Damascus authorities block entry of aid from NE Syria to Syrian coast for sixth day

The convoy departed on Thursday, April 10, from Qamishlo city in Jazira Canton, carrying approximately 14,000 food and medical baskets, along with tons of flour. It reached the Tabqa crossing on Friday and resumed its journey toward the coast on Saturday morning. However, Damascus authority forces prevented it from crossing, forcing the convoy to return to Tabqa.

On Sunday, the volunteers issued a statement reaffirming their determination to deliver the aid to those in need. They called for the opening of neutral humanitarian corridors and for allowing grassroots initiatives to reach the affected without military or political interference. Nevertheless, all efforts have failed, and the convoy remains in Raqqa Canton for the fifth day in a row.

Additionally, the volunteers issued a statement yesterday stating that the “Syrian Arab Red Crescent” conditioned the passage of the aid on unloading it in its warehouses and distributing it through its channels. This demand was rejected by the volunteers.

The volunteers have called on international organizations to pressure for the delivery of this aid to its rightful recipients without manipulation or politicization.

This effort is part of ongoing humanitarian initiatives from the people of North and East Syria, the Kurdish Red Crescent, and the Democratic Autonomous Administration. These initiatives aim to provide support and relief to civilians in the coastal area, who have suffered violations and horrific massacres during recent clashes between armed groups and Damascus authority forces between March 7 and 10. Witnesses report that similar atrocities are still occurring.

The first aid convoy from North and East Syria was sent on March 17, carrying 10,000 food baskets that were delivered to those affected in the coastal region

Sh-S

ANHA