Germany’s Foreign Ministry has urged all parties in Syria to avoid escalating violence, which resulted in over 200 deaths in recent clashes. The fighting marked a significant increase in conflict around government loyalists and new authorities. Calls for peaceful resolutions and unity were emphasized in light of ongoing tensions and military actions from both sides.
The German Foreign Ministry has emphasized the need for all parties involved in Syria’s ongoing conflict to prevent further escalation of violence, particularly following a recent surge resulting in over 200 fatalities in just two days. This escalation was reportedly instigated by attacks from fighters loyal to the new authorities against villages supportive of ousted President Bashar al-Assad, as highlighted by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The Ministry expressed deep concern over the significant loss of life, stating, “We are shocked by the numerous victims in the western regions of Syria. We call on all sides to seek for peaceful solutions, national unity, inclusive political dialogue and transitional justice – to overcome the spiral of violence and hatred.”
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock had previously indicated potential support for Syria during her January visit, conditioned upon the government’s commitment to safeguarding minority groups. The violence reportedly escalated due to a series of ambushes targeting security forces associated with the transitional government, primarily along Syria’s western coast, since last Thursday.
Reports indicate that the recent clashes resulted in around 140 deaths linked to revenge attacks, alongside casualties among government forces and loyalist fighters. Although the Syrian authorities have not disclosed a definitive death toll, an unnamed security official pointed to retaliatory actions by individuals seeking vengeance for assaults on government forces.
As combat continues, the Syrian Defense Ministry has affirmed that government forces are regaining control over areas affected by recent attacks. Anas Khattab, head of Syria’s General Intelligence Service, revealed on X that investigations suggest involvement of former military leaders from the disbanded regime in the orchestration of the recent violence.
In a related development, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has called upon pro-Assad fighters to surrender. He underscored the government’s commitment to consolidating arms under state control, opposing the existence of unauthorized weaponry among armed groups. Ongoing violence in western Syria has been notably severe since the overthrow of Assad’s government in December, perpetuating instability following 14 years of civil unrest that has uprooted millions.
In conclusion, Germany has urged unity and peaceful resolution in Syria following a violent outbreak that has led to considerable casualties. The developments reflect intensifying tensions among conflicting factions within Syria. The calls for dialogue and transitional justice resonate alongside ongoing military actions from both government forces and armed groups associated with Assad’s former regime, highlighting the need for cooperative efforts towards restoring stability in the region.
Original Source: www.dw.com
