News

Syria: Malteser International-supported Hospital hit by airstrikes

The suffering continues

Malteser International, Cologne, 12 November 2019

The Kafr Nobl Surgical Hospital, Idlib, Governorate of Syria, was targeted by airstrikes last week. Fortunately, no casualties were reported among the medical staff and patients. However, the hospital’s medical activities are currently suspended. The hospital is supported by Malteser International and run by Hand in Hand for Aid and Development.

Janine Lietmeyer, Head of Malteser International’s Middle East Programme, said: “We are shocked and appalled by this horrific attack, yet relieved that no patients or staff were harmed. These multiple attacks on health facilities and other civil infrastructure are further undermining the ceasefire agreement in Idlib. It is unacceptable that the civilian population and humanitarian workers are living under constant threat.”

Fourth attack on Kafr Nobol Hospital this year

Health facilities in Idlib have again come under increasing attack as part of the ongoing offensive in the region. Five medical facilities have been bombed since Tuesday alone, including a paediatric and maternity clinic. Wednesday‘s bombing marks the fourth attack on Kafr Nobol Hospital this year, despite being verified under the United Nation’s de-confliction mechanism.

Northern Syria – camp for displaced persons

The ongoing suffering of Idlib

The attacks on Idlib are worsening an already dire humanitarian situation, with hundreds killed and hundreds of thousands displaced. In the local region alone, more than two million people are now reliant on humanitarian assistance.

The conflict in Syria, which began in the spring of 2011, has become one of the most brutal wars in recent decades.

Since 2012, Malteser International has been working together with partner organisations like Hand in Hand for Aid and Development to provide medical care and to respond to acute humanitarian needs.