The escalating regional tensions are drawing Syria deeper into conflict, the UN Special Envoy for the country warned on Tuesday, citing recent Israeli airstrikes, Hezbollah rocket fire and the widespread explosions of wireless devices in Lebanon, which included some in Syria.
Briefing ambassadors in the Security Council, Geir Pedersen expressed grave concern over the mounting violence and its cascading impact on Syria, which has been embroiled in civil conflict - later drawing in outside forces - since 2011.
He highlighted an attack earlier in the day on a vehicle at Damascus International Airport, warning of the imminent risk of a wider regional war.
"There is a clear and present danger of a wider regional war that drags the Syrian people into its crosshairs...the utmost need of the hour is for de-escalation, now, across the region - including a ceasefire in Gaza," he said.
Situation in Lebanon
The Security Council is set to discuss the situation in Lebanon Tuesday afternoon. UN News will be covering the meeting LIVE and on social media.
