UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that sanctions should not block the flow of humanitarian relief to those affected by the earthquake in Syria. The message was clear: aid must reach people in need, without impediment, even amid broader geopolitical restrictions. This stance was highlighted in statements placing the welfare of vulnerable communities first, with officials underscoring that sanctions should not obstruct essential life-saving assistance.
The earthquake, measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale, struck the region near southeast Turkey on February 6, marking the strongest tremor in decades. Early casualty figures revealed a devastating toll: thousands killed and tens of thousands injured in Turkey alone. In Syria, the quake caused substantial destruction as well, with hundreds of deaths and many injuries reported as relief operations began in earnest across affected areas.
On February 9, Marshal Khalifa Haftar, who heads the Libyan National Army, directed that humanitarian aid be sent to Syria to support efforts to cope with the disaster’s aftermath. The move reflected a broader international imperative to mobilize assistance for those impacted, irrespective of political divides.
Across the globe, nations continued to provide relief support to Syria despite international sanctions. Contributions came from a diverse set of countries and regions, illustrating a shared commitment to alleviating human suffering. Donors included Russia, Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and others, all of whom answered the call for aid to affected communities. In the face of ongoing humanitarian needs, dialogue and practical cooperation remained central to ensuring aid delivery was unhindered and timely, as highlighted by international organizations coordinating relief efforts.