Furthermore, developments since late November, culminating in the overthrow of the Assad regime, have added new dimensions to the crisis, including population displacements as well as the return of Syrian refugees from neighboring countries.
Since November 2024, more than 882,000 Syrians have been displaced amid increasing violence, further straining the country’s fragile health system. Attacks on health facilities have also intensified, with 37 incidents reported last month, according to has WHO.
More than half of Syria’s hospitals are now no longer functioning, and 141 health facilities in northern Aleppo and Idlib face imminent closure due to a lack of funding.
Healthcare under unprecedented pressure
“Health infrastructure in Syria is under greater strain than ever“, said Christina Bethke, WHO acting country representative.
“Our teams are currently providing care through mobile clinics, restoring immunization services and integrating mental health support into health settings, particularly for those affected by trauma. This appeal aims to preserve health and dignity while offering Syrians hope for a more secure future..”
Fully funded, WHO’s six-month strategy aims to further strengthen trauma care, deploy ambulances, restore maternal and child health services, improve disease surveillance and enable rapid referral of patients.
The agency also aims to strengthen health system coordination through its center in Gaziantep, Turkey, which coordinates assistance to around five million Syrians, including those living in hard-to-reach areas.
UNHCR highlights refugee challenges
Meanwhile, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported significant challenges for displaced populations and returning refugees, particularly for vulnerable groups such as people with disabilities, women and children.
Those returning from neighboring countries face severe hardship, with destroyed homes forcing them to live in tents, with extended family members or pay exorbitant rents.
Unexploded ordnance (UXO), particularly in agricultural land or in homes close to former frontline areas, poses significant risks. Returnees also cited the need for legal assistance, psychosocial support and educational rehabilitation.
In response, UNHCR partners in Aleppo, Hassakeh, Ar-Raqqa and rural Tartous have resumed protection activities, including programs to keep children engaged, livelihood grants, relief distribution, prevention of sexual violence and awareness sessions on UXO and other dangerous objects.