Syrian Arab Republic: Humanitarian Situation Report No. 3 (As of 10 March 2025)

HIGHLIGHTS

• Intense hostilities in Tartous, Lattakia, Homs, and Hama since Thursday have caused civilian deaths and injuries, considerable displacement, severe infrastructure damage, and disrupted humanitarian operations, prompting UN officials to urge parties to abide by IHL and ensure safe humanitarian access.

• Economic hardships in Damascus and Rural Damascus persist due to liquidity shortages and increased security measures, limiting cash access and protection services. In Northeast Syria, funding cuts worsen conditions in camps across Hassakeh, Raqqa, and Deir ez-Zor, heightening risks for vulnerable groups amid rising crime and violence. In Northwest Syria, cuts impact camp projects, fueling tensions in Al Qusayr (Homs) and Morek (Hama), while Aleppo remains volatile with ERW threats, crime, and unresolved land disputes, prompting protection partners to plan psychosocial support.

• The U.S. executive order suspending humanitarian activities in January has severely impacted organizations and sectors in North-East Syria, particularly IDPs in ECCs and camps, with many NGOs receiving termination notices for grants in late February due to funding cuts, disrupting operations and leaving significant gaps in coordination and information management; the NES Forum, supported by Whole of Syria and other Working Groups, is conducting mapping to assess the impact and advocating for continued funding.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

Access Challenges Amid Hostilities in the Coastal areas and Infrastructure Damage

Since Thursday, intense hostilities in Tartous, Lattakia, Homs, and Hama have led to civilian casualties, displacement, and severe infrastructure damage. Six referral hospitals and multiple ambulances are inoperable, while widespread power outages in Latakia have disrupted water pumping. The Homs-Latakia highway remains blocked, restricting humanitarian access and movement. Hundreds of civilians, including women, children, and medical personnel, have reportedly been killed, with thousands displaced and many crossing into Lebanon. Schools in Latakia and Tartous are suspended, and medical facilities urgently need supplies and support. Humanitarian operations are severely disrupted, with missions suspended and aid workers advised to stay indoors amid curfews and movement restrictions. The Humanitarian Coordinator (HC) and Regional Humanitarian Coordinator (RHC) issued a joint statement urging all parties to cease hostilities, protect civilians and infrastructure, and ensure safe and unimpeded humanitarian access in line with International Humanitarian Law.

Clashes and Infrastructure Damage in Northeast Syria challenge access

Clashes near Qaraqozak Bridge and Tishreen Dam continue to block access between Menbij and areas east of the Euphrates, disrupting trade, supply chains, and mobility in Northeast Syria. As of 9 March, 208 sites, including schools and municipal buildings, are hosting 25,321 people as reception and Emergency Collective Centers (ECCs). Since December, over 413,000 residents of Menbij and Kobani have been without electricity and pumped water due to damage to the Tishreen Dam. Immediate repairs are needed to restore services. The WWG report highlights ongoing water access challenges in Kobani/Ain al-Arab and Menbij sub-districts. In Deir-ez-Zor, authorities completed repairs to the Hatlah Bridge on 9 March, restoring critical humanitarian and commercial access between the eastern and western banks. The reopening significantly reduces lead times and costs for humanitarian operations, with stakeholders urged to protect this vital infrastructure.