Geneva, June 15 (SANA)United Nations High Commissioner for Human RightsVolker Türksaid thousands of victims and survivors inSyriacontinue to demand justice and accountability, stressing the importance of holding the ousted president (Assad) and other deposed regime’s officials accountable.

According to UN News, Türk told theHuman Rights Councilin Geneva that prosecuting Bashar al-Assad and other deposed regime’s officials, although often conducted in absentia at this stage, represents an important step that must comply with international standards.

Türk said the human rights landscape has witnessed both progress and setbacks, but stressed that the overall trend continues to move toward achieving “greater freedom.”

He added that human rights work, away from the headlines, continues to improve the lives of millions of people, protect human dignity and expand opportunities.

Separately, Türk welcomed the announcement of an agreement between the United States and Iran on a ceasefire and the reopening of theStrait of Hormuz, saying the conflict had left devastating consequences for human rights across the region and the wider world.

Regarding the occupied Palestinian territories, Türk called for a ceasefire, an end to Palestinian suffering and accountability for those responsible for violations. He expressed concern over the continuation of Israeli military operations in theGazaStrip and escalating actions by Israeli forces and settlers in theWest Bank.

He also called for an end to hostilities inLebanonand for investigations into violations ofinternational humanitarian law.