Thread by @MhdKatoub

[1] This thread is to give updates on the situation in NW on the 3rd day after #syriaearthquake
The latest update from the UN reports over 2,000 deaths, 5,000 wounded, and 11,000 homeless families in northwestern Syria. 2,000 buildings were demolished and over 5,100 damaged

[2] Civil defense teams are still working, but the hope of finding survivors under the rubble is diminishing. Nothing can express our gratitude to these heroes. An Egyptian volunteer team of rescue and medical personnel has entered with the help of the (IHH).

[3] Teams from Syrian organizations outside Turkey are starting to arrive to support local teams. For example doctors from SAMS started arriving from the US. Permits for teams to cross the borders usually take at least 15 days from Turkey, hope they will figure quicker mechanism

[4] The Turkish government has stated that all crossing points to Syria are open for aid entry. Bab al-Hawa crossing points stated that no aid has entered yet. UN says there are logistical difficulties in access.

[5] The UNCERF has allocated $25 million to respond to the disaster in Turkey and Syria. European Union will activate the civil protection mechanism but it is unknown if those 2 responses will include NW of Syria. The EU will organize a donors' conference as well.

[6] UNDAC and INSARAG were asked by the Turkish government to intervene, but it is unclear if this will include northern Syria. The situation is complicated by the fact that these groups usually coordinate with governments which is not the case for NW.

[7] The Syrian Red Crescent stated they are ready to send convoys to the northwest, and that the sanctions are a major problem. Relying on any response in NW from Damascus is a waste of time and extremely politicized.

[8] SDF announced sending fuel aid to both the northwest and regime areas, but the aid has faced difficulties entering. The regime blocked those convoys.

[9] The humanitarian response hub for northwestern Syria is severely damaged. NGOs and UN staff can hardly take care of themselves and their families. International disaster management mechanisms should be activated for NW without consultations with any government.

[10] Local NGOs are relying on their own stocks. Donations are crucial for these organizations to keep standing. but those heroes need more, they need every hand to help and to fill the gap instead of them. Your voice and efforts are crucial.