NEW YORK: In a significant development, the United Nations (UN) has announced that it has obtained approval to continue its critical humanitarian aid operations in regions of Syria under opposition control that were severely impacted by earthquakes.
This decision comes as a result of successful negotiations that have led to the reopening of two key border crossings, with discussions also underway to address the blockade on a third crossing that has been in effect since last month.
The government of Syria, recognizing the urgent need for sustained aid, has agreed to extend the accessibility of two border crossings that were initially opened to UN humanitarian workers in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes that struck on February 6. These crossings, namely Bab al Salam and Al Rai, were slated to close on August 13 but have now received an extension for an additional three months until November 13.
Eri Kaneko, the spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, expressed the organization’s appreciation for this extension, stating, “We greatly welcome the extension of permission by the government of Syria to utilize the Bab al Salam and Al Rai border crossings until November 13.” This extension is a crucial step in ensuring the continued flow of essential supplies, such as tents, blankets, and anti-cholera kits, to the affected areas.
The earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria on February 6 resulted in a devastating loss of over 55,000 lives. In the wake of concerns about the pace of aid delivery, the government of Damascus agreed to the opening of the two aforementioned border crossings, aiming to facilitate the entry of vital relief items. These efforts were aimed at addressing the immediate needs of the impacted population and alleviating the humanitarian crisis that unfolded.
Adding to the challenges is Syria’s existing plight, which has been exacerbated by more than a decade of brutal civil conflict, claiming the lives of approximately half a million people. The UN’s assessment, released in May, underscores that Syria requires an estimated $15 billion to effectively recover from the dual blow of the earthquakes and the prolonged civil war.
The UN Security Council’s involvement in facilitating aid delivery to opposition-held territories has a history dating back to 2014. The council’s authorization for four border crossings was a pivotal step in ensuring the provision of aid to areas in the northern and northwestern parts of Syria. These regions are home to over four million individuals who rely on humanitarian assistance for their survival and well-being.
As discussions continue regarding the potential reopening of a third border crossing that has been blocked since the previous month, the extension of a permission for the Bab al Salam and Al Rai crossings signifies a positive stride toward maintaining the flow of life-saving aid. The UN’s dedicated efforts, in collaboration with the Syrian government, are crucial in ensuring that the needs of the affected population are met during these challenging times.
