Mr. President,

Israel welcomes the initiative to convene a special session on the deteriorating human rights situation in Syria and the recent situation in Aleppo.

We believe that the appalling situation in Aleppo certainly merits a special discussion in the Human Rights Council. It is precisely the kind of situation that this Council should devote its attention to, in light of the extremely heavy humanitarian toll taken on the civilian population.

This humanitarian toll is the product, first and foremost, of the deliberate policies implemented by the Syrian regime, and its allies, a Regime which continues to commit war crimes, including by dropping barrel bombs on populated areas and by using chemical weapons. Schools and medical facilities are targeted in complete disregard of the lives of innocent people. The use of starvation of the civilian population as a military tool is also a clear reminder that the cruelty of the Assad regime knows no boundaries.

Mr. President,

This is also an opportunity to remind this forum that the Assad regime continues to disrespect international calls to stop arbitrary executions, and end its widespread use of torture and sexual and gender based violence. Israel calls on the Syrian regime to comply with its obligations under the IHL and stop committing these atrocities.

This is the case especially in Aleppo where the United Nations and the international community should be allowed access to provide desperately needed humanitarian assistance.

Israel continues to express its fullest support for the Special Envoy's efforts to bring a political solution to the Syrian crises.

Thank you Mr. President.