The UN has raised concerns over the escalating violence in northwest Syria, where a surge in hostilities since October 14 has resulted in many civilian deaths, widespread destruction, and disruption of critical humanitarian aid. The UN Deputy Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis, David Carden, expressed “deep concern” in a statement, citing at least 122 attacks over three days in Idlib and western Aleppo. The violence, which includes airstrikes and artillery shelling, has paralyzed essential services, including healthcare and food distribution.
Among the incidents was a series of airstrikes near a tent settlement in Idlib, where families were receiving food aid. The Russian airstrikes, the first in the region in three months, were decried by local authorities, the Humanitarian Action Coordination Office (HAC), and the UN alike. “Families spoke with UN staff, expressing their fear and insecurity,” Carden said. Another airstrike hit a power station west of Idlib, disabling water services for 30,000 people in 17 villages.
Since the escalation began, local health authorities report that 12 civilians, including three children, have been killed, with at least 27 others injured. The violence has halted operations at 10 health facilities, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The UN has called on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, emphasizing the need to protect civilians and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers. Carden reiterated the UN’s demand for an immediate cessation of hostilities to prevent further casualties and infrastructure damage.
The escalation is largely attributed to renewed attacks by Assad regime forces and their Russian allies. On October 16, Russian airstrikes hit a furniture workshop on the outskirts of Idlib, killing 10 civilians and injuring 32 others, according to the Syrian Civil Defense. Further shelling targeted residential homes and schools in Aleppo and Idlib, injuring civilians, including children.
The violence has disrupted efforts to provide aid to internally displaced persons, particularly those in displacement camps who are already vulnerable due to inadequate shelter and food supplies. Schools and medical facilities have been caught in the crossfire, heightening fears of an imminent humanitarian catastrophe.
The UN has warned that the violence will further deepen the already dire humanitarian situation in northwest Syria, where millions of people are dependent on aid. The targeting of civilian infrastructure, such as water and power stations, has compounded the suffering of those living in displacement camps and rural areas.
Human rights organizations have also expressed alarm over the situation, with reports of arbitrary detentions and increasing violence against civilians. The conflict has already displaced more than 6.8 million people within Syria, with the northwest’s Idlib being one of the hardest-hit regions.
As the violence continues, the UN and humanitarian groups are struggling to assist in the face of ongoing airstrikes, artillery shelling, and restricted access to affected areas. The situation is exacerbated by the broader regional instability, particularly Israel’s attacks in Lebanon, which have displaced thousands and raised fears of further escalation in Syria. The UN continues to push for a diplomatic solution to the crisis, calling on all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution and prioritize the protection of civilians.
