AANES eases return process for IDPs in Hawl Camp in NE Syria

HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – The Autonomous Administration of North and East (AANES) announced on Thursday the facilitation of the voluntary return of Syrian refugees residing in Hawl camp in northeastern Syria to their original places of residence.

In a statement, the AANES’ Social Affairs and Labor Board said, “With the fall of the al-Assad regime, Syria has entered a new phase, and numerous humanitarian challenges have emerged. Among these, the issue of displaced persons and refugees has placed a significant burden on the AANES.”

In October 2020, the AANES issued a decision allowing all displaced Syrians wishing to leave Hawl camp to return to their original areas.

The statement added, “Families residing in Hawl camp were hesitant to return due to fear of the al-Assad regime. With its fall, there is no longer a reason for this fear. We will provide all necessary facilities and ensure safe transport for families wishing to return.”

The AANES also urged international humanitarian organizations to extend aid and support to displaced Syrians who sought refuge in northeastern Syria due to the ongoing conflict. Many of these individuals currently reside in camps such as Arisha, al-Mahmudli, Twaihina, and Abu Khashab.

Furthermore, the statement emphasized the importance of a firm stance by the United Nations and the international community on the plight of displaced Syrians from Afrin, Tel Abyad, and Sere Kaniye (Ras al-Ain). It called for guarantees from the U.N. to protect these individuals and ensure their safe return to their original areas.

By Samer Yassin