On Idlib in the Syrian Arab Republic
Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Idlib in the Syrian Arab Republic
The Secretary-General expresses deep
concern about the airstrikes that reportedly targeted the
village of Zardana in northern rural Idlib on the night of 7
to 8 June, killing dozens including children. He calls for a
full investigation into the attacks, especially allegations
that there was also a second strike targeting first
responders, to establish accountability.
The Secretary-General recalls that Idlib is part of the de-escalation agreement reached in Astana and calls on its guarantors to uphold their commitments.
The Secretary-General underscores the precarious plight of the estimated 2.3 million people in Idlib governorate, 60% of whom are civilians displaced by the conflict from other areas, most recently from Eastern Ghouta. He calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all stakeholders to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General
New York, 10 June 2018