Texas- UOSSM denounces the shelling of civilian areas in Khan Sheikhun and Ma’arat al-Nu’man in Idlib, Syria. The shelling killed 18 civilians (eight children, seven women and three men) in the past 48 hours. In addition, on Saturday February 16th, shelling in Hama struck the residence of Dr. Ahmad Hamwiya (pharmacist) in Al Madiq castle, killing him.
In the strongest terms, UOSSM calls on all military actors to respect international law and immediately stop targeting civilian areas and medical staff. The areas which are currently under attack are heavily populated with civilians and fall within the demilitarized zone. Shortages of medical supplies, equipment and staff are already beginning to take their toll on service capacity. UOSSM asks the international community to release emergency funding and resources to support the civilians of these regions and continue to strengthen the impartial delivery of aid.
Dr. Khaula Sawah, Vice President of UOSSM USA said, “The number of women and children killed in these attacks is heartbreaking, children continue to pay the heaviest toll as the world continues to turn a blind eye. We call on the international community to enforce the laws to protect civilians and medical staff.”
