SYRIA: Dozens of families depart Al-Areesha Camp for Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor)

HASAKAH, North and East Syria — Fifty-eight families from Al-Areesha Camp in Hasakah, North and East Syria, have voluntarily returned to Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor). Salwa Ahmed, the camp administration co-chair, confirmed the movement to SyriacPress, describing it as one of the largest single groups to depart the camp at once.

Voluntary Returns Driven by Economic Hardships

The Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) has been facilitating voluntary returns as part of its strategy to reduce displacement camp populations and encourage residents to rebuild their lives in their hometowns. However, Ahmed admitted that worsening conditions in Al-Areesha Camp, rather than improved stability in Dayro Zcuro, had motivated many families to leave.

More than 300 individuals participated in this latest wave of departures, a significant reduction in the camp’s population. While smaller groups had left previously, the scale of this exodus highlights the mounting pressures on displaced families to find alternatives amid deteriorating humanitarian conditions.

US Aid Suspension Deepens Crisis

A key factor contributing to the growing exodus is the suspension of US aid. Ahmed pointed to an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump on 20 January, which froze US State Department funding for 90 days. This decision directly impacted humanitarian programs in North and East Syria, including vital support for displaced populations in camps like Al-Areesha.

With dwindling resources and increasing economic uncertainty, many families felt compelled to return to Dayro Zcuro despite the region’s insufficient services and infrastructure.

Future Departures Likely Despite Risks

Despite ongoing concerns about security and basic services in Dayro Zcuro, DAARNES has pledged to continue facilitating voluntary returns. Ahmed acknowledged that while some families remain hesitant, shrinking humanitarian aid is likely to push more displaced residents to take the risk and leave the camp.

Located 25 kilometers south of Hasakah, Al-Areesha Camp is one of the largest displacement camps in the region, hosting approximately 14,000 individuals from Dayro Zcuro and other conflict-affected areas.

As families continue to depart, the long-term success of return efforts will depend on Dayro Zcuro’s ability to provide adequate housing, security, and basic services — challenges that remain unresolved for many still waiting to go home.