The United Nations has warned that escalating violence in Syria could force up to 1.5 million people to flee their homes. Since late November, over 280,000 people have already been displaced by intensified clashes, according to Samer AbdelJaber, Director at the World Food Programme.
“If the conflict continues at this pace, we anticipate around 1.5 million people will need urgent support,” AbdelJaber stated during a briefing in Geneva. The surge in violence marks the fastest battlefield gains by insurgents in years, as they advance from their stronghold in northwestern Idlib.
The humanitarian situation is dire, with aid agencies struggling to meet growing needs. Less than a third of the $4 billion required for 2024 aid programmes has been raised. Earlier this month, the U.N. had to reduce food rations in Syria by 80% due to funding shortages.
