Kobani enters second month of siege: severe bread crisis amid warnings of humanitarian catastrophe

SYRIA, Feb. 20 (YPA) – The city of Ain al-Arab (Kobani) and its countryside are facing a rapid humanitarian decline as the siege imposed by the Syrian Interim Government forces enters its second month, despite a de-escalation agreement previously signed with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

A critical lack of flour and fuel is threatening to paralyze bakeries and essential service facilities. Demand for bread has surged due to displacement from Raqqa and Tabqa. The city’s sole automated bakery is producing approximately 40,000 bags daily to meet the rising needs. Bakery staff are working 24-hour shifts under grueling conditions to prevent a total cutoff of food supplies for civilians.

Service sector workers in the city have warned of a “complete paralysis” of basic services if the entry of aid remains blocked. They have issued an urgent appeal to international organizations and relief agencies to intervene immediately to lift the siege and secure essential supplies to avert an imminent humanitarian disaster.

YPA