Syrian Displaced from Deir ez-Zor Return Home After 8 Years

Syrian families leaving Al-Areesha camp in Hasakah – North Press
Syrian families leaving Al-Areesha camp in Hasakah – North Press

By Kardo Roj 

HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Dozens of families displaced from Deir ez-Zor have begun returning home after years of displacement, as 80 families (471 individuals) departed Al-Areesha camp in Hasakah’s countryside on Tuesday.

This marks the second wave of departures from the camp this year, following a similar return movement in February. According to Salwa Jajo, co-chair of Al-Areesha camp, families have been returning gradually since the fall of the previous Syrian regime in December 2024.

“We are coordinating with humanitarian organizations to assist returning families, as many of their homes were destroyed in the war or remain unsafe due to unexploded ordnance,” Jajo told North Press.

While the return process is ongoing, challenges remain for families trying to rebuild their lives in war-affected areas. The presence of landmines, damaged infrastructure, and lack of basic services continue to hinder large-scale returns.

Al-Areesha camp, one of several displacement camps in northeast Syria, has housed thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) over the years. With the changing political landscape, more displaced Syrians are considering returning home despite ongoing uncertainties.

The humanitarian situation remains fragile, but efforts to facilitate safe returns are increasing as Syria undergoes significant post-conflict transitions.