Joint Statement by UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, and Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis, Ramanathan Balakrishnan [EN/AR]
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On the recent violence and its impact on the humanitarian situation in North-East Syria Damascus
Damascus | Amman, 14 August 2024
We have been following closely and with deep concern the recent violence in Deirez-Zor and Al-Hasakeh Governorates, and its impact on the humanitarian situation. The ongoing conflict has severely impeded civilians' access to essential services and humanitarian aid. Despite some positive developments regarding renewed access in certain parts of north-eastern Syria, the overall situation remains dire.
Since 6 August, Deir-ez-Zor has experienced intense clashes and sniper activity, leading to at least 25 civilian deaths, several injuries, and substantial displacement. The closure of Euphrates River crossings and continuous hostilities have severely restricted access to healthcare, water, and food, driving up prices and exacerbating the already extreme living conditions.
In Al-Hasakeh Governorate, following nearly a week of disrupted access to water and food influenced by the fighting in Deir-ez-Zor, we are encouraged by reports of renewed access as of last night in some areas within the Governorate. Despite such positive developments, significant challenges persist. Aid workers still face movement restrictions, impeding the timely delivery of humanitarian assistance. It is critical that civilians have full access to essential services and that all humanitarian activities which had to be suspended can resume immediately and fully, including water trucking and food distribution. These services are crucial for over 100,000 people already enduring severe summer conditions.
We call on all parties to take every measure to protect civilians, civilian infrastructure, and humanitarian operations, in accordance with International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Law. Immediate, safe, unimpeded, and sustained humanitarian access must be ensured for all those in need throughout Syria.
For more information:
Ghalia Seifo, Public Information Officer, OCHA Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa
Mobile: + 962 79 897 4125 | E-mail: seifo@un.org