The EU strongly condemns the violent attacks and ensuing clashes which have resulted in a significant number of casualties in Southern Syria over the last days. The EU calls for an end to violence across the country, unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, and the respect of international humanitarian law and human rights law in all circumstances.

We also call for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. Relevant UN mechanisms and civil society organisations should also be allowed to access the area and to contribute to establishing the facts.

These incidents further underline the necessity for transitional authorities to fulfil their responsibility in maintaining order and protecting the population all across Syria. It is also a reminder of the urgency of transitional justice and reconciliation efforts, as the only way forward for a peaceful and inclusive transition. The EU stands ready to support Syria in these efforts.

The EU calls on all external actors to fully respect the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria, in particular in view of recent attacks and incursions by Israel, which risk undermining stability, exacerbating sectarian tensions and jeopardising the transition. We urge Israel to uphold the terms of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement.

The EU remains committed to supporting a peaceful and inclusive transition, free from harmful foreign interference, which guarantees the rights of all Syrians without distinction of any kind.