Human Rights Concerns in Northern Syria
Human Rights Watch has raised alarms regarding the escalating violence in northern Syria, particularly in the Aleppo countryside, where civilians are facing severe violations amid intense clashes between government forces and opposition factions. The organization has urged all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law, emphasizing the need to target only military objectives.
Syrian Government's History of Violations
Adam Coogle, the deputy Middle East director at Amnesty International, highlighted the Syrian government's notorious history of brutal tactics over the past 14 years, which have resulted in crimes against humanity and war crimes. The ongoing violence has led to fears that the government may resort to similar unlawful actions that could further endanger civilians. Coogle also pointed out the troubling record of opposition factions, which have been known to mistreat individuals associated with the government and have shown a lack of protection for religious and ethnic minorities.
Deteriorating Humanitarian Situation
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported a rapidly deteriorating situation in Aleppo, with significant displacement due to ongoing fighting. Recent attacks have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, including the deaths of 69 civilians, among them 26 children and 11 women, as well as hundreds of injuries. The Syrian Network for Human Rights has recorded a total of 149 civilian deaths in recent days, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian intervention.
