HTS orders evacuation of IDP camp in Idlib for investment project
IDLIB, Syria (North Press) – Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, once known as al-Nusra Front) issued on Wednesday a 48-hour eviction notice to residents of an IDP camp in the countryside of Idlib in northwestern Syria, to repurpose the land for a profit-generating project.
A displaced individual from the camp told North Press that approximately 85 families are now facing homelessness after being informed by the HTS’s Development Office that they must vacate the premises without any alternative housing options offered.
The IDP, who preferred to remain anonymous, said that the Development office justified the eviction by claiming that residents have not paid for the land, which is estimated to cost $250 per month for all families.
This decision comes as winter approaches, exacerbating the housing crisis in Idlib and its surrounding areas.
Residents are deeply concerned about their future, as the IDP noted that finding new land to set up tents is extremely difficult.
The Development office oversees housing affairs, including real estate management and camp administration, while also facilitating investments in agriculture and livestock to benefit HTS.
Since early September, the HTS has been seizing agricultural land and houses in several Druze villages in the countryside of Idlib to repurpose for investment projects.