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Civilians bear the brunt of the violence. Even people in line for bread have been attacked. Large-scale human rights violations are being reported. Prisoners on both sides are subject to harsh treatment and, often, torture. There have been alarming reports of summary executions on both sides. Government forces and the armed opposition have clearly failed to protect civilians and respect the rules of international humanitarian law. We must ensure that anyone, on any side, who violates international humanitarian law or human rights law is held to account. The United Nations and its partners are doing all we can inside and outside of Syria. But we have to ask if we have done enough, and if we have done the right thing. The first responsibility to end the conflict lies with the parties, and in particular with the Government. But we, too, have a collective responsibility to find ways to help the Syrians to end the violence and resolve their differences through peaceful means. All elements of Syria’s rich and diverse society need to be reassured that their rights and freedoms will be respected. Fears of sectarian retribution must be alleviated. But first, we need to facilitate an end to the fighting. The continuing militarization of the conflict is deeply tragic and highly dangerous. I appeal to all outside parties, especially the countries in the region, to do all they can to end this trend. Those who provide arms to either side are only contributing to further misery – and the risk of unintended consequences as the fighting intensifies and spreads. Regional leaders have a key role to play in creating the conditions conducive to a solution. I call, too, on the Security Council and this Assembly to find common ground so we can help the Syrian people to start charting a way towards an inclusive, peaceful and democratic political transition that will be decided by Syrians themselves. A number of initiatives to resolve the conflict were put forward in Tehran. Other initiatives and meetings are on the horizon