Afrin and Shahba displaced endure tough conditions in Tabqa

In Tabqa’s temporary shelters, the displaced face scorching summer heat, yet their tents burn with the same fervor as their spirit of resistance. These tents have become emblems of dignity and an unrelenting struggle for a safe and dignified return to their homes. As they proclaim to the world, “If you have forgotten, we will never forget our land.”

 Yasmin Al-Ali, a displaced woman from occupied Afrin now in Tabqa, described the dire humanitarian situation: “The conditions for the displaced are extremely harsh. They live in tents that offer no protection from the blistering summer sun or the biting winter cold. The number of sick children and adults is rising, and the threat of insects, snakes, and scorpions has rendered the tents unsafe for habitation.” She attributed the displaced community’s endurance to their sense of security in Al-Tabqa, while emphasizing their demand for a safe return to their homes.

  Al-Ali called on international powers to assume their responsibilities toward the displaced, affirming that “the people of Afrin will never forget their land and will return, sooner or later.”

 Ongoing Violations in Afrin

 Mustafa Moussa, another displaced individual, highlighted the persistent crimes and violations in Afrin, despite agreements between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Damascus authorities. He noted, “In light of ongoing violations, a return to Afrin or Shahba is impossible without genuine international guarantees ensuring a dignified and safe life, enabling residents to resume their normal lives.”

 Nouri Touran, also displaced, underscored the worsening conditions in the temporary tents as summer brings intense heat. Children suffer from numerous illnesses caused by extreme temperatures, while recurring dust storms threaten to uproot the tents, heightening the residents’ constant anxiety. The medical center at the Sports City temporary shelter in Tabqa receives over 30 cases daily, primarily children suffering from summer diarrhea, heat-induced seizures, scorpion stings, and other ailments such as leishmaniasis and skin infections caused by stagnant water and swamps.

 Despite these hardships, Touran emphasized the displaced community’s unwavering determination to return safely and with dignity. He stressed that they will not accept a return to Afrin unless it guarantees safety and dignity, asserting, “Our choice is clear: either a safe and dignified homeland or tents of honor and pride.”

 Efforts to Mitigate Conditions

 Rozalin Ahmed, Co-Chair of the Sports City temporary shelter administration, stated, “We have made some preparations for the summer heat, with Tabqa administration providing fans and increasing electricity hours at the centers.

 However, these measures are insufficient, especially as the tents are deteriorating, requiring urgent maintenance or replacement with higher-quality ones.” She added that spraying insecticides to curb the spread of scorpions and snakes and establishing proper sewage systems are critical, as stagnant water creates an ideal breeding ground for insects and diseases.

 The displaced from Afrin and Shahba remain resolute in their demand for a safe and dignified return, standing firm in their rightful claim to their homeland despite the immense challenges they face.

 a.k

ANHA