UN calls on Assad regime to receive the Syrian refugees coming from Lebanon
UN called on Assad regime to receive the Syrian refugees returning from Lebanon due to security conditions and the ongoing Israeli raids.
UN considered that the current situation in Lebanon and Syria is an opportunity for Assad regime to improve its image.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, called on Assad regime to receive the refugees returning from Lebanon due to security conditions and the ongoing Israeli raids.
Grandi stated: “The escalation in Lebanon has led some 220,000 people to cross the Lebanese border with Syria, 70% of whom are Syrians and 30% Lebanese.”
Grandi added that the Israeli bombardment of the main borer crossing with Syria at “Masnaa” on Friday was “a huge obstacle” to the ongoing flow of those people.
Grandi emphasized that now is an opportunity for Assad regime to show respect for returnees’ safety and for their ability to return to their country or wherever they need to go.
Regarding the situation in Lebanon, Grandi said: “Unfortunately, there are many cases of violations of international humanitarian law in the manner the air strikes are conducted that destroyed infrastructure and killed civilians.”
Rula Amin, Communications Advisor for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), confirmed that Syrians returning from Lebanon to Syria are going back to destroyed homes and disrupted basic services. They do not have resources for their needs, with little access to services and resources.
Returnees face security risks and fears of arrest by Assad regime forces, as many returnees confirmed that they received an instruction to visit the security branches within ten days.