0
0
UN Aid Convoy Reaches Kobani
A United Nations aid convoy delivered essential supplies to Kobani in northeast Syria on Monday. This is the first convoy to reach the city since fighting began between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) earlier this month.
Fighting and Ceasefire
The Syrian government captured much of the territory previously held by the SDF. Only small Kurdish-majority areas remain under SDF control.
A ceasefire announced earlier this month has mostly held. However, sporadic clashes continue, with both sides blaming each other.
Humanitarian Needs in Kobani
Kobani residents face electricity and water cuts and shortages of basic goods, including bread.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said 24 trucks entered Kobani, delivering food, medical supplies, hygiene items, winter materials, kitchen kits, and children’s essentials. Two fuel tankers were included to restore water supply at the Karakoi water station.
Displacement and Returns
Fighting in northeast Syria has displaced over 173,000 people, according to the International Organization for Migration. Since the ceasefire, some residents have started returning home.
Political Context
Syria’s interim government signed an agreement last March with the SDF to transfer territory and merge SDF fighters into government forces. Early January talks failed, leading to renewed clashes.
A revised agreement signed on January 18 led to a four-day ceasefire, later extended. This pause allowed the transfer of accused Islamic State militants from Syria to Iraq.
Around 7,000 of 9,000 detainees in northeastern Syria will move to Iraq for investigation and trial in domestic courts.
