Afrin, Shahba displaced face harsh winter conditions

 Just as these displaced families began to recover from heavy rains that flooded their tents, they were hit by a freezing wave that has made survival in tents nearly impossible. The makeshift shelters offer no protection against the bitter cold, as temperatures across Syria have plummeted below freezing, posing an extreme threat to those in displacement camps.

 Displaced Voices Call for International Intervention

 Displaced residents are calling on the international community for urgent intervention. Husni Najjar, a displaced person from Afrin, described the dire conditions: “There is nothing here that sustains life. International organizations have abandoned us to disease. Tuberculosis, skin conditions, colds, and bronchitis are spreading rapidly due to the freezing temperatures. We are devastated—our situation is catastrophic.”

 Najjar further lamented: “A few days ago, strong winds caused fires in several tents. Water collects in pits between our tents, turning them into breeding grounds for disease. What crime have we and our children committed to die from the cold? The tents offer no protection, and yet they burn down—along with our documents. How much longer will the world watch our suffering in silence? International humanitarian organizations must act immediately to save our lives.”

 Mohammad Hussein, another displaced individual from Afrin, echoed the concerns: “In this freezing weather, we lack blankets and mattresses. People, especially children and the elderly, are dying from the cold. Organizations come, take a quick tour, and leave without returning. Mothers carry their children all day because they cannot put them down on the flooded ground, and their cries from hunger never stop.”

 Nizar Rashu, also displaced, questioned the absence of effective aid: “Since our displacement, we have seen nothing tangible from international organizations. Where is the United Nations, which claims on media platforms that it is providing support? We see no sign of them here. What is our fault?”

 Hussein Sheikho, another displaced person suffering from injuries sustained during the forced displacement, described his worsening condition due to the cold: “I suffered a foot fracture during our displacement and had to have a metal rod implanted. I had it removed just two days ago, and I need warmth and medical care, but that has become an impossible dream. I am only surviving on painkillers. If I do not receive proper medical attention, I risk permanent disability.”

a.k

ANHA