DAMASCUS, Dec. 17 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Special Envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, said Tuesday in Damascus that Syria has entered "an entirely new reality" following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's government, but warned that significant obstacles and mounting tensions could threaten the fragile progress achieved.
"Syrians feel that this new reality belongs to them," Pedersen told reporters. However, he cautioned that the challenges ahead are enormous, ranging from governance and economic issues to the restoration of basic services.
The UN official expressed concern over the presence of well-armed groups operating outside the command structure of the new military authorities. "I am worried that any military escalation could be catastrophic," Pedersen said, underscoring the importance of quickly addressing security gaps to prevent renewed violence.
Pedersen also noted that Israel has carried out more than 350 strikes on military facilities and equipment since the downfall of Assad's government.
Pedersen called on all parties to work toward a stable, inclusive environment to ensure the country's long-term peace and development. He stressed that the UN remains committed to supporting a political process that reflects the aspirations of the Syrian people. ■
