Kuwait hopes "humanitarian crisis" is averted in Syria's Idlib

AMMAN, Sept 5 (KUNA) -- Kuwait on Wednesday expressed its concern over the escalation of violence in the Syrian enclave of Idlib and surrounding areas, calling for maximum restraint to avoid a "humanitarian disaster." Kuwait supports international efforts "to get to the root" of the conflict in Syria and ensure a lasting political solution to the seven-year war, the country's Assistant Foreign Minister for International Affairs Nasser Al-Heyn said during talks involving the biggest donors to Syria in the Jordanian capital. The worsening violence all over Syria "continues to claim more lives and has taken an ugly turn," making the delivery of much needed humanitarian aid virtually impossible, the Kuwaiti diplomat lamented.
He went on to cite previous initiatives Kuwait had launched, including a pledge of USD 100 million this year, all of which represent a genuine desire to assist the Syrian people.
The Kuwaiti envoy appreciated the commitment of nations hosting Syrian refugees, including Jordan, which is home to 1.3 million of them. Syrian government forces are preparing an offensive in Idlib and surrounding areas held by opposition fighters, sparking worries over a humanitarian crisis. (end) mjb.nam