Security Council condemns terrorist attacks in cities on Syria's coast

In a press statement, the Council reaffirmed that terrorism “in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security” and “cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality or civilization.”

After the attacks on the Syrian coastal cities of Jableh and Tartous, the Council voiced concern over the continuation of terrorists from ISIL and groups loyal to ISIL, Jabhat al-Nusra, and other individuals, groups, and entities affiliated with ISIL or Al Qaeda to operate in Syria.

Council members condemned the negative impact of the terrorists' presence, actions and violent extremist ideology on the stability of Syria, neighbouring countries and the region, while noting the devastating humanitarian impact on the civilian populations.

They stressed the need for Member States to abide by their obligations under relevant Council resolutions while underlining that those responsible for the terrorist attacks be held accountable and that the “perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism” be brought to justice.

“Any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” reiterated the Council members.

In accordance with the UN Charter and international law, the Council “reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.”

They stressed the importance that measures be taken to prevent and suppress the financing of terrorism, terrorist organizations and individual terrorists in accordance with resolutions 2199 (2015) and 2253 (2015).

The members also reiterated their condemnation of indiscriminate attacks on civilians by any party to the Syrian conflict.

They backed the International Syria Support Group's 17 May statement expressing serious concern over growing civilian casualties in recent weeks, making clear that the attacks on civilians by any party are completely unacceptable.

The ISSG comprises the United States, the Russian Federation, the UN, the Arab League, the European Union, and 16 other countries and has been working since late last year to resolve the Syrian crisis.

The members of the Security Council called for a new round of negotiations, under UN auspices, to be convened at an appropriate time and urged the parties to engage constructively in the process.

They reiterated their call for safe, unhindered, immediate and direct humanitarian access throughout Syria and, pointing to Security Council resolution 2254, also called for immediate humanitarian assistance to reach all people throughout the country, particularly in besieged and hard-to-reach areas, including those in the Damascus Suburbs. Citing resolution 2258 (2015), they stressed that border crossings remain open for humanitarian relief.

Credit: UNICEF/UN013166/Al Shami

Source: www.justearthnews.com