UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Najat Rochdi told the Security Council that humanitarian conditions in the country remain “extremely serious,” with over 16 million people in need of aid and hundreds of thousands displaced, according to the UN humanitarian coordination office (OCHA). She welcomed the removal of UN sanctions on President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab but urged the repeal of secondary sanctions on third parties doing business with Syria, citing these as major obstacles to reconstruction and economic revival. Ms. Rochdi also condemned ongoing Israeli military incursions into Syria, calling for adherence to the 1974 Disengagement Agreement that established a buffer zone and separation line between Syrian and Israeli forces.
Ms. Rochdi highlighted early political developments in Syria, noting that the first trial is underway following deadly attacks against the Alawite community in Latakia and Tartus in March, and expressed concern over abductions and enforced disappearances. She emphasized the need for transparency in the formation of the new People’s Assembly, where one-third of the 210 seats are awaiting presidential appointment, and stressed that drafting a permanent constitution is essential for advancing Syria’s political transition. She framed this process as an opportunity to define a new social contract that could foster peace and unity among Syrians.
On humanitarian operations, OCHA’s financing and outreach director, Lisa Doughten, reported that the ceasefire in southern Syria is generally holding, though sporadic violence persists, particularly sectarian clashes in Sweida driven by kidnappings and tit-for-tat attacks. More than 180,000 people remain displaced in Sweida and neighboring governorates. The UN continues to prioritize the delivery of basic services and humanitarian aid, reaching approximately 357,000 people per month through over 1,300 aid trucks in coordination with partners and national authorities.
Doughten stressed the need for sustained international engagement, funding, and large-scale investment in reconstruction, noting that while the people of Syria do not want to rely solely on emergency aid, recent developments such as easing of sanctions and growing interest in investment could provide a pathway forward. The UN’s ongoing work aims to support both immediate humanitarian needs and longer-term recovery and development across the country.
