Point (3)
The OHCHR are concerned about the well-being of civilians currently caught up in the fighting in Aleppo.
Tens of thousands remain trapped in opposition-controlled areas and are living under constant bombardment. Others are at risk while attempting to flee the fighting. Adding to the dangers associated with attempting to flee across an active front-line, the OHCHR have received reports that opposition groups are preventing civilians from leaving areas under their control.
There are also concerns that upon reaching Government-controlled or Kurdish-controlled areas, civilians perceived to have links or connections with armed opposition groups may be detained. Under Syrian law, the provision of support to groups classified by the Government as "terrorists" is a criminal offence and the definition of what constitutes such support has in the past been used to punish peaceful activists and family members.
The OHCHR call on all parties to the conflict to adhere to and respect international humanitarian law. Pro-Government and Kurdish Forces must ensure that civilians fleeing the fighting are afforded every protection and are not subjected to acts of retribution due to their perceived support or affiliation to opposition groups.
The OHCHR call on armed opposition groups to adhere to their obligation to allow civilians who wish to flee areas under their control to do so. Any measures are taken to prevent them from doing so - unless justified by a need to protect the safety of civilians - are prohibited under international law.
For more information and media requests, please contact Rupert Colville ( +41 22 917 9767 / rcolville@ohchr.org) or Ravina Shamdasasni ( +41 22 917 9466 / enthrossell@ohchr.org)
Location: Geneva
Date: 29 Nov 2016
Source: OHCHR News
