LONDON: The UK called on Monday for interim authorities in the Syrian Arab Republic to take urgent action to address a surge of violence in the country, including reports of significant civilian casualties in coastal areas.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer described recent events as “deeply concerning,” as he reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to supporting Syria’s transition after the fall of Bashar Assad in December.
Falconer said the UK was working “as quickly as possible” to verify reports of the latest violence and identify those responsible. He urged the interim government in Damascus to uphold its commitment to protect all Syrians, and to set out a clear plan for transitional justice.
“This is a critical moment for Syria,” Falconer told MPs. “The interim authorities must demonstrate their intent to promote stability and to govern in the interests of all Syrians.”
Since Assad fled Syria, the UK has been pushing for an inclusive, Syrian-led political process to establish a representative, non-sectarian government.
Falconer welcomed the steps taken so far by the interim president, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, including the formation of a transitional government and the National Dialogue conference that took place on Feb. 25. However, he stressed that further action is required to unify factions in Syria and develop a clear road map for governance.
“The violence over the weekend demonstrates that more needs to be done to bring Syria’s different groups together,” he said. “We urge the interim authorities to urgently establish a clear process and timeline for the next phase of the transition.”
UK authorities remain engaged in high-level diplomatic discussions with Syria’s new leaders and international partners in an effort to prevent further conflict, counter security threats, including terrorism, and oversee the destruction of the Assad regime’s stockpiles of chemical weapons.
The British government has said it is also focused on supporting economic recovery in Syria, including the lifting of some sanctions to enable the delivery of humanitarian aid, while maintaining targeted measures against those responsible for past repression.
Falconer said the UK has allocated more than £62 million ($79.8 million) in additional humanitarian assistance since December to help provide essential aid such as food, healthcare and education through UN agencies and nongovernmental organizations.
“The humanitarian situation in Syria remains dire for millions of people,” he added. “Over 16 million are in need of assistance and we will continue to support those in need where it is safe to do so.”
Falconer reaffirmed Britain’s long-term commitment to Syrian stability: “This is a critical, fragile moment for Syria. The country faces significant challenges as it transitions after almost 14 years of conflict.
“Stability in Syria is firmly in our interests. The UK remains committed to the people of Syria and will continue to stand with them in building a more stable, free and prosperous future.”
