Syria: UN investigators urge to protect evidence amid worsening humanitarian crisis

In parallel, there is the International, Objective and Independent Mechanism for Syria (IIIM). End of historic visit to Damascus, underscoring the urgency of preserving evidence related to the most serious international crimes before it is irretrievably lost.

Fuel is scarce, roads are congested

United Nations spokeswoman Stéphanie Tremblay told reporters at a regular press conference that essential services, including hospitals and health centers, were severely affected, especially in Aleppo province, where 6 public hospitals and 60 primary health centers are only partially operating due to lack of fuel.

Damaged bridges connecting Damascus to other key areas also disrupted supply chains.

“Despite the challenges, we and our partners continue to support the response as security allows. We are distributing food assistance, including sandwiches, ready-to-eat rations, hot meals and food baskets,” Ms. Tremblay said.

She also noted that in northwest Syria, humanitarian partners have begun providing support to farmers, including cash grants.

Access challenge

In the northeast, aid operations were hampered by the unstable security situation, but some essential goods were distributed.

“Partners can distribute winter kits, blankets and winter clothing but much more – as you can imagine – is necessary and there is also an urgent need for additional winter support for host communities,” the UN spokesperson said.

Humanitarian partners also reported challenges in reaching Menbij and Kobani due to insecurity, as well as Israeli airstrikes in Latakia and incursions into the southern provinces, causing damage to facilities civil infrastructure.

Protect important evidence

Also on Monday, the International, Objective and Independent Mechanism for Syria (IIIM) concluded its visit to Damascus, emphasize urgency preserve evidence relating to the most serious international crimes before it is irretrievably lost.

For the first time since its establishment by the General Assembly in 2016, the Independent Mechanism is authorized to visit Syria, marking an important step in its mission to investigate and support the prosecution of the most serious crimes committed. in conflict.

Robert Petit, head of the Independent Mechanism, described the visit as an “important milestone” and a rare opportunity to discuss justice and accountability with Syrian officials.

He emphasized the urgency of preserving evidence before it is lost forever.

“Time is running outHe said and added: “there is a small window of opportunity to secure these sites and the material they hold. Every day we fail to do so, we risk losing the opportunity for full accountability.”