Russia Condemns Israel’s Actions in Syria at UN, Calls for Accountability

 In a strongly worded address to the UN Security Council on Wednesday, Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia criticized Israel’s recent military actions in Syria, calling them “unlawful” and a serious threat to Syria’s future and regional stability. Nebenzia accused Israel of violating international norms and contributing to the humanitarian crisis in Syria.

Israeli Military Campaign and Territorial Occupation

Israel launched a large-scale bombing campaign against Syrian targets following the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s government in late 2024. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) subsequently expanded their control over internationally recognized Syrian territory, including the UN-designated buffer zone in the Golan Heights. Israel has occupied the Golan Heights, considered part of Syria under international law, since 1967.

According to Nebenzia, Israel has now occupied an additional 500 square kilometers of Syrian land. He labeled these actions as “a grave violation” of international legal decisions, including multiple UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions. “Israel’s actions threaten Syria’s territorial integrity and present the results of military aggression as a fait accompli,” the ambassador warned.

Humanitarian and Civilian Impact

Nebenzia highlighted the devastating impact of Israeli airstrikes and shelling, which have caused widespread civilian suffering and damaged critical infrastructure. “These actions disrupt essential services and lead to immense human suffering,” he said, calling on the international community to assess the situation honestly and hold Israel accountable.

Russia’s Commitment to Syria

The Russian ambassador reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to assisting the Syrian people, including delivering humanitarian aid and rebuilding damaged infrastructure. Russia aims to create conditions conducive to the safe return of Syrian refugees, Nebenzia stated.

Assad's Ouster and New Syrian Leadership

Syria’s political landscape underwent a dramatic shift in December 2024, when a jihadist offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) toppled Bashar al-Assad’s government. The rapid collapse of the Syrian military forced Assad to resign and seek asylum in Moscow.

HTS leader Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa, better known as Abu Mohammad al-Julani, has since emerged as the de facto ruler of Syria. Despite his group's opposition to the previous government, al-Sharaa has expressed a desire to maintain “strategic interests” with Russia. He emphasized that the new Syrian leadership does not seek to disrupt Moscow’s presence in the region, particularly its military bases along Syria’s Mediterranean coast.

Russia’s statements underscore growing tensions over Syria’s future, with Nebenzia urging the international community to address Israel’s actions and their implications for regional stability. The situation in Syria remains fraught, with humanitarian crises, political instability, and international power struggles continuing to shape the country’s trajectory.