A Presidential Statement by the United Nations Security Council, sponsored by Russia and the United States, concerning the events in the Syrian coastal region.

The United Nations Security Council adopts a presidential statement drafted by the United States and Russia condemning the violence in Latakia and Tartus, Syria, which has resulted in the death of more than 1,000 civilians based on sectarian grounds. The Council strongly condemns attacks on civilian infrastructure, particularly hospitals, and expresses deep concern over the impact of the violence on escalating sectarian tensions in Syria. It calls on all parties to immediately cease acts of violence and incitement and to ensure the protection of civilians and infrastructure.

The Security Council emphasizes Syria’s obligations under its relevant counter-terrorism resolutions and urges decisive measures to address the threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters. It also calls on the Syrian interim authorities to hold perpetrators of mass killings accountable and to conduct swift, transparent, and independent investigations in accordance with international standards to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice.

The Council reiterates its call for respect for human rights under all circumstances and the humane treatment of those who have surrendered or laid down their arms. It urges additional international support for civilians in need across Syria as a matter of urgency, calling on the interim authorities to protect all Syrians regardless of their ethnicity or religion.

The Security Council recalls Resolution 2254 and reaffirms its strong commitment to Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity. It calls on all states to refrain from any actions or interventions that could further destabilize Syria, stressing the importance of combating terrorism in the country and the concern over the threat posed by foreign extremist fighters. It also calls for the implementation of an inclusive political process in Syria based on the fundamental principles outlined in UN Resolution 2254.