Andrew Mitchell begins his article in The Telegraph by quoting former UN humanitarian chief, Jan Egeland, saying “Aleppo is the new Srebrenica.”
The writer urges the UK to step up and fill the global leadership vacuum to counter any idea of their “strategic shrinkage” from the world.
“Britain has a critical role at the Security Council and in the International Syria Support Group (ISSG). We must vigorously use the privilege we have as one of the world’s key power-brokers,” the writer argues.
However, the writer argues that nothing is being done, explaining that “strong statements are insufficient to dent Russian cynical self-interest and American cynical indifference.”
The writer then warns that if there was a failure to act, then this ancient city will forever be a symbol of international shame.
“Humanitarian airdrops must remain on the table as long as the regime continues to use starvation as a weapon of war. And the UK should be ready to join its international partners in establishing No Bombing Zones to deter continued Syrian war crimes,” the writer argues urgently.
The writer concludes by defining Britain as “a beacon for liberal values and humanitarianism,” urging that, “in these desperate times, the lives of terrorized people of Aleppo depend on international leaders finding the courage to act.”
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