13 July 2024 marks a crucial date for north-west Syria. It is on this date that the agreement to continue humanitarian operations via the Bab al-Hawa crossing, reached after lengthy bilateral negotiations between the Syrian regime and the UN, will come to an end. This agreement, which only lasts for six months each time it is renewed, must once again be extended to avoid any interruption in vital aid. This recurring situation is jeopardising the future of millions of Syrians already severely affected by persistent humanitarian and economic crises.
The vital importance of the Bab al-Hawa corridor
Bab al-Hawa is much more than just a crossing point; it is a lifeline for more than 4.2 million people in need in north-west Syria. The humanitarian programmes and services that pass through this corridor are essential to ensure the survival of these people. Food, medicines, shelter and essential health services all depend on this passage to reach those who need them most.
Multiple crises and evanescent hopes
The situation in Syria remains disastrous. Humanitarian and economic crises persist, worsening the daily lives of the inhabitants. Hopes of return for millions of displaced Syrians are fading by the day, while political solutions seem increasingly compromised. Budget cuts have already hit many humanitarian projects, significantly reducing aid capacity on the ground. This reality makes it all the more crucial to maintain the aid delivery mechanism through Bab al-Hawa.
At Mehad, we see the direct impact of this aid on the ground every day. Our programmes, which provide healthcare and psychosocial support, cannot function without safe and regular access to the population. We are therefore calling for immediate and concerted action to preserve this humanitarian corridor.
Priority to humanitarian aid
It is imperative to separate humanitarian aid from international interests and political decisions. The survival of millions of Syrians depends on it. The Bab al-Hawa corridor must remain open and operational, free from geopolitical influences that compromise its mission.
