Syria: Recent Developments in Aleppo - Flash Update No. 4, 01 December 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

• Civilians have been affected for the fifth consecutive day by ongoing hostilities.
• Humanitarian concerns, including displacements and risks to civilians, continue to be reported.
• Humanitarian organizations appeal to all parties to uphold the protection of civilians.
• Urgent measures are required to enable access to assistance and essential services, including healthcare such as critical trauma care, in affected areas.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

For the fifth consecutive day, hostilities in northwestern Syria have intensified, with reports of escalating incidents across multiple locations. On 30 November and 1 December, hostilities with significant humanitarian implications were reported in Aleppo, Hama, Idleb, Dar’a, Rural Damascus, and As-Sweida. The impact on civilians includes displacements, deaths, and injuries, as well as restricted access to critical humanitarian assistance and essential services, including healthcare, water, sanitation and hygiene, protection, and food necessary for survival.

In Aleppo and Idleb, civilians remaining in the affected areas are among the most severely impacted. Additionally, essential services in Aleppo have largely been suspended, including new admissions to hospitals, water supply, and bakery operations, further exacerbating civilian suffering.

Several security incidents were reported near the United Nations hub in Aleppo City. Humanitarian access and civilian movement have been increasingly disrupted due to the deteriorating situation. On 1 December, reports indicated that the Khanaser-Atharaya road—an essential exit route for internally displaced persons (IDPs) fleeing Aleppo—was cut off.

In Aleppo, reports of civilian relocation and displacement from Tal Refaat and surrounding rural areas were received following developments on 1 December. Civilians are reportedly moving to other locations in search of safety and assistance. Follow-up efforts to assess their needs and provide support are ongoing. In Homs and Hama, active hostilities have led many families to stop sending their children to schools. Displacement continues, with numerous individuals experiencing their second or third displacement. Dozens of internally displaced persons (IDPs) are reportedly sheltering in open spaces and streets.