UN: Turkish forces in Syria displaced 160,000 civilians
The Turkish military offensive in Syria has
displaced at least 160,000 civilians, the UN secretary general said on Monday
in a statement urging an “immediate de-escalation.”
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres “is gravely
concerned over the military developments in northeast Syria,” Al Arabia channel
quoted the statement as saying.
It said Guterres was urging “all parties to resolve
their concerns through peaceful means,” adding that “civilians not taking part
in hostilities must be protected at all times.”
Guterres also expressed “serious concern” that the
Turkish onslaught could lead to the “unintended release of individuals”
associated with Daesh.
Guterres also demanded “sustained, unimpeded and
safe humanitarian access to civilians in need” to allow the United Nations and
its humanitarian partners to carry out aid work.
