The Syrian government has granted approval to the United Nations to continue delivering aid to opposition-held northwest Syria through a border crossing from Turkey for an additional six months. This decision comes after the UN Security Council failed to renew the authorization for the aid operation, causing uncertainty regarding life-saving support for millions of people in need.
However, the Syrian government emphasises that the aid deliveries must be conducted in full cooperation and coordination with them, says the letter by Syria's UN Ambassador, Bassam Sabbaghon July 13.
Russia's suggestion for a six-month extension was rejected by the Security Council, with only Russia and China voting in favour, while the United States, the United Kingdom, and France voted against it. The Bab al-Hawa crossing, which is the last remaining entry point for aid into rebel-held areas, plays a vital role in meeting the humanitarian needs of the population.
The recurring short-term renewals of the cross-border authorization create concerns among Syrians, fearing potential disruptions in life-saving aid delivery. The Security Council's longstanding divisions over Syria continue to complicate the situation, with different member states holding varying positions on the duration of cross-border operations. The UN operation allows for the transportation of essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine to opposition-controlled northwest Syria without requiring authorization from the Syrian government.
The fragility of the aid mechanism was exposed by the earthquakes in February, which highlighted the importance of the UN's humanitarian mission in the region.
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