UN human rights chief Volker Türk advocates for lifting Western sanctions on Syria post-Assad’s ousting, emphasizing the need for transitional justice and reconstruction aid. During his visit, Türk met with new authority leaders, promoting respect for human rights. He highlighted the detrimental effects of sanctions on the Syrian populace and called for their urgent reconsideration. Additionally, authorities detained an Egyptian militant linked to past insurgencies.
Volker Türk, the UN human rights chief, has called for the lifting of Western sanctions on Syria following the ousting of former President Bashar Assad. During his visit to Syria, Türk highlighted the necessity for transitional justice for victims to rebuild public trust in emerging state institutions. He emphasized that vengeance should not be the response to years of turmoil, which peaked with the Assad family’s regime falling to insurgents in recent conflicts.
While in Syria, Türk met Ahmad al-Sharaa, head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, who assured him that the group values human rights and aims to promote social cohesion and reform. The prolonged civil war, initiated in early 2011, has resulted in immense human suffering, with nearly half a million casualties and millions displaced. Türk stressed that rebuilding Syria requires comprehensive international support, acknowledging the substantial financial needs for reconstruction.
In his remarks, Türk pointed out that ongoing territorial threats to Syria must be addressed, urging an end to hostilities. He noted that sanctions imposed on Assad’s government by Western nations should be reconsidered, focusing on their detrimental effects on the Syrian populace. He urged an immediate reevaluation of these sanctions in light of the country’s need for assistance during this crucial period.
In related news, a Syrian Interior Ministry official disclosed the detention of an Egyptian militant, Ahmad al-Mansour, who had previously threatened to undermine the Egyptian government. His arrest is believed to alleviate concerns from Arab nations regarding Syria being used as a platform for hostile regional activities.
The conflict in Syria has been ongoing since 2011, leading to severe humanitarian crises and widespread devastation. The impact of sanctions, which were implemented by Western countries against the Assad regime to pressure the government for reform, further complicated the humanitarian situation. The emergence of new local leaders post-Assad has prompted discussions surrounding human rights and the necessity of international support for reconstruction efforts.
The call by Volker Türk for lifting sanctions, alongside his emphasis on transitional justice and reconstruction support for Syria, highlights the urgent need to reevaluate international relations in the region. The detention of militant Ahmad al-Mansour also reflects ongoing security concerns, indicating a complex path forward for Syria as it navigates post-conflict recovery.
Original Source: apnews.com
