Iraq News

Dozens starve to death under regime-imposed siege of Madaya

Around 86 people have died in a year-long siege of the Syrian town of Madaya, including 65 from starvation and malnutrition, two non-governmental organisations said Tuesday (July 12th).

The Syrian American Medical Society and Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) said the regime-imposed siege was responsible for the deaths, AFP reported.

Madaya, in Damascus province, grabbed international attention in late 2015 after reports its residents were starving to death because of food shortages.

Since then, four aid convoys have accessed the town, but the two groups said the deliveries had been insufficient.

"Last year, unspeakable images of Madaya's suffering emerged in the media, and we hoped that would trigger action to finally bring lifesaving aid into the town," said Elise Baker of PHR.

"But UN humanitarian convoys that finally reached Madaya failed to provide the population with enough food, medicine, and medical equipment," Baker said.

An estimated 40,000 people remain besieged in the town.

Do you like this article?

0 Comment(s)
Comment Policy * Denotes Required Field 1500 / 1500