Ankara: The head of the UN's International, Impartial, and Independent Mechanism for Syria said Tuesday that unprecedented crimes were systematically committed during Bashar al-Assad's rule in Syria.

According to Anadolu Agency, Robert Petit, who leads the UN department tasked with uncovering the worst crimes committed in Syria since 2011, highlighted the scope and systematic nature of the atrocities. These include cases involving chemical weapon use on civilians and abuses within the prison system. Petit emphasized the absence of justice in Syria for those responsible, noting the total impunity for the perpetrators.

Petit discussed his team's visit on December 20-21, during which they accessed a site with a significant number of files. He acknowledged the existence of substantial information, despite some being destroyed or lost over the years. He stressed the delicate situation and the risk of further evidence loss, expressing hope for permission to commence work in Syria. Evidence at specific sites is crucial for establishing accountability for those most responsible for the crimes.

Petit also commented on the international community's support for Syria following the Assad regime's collapse in December. He stated that the global community is mobilized to back a Syrian-led transition process. However, he warned of the dire humanitarian situation and the challenges ahead, despite some reasons for optimism. The new caretaker authorities are actively working to establish control amid the fluid situation.