On December 2, 2024, the European Union urged for de-escalation and protection of civilians in Syria amidst a renewed escalation of civil war and the displacement of government forces from Aleppo by rebel groups. The EU's diplomatic service stated, "The European Union is closely monitoring the situation in Syria. We call on all parties to de-escalate and ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as unhindered humanitarian access in accordance with international humanitarian law." The statement condemned Russian airstrikes on densely populated areas supporting President Bashar al-Assad.
On the same day, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder remarked that the US Department of Defense is closely observing the events in Syria, where militants from the Sunni radical group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, recognized as a terrorist organization by the US, are advancing against government troops. Ryder emphasized the potential for significant harm to civilians and minority groups in the region, urging for de-escalation alongside allies and partners.
Ryder confirmed that the United States remains prepared to protect its citizens and assets deployed in the region, including forces in Syria focused solely on the defeat of the Islamic State. He clarified that the US is not involved in operations taking place in Aleppo and its surroundings.
Earlier the same day, the US State Department released a joint statement from the US, Germany, France, and the UK calling for de-escalation among the conflict parties in Syria.
On December 2, the United Nations reported that Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over the sharp escalation of violence in northwestern Syria, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to a political process facilitated by the UN. Guterres’ representative, Stéphane Dujarric, stated, "All parties must protect civilians and civilian objects, including ensuring safe passage for civilians fleeing the fighting."
According to the UN, the main water supply station serving the western part of Aleppo is currently non-operational. There are also reports of damage to healthcare infrastructure, including key hospitals in Aleppo and Idlib, leaving hundreds of patients without medical assistance. The UN estimates that in 2024, 16.7 million people in Syria will require humanitarian aid, the highest number since the crisis began in 2011.