Media Statement by the Office of the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria,
Mr. Staffan de Mistura

Geneva, 26 August 2016 - The situation regarding Darayya is extremely grave. It is tragic that repeated appeals to lift the siege of Darayya, besieged since November 2012, and cease the fighting, have never been heeded.

The Special Envoy has been made aware overnight of an agreement to evacuate residents, both civilians and fighters, starting today. The UN was not consulted or involved in the negotiation of this agreement.

It is imperative that people of Darayya are protected in any evacuation that takes place, and that this takes place voluntarily.

The Special Envoy strongly appeals to the Co-Chairs of the International Syria Support Group (ISSG) and co-sponsors of the Cessation of Hostilities and other ISSG members to ensure that the implementation of this agreement and its aftermath is in full compliance with international humanitarian law and protection standards.

A UN humanitarian team is reaching out to all parties, including the local population.

The world is watching.