World News Summary: Aid challenges in Syria, human rights in Iran, elections in South Sudan
A Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) volunteer was among many civilians killed in the incident, OCHA said in a press release. The attack also damaged several SARC ambulances and other humanitarian objects, and made two bridges impassable.
“The result is all humanitarian operations at border crossings [between Syria and Lebanon] suspended until further noticeIt said, underlining the need to ensure humanitarian protection in accordance with international law.
Furthermore, Deputy Regional Humanitarian Coordinator David Carden has sounded the alarm about the escalation of violence in Idlib and western Aleppo, with devastating consequences for children.
Tuesday’s shelling killed three boys under the age of 14 and injured more than a dozen other children attending classes. The violence also forced at least 35 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to suspend humanitarian operations in the area.
14 medical facilities along the front line also stopped operating, schools and key roads were also closed.
“Our partners are trying to verify the number of people who may be displaced by the latest violence,” UN spokesman Farhan Haq told journalists at a regular news conference in New York.
However, aid deliveries continue to pass through the Bab Al-Hawa border crossing.
On Tuesday, 10 trucks carrying supplies from the World Health Organization (WHO), Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) entered Idlib from Türkiye.
Iran: Calls for Accountability for 2022 ‘Women, Life, Freedom’ Protests
Survivors of Iran’s violent crackdown on the 2022 “Women, Life, Freedom” protests are demanding justice for blatant human rights violations and crimes against humanity, Independent international fact-finding mission (FFM) nationwide said Wednesday.
FFM met more than 50 Iranian survivors – those who had fled Iran – in Germany.
According to FFM, survivors shared heartbreaking testimonies, recounting severe abuses, including torture, arbitrary detention, and injuries such as blindness. They also highlighted the repression faced by families mourning loved ones killed in protests sparked by the death of Jina Mahsa Amini in police custody for allegedly violating the scarf law. hooded.
FFM President Sara Hossain emphasized the importance of a victim-centered approach.
“Their voices and expectations for action, in Iran and internationally, are key to our implementation of a victim-centered approach to justice and accountability.she said.
Survivors also spoke of widespread state surveillance and judicial harassment hindering accountability efforts in Iran. Even so, they insist they will continue to fight for justice, both in Iran and elsewhere.
“It was inspiring to hear survivors talk about their immense struggle to speak out against injustice and ultimately achieve safety,” said FFM member Shaheen Sardar Ali.
“Their voices remind us of the continued need for solidarity and support for all survivors of the ongoing crackdown against ‘Women, Life, Freedom’ protesters last year. 2022 in Iran.”
Subsequent report from the Delegation to the agency based in Geneva Human Rights Councilexpected in March 2025, will propose recommendations on victim rehabilitation, accountability and compensation processes.
The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran was mandated by the Council to investigate allegations of human rights violations in the country in connection with the protests that began there on 16 September 2022, in particular especially for women and children.
Members include Ms. Hossain, Ms. Ali and Viviana Krsticevic (Argentina). They are not UN employees and do not receive salaries.
UN delegation calls for election preparations in South Sudan
Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (SKIP), Nicholas Haysom, has called on provincial governors to take decisive steps to promote civil and political freedoms as the nation prepares for its first democratic elections, scheduled for September. December 2026.
Speaking at the annual Governors Forum in the capital Juba, Mr. Haysom emphasized the important role of state leadership in addressing the root causes of conflict and ensuring people can freely participate. into the election process.
Creating an open political and civic space is essential to building trust and participation in the preparations for these historic electionshe said.
He called on governors to focus on providing basic services to the people through effective and responsible public finance management. He further emphasized the importance of this approach in building sustainable peace and addressing the country’s development challenges.
Mr. Haysom also called for the start of training for the second batch of the Unified Essential Force, a measure aimed at enhancing security across the country, especially ahead of elections.
