations if deemed necessary.
A spokesperson for the Arab Parliament condemned the airstrikes, calling them a violation of Syria's sovereignty and security. "The attack on Syria is part of Israel's ongoing violations of Syria's sovereignty, and we call on the international community to oppose these actions," the statement said.
Despite the challenges, the commission reiterated the importance of pursuing peace and justice through accountable processes. "Only by upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for the victims can Syria rebuild trust among its fractured communities," it concluded.
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