Middle East Crisis: Live Updates as Security Council Meets on Syria
December 17, 2024
12:00 PM: Security Council Meeting Begins
The United Nations Security Council has convened an emergency meeting to address the escalating crisis in Syria. The meeting was requested by the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, who have expressed grave concern over the worsening situation in the war-torn country.
12:30 PM: UN Secretary-General Delivers Statement
UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the Security Council, condemning the recent violence in Syria and calling for an immediate ceasefire. He urged all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians.
1:00 PM: US Ambassador Addresses Council
US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield delivered a statement on behalf of the United States. She accused the Syrian regime of “war crimes” and demanded accountability for the atrocities committed against its own people. She called for increased humanitarian assistance and a political solution to the conflict.
1:30 PM: Russian Ambassador Responds
Russian Ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya rejected the US accusations, blaming the rebels and “terrorists” for the violence in Syria. He accused the United States of interfering in Syria’s internal affairs and undermining the peace process.
2:00 PM: China Calls for Restraint
Chinese Ambassador to the UN Zhang Jun urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation of the conflict. He called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis and supported the UN’s efforts to mediate a settlement.
2:30 PM: UK and France Condemn Syria
The UK and France both condemned the Syrian regime for its “brutal” attacks on civilians. They called for an end to the bloodshed and demanded that the regime be held accountable for its actions.
3:00 PM: Security Council Adopts Resolution
Following extensive discussions, the Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and a political solution to the conflict. The resolution also condemns the use of chemical weapons and threatens further action if the violence continues.
3:30 PM: Reactions to Resolution
The Syrian government welcomed the Security Council resolution but expressed skepticism about its implementation. The United States and its allies hailed the resolution as a positive step but warned that they would continue to hold the Syrian regime accountable for its actions.
4:00 PM: Situation on the Ground
Despite the Security Council resolution, fighting continued on the ground in Syria. Reports emerged of ongoing airstrikes and shelling in rebel-held areas. The UN estimated that hundreds of civilians had been killed in recent days.
Conclusion:
The Security Council meeting on Syria highlighted the gravity of the crisis and the international community’s concern over the worsening situation. The resolution adopted by the Council provides a framework for a ceasefire and a political solution, but it remains to be seen whether the parties to the conflict will abide by its terms. The situation on the ground remains tense, with humanitarian needs escalating and the threat of further violence still looming.
Middle East crisis: Live updates as Security Council meets on Syria
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
Peace and Security a new article on 2024-12-17 12:00 titled “Middle East crisis: Live updates as Security Council meets on Syria”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
18