Nabih Bakry: Aid is UN-sponsored, government misleading public opinion

The head of the Sweida Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nabih Bakry, confirmed that Sweida and its countryside are suffering from a disaster and are under siege. He also stated that the humanitarian aid that has entered the governorate in recent days comes solely from UN organizations. He emphasized that "the Syrian Interim Government is trying to promote a false image that it is the one bringing in this aid, which is absolutely untrue."

In a special statement to ANHA agency, regarding the situation in Sweida following the military escalation that began on July 13, Bakry addressed what he described as the "betrayal" Sweida is experiencing. Bakry noted that the aid that has entered is "very small and does not match the scale of the siege and suffering the governorate has been experiencing for weeks," warning of an imminent humanitarian catastrophe if the blackout continues and serious support is lacking.

He added, "No aid is reaching Sweida except that provided by the United Nations, and despite this, official bodies affiliated with the transitional government are trying to exploit the situation to mislead public opinion and appear as saviors," calling for an end to "exploiting the people's pain."

Bakry spoke about the tragedies and violations that have befallen civilians in Sweida, pointing to "crimes of murder and slaughter committed against the people of the province by armed groups." He expressed his shock at what he described as "a betrayal of the people of one nation," in contrast to previous demonstrations of solidarity shown by the people of Sweida during the February 2023 earthquake, when they sent relief convoys to Hama, Latakia, and Homs.

Bakry concluded by saying, "The people of Sweida will never forget what is happening. They will never forgive these insults. Nevertheless, we affirm that Sweida will not starve and will remain steadfast thanks to the will of its people and its local community."

Sweida is suffering from a stifling blockade that has led to a shortage of basic supplies and a near-total absence of aid, amid a worsening humanitarian situation and ongoing popular demands for urgent international intervention.

Sh-S

ANHA