UN Envoy Calls for Peaceful Transition in Syria Amid Changing Situation
UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen announced the need for a successful transitional process in Syria, urging calm amidst ongoing challenges, including the involvement of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. He highlighted the urgency for Geneva talks to advance UN Resolution 2254, aimed at peace and political transition, while noting the situation's rapid changes.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, has stated that the time is ripe for establishing a smooth and successful transitional process in Syria. Speaking at a press conference in Doha on Sunday, Pedersen emphasized the need for calm and avoiding bloodshed in the country.
Key Points from Pedersen's Statement
Transitional Process: Pedersen believes that conditions are favorable for initiating a peaceful transition in Syria.
Challenges with HTS: The UN envoy acknowledged that the participation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group listed as a terrorist organization, in Syria's transitional phase "poses a challenge and remains a work in progress".
Call for Calm: Pedersen urged all armed parties in Syria to maintain law and order and protect public institutions.
Rapidly Changing Situation: The envoy noted that "the situation in Syria is changing every minute" and called for urgent talks in Geneva to implement UN Resolution 2254.
UN Resolution 2254
Resolution 2254 was adopted by the UN Security Council on December 18, 2015. It outlines several provisions aimed at:
- Ceasing hostilities in Syria
- Launching a comprehensive political process under UN supervision
- Facilitating a democratic political transition in the country
Uncertainty Surrounding Assad's Whereabouts
When asked about the location of Bashar al-Assad, who reportedly left Syria early Sunday, Pedersen stated, "I have no information".
The UN envoy's statements come at a critical time for Syria, as recent developments have seen significant territorial gains by opposition forces, including HT
