US troop withdrawal from areas in North East Syria 

Spokespeople are available. To arrange an interview, please contact: media@savethechildren.org.uk

‘We are deeply concerned for the hundreds of thousands of people present in North East Syria, and we urge all military parties on the ground to ensure that operations do not impact civilians who could face widespread displacement or have their movements restricted.

‘Currently, there are 1.65 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in this area, including more than 650,000 displaced by war. All essential services including food, water, shelter, health, education, and protection must be consistently provided to all civilians, or we could see another humanitarian disaster unfold before our eyes.

‘In addition to the Syrian civilians in the North East, there are thousands of women and children living in camps across the area. There are more than 9,000 children from more than 40 different nationalities, from every region in the world, in three camps who rely completely and exclusively on humanitarian aid. Any interruption to camp services which are already overstretched would put their lives at risk.

‘Children in Syria who have fled ISIS-held areas are innocent and swept up in horrific events far beyond their control. Their short lives have been full of violence and fear. All children deserve that chance to recover. But for the British children among them we can make it happen by bringing them to the UK. We can make sure they have the best possible chance to recover surrounded by the right care and support.

‘The reports of imminent military operations and troops already sent to the border are deeply troubling. The international community, including the UK, should take urgent steps to do what's best for these children and bring them to their home countries before access becomes even more unpredictable.

‘We call on all parties to ensure that all children and their families across North East Syria are protected.’

ENDS