Human Rights Watch warns of consequences of freezing U.S. aid to Syrian camps

HASAKAH, DAYRIK, Syria—Following the U.S. Administration’s decision to halt operations of organizations affiliated with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Human Rights Watch (HRW),  released a report warning of the severe consequences for residents of Syrian camps, particularly Al-Hol and Roj. The HRW expressed concerns about the impact on the safety and well-being of tens of thousands of people in these camps.

Deteriorating conditions in Al-Hol

On Friday, HRW cautioned that suspending U.S. aid to Syrian camps, especially Al-Hol in North and East Syria, could exacerbate what it described as “life-threatening conditions.” The camp houses relatives of individuals suspected of ties to the Islamic State (ISIS), many of whom have been held there for years following the group’s defeat.

According to the report, detention centers and camps under the control of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES), still hold approximately 56,000 individuals with alleged links to ISIS. The HRW stressed that cutting off foreign aid for NGOs operating in these camps would worsen already dire humanitarian conditions, heighten security risks, and further limit access to essential services.

Conflicting messages from the U.S.

Last month, NGOs associated with USAID received a directive from the Trump Administration instructing them to cease all agency-funded activities. However, a week later, another message allowed for the resumption of certain critical humanitarian operations aimed at providing life-saving assistance.

A call for a long-term solution

Beyond the immediate humanitarian concerns, HRW emphasized that any political resolution in the region must address the prolonged detention of families with suspected ISIS ties. The HRW urged international actors to work toward a sustainable solution that ensures fundamental rights and stability for those affected.