Urgent Call for Investigation into Mass Killings in Syria by Human Rights Groups

Human rights organizations demand an independent international investigation into mass killings in Syria’s coastal region, urging accountability for ethnic cleansing amid escalating violence between supporters of the new government and the ousted Assad regime.

The Kurdish Human Rights Network in Syria, alongside several Kurdish organizations, has condemned the violence in Syria’s coastal region and demands an immediate end to ethnic cleansing and sectarian violence. This unrest follows the removal of Bashar al-Assad, reflecting the ongoing conflict between the new government and supporters of the former regime.

In a joint statement released on Sunday, the groups urged for accountability from all parties involved in war crimes, specifically citing ethnic cleansing. They advocated for the creation of an independent international investigation committee, governed directly by the UN, to monitor and examine these grave allegations.

Ethnic cleansing is a serious charge that can lead to individual responsibility for war crimes, crimes against humanity, or genocide under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The Alawite sect, historically prominent in the Syrian military and ruling class during Assad’s tenure, is specifically mentioned in relation to current violence.

Last week, clashes erupted between President al-Sahra’s forces and those loyal to former President Assad. An ambush by Assad loyalists on government forces occurred in Latakia, prompting a retaliatory assault by the government involving heavy weaponry, leading to over 1,300 deaths in just a few days. Reports indicate that numerous civilians, particularly Alawites, faced killings, looting, and arson from government-affiliated forces.

In an online address on Monday, Interim President al-Shara proclaimed the cessation of the military offensive and called for national unity. He announced that a fact-finding committee was established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violence. His comments, however, did not clearly assign blame solely to the former regime’s fighters. Likewise, the UN human rights chief has expressed similar concerns and advocates for a thorough investigation into the escalating violence.

Human rights groups have urgently called for an investigation into the recent mass killings in Syria, emphasizing the need for accountability amidst rising ethnic violence. They advocate for independent oversight by the UN to address allegations of war crimes linked to both the new and former government forces. With significant civilian casualties reported, a transparent investigation is crucial for justice and healing in Syria.

Original Source: www.jurist.org