Turkish attacks impede operation of health services in North and East Syria

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — Late last year, Turkish strikes targeted critical civilian infrastructure facilities across North and East Syria, exacerbating the suffering of the region’s inhabitants amidst the prolonged conflict in the country.

The attacks inflicted severe damage to healthcare infrastructure, including the destruction of the only medical oxygen station in Kobani operated by Doctors Without Borders. Additionally, two centers were rendered inoperative, leading to a crisis affecting thousands of civilians who relied on these facilities to alleviate illness and avoid costly journeys to Daramsus (Damascus).

Maather al-Abbas, Co-Chair of the Health Authority in Gozarto (Jazira) Canton, revealed that the attacks on Christmas Day last year completed destroyed the oxygen station in Zalin (Qamishli), a critical facility which produced 300 oxygen cylinders daily and catering to regional hospitals’ needs.

The attacks also impacted the dialysis center, which previously served 70 patients daily.

Al-Abbas emphasized the Authority’s commitment to delivering quality services despite funding challenges, compounded by soaring drug prices, doctor shortages due to migration, and fuel price hikes.

Seeking urgent assistance, Al-Abbas called on humanitarian organizations to support the health sector.

Dr. Firat Maqdisi Elias, director of Al-Salam Private Hospital in Zalin, echoed concerns about the crisis’s repercussions, highlighting the escalating medicine costs and disease prevalence.

Elias underscored the adverse effects of Turkish strikes on energy supplies, hampering health centers’ service provision.

He appealed for equitable support, urging stakeholders to alleviate the financial strain on hospitals and the health sector by ensuring access to electricity and fuel.