Worsening conditions deepen suffering in Washokani Camp

Thousands of displaced people living in Washokani Camp are hoping for a solution that will end years of displacement and put an end to their growing suffering. They continue to endure deteriorating humanitarian conditions, extreme summer heat, and a lack of basic necessities, including water, electricity, and essential services, while much of the humanitarian aid previously available has been suspended.

Camp Lacks Basic Services as Extreme Heat Threatens Children's Lives

Speaking to ANHA, Hussein Al-Mohammad, who was displaced from the village of Marikis in the occupied countryside of Serê Kaniyê, described the situation as "tragic."

"We lack all the necessities of life, including water, electricity, food assistance, and basic services," he said.

He added that the intense heat inside the tents has worsened children's suffering, causing cases of convulsions, while elderly residents have died due to the harsh weather conditions.

Al-Mohammad also said the camp has become a breeding ground for disease, with children paying the highest price. Hundreds have been born in the camp during the past seven years, depriving them of a normal childhood and life.

He noted that women now spend much of their day securing and transporting water because of the continued lack of basic services.

Al-Mohammad called on the authorities to ensure a safe return for displaced residents by removing obstacles, restoring infrastructure, compensating those affected, and helping them rebuild their homes.

"The Heat Inside the Tents Turned Our Lives Into Hell"

For her part, Jawhara Al-Shatti, who was displaced from the village of Al-Tawila in the countryside of Serê Kaniyê, said camp residents face extremely difficult living conditions that become even harsher during the summer months.

She explained that the extreme temperatures inside the tents make it nearly impossible to remain indoors during daylight hours.

Al-Shatti said years of displacement have placed a heavy burden on families, stressing that their primary demand is to return to their villages and end their prolonged suffering.

She also called on the authorities and humanitarian organizations to support the rehabilitation and reconstruction of damaged homes so residents can return and resume their normal lives.

Calls for Safe Return and Damage Assessment Committees

Concluding the interviews, Khadr Mousa Al-Dhiab, who was displaced from the occupied village of Al-Manakh in the countryside of Tel Tamr, said conditions in the camp have deteriorated significantly since humanitarian organizations scaled back their assistance. "The high temperatures have made life in the camp even more difficult, but we have no other option. The situation is extremely bad, and all we want is a solution that allows us to leave the camp," he said.

Al-Dhiab added that his village remains under Turkish control. "We tried to visit our homes, but Turkish forces prevented us from entering the village. In addition, the village has suffered extensive destruction."

He concluded by calling for the formation of specialized committees to monitor the conditions of displaced people and their villages, assess the damage, provide the necessary support for displaced families, and reopen roads to enable their return.

ANHA