UN Calls for Protecting Civilians Ahead of Turkey's Offensive in Northern Syria

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UN has called for the protection of civilians in northern Syria after the US withdrawal of troops paved the way for a military offensive by Turkey.

Panos Moumtzis, the UN Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis, has said, "We are hoping for the best but preparing for the worst," adding that there are "a lot of unanswered questions" about the consequences of the operation.

Recalling the Srebrenica Genocide, Moumtzis said that the UN had seen a "bitter history" regarding "safe zones."

He called all parties to prevent the displacement of civilians in case of a military intervention by Turkey, adding that they will provide medical equipment and food aid if needed.

US troops began this morning (October 7) from withdrawing their position in northern Syria, after yesterday's phone call between President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his US counterpart Donald Trump. (RT/VK)