Attachments
As of 30 October, some 7,500 individuals have reportedly arrived from Lebanon to north-west Syria following the escalation of hostilities.
Situation Overview
Since the escalation of hostilities on 23 September, northwest Syria has experienced a relatively small but steady arrival of Syrians fleeing the conflict in Lebanon.
Data collected by the IDP Task Force indicates that approximately 7,500 Syrians from Lebanon have arrived in 29 sub-districts in north-west Syria as of 30 October, including around 900 reported new arrivals since 25 October. The highest numbers of arrivals are reported in Jarablus, Idleb, Sharan, Maaret Tamsrin, and Dana subdistricts.
The Aoun al-Dadat internal crossing point has been closed to Syrian arrivals from Lebanon as of 1 November. On 30 October, local authorities at the Aoun al-Dadat crossing started diverting Syrian arrivals to the Abu Zendin internal crossing point near Al Bab city.
To date, Abu Zendin has not received any arrivals. However, the local council of Al Bab city is reportedly negotiating with local demonstrators to reopen the crossing point exclusively for humanitarian purposes, facilitating the return of Syrians fleeing conflict in Lebanon.
UNHCR partner Shafak met with the local council of Al Bab City on 27 October, securing approval by the council for humanitarian access to the zero point – a designated gathering point for arrivals awaiting security screening and registration by the authorities.
As of 1 November, approximately 843 households (4,117 individuals) arrived through the Aoun al-Dadat crossing point, with an estimated 70-80 per cent arriving from Lebanon.
Response
Preparations to receive arrivals at Abu Zendin are well underway. IYD has established a rub hall for reception purposes, while WATAN, UNHCR’s partner, is constructing 10 shades for temporary reception. Additional essential facilities include eight emergency latrines (four for females, four for males), installed by Shafak. To bolster health services, ATAA has deployed one mobile clinic, complementing IDA’s existing health capacities.
In anticipation of the crossing point’s imminent opening, partners are mobilizing contingency stocks of ready to eat rations, water, hygiene kits and non-food items.
Following the announcement of local authorities in northern Aleppo on 22 October regarding the opening of Abu Zendin crossing point, UNHCR and partners agreed to replicate the successful coordination structure that is in place at Aoun al-Dadat. This ensures continuity, with lead partner agencies overseeing their respective response sectors.