Protecting human life

The Syrian regime forces, with aerial support from Russia and militias loyal to Damascus, have encircled the remaining rebel-held areas of Aleppo, effectively imposing a siege that threatens the lives and welfare of some 300,000 Syrian people caught between the two warring sides. 

The complete blockade of Aleppo, the second largest city in Syria, appears to be the military and political objective of the Syrian regime, with a view to forcing a military solution on the opposition. 

With the supply lines to Aleppo now completely cut off from the east, after the regime took over the strategic Castello supply route linking the city with other regions, the fate of so many thousands of innocent people is now at stake. 

Damascus has a long record of utter disregard for the life and well-being of its own people, but to have Russia join in this siege is cause for concern. 

Now that Aleppo has become 100 per cent a besieged city, it is high time that the international community stepped in effectively to save innocent lives, especially children. 

The UN Security Council is called upon to assume its solemn duty to preserve and protect human life in Syria. 

Moscow must pressure Damascus into allowing humanitarian aid into Aleppo and other besieged areas. 

Food, medicine, water and other basic necessities must be allowed to cross military lines for the purpose of protecting human life. 

All powers that stand in the way of this humanitarian mission must be held accountable.