Source: United Nations (video statements)
Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Claudio Cordone said, “March 2026 recorded the lowest levels of direct conflict-related violence in 15 years, although civilians continued to be killed by remnants of war.”
Addressing the Security Council today (22 Apr) Cordone said, “Israeli forces have continued to conduct incursions into Syrian territory almost daily.”
He added, “Today, dozens of Israelis crossed several hundred meters into the Area of Separation near the village of Hadar. Both the crossing and their behaviour was highly provocative. They were brought back by the IDF which condemned the incident. I reiterate our strong call on Israel to cease violations, respect Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, adhere to the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement and prevent incidents such as the one today. I urge Israel to return all Syrian detainees taken in violation of international law.”
He continued, “More broadly, I commend the Syrian Government for its efforts to shield Syria from the conflicts raging in the region, with Syrian security forces deployed defensively to control borders. As of 19 April, nearly 300,00 people fleeing the fighting in Lebanon had crossed into Syria, all but 51,000 Syrian nationals.”
He also said, “By contrast, there was no progress on advancing the elements of the Sweida roadmap. Protests continued, including demonstrations on 11 April calling for self-determination, improved living conditions, and the release of detainees. Deteriorating socio-economic conditions, alongside reported restrictions on freedom of expression inside Sweida, are creating further frictions.”
He said, “March 2026 recorded the lowest levels of direct conflict-related violence in 15 years, although civilians continued to be killed by remnants of war. The Government is prioritizing mine clearance and the removal of unexploded ordnance, and UNMAS is offering its support. Daesh/ISIL remains a concern, and I welcome the continued counter-terrorism efforts of the Syrian forces and the US-led Global Coalition.”