Sun Dec 08 05:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Over 280,000 Displaced in Syria as Renewed Fighting Intensifies

**Geneva/Damascus** – A new wave of fighting in northwestern Syria has forced over 280,000 people to flee their homes in just days, the UN has reported. The offensive, launched by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group – designated a terrorist organization by the UN Security Council – has affected Aleppo, Idlib, and parts of Hama provinces.

Despite the escalating violence, aid continues to flow into the war-torn region via three border crossings from Turkey. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has established community kitchens in Aleppo and Hama, areas reportedly under HTS control.

This latest crisis comes amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges. UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Osnat Lubrani, expressed serious concerns about the safety of over 600,000 displaced people returning to their homes in Lebanon following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah on November 27th. She highlighted the significant danger posed by unexploded ordnance.

WFP’s Emergency Coordinator, Strategic Analysis and Humanitarian Diplomacy Head, Jakob Kern, described the situation in Syria as “a crisis on top of a crisis,” referencing the ongoing civil war that began in 2011. He warned that the recent escalation could displace up to 1.5 million people, adding, “They will need our assistance. Humanitarian partners are working on the frontlines on both sides, and we are striving to provide assistance to communities as needed.”

Kern highlighted the devastating impact of the protracted conflict on the Syrian economy and livelihoods, pushing millions into critical levels of food insecurity. He stated that after 13-14 years of conflict, Syria is teetering on the brink of collapse, with over 3 million people experiencing severe food insecurity and unable to afford enough food. Before the latest surge in violence, 12.9 million people required food assistance. He also warned that the $4.1 billion humanitarian response plan for Syria is facing its largest ever funding gap, with less than a third of the needed funds secured.

Lubrani also addressed the situation in Lebanon, where people affected by the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah are rapidly returning home. While over 600,000 have already returned, concerns remain about the challenges they face, including the risk of unexploded ordnance and landmines, particularly for farmers attempting to salvage their olive harvests. She urged support for demining efforts in the affected areas.

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