A large-scale campaign to remove rubble and debris has been launched across Idlib Province, beginning in the city of Kafranbel in the southern countryside. The initiative brings together local councils, civil defense teams and community groups, with the aim of restoring public services and accelerating the return of displaced residents.
Largest Operation Since Transition
Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management Raed al-Saleh described the campaign as the largest phase of debris removal operations launched since the fall of the previous regime. He explained that the first phase will focus on removing approximately 600,000 cubic meters of rubble from Maarat Numan, Khan Sheikhoun and their eastern and western countrysides, in addition to Jisr al-Shughur and Idlib city. The second phase will expand to cover the remaining areas of the province, with plans to clear nearly one million cubic meters of debris from streets and rural areas in total.
Saleh noted that private residential properties have not yet been included due to legal complexities. A temporary arrangement has been reached while a specialized committee at the General Secretariat of the Presidency finalizes the legal framework governing rubble removal from private homes. He stressed that the campaign represents a practical step toward permanently closing the displacement camp file, arguing that reconstruction of cities must precede the closure of camps.
Reconstruction and Return
Governor of Idlib, Muhammad Abdurahman, said launching the campaign from heavily damaged Kafranbel carries symbolic importance, sending a message to residents that reconstruction efforts are underway and that authorities are committed to facilitating their dignified return.
He added that rehabilitation of infrastructure has been ongoing since last year across multiple sectors, despite limited resources, challenges facing returnees and extensive needs. Updated plans for the current year include restoring health centers, schools and essential facilities, with the goal of closing all displacement camps by year’s end.
Residents Express Relief
Residents of Kafranbel welcomed the initiative, saying it would ease the financial burden on families unable to afford rubble removal on their own. For many displaced families, clearing debris from homes and streets had posed a major obstacle to returning.
Officials describe the campaign as a key step in improving living conditions, restoring normalcy and accelerating the return of displaced persons, part of a broader national effort to conclude the displacement crisis within the year.
