UN worried about situation in Yarmouk refugee camp

The UN agency tasked with looking after Palestinian refugees has expressed concern about the “worrying humanitarian situation” in Yarmouk refugee camp on the outskirts of Damascus, QudsNet reported on Friday.

“There is a degree of calm for the third day since the outbreak of violence at Yarmouk on 6 April,” said UNRWA spokesman Sami Mshasha. “Nevertheless, residents are still besieged and the humanitarian situation is very difficult.” He pointed out that it is necessary for armed clashes to stop in order to aid agencies to have safe access to the refugees trapped in the camp.

“UNRWA is concerned about reports of the lack of clean drinking water at a time of increasing drought and no operational sewage network,” said Mshasha in a press statement. “This presents the threat of dangerous health problems.”

The UNRWA official explained that the last food distribution took place in Yalda, Babila and Beit Sahm areas within the camp between 9 and 15 March. “We received reports about civilians seeking refuge in Yalda last week, but it is impossible to reach them to check their health.”

UNRWA hopes to resume food distribution and mobile healthcare services soon. “We are monitoring the situation closely and demand the end of armed clashes, as well as the protection of civilians in Yarmouk and across Syria,” added Mshasha.