Targeting overcrowded populated residential neighborhoods inhabited by civilians, under any pretext whatsever, constitutes a grave violation of the provisions of international law related to the protection of civilians. It also represents a direct undermining of any serious effort toward stability and peace, and an attempt to sabotage the April 1 agreement between the administrations of the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods and the Aleppo Governorate.
The residents of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh have an inherent and non-negotiable right to protection, security, and to live in dignity, away from fear, threats, and the use of indiscriminate force.
Accordingly, the guarantor states are called upon to assume their responsibilities. Likewise, the Syrian state is urged to take measures to lift the imposed siege and halt the military operation, as the civilians and their property are the ones bearing the harm.