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Husam Hezaber

Idlib, Syria
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About Husam
Freelance journalist covering war and humanitarian situations in Syria. Experienced collaborator with media agencies including Al Jazeera, The Guardian, Middle East Eye, and other media outlets.
Languages
Arabic English
Services
Video Package (Web / Broadcast) Audio package (Radio / Podcast) Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+11
Skills
Politics Film & Theatre Sports
+6
Portfolio

Afraa, ‘miracle baby’ of Syria’s earthquake, is turning one

04 Feb 2024  |  www.aljazeera.com
In Jandaris, Syria, a celebration was held for children who survived the devastating earthquake that struck the region on February 6, 2023. Among them was Afraa, born amidst the tragedy as her mother died, turning one year old. The event, organized by World Vision, symbolized hope in hardship. Afraa, now living with her aunt Hala and uncle Khalil Shami al-Suwadi, has recovered from her injuries and is growing well, forming a close bond with her cousin Doaa. The family remains hopeful despite the painful memories of the disaster.

Assad forces target crowded market, kill two: Syria’s White Helmets

31 Dec 2023  |  www.aljazeera.com
Two civilians, including a child, were killed and 16 others injured in an artillery attack by Syrian regime forces on a market in Idlib city. The Syria Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, reported the casualties and noted the regime's intensified targeting of the area. The region, hosting 4.5 million people, has seen over 1,200 attacks since the beginning of 2023, including on schools and displaced camps. The same day, Israeli warplanes struck Aleppo and Neirab airports and areas with Iranian militia presence. Civilians in Idlib expressed their helplessness and criticized the Assad regime for targeting civilians instead of responding to Israeli raids.

Deadly Christmas in Syria’s Idlib after Russian attack kills five in family

26 Dec 2023  |  www.aljazeera.com
A Russian air raid targeting a house near Armenaz in western Idlib, Syria, killed a couple and three of their children on Christmas, with another child injured and in critical condition. The Syrian Civil Defence reported a significant number of attacks and casualties in the region since the beginning of the year. Despite a ceasefire agreement, Idlib faces systematic targeting by regime forces, leading to displacement and a state of terror. The international community is urged to address Russian actions, while displaced civilians hope for accountability and the chance to return home.

Rima’s journey: Prosthetic gives Syrian new start after February earthquake

10 Aug 2023  |  aljazeera.com
Rima Haj Hussein, a 15-year-old Syrian girl, has overcome the loss of her leg in the February earthquakes that struck southern Turkey and northern Syria, by receiving a bespoke prosthetic limb from the Ataa Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Limb Centre in Azaz. Despite the trauma of losing her father and her own leg, Rima passed her exams and aspires to become a doctor. The centre, facing funding and material shortages, strives to provide prosthetics to many amputees, amidst a backdrop of over 86,000 Syrian amputees documented in 2017 and at least 1.5 million people living with permanent disabilities.

Six months on from earthquakes, tent hospital treats patients in Syria

07 Aug 2023  |  www.aljazeera.com
In northwestern Syria, the Amanos Hospital, constructed from tents, continues to treat patients six months after devastating earthquakes. Despite the challenging conditions, including aftershocks and the ongoing war, the hospital provides 112 beds, operating rooms, and other medical services. The region's healthcare sector still suffers from a lack of aid, modern equipment, and trained personnel. The closure of the Bab al-Hawa border crossing with Turkey has exacerbated the situation, particularly for cancer patients. Protests have been held to demand international action, and the Turkish government has allowed some cancer patients to receive free treatment. However, many new patients remain unable to access necessary care, with some losing their lives while waiting for permission to enter Turkey for treatment.

‘Assad’s bombs chase us’: Syrian forces target refugee camps near Turkish border

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
The article reports on the plight of Syrian civilians, particularly the story of Abu Mohammed and his family, who fled to the Turkish border to escape military assaults by forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Despite seeking refuge near the border, their camp was shelled, leading to injuries and destruction. The Syrian government also bombed another camp, resulting in casualties. The article highlights the mass displacement of civilians, with nearly one million people displaced since December, and the challenges faced by humanitarian agencies in delivering aid due to the ongoing conflict. The United Nations and other organizations express concern over the safety of shelters and the difficulty in reaching the displaced. The article includes additional reporting by Ragip Soylu in Turkey.

‘We cannot do anything’: Displaced Syrians watch as government auctions their land

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
The article discusses the plight of displaced Syrians whose lands are being auctioned off by the Syrian government. Abu Rayyan al-Hamwe, a displaced civilian, and others like him have had their agricultural lands seized and rented out to regime loyalists. The Syrian government has justified these actions by claiming the right to auction private lands whose owners are not in government-controlled areas. The Syrian Legalists Committee has reported on the extensive land grabs by the government and its intelligence branches, with estimates of tens of thousands of dunams being confiscated. The article also touches on the controversial Law 10, which allows local authorities to take possession of properties in war-affected areas. Displaced Syrians, now living in camps or as laborers, express their feelings of powerlessness and their desire to return to their lands.

Syria: No new deal on Idlib with Russia and Turkey, says official

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
The article reports on the recent escalation of violence in Idlib, Syria, where Russian-backed Syrian government forces have conducted air strikes resulting in significant civilian casualties. Hasan al-Assi, a resident of Idlib, recounts the loss of ten family members due to the bombings. The UK-based Syria Observatory for Human Rights has documented the deaths of at least eight civilians, including six children. The article also tells the story of Omar Muhammad Khair al-Omar, a White Helmets volunteer, who lost two daughters in an air strike. The Syrian Civil Defence reported 192 attacks by government and Russian forces in June and early July, with 54 civilian deaths, including 11 children and 10 women, and over 148 injuries. The attacks have also targeted Civil Defence centres, causing service suspensions and casualties among volunteers.

Ceasefire negotiations underway in Syria’s Daraa as fierce clashes rage

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
Ceasefire negotiations have begun in Syria's Daraa following intense clashes, the deadliest since the government took control three years ago. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported at least 28 deaths, including 11 civilians and children. The conflict escalated when rebels attacked Syrian army checkpoints in response to the army's siege of areas in Daraa. Despite a temporary de-escalation, government forces continued shelling, leading to civilian displacements. Negotiations, influenced by Russian pressure, are underway between the Syrian army, security officials, and Daraa residents. The situation remains uncertain as government forces, supported by Iranian and Russian allies, maintain a tense standoff with local rebels. Displacements have occurred, with families seeking safety from the violence and lack of resources, such as medicine. Negotiations have stalled due to government demands for increased military presence in residential areas.

In pictures: Syrian fig harvester returns to work after losing leg to landmine

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
The article discusses the daily routine of a farmer named al-Zaytoun in the villages of Jabal al-Zawiya and the southern countryside of Idlib, where fig cultivation is a primary source of income for locals. The region is particularly known for producing high-quality dried figs that are sought after for their health benefits, including being a rich source of dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals. The focus is on the significance of fig farming in the area and its contribution to the local economy.

Syrians seeking medical treatment in Turkey left in limbo over new permits

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
Ismael al-Hassan, a Syrian refugee, faced difficulties receiving medical treatment in Turkey due to changes in documentation requirements. After the Syrian healthcare system collapsed, many Syrians sought treatment in Turkey. However, a new document, the Medical-Tourism Permit, has not been recognized by Turkish hospitals, leaving many patients, including Hassan, without care. The Medical Coordination Office at the Bab al-Hawa border crossing reported that nearly 6,000 patients from northern Syria sought treatment in Turkey this year, but the transfer of non-emergency cases has now been halted. Turkish officials claim they facilitate treatment for Syrians and deny implementing new restrictions, but the reality on the ground suggests otherwise. The situation reflects broader tensions and new restrictions on Syrian refugees in Turkey, where public sentiment towards them has soured.

Syrian government shelling kills civilians in Idlib

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
On Saturday, Syrian government shelling in Idlib province killed at least six civilians, including women and children. The attack targeted a residential house in Maarat al-Naasan, which is in close proximity to Damascus-controlled areas. The Syrian Civil Defence reported that three artillery shells were fired from the forest of Kafr Halab. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the attack, noting that a family home was hit, resulting in the death of two women and two children from the same family, with several others wounded. The victims were buried in the town's community cemetery. The region of Idlib, which borders Turkey, is largely controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and is one of the last opposition strongholds in Syria. Despite a ceasefire agreement in March 2020, the Syrian government has increased attacks in southern Idlib since June.

Syria: Civilians, including child, killed in Russian air strikes on Idlib

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
Russian warplanes conducted several air strikes on Idlib, northwestern Syria, resulting in at least seven civilian deaths, including a child, and 12 injuries. The strikes targeted a stone sawmill and a residential house in Hafsarja town. Abu Amin, a civilian observer, reported that four Russian planes launched from Hmeimim Military Airport and carried out 16 air strikes with high-explosive and cluster bombs. The Syrian Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, expressed concerns that the death toll might rise due to critical injuries. The attacks are part of a pattern of violations of the de-escalation agreement in Idlib by Russian forces, who support President Bashar al-Assad's government. The conflict in Syria has resulted in significant casualties and displacement since its inception in 2011.

Cholera cases in Syria continue to surge amid contaminated water crisis

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
Syria is facing a severe cholera outbreak, with at least 29 deaths and numerous infections reported. The disease is primarily attributed to the consumption of water from the contaminated Euphrates river. The situation is exacerbated by the damage to water infrastructure due to the ongoing civil war and climate change, leading to a decline in the river's water level. The Alouk water station, crucial for supplying drinking water, has ceased operation due to alleged electricity cuts, with control and responsibility being contested between various factions including the Turkish-backed Syrian opposition and the US-backed SDF. International organizations have suggested that the station's closure is a significant factor in the cholera outbreak. The situation is dire in displacement camps, where the lack of clean drinking water and proper sanitation raises fears of the disease spreading uncontrollably.

World Cup 2022: Iran's losses will be cheered by Syria's displaced

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
The article discusses the complex sentiments in Syria as the World Cup begins, particularly regarding the matches involving Iran and England. Syrian internally displaced persons (IDPs) express mixed feelings, with some resentment towards Iran for its support of President Bashar al-Assad and towards England for its perceived inaction on human rights. The UK's shifting stance on refugees is also highlighted. The geopolitical implications of the World Cup games, especially those involving Iran, are noted in the context of the failed Iran nuclear deal and Iran's alleged support for Russia in Ukraine. Despite the hardships, Syrian IDPs and fans find ways to engage with the World Cup, with some organizing their own local competitions. The article also touches on the broader issues of human rights and the political backdrop of the World Cup, including the exclusion of Russia from the tournament and the upcoming UN session on Iran's treatment of protesters.

Syria earthquake: Survivors take refuge in streets and fields in Assad-controlled areas

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
Northwest Syria, particularly the rebel-held enclave, has been severely affected by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation due to the civil war. The quake has resulted in over 3,554 deaths, with rescue efforts being hampered by poor weather and lack of infrastructure. Medical facilities like Al-Rahma Hospital and Al-Shifa Hospital are overwhelmed, lacking resources and medical supplies to treat the injured. The international community's response has been slow, with the UN only recently sending aid. The US Treasury Department has issued a license to allow relief, but it is uncertain if aid will be fairly distributed in opposition-controlled areas. Hospitals are in urgent need of drugs and medical supplies, with some assistance coming from organizations like SAMS. The situation remains critical as the window for rescue closes and the focus shifts to recovery and treating survivors with chronic health conditions.

Syrians lament disaster after disaster in earthquake ravaged Jindayris

19 Jun 2023  |  Middle East Eye
The article reports on the aftermath of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck southern Turkey and northwest Syria, focusing on the town of Jindayris in Syria. Faisal Baydoun and his family, along with many others, waited for days in the cold for international help to rescue their loved ones trapped under the rubble. The earthquake has caused significant destruction and a new wave of displacement in a region already impoverished by civil war. The international aid has been slow, with the UN acknowledging their failure to provide timely assistance. The Syrian Civil Defence, known as the White Helmets, expressed frustration at the delayed response. The article includes personal accounts of survivors who have lost homes and are now living in tents, facing food and medical supply shortages amidst rising prices and cold weather.

Hundreds gathered in northern Syria’s rebel-held Idlib and surrounding towns to decry Syrian regime’s participation in Arab League.

19 May 2023  |  Al Jazeera
Thousands of Syrians protested in various cities against the normalization of relations with President Bashar al-Assad's government and Syria's return to the Arab League. The protests occurred as al-Assad participated in the Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia, marking his return after a 12-year absence. Demonstrators expressed their rejection of al-Assad's regime, citing the suffering and displacement caused by the government during the Syrian Civil War. The Arab League had suspended Syria's membership in 2011 due to the regime's brutal response to peaceful protests. Despite the normalization, some countries like Qatar maintain their stance against the Syrian regime. The protests also extended to cities outside Syria, emphasizing the Syrian diaspora's continued demand for accountability and change.

Syrians in Turkey facing uncertain future whether Erdoğan stays or goes

12 May 2023  |  www.theguardian.com
The article discusses the precarious situation of Syrian refugees in Turkey, particularly focusing on the story of Rakkan Talib, a former Syrian refugee who now owns a shop in Gaziantep, Turkey. With Turkey's upcoming elections, both the ruling party and the opposition have taken a hard stance on immigration, promising to restore relations with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and deport Syrian refugees. The opposition, despite its social democratic stance, has been vocal about deporting refugees, with the CHP's presidential candidate Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu promising to send Syrians back within two years. President Erdoğan has also been pushing for restoring relations with Syria. The article highlights the fears of the Syrian community in Turkey, who are reluctant to return to Syria under Assad's regime, and reports on the alleged forced deportations and mistreatment of Syrians by Turkish authorities.

Syria’s return to Arab League leaves opposition dismayed

09 May 2023  |  Al Jazeera
The Arab League's decision to reinstate Syria's membership has caused outrage among residents in opposition-held northern Syria and political opposition members. They view this move as a legitimization of President Bashar al-Assad's regime, which has been accused of committing atrocities during the 12-year Syrian war. Syria was suspended from the Arab League in 2011 following a government crackdown on protesters. Despite the decision, some Arab states remain opposed to normalization without a political resolution to the conflict. The Arab League has formed a committee to engage in dialogue with the Syrian government for a comprehensive solution, addressing issues like the refugee crisis and drug smuggling. Critics argue that the decision fails to protect Arab peoples' interests and is influenced by the recent Saudi-Iranian rapprochement. Opposition activists are determined to unify efforts against normalization with al-Assad's regime and strive for a democratic Syria.

Northwestern Syria is also in desparate need of aid, say locals and UN officials.

06 May 2023  |  Al Jazeera
Three months after the devastating earthquakes in northwestern Syria and southeastern Turkey, the region is still in dire need of aid. Many buildings have been destroyed or deemed unsafe, and the healthcare sector is struggling with damaged facilities and a shortage of equipment and personnel. The Syria Response Coordination Group estimates an economic loss of $1.95bn. The UN has visited the area to assess the situation and calls for increased funding, as the humanitarian response plan is severely underfunded. Border crossings with Turkey are crucial for aid delivery, and the UN is working to keep them open. Locals like Ahmed Mazloum, who cannot afford repairs to his damaged home, are in desperate need of external aid and live in fear of aftershocks.

Syrians in Sudan Caught Between Conflict and the Threat of Forced Return

29 Apr 2023  |  Al Jazeera
The article discusses the plight of Syrian refugees in Sudan who had fled the war in their homeland, hoping for safety. However, recent clashes between the Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces have reignited fears of conflict. Approximately 30,000 Syrians in Sudan are again facing the threat of war, with some having already been killed in the violence. Syrian refugee Saleh Ismail al-Badran shares his experiences of insecurity in Khartoum, including armed gangs posing a significant threat. Many Syrians are considering fleeing to Egypt or Saudi Arabia, but face challenges such as being denied entry at the Egyptian border and high costs of living in safer Sudanese cities like Port Sudan. The refugees are also fearful of being forced to return to Syria, where they risk arrest or worse by the regime of Bashar al-Assad.

Making the best of Ramadan in quake-hit northwestern Syria

06 Apr 2023  |  Al Jazeera
During Ramadan, the Idlib region of Syria is experiencing subdued celebrations due to an economic downturn exacerbated by recent earthquakes. Food prices have soared, with meat and produce increasing by over 50%. The area's population includes 4.5 million people, with 2.9 million internally displaced. Supermarket owner Abu Hussein notes that merchants are hoarding goods, driving up prices. Many residents, such as Mariam Haloul, rely on meals from relief organizations. Humanitarian efforts include providing iftar meals and organizing community banquets to foster unity and support among the quake-affected populace.

For Ramadan, Fork the System brings you stories of family, connection, and the dishes that made the month special for our guest chefs.

31 Mar 2023  |  Al Jazeera
The article focuses on the story of Fateem Khaled Errahmoon, a mother of 14 living in a displacement camp near Maarat Misrin in Syria's Idlib province. Having been displaced from her home in Tah due to the Syrian war, Fateem and her family now live in a tent with limited financial resources. Despite the hardships, she maintains a sense of normalcy and tradition, especially during Ramadan. Fateem recalls the big family dinners of the past and continues to prepare traditional dishes like kibbe, sambousak, and shish barak for iftar, the meal that breaks the fast. The article highlights her resilience and the importance of family and tradition during the holy month, despite the lack of proper cooking facilities and the challenges posed by displacement.

Cholera fears grow in northwest Syria amid rise in infections

31 Mar 2023  |  Al Jazeera
Northwest Syria is facing a rise in cholera infections following the devastating earthquakes in February. Abdel Moneim Hamdo, who moved to Al-Iman camp near Idlib with his family after their house collapsed, reported severe stomach aches in his children, which turned out to be acute gastroenteritis from contaminated water. The White Helmets reported two cholera deaths last month, with a total of 22 since the outbreak began. Dr. Fatima Abdelrahman from the Cham Humanitarian Foundation highlighted the symptoms and treatments of cholera. The Early Warning and Epidemic Response Program recorded 6,458 new cases and two deaths in February. Mohamed Salem, director of the vaccination program, emphasized the need for more vaccines to contain the outbreak. Aisha Abdulkarim, a mother living in a shelter, expressed her constant fear for her children's health amidst the crisis.

Mourning the people killed in February’s massive earthquakes, the community gets together for a toned-down celebration.

21 Mar 2023  |  Al Jazeera
In the Afrin region of Syria, Kurds observed a subdued Nowruz celebration this year, in remembrance of the victims of the February earthquakes that affected northern Syria and southern Turkey. Nowruz, recognized by UNESCO and celebrated across various countries, symbolizes the start of a new year and represents freedom and peace. The traditional festivities, which include lighting bonfires and cultural performances, were toned down as the community mourned the loss of life and destruction caused by the earthquakes. Personal stories highlighted the cultural significance of Nowruz and its historical roots in Kurdish legend. Despite past restrictions by regional governments, the Kurds continue to hold onto Nowruz as a symbol of liberation from oppression and a time for communal solidarity.

Floods destroy homes of quake survivors in northwestern Syria

19 Mar 2023  |  www.aljazeera.com
Heavy storms in northwestern Syria have caused flooding in dozens of displacement camps in Idlib province, damaging hundreds of shelters and making roads impassable. The Syria Civil Defence reported over 40 camps affected, with more than 700 tents damaged, and a child slightly injured. Displaced residents, including those who survived the February 6 earthquakes, faced further hardship as tents were swept away, and families were left homeless. Temporary shelters in schools and mosques have been provided, with calls for international organizations to assist in rebuilding and providing urgent aid. The stormy weather is expected to continue, exacerbating the plight of the displaced.

Floods destroy homes of quake survivors in northwestern Syria

19 Mar 2023  |  aljazeera.com
Heavy storms in northwestern Syria have caused flooding in dozens of displacement camps in Idlib province, damaging hundreds of shelters and making roads impassable. The Syria Civil Defence reported over 40 camps affected, with more than 700 tents damaged, and a child slightly injured. The floods have exacerbated the plight of earthquake survivors, many of whom were already displaced by conflict. Residents have been temporarily relocated to schools and mosques, and international organizations are being called upon for assistance. The stormy weather is expected to continue, with a forecasted drop in temperatures.

Photos: Thousands in Idlib mark 12 years since Syria uprising

15 Mar 2023  |  Al Jazeera
In northwestern Syria, thousands have gathered to commemorate the 12th anniversary of the protests against President Bashar al-Assad's regime. The peaceful protests in 2011 escalated into a war, influenced by foreign intervention, leaving al-Assad still in power despite massive casualties and displacement. The region, recently affected by earthquakes, remains a center of opposition. Demonstrators, including former detainees and displaced individuals, are voicing their continued resistance and calling for the international community to hold al-Assad accountable for his actions. The protests reflect a refusal to accept normalization efforts with the regime by some Arab countries following the earthquakes.

Syrian Refugees Return Home Following Turkey Earthquakes

09 Mar 2023  |  Al Jazeera
Following the devastating earthquakes in southeastern Turkey and northern Syria, thousands of Syrian refugees in Turkey are returning to their home country, taking advantage of relaxed regulations that allow them to return to opposition-controlled northwestern Syria temporarily. Turkish authorities permit refugees from the most affected provinces to return to Syria and come back within six months. Nearly 40,000 refugees have crossed back into Syria through border crossings like Bab al-Hawa. The return program is limited to those with temporary protection permits. The earthquakes have prompted refugees to reconsider their living situations due to destroyed homes, lost jobs, and the desire to reunite with family or visit relatives' graves. Some, like Hussein al-Ahmed and Malak Khazna, plan to return to Turkey after a short stay, while others, like Hassan Hasram, have decided to make Syria their home again due to the dire conditions in Turkish refugee camps and the lack of support.

Syrian women face trauma and displacement after earthquakes

08 Mar 2023  |  Al Jazeera
The article focuses on the resilience and strength of Syrian women in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes in northern Syria. It highlights the stories of several women, including Moufida Ghanem, a widow who lost her son and home, and is now seeking work to provide for her family. Iman Abdel Razzaq, a paediatric nurse, set up a free medical centre to help earthquake victims. Shahd al-Abdullah, a medical services volunteer, recounts her experiences with the Civil Defence in rescue efforts. The International Rescue Committee reports that female-headed households are at increased risk of harassment and abuse in overcrowded shelters. The article also features Yasmine Khalil, an artist who raised funds through her artwork to help affected families. The piece underscores the critical roles women are playing in recovery and support, despite facing personal losses and challenges.

Demolish or repair? Teams assess structures in the northwestern region where infrastructure was already dilapidated.

22 Feb 2023  |  Al Jazeera
In the aftermath of devastating earthquakes in northwestern Syria, engineers from the Syrian Engineers Association are conducting thorough assessments of the structural safety of buildings in Idlib. The region, already weakened by conflict and previous destruction, saw over 800 buildings demolished and nearly 6,000 damaged due to the earthquakes. Civil engineer Mustafa Haj Lattouf is leading one of the committees responsible for inspecting the buildings and determining their habitability or need for demolition. Residents like Ammar Abdul Qayyum and Ahmed Arour have shared their experiences of loss and the ongoing fear caused by aftershocks. The recent tremors on Monday night resulted in additional casualties and injuries, as reported by Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency and the White Helmets. The situation remains dire as families continue to live in tents and fear returning to their damaged homes.

Doctors from Qatar, US work to save quake survivors in NW Syria

17 Feb 2023  |  Al Jazeera
Following the devastating earthquakes in northwestern Syria, international medical aid was delayed but has now begun to reach the affected areas. Two Qatari aid convoys have entered via Turkey, bringing supplies and a medical team that has performed hundreds of surgeries. The health sector in Idlib is described as catastrophic, with hospitals overwhelmed with wounded patients. The Syrian Civil Defence reports over 2,000 deaths and 14,000 injuries in the region. The Qatari Red Crescent is operating an air bridge to continue aid delivery, while the Syrian American Medical Society has also sent doctors to perform surgeries. Despite the efforts, the region's medical infrastructure struggles with shortages of supplies and personnel, exacerbated by 12 years of war and previous crises. Rights groups criticize the slow humanitarian response, and the UN acknowledges the shortcomings in aid delivery to the people of northwestern Syria.

Syrians are hoping conditions in their war-ravaged homeland are better than quake-hit Turkey.

16 Feb 2023  |  Al Jazeera
Following the devastating earthquakes in Turkey, hundreds of Syrian refugees are returning to their war-damaged homeland, seeking refuge with relatives and friends. Turkish authorities have opened border crossings specifically for Syrians with 'temporary protection' cards from earthquake-affected provinces. Over 1,790 Syrians have returned, facilitated by the Bab al-Hawa border crossing. The earthquakes have compounded the suffering in rebel-held northwestern Syria, where millions have already been displaced by the Syrian war. The UN has admitted to an international failure in aiding Syrian quake victims. Personal stories from refugees like Mohamad al-Sawad, Um Yaser, and Mahmoud al-Issa highlight the dire circumstances and difficult choices faced by those affected. The death toll from the quakes is nearing 42,000, with significant losses in both Turkey and Syria.

NW Syria faces a spike in food prices after earthquakes

15 Feb 2023  |  Al Jazeera
The article discusses the economic repercussions of the recent earthquakes in northwestern Syria and southern Turkey, focusing on the surge in food prices and the disruption of commercial activities. The Bab al-Hawa border crossing, a crucial economic channel for the region, was closed, halting the transport of goods and exacerbating the crisis. Mahmoud Joulaq, a bakery supervisor in Jandaris, Syria, details the challenges faced by bakeries, including staff shortages and increased raw material costs. Omran Zaarour, a food store owner, also highlights the loss incurred due to the destruction of warehouses. Mazen Alloush, from the Bab al-Hawa border crossing, and economist Hayan Hababa comment on the broader economic impact and the struggle to resume commercial transport to alleviate the shortage of goods.

No room for the dead as cemeteries in earthquake-hit Turkey and Syria fill up

10 Feb 2023  |  www.theguardian.com
The article describes the devastating aftermath of two powerful earthquakes that struck southern Turkey and northern Syria, resulting in over 21,000 deaths and apocalyptic levels of destruction. In the Turkish province of Gaziantep, cemeteries are running out of space, and mass funerals are being held outdoors due to the collapse of a mosque. Emergency workers are tirelessly searching through the wreckage, and in some cases, families are forced to identify their loved ones by small remnants such as nail polish on a severed arm. The situation is dire in northern Syria as well, where the White Helmets are struggling to conduct rescue operations with limited resources. The United Nations has only recently provided aid, and survivors are burning whatever they can to stay warm. The article conveys a sense of abandonment felt by the victims, as they face this tragedy with insufficient support.

Survivors in earthquake-devastated town in northwestern Syria are forced to take refuge in makeshift shelters

10 Feb 2023  |  Al Jazeera
The article reports on the dire situation in Jandaris, northwestern Syria, where survivors of the recent earthquakes are living in tents under harsh winter conditions. Samaher Rashid, a mother of 10, shares her struggle to keep her children distracted from the trauma while lacking basic necessities. The death toll in Turkey and Syria has surpassed 22,000, with ongoing search and rescue operations by the White Helmets. Nashaat Muhammad Raslan, another survivor, describes losing everything and the inadequate living conditions in the camps. The National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces highlighted the extensive damage and the need for international aid, which has been delayed. Yasser Tarraf from the Al-Ameen Organization emphasizes the severe shortage of food, heating materials, and other essentials due to the closed border crossing with Turkey.

Infrastructure to blame for high Syria earthquake death toll

08 Feb 2023  |  Al Jazeera
The article reports on the aftermath of the earthquakes that struck northwestern Syria and southern Turkey, highlighting the ongoing rescue efforts more than 50 hours after the disaster. Buildings, including new residential complexes for displaced Syrians, have been destroyed, with many families still trapped under the debris. Saria Bitar, a civil engineer, explains that the buildings' infrastructure was not designed to withstand earthquakes, and the damage was exacerbated by previous war-related destruction and lack of engineering regulations. The town of Jinderes has been declared a disaster zone, and survivors like Osama al-Yahya are assisting in rescue efforts despite inadequate equipment. The local population feels abandoned by the international community, as the lack of heavy machinery and support has led to preventable deaths. The article concludes with a call for global assistance and provides information on how to donate to the earthquake disaster response.

The killing of footballer-turned-rebel leaves Syrians in mourning

10 Jun 2019  |  The killing of footballer-turned-rebel leaves Syrians in mourning
Syrian footballer and revolutionary singer Abdul Baset al Sarout died after being injured in northern Hama. His death caused widespread mourning in Syria, with many gathering to bid farewell to a figure who had become a symbol of resistance against Bashar al Assad's regime. Al Sarout, who had a bounty on his head, was known for his revolutionary songs and his role in the armed struggle. Despite the regime's efforts to suppress the rebellion, al Sarout remained committed to the cause until his death. His body was returned to Syria for burial, where he was laid to rest next to his family members who had also been killed in the conflict.
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