The European Parliament strongly condemns all acts of violence against civilians in north-east Syria and calls upon all parties involved to adhere to the ceasefire. In a resolution addressing the situation in this region, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) highlighted that extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention, forced displacement, and attacks on civilian infrastructure may represent serious violations of international humanitarian law and could, in certain instances, amount to war crimes.
Reports from credible sources, including the United Nations and various non-governmental organisations, have documented recent abuses, particularly those impacting the Kurdish population. These abuses include desecration of corpses, vandalism of burial grounds, and the deployment of unguided munitions in civilian areas. MEPs expressed profound concern regarding the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in north-east Syria and urged the European Union to bolster its humanitarian assistance efforts. The resolution received strong support, with 363 votes in favour, 71 against, and 81 abstentions.
Parliament has expressed its support for the recent agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian transitional government, reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire and the recognition of Kurdish civil and educational rights. All parties involved are encouraged to uphold the existing arrangements.
MEPs call on regional actors, including Turkey, to refrain from actions that may undermine the ceasefire, such as military operations or support for armed groups. They emphasise that stability in north-east Syria is essential for achieving a comprehensive, inclusive, and just political transition.
They urge the Syrian authorities to ensure the protection and fundamental rights of all communities, including Arabs, Kurds, Sunnis, Shias, Alawites, Christians, Druze, and Yazidis. The resolution highlights that the full recognition, equal rights, and political participation of the Kurdish community are vital for establishing a stable and inclusive Syria. It calls on the transitional government to enshrine these guarantees in the constitution while maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity.
Parliament expresses serious concern regarding the risks posed by escaped Daesh (Isis) fighters and their affiliates from detention facilities and camps in north-east Syria. MEPs warn that transferring responsibility for these detainees to Iraq could create uncertainties and dependencies on the capacities and political will of third countries. They urge member states to repatriate all their nationals, particularly children, from the al-Hol and al-Roj camps and ensure that adults face justice through fair trials.
Additionally, MEPs express regret over the US decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Iraq, urging the EU, its member states, and partners to intensify efforts to prevent any resurgence of Daesh that may threaten Syria, the surrounding region, and Europe. They also recognise the important contributions of Kurdish forces, including women combatants, in the fight against Daesh.
Finally, MEPs stress that any engagement with Syria must hinge on verifiable progress in civilian protection, adherence to the ceasefire, and the upholding of human rights and minority rights.
