The United Nations called for the opportunity to "enable optimal rescue and relief efforts" for those affected by the earthquake that struck northern Syria two days ago.
In a press statement, the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic urges the international community to act rapidly to provide humanitarian aid and support and calls on all parties to provide immediate and unfettered humanitarian access to all areas affected by the earthquakes to provide life-saving assistance.
The Commission warned that the earthquake was reportedly the most powerful in the region in decades and will compound suffering of the Syrians, indicating that the north and northwest Syria, which hosts millions of people displaced from years of fighting across the country, appears to be most heavily impacted by the earthquake.
"We call on all parties to the conflict in Syria to commit to a comprehensive ceasefire to enable humanitarian workers and rescuers to reach those in need without fear of attacks," Chair of the Commission Paulo Pinheiro said.
"Humanitarian access must be secured so that aid reaches all those in need in line with humanitarian principles," he underlined.
An earthquake measuring 7.7 magnitude struck southern Turkey and northern Syria at dawn on Monday, followed hours later by another 7.6-magnitude earthquake and violent aftershocks, leaving significant loss of life and property in the two countries.
