Aid convoy arrives in of Ain al-Arab amid humanitarian concern

By Nathan Morley

A United Nations convoy carrying aid has arrived in the Kurdish-majority town of Ain al-Arab in northern Syria as a ceasefire between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces continues to hold.

The convoy reached Ain al-Arab, also known as Kobane, on Sunday amid growing concern about humanitarian conditions in the town, which has been surrounded by Syrian government forces.

A United Nations convoy carrying aid has arrived in Ain al-Arab in northern Syria   (AFP or licensors)

Separately, United Nations agencies have regained limited access to Syria’s Al Hol camp and resumed the delivery of essential supplies after days of disruption caused by a volatile security situation.

The U.N. refugee agency, UNHCR, accessed the camp on Friday with Syrian government officials and established contact with some residents. Essential supplies have also resumed.

Al Hol is one of the region’s largest displacement sites, housing tens of thousands of people, mostly women and children, many with alleged family links to ISIL fighters. U.N. agencies have long warned of overcrowding, poor access to healthcare, water and sanitation, and ongoing protection and security risks.

They have repeatedly urged durable solutions, including safe returns, reintegration and repatriation in line with international law.

The camp in northeast Syria hosts internally displaced Syrians and family members of suspected former fighters. U.N. agencies and aid partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Syrian authorities in delivering humanitarian assistance, while underscoring the need to ensure security inside the camp.

They also highlighted the importance of facilitating the movement of personnel and supplies between Al-Hasakeh and Qamishli.