Kurdish Displaced From Aleppo Arrive in Northeast Syria Amid Reports of Intimidation
RAQQA, Syria (North Press) – Small groups of displaced individuals from northern Aleppo arrived Monday evening in al-Tabqa, Raqqa countryside, through the al-Bu Assi crossing. However, many remain missing, while others recount harrowing experiences of harassment and severe hardship during their journey.
The displaced, primarily Kurds from the areas of Tel Rifaat and al-Shahba, have been fleeing intensified conflict and dire living conditions in the region. According to a North Press correspondent stationed at al-Tabqa’s temporary shelters, many families have become separated, with new arrivals immediately searching for missing relatives.
“Many of us have lost track of our family members. Even now, we do not know what happened to them,” one displaced individual shared.
Limited and Intermittent Arrivals
The displaced are arriving in small, sporadic groups—each consisting of five to six vehicles—via the al-Bu Assi crossing. Local officials explained that logistical challenges and limited resources hinder a more coordinated evacuation.
According to Sheikhmous Ahmad, the head of the Autonomous Administration’s Displacement and Refugee Affairs Office, initial shelters have been set up in al-Tabqa’s sports complex and additional facilities are being prepared in Raqqa.
Grim Conditions on the Journey
Testimonies from the displaced reveal a challenging journey marked by harassment. Many reported verbal abuse and insults from fighters of Turkish-backed factions along the way.
The harsh winter conditions have exacerbated the crisis. Illness among children has become widespread, and two elderly individuals reportedly succumbed to the cold and exhaustion during the journey.
“Many families in Tel Rifaat and al-Shahba couldn’t leave because they lacked vehicles,” another displaced individual noted, highlighting the severe limitations faced by those still stranded.
Call for Urgent Action
Local humanitarian teams in al-Tabqa are working to provide emergency assistance to the displaced, but the scale of the crisis underscores the need for international support. Missing family members, worsening weather, and health risks remain critical concerns as more groups attempt to flee the conflict zone.
This unfolding tragedy paints a stark picture of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in northern Syria, where civilians continue to face the brunt of war and displacement.