The Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) deeply mourned the devastating sinking of a boat carrying numerous Syrian refugees and individuals from other nationalities near the Greek coast. This tragic incident has resulted in the loss of many lives, including a significant number of Syrian asylum seekers.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the victims, as well as the Syrian people, who are once again faced with this heart-wrenching tragedy,” the SOC said in a press release issued on Friday.
The SOC emphasized that the Assad regime bears full responsibility for the ongoing migration crisis and the continuous influx of asylum seekers. The regime’s repressive tactics, in conjunction with its persistent and grave violations of human rights against the Syrian people, contribute to the desperate situation and the high number of individuals seeking asylum. The unjustified detention and torture in its prisons further exacerbate the plight of the Syrian people.
“The hazardous risks that Syrians undertake in their pursuit of asylum underscore the impossibility of living under the rule of the Assad regime and its criminal approach, as well as the sectarian militias loyal to it. These risks also disprove the regime’s false claims that areas under its control are secure. Therefore, the SOC categorically rejects the deportation of Syrian refugees until a political transition in Syria, in accordance with UN resolutions, particularly Resolution 2254, is achieved,” added the SOC.
The SOC also stressed that Syrians are left with no choice but to flee from the constant threats of death or arrest, which they perceive as inevitable if they are compelled to return to the terrorist Assad regime and its oppressive security services. Without a safe and neutral environment that guarantees a voluntary and dignified return, the option of return remains unfeasible.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
