UN calls for safe corridor in Homs, Aleppo

United Nations Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Valerie Amos and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay expressed profound concern over the escalating conflict in the Syrian cities of Homs and Aleppo and its humanitarian repercussions. In a joint statement last night, the UN officials said they were aware that 2,500 civilians were still trapped in the central city of Homs, where reports said shelling by government forces continued with long-range weapons and troops also used tanks in assaults in the area. They also agreed that the presence of armed men in residential areas would endanger civilian lives. The statement urged all parties to immediately cease all such actions that endanger civilian lives, and also provide a safe corridor for the civilians to leave Homs and allow humanitarian aid into the city. aIt said negotiations were underway for that purpose, but added that the government and armed rebels were not ready to provide enough guarantees for the safety of civilians and relief workers.