March 15, 2018 — In response to the large number of people who fled fighting in Eastern Ghouta today, Mark Schnellbaecher, International Rescue Committee’s Middle East Regional Director, said:
“The thousands fleeing Eastern Ghouta have survived nearly a month of intense bombardment that killed more than 1,100 people and injured over 4,000. For many it may be the first time they have dared to venture out from the underground basements that they have been using for shelter. They will be terrified, hungry, possibly carrying injuries and many will be in the need of urgent medical support. These movements from Eastern Ghouta need to monitored by independent observers to ensure that civilians are protected throughout.
“It is vital that all sides prevent civilians getting caught up in the crossfire as Government of Syria forces and their allies advance further into Eastern Ghouta. The hundreds of thousands that remain in Eastern Ghouta are in desperate need of more food and medical convoys to reach them and only an end to the bombardment and a full ceasefire will keep them safe from harm.”