Siege on Kobani enters its fifth week amid warnings of humanitarian catastrophe

The city of Kobani has been under a complete siege since January 20th, imposed by factions affiliated with the interim government. Roads leading to the city have been closed, and food and medical supplies have been prevented from entering. This has directly impacted the health sector, with hospitals operating at minimal capacity due to shortages of medicine, particularly for chronic illnesses and emergency cases, in addition to a sharp decline in medical supplies.

This has led to a serious deterioration in the living conditions of more than 600,000 civilians in the city and its surrounding countryside.

The siege has also resulted in a shortage of infant formula, threatening the lives of hundreds of babies amidst widespread malnutrition and the lack of suitable alternatives, which could lead to increased disease rates.

There is also a severe shortage of heating fuel, exacerbating the suffering of residents, especially those living in camps and shelters. Electricity and water services have also been affected by shortages of fuel and spare parts, further worsening the already difficult daily living conditions within the city.

The residents are demanding the immediate opening of humanitarian corridors to allow the entry of food, medical supplies and fuel, stressing that the continued siege constitutes a clear violation of basic human rights and threatens the lives of civilians.

Sh-S

ANHA