This appeal, developed by IBC in March 2025, addresses the growing relief needs and preventive measures in northwest Syria through a comprehensive, multisectoral approach. Building on the analyses conducted in November and December 2024 and taking into account the latest developments in the region, this appeal is presented as an urgent request for immediate support.
Since November 28, 2024, internal displacement has increased in areas experiencing heightened military activity and conflict in Syria. While the security situation has improved in Damascus, Homs, and Aleppo since December 8, some concerns persist but have not significantly disrupted overall operations. However, humanitarian activities in regions like Tartus, Latakia, Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and Manbij remain hindered.
As of March 2025, the estimated number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees from Damascus and surrounding areas ranges from 900.000 to one million people. There has also been a notable return movement of displaced individuals from neighboring countries, with crossings between Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan seeing increased traffic.
Field visits by IBC teams in Idlib, Aleppo, Hama, Homs, and Damascus report a general sense of calm, though residents face ongoing challenges such as fuel shortages, rising prices, and fluctuating exchange rates, reducing purchasing power in cities like Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs.
There is a critical need for food, emergency assistance, housing, healthcare, non-food items, and sanitation. While movement has improved between Idlib, Aleppo, Hama, Homs, and Damascus, access remains severely limited in conflict-affected areas like Manbij, Ayn al-Arab, Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and Al-Hasakah.
IBC’s registration renewal with the Damascus authorities is nearing completion. In addition to IBC offices in Azaz and Ahterin, the offices in Damascus and Aleppo are also operational. Therefore, the administrative prerequisites for the field requirements involved in implementing the proposed project have been completed.
