Syrian Coalition Calls for Transparent Investigation into Death of Syrian Child Ahmed al-Zoabi in Lebanon

Press Release

Syrian Coalition

Department of Media and Communications

January 22, 2019

In response to the news of the death of the Syrian child Ahmed al-Zoabi in the Lebanese capital Beirut while he was being chased down by Lebanese security forces, and based on the information available so far, the Syrian Coalition stresses the need to launch a serious, transparent investigation into the incident and disclose all details surrounding the incident. It also stresses the need to verify any possible violation by any party amounting to responsibility for this incident and hold to account all those who are directly or indirectly involved in the incident.

The Coalition underscores the importance of conducting an investigation by the competent authorities. Such an investigation must prioritize uncovering the truth and avoid attempting to cover up the security forces or any other party that is involved in the incident. The issuance of statements assigning blame or resulting with acquittals before the necessary investigations are launched will be unacceptable. The Lebanese authorities have a responsibility to disclose the circumstances of the incident to avoid reaching any erroneous conclusions and to prevent a repeat of this tragic incident.

The Lebanese state is obliged to fully comply with international laws and show respect for the rights of refugees as was stipulated by the Geneva Convention so as to ensure the safety and security of the Syrian refugees until they are able to voluntarily return home at the appropriate time and after all threats against them have been eliminated. The Lebanese authorities are also required to prevent discrimination against Syrian refugees and provide them with protection while they exercise their rights that were enshrined in international conventions.