FCO Minister concerned at human rights violations in Syria
Minister for Middle East Tobias Ellwood appalled by widespread abuse reported by UN Commission of Inquiry in Syria.
Responding to the Report of the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria Foreign Office Minister for the Middle East, Mr Ellwood, said:
I am appalled by the violations of human rights and international law outlined in this report. The Commission of Inquiry on Syria has a vital role to play in investigating and reporting on atrocities and the UK is a firm supporter of their important work. The UK condemns these abuses. The report highlights the widespread abuses carried out by the Syrian regime, including the use of chemical agents and barrel bombs and the continued abuse of those in regime detention. It also outlines horrifying abuse carried out by ISIL in areas under their control and the targeting of civilians by extremist groups such as Jabhat Al-Nusra.
The report rightly notes that the only way to solve this conflict is through a political settlement. The UK will continue to work for a political transition in Syria from the Assad regime to a government, bringing together moderates from all sides, which can represent all Syrians and fight ISIL effectively.
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