The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has raised concerns over the worsening humanitarian crisis in northeast Syria amid renewed hostilities. The organisation states that civilians continue to bear the impact of the crisis as families flee with limited access to basic services.
ICRC Raises Alarm Over Northeast Syria Crisis
In a post on X, ICRC Syria reports that renewed fighting in northeast Syria has forced families to flee. It added that displaced civilians face shortages of water, healthcare, and warmth during winter conditions.
Through X, the organisation warned of the growing humanitarian consequences for civilians affected by the violence.
An alarming humanitarian crisis is brewing in the northeast and civilians are once again paying the heaviest price.
Renewed hostilities have forced families to flee in the depths of winter, while also increasing the risk of family separation.
Read more:https://t.co/VLFIZbsBTI pic.twitter.com/PHW41kd4KR— ICRC Syria (@ICRC_sy) January 21, 2026
According to the ICRC, the renewed hostility threatens civilian infrastructure like water pumping stations, dams, and electricity networks. The organization added that the damage could prevent humanitarian actors from accessing affected populations and delivering essential services.
“The humanitarian situation in Sweida is critical. People are running out of everything,” said Stephan Sakalian, ICRC’s head of delegation in Syria. “Hospitals are increasingly struggling to treat the wounded and the sick, and families are unable to bury their loved ones in dignity. Every hour lost means more suffering for families and patients waiting for critical aid. For them — and for us — every minute counts.”
A news release shared by the ICRC explained that parties to the hostilities must protect civilians, including people held in prisons and camps. It also stressed the need to protect healthcare facilities and first responders to ensure safe movement for civilians fleeing the crisis
The ICRC confirmed that it continues to engage with authorities and humanitarian partners to respond to urgent needs. The organisation stated that it stands to ready to scale up support to reduce suffering and protect civilian dignity.
ICRC’s Longstanding Humanitarian Role in Syria
The ICRC has operated in Syria since 1967, providing humanitarian protection and assistance to people affected by armed conflict. Over the past 13 years, prolonged hostilities and repeated crises have left millions in need of aid and protection.
Today, the organisation focuses on supporting vulnerable communities, protecting detainees, and helping families searching for missing relatives. It also works to improve access to essential services such as water, electricity, and healthcare.
Recent developments in northeast Syria add to existing humanitarian pressures, similar to risks faced in other conflict-affected areas. Previous Charity Journal reporting has highlighted protection concerns.
This includes ICRC guidance reaffirming that civilians, healthcare facilities, detainees, and humanitarian operations must be protected under the rules of war. It also includes efforts by UNMAS, UNICEF, and partners to reduce civilian harm through coordinated mine action, risk education, and victim assistance initiatives in Syria.
