The UN Security Council voices cautious optimism for Syria’s recovery – but warns that deep challenges remain after Suwayda violence.

As-Suwayda Governorate

The United Nations Security Council convened to assess Syria's progress in restoring stability after last month's violence in Suwayda. Geir Pedersen, the UN's special envoy for Syria, commended the country's return to relative calm but emphasized the need for greater international assistance. Recent easing of some sanctions was noted as a positive step, but Pedersen called for sustained and expanded measures, along with significant funding, to support Syria's recovery and reconstruction.

UN humanitarian officials reported that aid is reaching over three million Syrians monthly, but global funding cuts are severely affecting operations. The Syria Humanitarian Response Fund is currently only 14 percent funded, leading to reductions in staffing and health services. The Arab Group, represented by Qatar, urged unity and progress toward a Syrian-led political process. In a significant diplomatic development, Syria's president is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly for the first time in over five decades.

Rebuilding Syria: UNSC meeting held a month after Suwayda violence

During a meeting of the U.N. Security Council, Geir Pedersen, the U.N.'s special envoy for Syria applauded the country for restoring relative calm after last month's outbreak of violence in Sweden. But he implored the international community to do more to help Syria. Recent decisions to lift certain sanctions represent a significant step in this regard. But these measures must be sustained and broadened, accompanied by substantial funding to reinforce their impact for recovery and reconstruction. The U.N.'s top humanitarian official says they are providing assistance to more than three million people every month across the country. But global cuts to humanitarian causes are hurting the efforts. The U.N.'s Syria Humanitarian Response Fund, in need of nearly 3.1 billion dollars, is only 14 percent funded. Aid cuts are projected to lead to staffing cuts of at least 40 percent across the humanitarian community in Syria, with NGOs hit hardest. Sixteen percent of health facilities have suspended or reduced capacity due to the cuts. Speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, Qatar's ambassador stressed unity. The Arab Group underscores the importance of national unity under the umbrella of the state and its institutions. It's equally important to build trust, restore security and stability, achieve development and advance a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned inclusive political process. Next month, Syria's President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, will be able to deliver his vision for the country to global leaders on a huge world stage. For the first time in more than 50 years, a Syrian president will take to the podium to give a speech at the U.N. General Assembly. Gabriel Zando, Al Jazeera, at the United Nations in New York.

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