In his address in New York, Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern about the recent escalation in northwest Syria, describing it as painful to witness the country’s continued fragmentation.
The Syrian conflict began almost 14 years ago, originating from a civil uprising against the government.
Recent clashes led by terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other armed factions have affected areas in Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama, resulting in shifting frontlines that had been static since 2020.
Displaced Families
Local authorities in Hama reported large-scale displacement, with tens of thousands of families fleeing, some seeking refuge in Homs. This information was shared by UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric during a daily briefing from New York.
Hama had previously been a destination for those escaping conflict, indicating the severity of the crisis in the city.
UNICEF has called for protecting children in the escalating crisis, seeking funding to assist millions in the region, including 4.3 million children, with various life-saving services.
Mr. Dujarric mentioned ongoing efforts by the UN and humanitarian partners to provide aid to those affected by the conflict.
Cross-border Mission from Türkiye
UN Deputy Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis, David Carden, led a cross-border assessment mission to Idlib from Türkiye, accompanied by several UN agencies and security personnel.
They visited a reception center in Dana providing assistance to displaced households and distributed essential items. The team also inspected the Sham Surgical Hospital, which has been treating casualties from recent attacks.
WHO is supplying medical resources to the hospital, but there are concerns about underfunding affecting healthcare workers’ salaries.
As hostilities escalate, the strain on remaining functional hospitals in northwest Syria intensifies.
Food Assistance
The World Food Programme (WFP) is increasing food aid to impacted individuals, with staff and partners offering ready-to-eat meals to thousands. WFP-established kitchens in Aleppo and Homs are operational to address the food needs of displaces people.
The UN and partners continue to respond to the crisis, with over nine million packages of food distributed to those affected by the conflict in Lebanon.
In Gaza, ongoing hostilities are causing civilian casualties and destruction, with efforts underway to provide support to those affected by recent airstrikes.
Protection Urged
Concerns were raised about the security of civilians and healthcare workers in Gaza, emphasizing the need to protect these vulnerable groups. The situation in North Gaza governorate was highlighted, where humanitarian access is severely limited.
Attacks by Israeli settlers in the West Bank during the olive harvest season have led to significant damage to Palestinian-owned trees and saplings, prompting calls for increased protection for Palestinian communities.
