Northwest Syria is currently experiencing one of the most severe escalations and displacement crises in the past five years. Recent hostilities have caused significant civilian casualties and forced thousands to flee their homes. On October 14, airstrikes near a UN OCHA field visit to NWS underscored the volatile nature of the region.
Between November 26 and 28, over 125 attacks, including shelling and airstrikes, were reported in Idlib and western Aleppo. These attacks resulted in the deaths of at least 200 individuals including civilians, including four children, and left 46 others injured. In just three days, over 14,000 individuals were displaced, marking an unprecedented level of upheaval. This escalation exacerbates an already dire humanitarian situation, as over 80% of the population in Northwest Syria are internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in overcrowded camps with minimal resources.
While the most intense escalation is occurring in Northwest Syria, other areas, such as Damascus and Northeast Syria, are also witnessing increased tensions, including airstrikes and localized attacks
The conflict’s economic toll is devastating, with collapsing infrastructure, halted economic activity, and immense indirect losses. Aleppo, a critical hub, is now grappling with significant IDP movements, compounding the region’s instability.
This crisis unfolds amidst a broader escalation in the Middle East, with spillover impacts in Damascus, Northeast Syria, and beyond. Such multilayered crises disproportionately affect marginalized groups, including women, children, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Guardians of Equality Movement (GEM), despite its limited capacity, is fulfilling its role by responding to the needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals displaced by this crisis. In just two days, we have received numerous cases involving individuals at extreme risk due to the situation. GEM is already operating under heavy pressure, managing regional emergencies in Lebanon, Gaza, and Iraq, along with the ongoing deportations of refugees.
Given these overwhelming challenges, we appeal for any support for GEM directly or for any organization working to alleviate the suffering of civilians and ensure their protection.
We urge all stakeholders to act swiftly to prevent further devastation and uphold the dignity and safety of those caught in this crisis.
References
UN OCHA Flash Updates on Northwest Syria
