17.07.2025 Statement by Denmark at the UNSC open briefing on Syria

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Thank you, Mr. President,

Let me also thank ASG Khiari for his comprehensive briefing.

Allow me to highlight three points today.

First, Denmark is deeply concerned by the recent escalation of violence in the Sweida region of Syria, with troubling reports of hundreds of people killed.

We are alarmed by this tragic loss of life and strongly condemn all acts of violence against civilians.

The immediate priority must be to halt the bloodshed. We call on the Syrian transitional authorities to take tangible steps to this end. To prioritise de-escalation and restore calm.

Reports about a newly announced ceasefire offer some hope and we urge all parties to immediately stop the violence.

All parties must exercise maximum restraint and uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law. This includes protecting all civilians, regardless of their ethnic or religious affiliation. This also includes facilitating rapid and unimpeded access for emergency humanitarian aid, as well as ensuring safe passage for civilians to evacuate.

Syria has come a long way since the fall of the Assad regime. However, there can be no meaningful recovery without genuine safety and protection for all Syrias communities. 

This need for security and restraint also applies to the broader region. Denmark is deeply concerned by Israel’s escalatory strikes on Syrian territory, including in Damascus just yesterday. We reiterate our full support for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Second, Mr. President,

This renewed violence underscores that while progress has been made, the status quo in Syria remains unsustainable.

Further steps must be taken to ensure a genuine political transition, to integrate all security forces under one unified national command and to extend the government’s authority across Syria.

We strongly encourage the Syrian transitional authorities to expeditiously implement these crucial measures.

Such steps are vital to address the legitimate aspirations of all Syrians and to foster a truly inclusive political process, in line with resolution 2254, that can lead to a durable resolution of the conflict.

Third and finally, Mr. President,

We call for full accountability for all crimes committed in Sweida.

Reports of civilian deaths, including through field executions, demand a thorough investigation.

We urge the Syrian transitional authorities to ensure that accountability for any committed crimes is swiftly and transparently secured.

This commitment to justice must also extend to past deplorable incidents, including the killings of Alawite civilians in Latakia and Tartous in March 2025.

Impunity only breeds further violence and erodes trust. Upholding accountability for all atrocities, regardless of the victim or perpetrator, is essential for building a foundation of peace and justice in Syria.

Mr. President, in closing,

It is imperative that all parties prioritise de-escalation and dialogue at this critical moment.

Syria, and indeed the broader Middle East region, cannot afford another spiral of conflict and violence. The developments in Sweida underscore the need for urgent action.

Let me reiterate Denmark’s firm commitment to supporting all diplomatic efforts that can bring an end to the suffering, foster reconciliation, and pave the way for a stable and prosperous future for all Syrians.

Thank you.