UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over the violent escalation in the coastal areas of Syria, which witnessed widespread killings, including the killing of entire families, and the death of a colleague from the UNRWA.

In his daily press briefing, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric conveyed the Secretary-General's heartfelt condolences to Syrians who have lost loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

The UN Secretary-General called on all parties to protect civilians and halt incitement and provocative actions, as Syria struggles with the legacy of 14 years of conflict and over five decades of authoritarian rule.

He reiterated his concern over escalating tensions between communities in Syria, stating that the bloodshed must stop immediately, and perpetrators of violations must be held accountable. He emphasized the need to address the concerns of Syrian communities in a meaningful way.

The UN spokesperson reported that the Secretary-General was informed about the announcement by the caretaker authorities regarding the formation of an investigation committee and a committee to maintain civil peace. Guterres stressed the importance and urgency of comprehensive, transparent transitional justice processes and reconciliation to achieve sustainable peace in Syria.

In the context of widespread misinformation and increasing tensions, Dujarric highlighted the Secretary-General's emphasis on the need to ensure and protect the space available for independent media and human rights organizations to carry out their work in monitoring, verification, and shedding light transparently on reports and allegations.