Global Developments: Violence in Syria, Duterte’s Arrest, and Sudan’s Healthcare Crisis

The UN confirms severe violence against Syria’s Alawite communities with numerous executions and a deteriorating humanitarian situation. Positive news includes a new agreement between Syrian authorities and Kurdish forces. In the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte faces arrest by the ICC for his controversial drug policies. Sudan struggles with a healthcare crisis amid ongoing conflict, severely affecting civilian access to essential services.

The UN Human Rights Office has confirmed ongoing violence against Syria’s ethnic Alawite communities, including the summary execution of entire families. So far, 111 deaths have been officially reported, although some media sources estimate the actual toll may approach 1,000. Security forces aligned with Syria’s Caretaker Authorities supposedly targeted these communities in coastal regions linked to former President Bashar Al Assad’s power base.

According to spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan, many executions appeared to be conducted on a sectarian basis, primarily in Tartus, Latakia, and Hama governorates, allegedly by armed groups supporting the caretaker authorities. Testimonies indicate that attackers inquired whether victims were Alawite or Sunni, subsequently choosing to kill or spare them. The violence has notably extended to hospitals, with medical staff and patients facing targeted attacks.

In a positive development, the UN has endorsed an agreement between Syria’s Caretaker Authorities and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which took place recently. The SDF, notable for its role in opposing the Assad regime, is set to integrate its combat units into the national army, recognizing Kurdish contributions to the state. UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen expressed hope that this agreement would inspire a broader, inclusive political transition, aligned with Security Council resolution 2254, and that it would facilitate the creation of a new constitution and fair elections.

On the humanitarian front, cross-border aid deliveries from Türkiye to northwest Syria are ongoing. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reported the passage of approximately 31 trucks carrying over 600 metric tons of vital supplies including food and hygiene kits from organizations such as the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNHCR, catering to those affected by recent violence.

Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested in Manila under an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. This court investigates the country’s explosive drug crackdown, which has been greatly criticized by the UN rights office during his tenure from 2016 to 2022. OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani emphasized the importance of tackling the prevailing impunity surrounding these acts.

In Sudan, dire conditions persist for civilians in need of healthcare due to the upheaval caused by the clashes between the transitional military government and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. Current reports indicate that over 200 health facilities in El Fasher are non-operational, exacerbated by severe medical supply shortages and the ongoing conflict. The UN has noted that the healthcare system is overwhelmed, resulting in millions lacking adequate medical care.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has indicated that more than 70 percent of hospitals are out of service since fighting escalated, and has recorded numerous attacks on healthcare facilities. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric commented on the critical state of healthcare in the region, stressing the continued insecurity that hampers the provision of necessary medical supplies.

In summary, the international community faces persistent crises, particularly in Syria, where violence continues against the Alawite communities, and healthcare collapse looms in Sudan. The recent agreement between Kurdish forces and Syrian authorities represents a potential step forward amidst ongoing violence. Furthermore, Duterte’s arrest heralds actions against impunity in the Philippines. Urgent humanitarian responses are paramount as millions suffer from conflicts across these nations.

Original Source: news.un.org