The UN confirms that at least 111 Syrian civilians have died in recent mass killings, likely a figure significantly underreported. Many victims were subjected to summary executions on a sectarian basis by armed groups linked to the previous government. The UN calls for accountability and urges adherence to international humanitarian laws, highlighting the urgency of impartial investigations into these acts.
The United Nations Human Rights spokesperson confirmed the deaths of 111 civilians in recent mass killings in Syria, with indications that the actual toll may be much higher. Thameen Al Kheetan reported that many victims were summarily executed, with targeting seeming to be based on sectarian identity in the governorates of Tartus, Latakia, and Hama, allegedly by armed groups linked to the former regime’s security forces.
Al Kheetan highlighted that entire families, including women and children, have been attacked, often after raiders inquired about their sectarian affiliations. In addition to the civilian casualties, assaults on several hospitals in the affected areas have been noted, leading to further injuries and destruction of medical facilities.
According to international law, particularly under the Geneva Conventions and the Rome Statute, violence against individuals based on their religious beliefs constitutes a serious violation and may amount to war crimes or genocide. Al Kheetan cautioned that the prevalence of hate speech and misinformation risks exacerbating the already volatile situation in Syria.
In the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s ousting, sectarian tensions remain pronounced, particularly with Alawite groups traditionally supporting the regime. Reports signal that recent violence may be rooted in retaliatory motives from both pro and anti-Assad factions. Violent incidents surged on March 6, instigated by sectarian groups and affiliates of the former government against civilians.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, asserted that those responsible for these atrocities must face justice. He urged the caretaker authorities to adhere to their international human rights responsibilities and to conduct thorough, unbiased investigations into these serious allegations.
The UN’s confirmation of civilian deaths in Syria underscores the grave humanitarian crisis arising from recent sectarian violence. With calls for accountability echoing from international officials, it is imperative for the caretaker authorities to ensure adherence to human rights obligations and undertake thorough investigations into these atrocities. The potential for increased polarization within the country poses an additional challenge as the conflict evolves.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
