Following the escalation of violence in in Northeast Syria, an estimated 210,000 people were reportedly displaced with additional indications of people on the move. In Al Hasakeh governorate, schools are being used as collective shelters. There are around 500 families currently occupying 8 schools. Photo credit: Save the Children 2019.

Following the escalation of violence in in North East Syria, an estimated 210,000 people were reportedly displaced with additional indications of people on the move. In Al Hasakeh governorate, schools are being used as collective shelters. Credit: Save the Children

Statement by Save the Children Two Weeks After the Escalation in North East Syria

FAIRFIELD, Conn. (Oct. 22, 2019)—Two weeks after the escalation in North East Syria, Sonia Khush, Save the Children Syria Response Director said:

“The humanitarian needs of the thousands of people displaced since October 9th  in North East Syria are multiple and acute, from basic shelter to clean water and food. Today, more than 74,000 children remain away from their homes, with many living in schools, abandoned buildings, or even tents set up hastily in open fields.

“There are also five main camps for displaced populations that are home to dozens of nationalities including Syrians, Iraqis and other foreigners who rely almost entirely on humanitarian aid. Some of the camps have been receiving civilians displaced in the past two weeks, which is putting great pressure on the already overstretched resources and tired populations.

“In addition to a lasting cessation of hostilities, the free and unimpeded movement of civilians and aid workers in North East Syria is the only way today to avoid a full-scale humanitarian crisis.”

30-year old Shahad* has been displaced to a school in Al Hassakeh city. He told Save the Children:

“We fled because of airstrikes and bombing. My mother-in-law was wounded, and my brother-in-law, grandson, and cousin are missing. The airplanes were circling, so we fled to save our lives.

“We had little children with us. We left everything behind, we just wanted to save our and our children’s lives. We fled barefoot with only our clothes on us.

“Now, we’re here with nothing: No food, nothing. Look at us. What are we going to do?”

*Names have been changed to protect identities.

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