The U.N. secretary-general called for calm and avoiding violence, in the aftermath of the sudden and stunning fall of Syria’s Assad regime to rebel forces.
“After 14 years of brutal war and the fall of the dictatorial regime, today the people of Syria can seize a historic opportunity to build a stable and peaceful future,” Antonio Guterres said in a statement.
“The future of Syria is a matter for the Syrians to determine, and my Special Envoy will be working with them towards that end.”
His envoy, Geir Pedersen said that the country is in a “watershed moment” in its history, with immense challenges ahead, and must avoid bloodshed and preserve unity as it transitions.
“This dark chapter has left deep scars, but today we look forward with cautious hope to the opening of a new time — one of peace, reconciliation, dignity, and inclusion for all Syrians,” U.N. Syria envoy Pedersen told reporters in Doha, Qatar where he is attending meetings about the situation.
