Al Hol camp in Al Hassakeh Governorate on the country’s eastern border with Iraq is now ready to receive up to 15,000 people.
Al Hol camp in Al Hassakeh Governorate on the country’s eastern border with Iraq is now ready to receive up to 15,000 people – with work well-underway to accommodate a further 15,000. Eventually, up to 50,000 people will be able to be housed there.
Since the Mosul offensive began, 939 Iraqis have arrived at the camp with another 200 people reportedly at the border. New arrivals described the long and difficult journey to reach Syria through uncharted desert roads, with some having to walk for more than 15 days to reach safety.
Many new arrivals have endured brutal conditions under extremist rule, often without access to even the most basic medical care. Most school-aged children arriving at the camp have been out of education for the past two years, while some came unaccompanied and unsure of their parents’ fate. UNHCR and its partners are providing services including counselling, education and medical care.
UNHCR Representative for Syria Sajjad Malik visited the camp on Sunday and Monday to speak to some of the hundreds of people who have sought shelter there and to get a first-hand look at preparations to shelter more people as the offensive closes in on Mosul.
“Protection team are on the ground, they are working very closely with the refugees to understand their problems and provide necessary support.” Malik said.
“As always, this was a team effort, continues to be team effort with other UN agencies and NGOs working in this area.”
“As always, this was a team effort, continues to be team effort with other UN agencies and NGOs working in this area. And we greatly appreciate the work that the entire team has brought in this, and to make it ready for the influx of Iraqi Refugees.” Malik Said.
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