EU Sends 50 Metric Tons of Aid to Syria via Turkey, Mobilizes €163 Million

Dec 13, 2024, 12:30 PM

The European Union has launched a significant humanitarian aid operation to support the Syrian population following the recent political upheaval in the country. Known as a 'humanitarian air bridge,' this operation aims to deliver nearly 100 tons of essential supplies, including health, education, and shelter materials, via Turkey. The first batch of 50 metric tons of health supplies from EU stockpiles in Dubai will be transported to Adana, Turkey, for distribution in Syria in the coming days. An additional 46 metric tons of supplies from Denmark will also be sent to Adana, where they will be distributed by UNICEF and the World Health Organization. The European Commission has increased its humanitarian funding for Syria to €163 million this year, with an additional €4 million recently mobilized to address urgent needs. This aid comes at a critical time as the situation in Syria remains volatile after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, with over 1.1 million people displaced since the rebel offensive began on November 27. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of this aid, stating, 'With the situation on the ground so volatile, our help to the people of Syria is ever more important.'