Doctors Without Borders: Thousands flee NE Syria in freezing Winter

The organization reported a rise in attacks in northeast Syria, particularly in Raqqa, Deir Ezzor, and Hasakah, which has led to a deteriorating security situation and put civilians at serious risk, forcing thousands of families to flee from areas including Tabqa, Raqqa, and Hasakah to the cities of Qamishli, Derik, and other locations.

According to the organization’s teams, the displacement occurred under harsh winter conditions, with temperatures dropping below freezing and heavy rainfall disrupting convoys of displaced people on the roads—especially between Hasakah and Qamishli—amid severe overcrowding in vehicles and a lack of protective measures.

The organization pointed out that temporary shelters in Qamishli and Derik—often set up in schools and mosques—suffer from weak infrastructure and are not adequately prepared to accommodate the growing number of displaced people, exacerbating their humanitarian suffering. Field teams reported testimonies from repeatedly displaced civilians, including families with people with disabilities and infants, who face severe shortages of heating, baby formula, and basic healthcare.

Doctors Without Borders confirmed that it has launched an emergency humanitarian response, including the distribution of mattresses, blankets, food, hygiene supplies, and kitchen utensils at three temporary shelters in Derik and Qamishli, in addition to operating a mobile medical clinic in Derik to provide basic healthcare to the displaced.

ANHA