📰 International Commission of Inquiry: Syria’s Transitional Phase Remains Fragile

The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on internal-security-forces-reinforce-aleppo-neighborhoods-following-civilian-casualties/" class="smart-internal-link" title="📰 Internal Security Forces reinforce Aleppo neighborhoods following civilian casualties">internal-link">syria stated on Sunday that the country’s transitional phase remains “fragile. ” The Commission noted that while numerous syrians commemorate the fall of the former regime in various regions, others live under renewed security threats. A significant number, it warned, may once again face the harsh reality of sleeping in tents as winter approaches. It highlighted that the fate of thousands of forcibly disappeared individuals remains an unresolved trauma, stating that healing from this ongoing wound, and overcoming the widespread destruction left by the war—along with subsequent waves of hostilities since 8 December—requires collective resilience, international backing, and enduring patience. Indeed, recalling the atmosphere of cautious optimism that marked the end of 2024, the Commission urged both Syrians and the international community to confront current challenges with seriousness and coordinated action, as per a report by UN News.

It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a better future for Syrians, working alongside local civil society organisations that, since 2011, have played a pivotal and invaluable role. The Commission also expressed its deep appreciation for finally being granted access to syrian territory after years of rejected entry. It welcomed the Syrian transitional administration’s openness to dialogue on human rights and reiterated its readiness to assist all efforts aimed at preventing a recurrence of the violations witnessed throughout the crisis. In latest months, multiple regions—including coastal areas and the governorate of Suwayda—have experienced renewed hostilities, leading to further displacement and deepening societal divisions.

These developments have raised broad concerns over the country’s trajectory in the next phase, the Commission stated. It declared that numerous communities continue to suffer from insecurity, compounded by ongoing conflicts and recurrent Israeli armed forces strikes. Since 2011, the Commission has documented systematic patterns of violence committed by the deposed regime, describing them as acts of organised criminal violence against civilians. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has urged the transitional administration to prioritise accountability, justice, peace, and security as essential foundations for a successful transition.

The Commission also documented extensive violations perpetrated by the so-called Islamic State (ISIS), other armed groups, and troops from various countries involved in the Syrian crisis. Moreover, it reaffirmed its solidarity with all victims of violations—past and present—expressing hope for an end to cycles of vengeance and the advancement of a Syria governed by the rule of law and respect for the rights of all citizens. On…