Victims until today

UN Official Shocked by Scale of Destruction in Palestinian Refugee Camps in Syria

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini visited Syria from 15 to 19 January 2023, to meet Palestine refugees and Agency staff in Aleppo and Damascus. Together with the Director of UNRWA affairs in Syria, Amanya Michael Ebye, Lazzarini engaged with the communities in Nairab, Ein el Tal and Yarmouk camps, and had meetings with senior government officials. During visits to Nairab and

Palestinian Refugees in Yarmouk Camp Slam Apathy of Political Factions

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have strongly condemned a recent celebration held in the camp to mark the launch of a new political faction at the Arab Club. Refugees said instead of paying huge sums of money on celebrations and commemorations, Palestinian factions should rather work on rehabilitating vital services and bringing life back to

Palestinian Refugees Denounce Property-Theft in Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have called on Syrian authorities to take urgent action in response to increasing burglary and violence. Recently, thieves barged their way into abandoned houses on Street 15 to steal iron and metallic items. Gangsters have also been using violence and white guns to terrorize civilians who protest burglary. Civilians’ appeals

UNRWA Chief Meets With Syrian Official

Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, met on Thursday with Dr. Faysal AlMiqdad, Syrian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates. Lazzarini Briefed Miqdad on UNRWA’s efforts to mobilize donor countries to increase funds in order to enable the Agency to keep up its vital services for

Mobile Network Inoperative in Jaramana Camp

Palestinian refugees sheltered in Jaramana Camp, in Rif Dimashq, said the telecommunications network has gone out of operation. Nearly 2,000 mobile lines have been out of action.  The situation has been exacerbated by the chronic power blackout. The residents called on the concerned authorities to install new batteries to operate network towers.   Residents of Jaramana Camp, located

Palestinian Humanitarian Aid Convoy Dispatched to Northern Syria

A convoy of 21 trucks loaded with aid items from Palestinian territories occupied by Israel since 1948 has entered northern Syria through the Turkish borders. The “Dignity 9” convoy is laden with heating equipment, flour, food baskets, winter clothes, and tents. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been struggling for survival in the poorly-equipped camps installed north of Syria, after they

Dutch Police Arrest Alleged IS Security Chief for War Crimes in Yarmouk Refugee Camp

Dutch authorities arrested a Syrian man on Tuesday who is suspected of having been a security chief for the Islamic State and Jabhat al-Nusra extremist groups during Syria’s grinding war, prosecutors said. “It is suspected that from his position at IS he also contributed to the war crimes that the organization committed in Syria,” the National Public Prosecutor’s Office

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Means of Transportation

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees have called on Damascus governor to work on rehabilitating the main transportation line in the camp. Photos circulated on social media networks show dozens of residents working for several kilometers at the crack of dawn to reach their destinations. The residents called for the need to secure buses to transfer schoolchildren and workers

Palestinians of Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Urgent Action

Families displaced from Yarmouk and those who have remained in the camp have slammed the Palestinian Baath Party, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR) for dragging their feet regarding their appeals for urgent humanitarian assistance and reconstruction projects. Refugees said instead of paying huge sums of money on celebrations and commemorations, Palestinian factions

Palestinian Family Appeals for Information over Relative Missing for 8th Year in Italy

The family of Palestinian-Syrian man Kusay Musleh has appealed to the international human rights organizations and the Palestinian authority to work on revealing the condition and whereabouts of their son. Kusay disappeared from Italy some eight years ago after he survived a migrant shipwreck from Libya on August 02, 2014. Kusay along with his mother Amira Nassar and his three

Activist Provides Testimony over Moufeq Daouah’s Alleged War Crimes

A relief activist provided his testimony before a court in Germany, where a series of court hearings have been held to trial Palestinian-Syrian man Moufeq Dawah over alleged war crimes committed in Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees in Damascus. The witness Anouar AlBeni said the firing occurred in the afternoon and not at night, as other witnesses claimed. On the

8 Members of Palestinian Deib Family Forcibly Disappeared in Syria Prisons

Eight members of the Deib family, sheltered in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons for over eight years running. The list includes: Adnan Deib (born in 1966 and arrested in Yarmouk in 2015), his sons Seif and Muhannad, Tareq Ali Deib, Ala Ali Deib, Muhannad Ali Deib, Abdul Fattah Ali

Humanitarian Crisis Worse than Ever for Palestinian Refugees in Syria

Palestinian refugees in Syria continue to struggle for survival in a country that has been dramatically ravaged by a more than a decade-long conflict.  According to the UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria, 14.6 million Syrians depend on humanitarian assistance, 12 million face acute food insecurity, and nine in 10 now live below the poverty line.  Some

In Less Than 24 Hours, Fires Rock another House in Jaramana Refugee Camp

Fires broke out on Saturday, December 07, at the house of Palestinian refugee Ayman Marwan Omran, in AlTahrir neighborhood, in Jaramana Camp, in Rif Dimashq. Material damage was reported. Young men rushed to the area to extinguish the fires and save the residents. One day earlier, fires broke out at a civilian house in the camp. Jaramana camp is 8km

House Damaged by Fire in Jaramana Refugee Camp

Fires broke out at a house in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, resulting in heavy material damage. A number of residents choked on fires while others sustained light burns. Firefighters rushed to the scene to extinguish the fires. Jaramana camp is 8km from Damascus on the road to Damascus International Airport.  The camp was established in

9 Palestinian Refugees Confirmed Dead in Syrian Prisons in 2022

AGPS has documented the death of nine Palestinian refugees under torture in Syrian regime prisons in 2022. The victims are: Alia Al-Safadi; Nour Hassan Sweid; Marah AlJishi; Ali Ahmed Ali, born on October 1, 1969 and sheltered in AlSabina camp; Anas Malkash, nicknamed Abu Jamila and sheltered in Hujaira town, south of Damascus; Mahmoud AlMuhammad, from AlSayeda Zeinab camp, in

Tadamon Massacre by Syrian Regime Unforgettable for Palestinian Refugees

In late April last year, the Guardian published an investigation with footage showing a massacre taking place in Tadamon, near Syria’s capital Damascus, in April 2013, and claiming the lives of 41 people, including three Palestinian refugees. The three refugees are Wasim Omar Seyam, Sa’id Ahmad Khatab, Abd Luay AlKubra, residents of Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. Informed sources told

Syrian Regime Deprives Military Service Evaders of Their Property in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian refugees said their relatives who evaded military service have been denied access to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees to retrieve their property. A couple of years ago, the Syrian regime announced its intent to seize the property of military dodgers, in reference to people eluding government-imposed obligation to serve in the military forces. Brigadier-General Ilyas Beitar said at the

Displaced Families Call for Urgent Return to Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, continue to call on the concerned authorities to facilitate their return to the camp and reconstruct ravaged facilities.  Lawyers warned of ongoing attempts to empty the camp of its residents, saying increasing the pace of family returns is the only means to bring life back to normal in the

First-Aid Course Held for Women in Yarmouk Camp

The Shuhadaa Clinic, in partnership with Zahrat AlMadaen Association and the Syrian Red Crescent Society held first-aid session in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The course program included first aid, treatment of wounds, fractures and burns, and implantation of intravenous catheters. Before the crisis started in 2011, Yarmouk was a bustling home to almost 30 percent of

Palestinians of Syria Suffering Multiple Hardships

2022 has been the hardest for Palestinian refugees in/from war-torn Syria, said AGPS media chief Fayez Abu Eid. Abu Eid said thousands of Palestinian refugees sheltered in displacement camps in northern Syria are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. More than a decade after demonstrations started in Syria, the majority of Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country have been

Palestinian Child Ahmad Aghid AlSarhan Transferred to Orphanage

12-year-old Palestinian refugee Ahmed Aghid Yaser AlSarhan, born and raised in Yarmouk refugee camp, south of Damascus, was transferred to Dar Sayed orphanage, in AlMezzeh, in Damascus. Ahmad currently lies at AlMujtahed Hospital, where he underwent a leg surgery. Vulnerable Palestinian children taking shelter in refugee camps in Syria continue to struggle for survival in the war-ravaged country Scores of

Unrecognized Palestinian Refugees in/from Syria (PRS) Forgotten by International Community

Syria received the first wave of Palestinian refugees after the Palestinian Nakba in 1948. This first wave of refugees was followed by others at different times: from Lebanon and the demilitarized border areas in the 1950s, from the West Bank and Gaza Strip in the wake of the Israeli aggression of June 1967, from Jordan after clashes between the Jordanian

18 Palestinian Journalists Killed in War-Torn Syria

AGPS has recorded the death of 18 Palestinian journalists in Syria and the secret detention of dozens more since the outburst of deadly hostilities in March 2011. The causalities died while covering scenes on the battleground or while providing civilians with relief assistance across the ravaged Syrian territories. The list includes nine journalists who died under shelling, five who were

Homeless Palestinian Refugee Child in Syria Cries for Help

Palestinian-Syrian child Ahmad Aghid Yaser AlSarhan, born and raised in Yarmouk refugee camp, south of Damascus, has been left on his own at AlMujtahed Clinic, where he underwent a leg surgery. Ahmad lost his parents in the conflict and has been left without shelter. Palestinian refugee children continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the twelve-year warfare in Syria

Reconstruction of Yarmouk Refugee Camp in Syria Obstructed

Facts on the ground prove that the Syrian regime has been manipulating Yarmouk Camp reconstruction file to blackmail Palestinian factions and refugees in the war-torn country. Over recent years, the Syrian government stipulated that the Palestine Embassy in Damascus remove debris from residential alleyways and pay the required sums. UNRWA’s funding deficit along with the failure of Palestinian factions to

UNRWA Starts Reconstruction of School, Clinic in Yarmouk Camp

UNRWA launched works to reconstruct AlFalouja School. Works are slated to be finalized by September 2023. UNRWA education chief Walid AlKurdi said on Facebook that the Agency has also started the reconstruction of a youth development centre thanks to contributions from the government of Spain. The facility will be turned into a clinic. Yarmouk camp, once home to 160,000

Palestinian-Syrian Woman Joins Referee Panel at Women's World Cup Championship

On Saturday, December 24, the International Federation of Football Association (FIFA) selected the Palestinian referee Heba Saadia, from Yarmouk refuge camp, among the panel of referees at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, to be held in Australia and New Zealand. FIFA has published a list of international referees at the 2023 Women’s World Cup matches. Heba is the first Palestinian-Syrian

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Transportation Means

Students and workers in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, continue to appeal to the concerned authorities to secure transportation means to give them daily lifts to their universities and workplaces. Photos circulated on social media networks show dozens of residents working for several kilometers at the crack of dawn to reach their destinations. The residents called for

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Slam Dishonesty of Reconstruction Contractors

Activists from Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have accused contractors of lying and dragging their feet over their pledges to carry out reconstruction works. A number of contractors reneged on their promises to build new apartments, reconstruct damaged buildings, and install metal structures to prevent burglary in the camp. The residents said no serious efforts have been

Residents of Jaramana Camp Launch Distress Signals

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, In Rif Dimashq, continue to sound alarm bells over their poor services and dire socio-economic conditions rocking the area as a result of the steep rental fees, high rates of unemployment, the price hike, and poor sanitation.  Activists have called on families and CSOs to pool resources and lend a hand to

3 Palestinian Brothers & Their Mother Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 9th Year

Palestinian brothers Bassel, Youssef, and Mohamed Ghazi Loubani along with their mother Meriam have been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons for the ninth consecutive year. The family members were arrested in 2014 by Syrian security forces deployed at Ali AlWahsh Street as they attempted to flee the then-blockaded Yarmouk Camp.  

Property-Theft Reported in Jaramana Camp

Palestinian refugee families sheltered in and around Jaramana Camp have raised concerns over the increasing theft attempts and home-burglary reported in the area. Over recent days, a motorcycle was stolen by an anonymous thief. Over recent years, residents of Jaramana Camp have launched cries for help over the dire socio-economic conditions, high unemployment rates, poor infrastructure, steep rental fees, and

Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria Displacement Camps Deprived of Heating Equipment

Palestinian refugee families sheltered in displacement camps set up north of Syria continue to appeal for urgent humanitarian action by the concerned authorities in Syria, United Nations bodies, and international humanitarian organizations. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been struggling for survival in the poorly-equipped Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, after they were forced out of Yarmouk and southern Damascus towns

Displaced Families Call for Rehabilitation of Local Committee in Yarmouk Camp

Civilians have called on authorities in Damascus to reactivate the local committee which was previously tasked with administering civilians’ affairs in Yarmouk Camp and which was dissolved by the former Prime Minister Emad Khamis in late 2018. Civilians say the services department assigned by Damascus Governorate has failed to take note of civilians’ needs and hinder the return of displaced

9 Years On, Palestinians of Syria Remember Tragic ‘Mig Massacre’ in Yarmouk Camp

December 16, 2022 marks the tenth anniversary of the so-called “Mig Massacre”, also known as “Abdul Kader AlHusaini massacre”, in reference to the onslaughts launched by the Syrian fighter jets on Abdul Kader AlHusaini Mosque, in Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus. At the time of the attack, the mosque served as a shelter for hundreds of families who

Street-Lighting Initiative Launched in Yarmouk Camp

The Charity Committee has installed new solar panels in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Over recent years, the residents have frequently complained that power cables have been stolen from abandoned houses and alleyways in Yarmouk refugee camp, where civilians’ life has already been marred by the frequent power blackouts. Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned

Works Launched to Rehabilitate AlKastal School in Yarmouk Camp

UNRWA has started reconstruction works at AlKastal School in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Works are expected to be finalized by July 2023. Earlier this year, Head of the Damascus Education Directorate Suleiman Younes stressed the need to speed up reconstruction works to rehabilitate all schools in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. This came

Palestinian Refugee Child Wins 2nd Place in Arabic Reading Competition

Palestinian child Eyas Barghout ranked second in Syria in the Iqraa Arabic reading competition (8th edition), which was held by Dar Al-Fikr for Reading and Creativity. Eyas is enrolled at Tarshiha School, run by UNRWA, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Dozens of displaced Palestinian refugees have achieved success stories, despite of the traumatic upshots wrought by

Palestinians of Syria Enduring Multiple Hardships

More than twelve years after demonstrations started in Syria, the majority of Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country have been grappling with an abject humanitarian situation. “Life has become unbearable. Prices have skyrocketed, house rents have seen a striking leap, while our purchasing power has dramatically declined”, a Palestinian refugee called Samir and sheltered in Jdeidat Artouz told AGPS

2 Palestinian Brothers Arrested in Turkey

Palestinian refugees Mohamed and Ali Ashami have been detained by Turkish police in Esenler district, on Istanbul’s European side, after they failed to obtain the temporary protection card known as “kimlik”. The two brothers, who were displaced from Syria’s Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have called for urgent action by the international humanitarian and human rights institutions

Palestinian Refugee in Germany Denies War Crime Accusation

Another trial was held in Berlin on December 08 against Palestinian refugee Moufeq Daouah who has been accused of committing war crimes in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Human rights sources quoted Moufeq as saying he was himself a victim of war crimes in Syria as his sister and nephew were killed by AlNusra Front. The public

Displaced Families Accuse Yarmouk Camp Chiefs of Corruption

Displaced families have slammed the Syrian authorities for turning their back on their appeals to return to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, and reconstruct destroyed facilities.   Officials in charge of Yarmouk Camp file continue to drag their feet over civilians’ calls to return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp and retrieve their property. At the same

Palestinian Writer Ali AlShehabi Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 10th Year

Palestinian writer Ali Sa’id Shehabi has been secretly held in Syria government jails for the tenth year running. Shehabi, an English instructor at a UNRWA school, was kidnapped on December 17, 2012. Prior to his abduction, Shehabi had been taking shelter in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. Frequent calls by international NGOs and activists to unearth Shehabi’s fate have gone

Activists Call On Displaced Families to Return to Yarmouk Camp

Activists called on families displaced from Yarmouk Camp to return to their homes due to exorbitant rents in and around Damascus. In Rif Dimashq, houses are rented at up to 6 million Syrian pounds per year. Several refugee families have abandoned their rented houses after they failed to pay the required sums. UN data indicates that before the eruption of

Initiative Launched to Rehabilitate Health Centre in Yarmouk Camp

Nour Association for Relief and Development has launched works to turn a destroyed building into a health centre for residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, and adjacent areas. Before the crisis started in 2011, Yarmouk was a bustling home to almost 30 percent of the Palestine refugee population in Syria. Today, the weight of displacement, hardship

Violence Awareness Drive Held in Yarmouk Refugee Camp

The Palestinian Red Crescent Organization held a so-called “I’m Here” event to combat gender-based violence.  The event comes in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund, a UN agency aimed at developing national healthcare strategies and protocols, increasing access to birth control, and leading campaigns against child marriage, gender-based violence, obstetric fistula, and female genital mutilation.  

Palestinian Children with Special Needs Subjected to Multiple Hardships in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Displaced Palestinian refugees with special needs have been gripped with dire conditions in the poorly-equipped refugee tents set up north of Syria. Palestinian refugee Nawres Haythem AlMesri, who was injured by bullet fire in the then-besieged Yarmouk Camp, is one among hundreds of Palestinians with special needs who continue to appeal for urgent humanitarian action to save their lives. Nawras

Palestinian Refugee Nahed Koshkosh Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime since 2013

Palestinian refugee Nahed Suleiman Koshkosh has been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons for the ninth consecutive year. Nahed, born in 1974, was arrested by Syrian security forces in March 2013 in Nisreen Street, in AlTadhamun neighborhood, east of Yarmouk Camp.  

UNRWA Chief, Damascus Governor Discuss Rehabilitation of Yarmouk Refugee Camp

Governor of Damascus, Muhammad Tariq Kreishati, discussed with the Director of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Syria, Amanya Michael Ebye, means of enhancing cooperation to secure the return of the displaced families to their homes in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The two officials also discussed ways to rehabilitate infrastructure

Family Appeals for Information about Condition of Palestinian Refugee in Syria

The family of the Palestinian-Syrian refugee Muhammad Ali Abu Rayhan, born in 1989 and raised in Yarmouk camp, appealed to international humanitarian and human rights organizations to urge the Syrian authorities to reveal information about the condition and whereabouts of their relative. The family said that their son has been missing since 2013. He disappeared near the industrial zone in

Displaced Palestinian Refugees Struggling for Survival in Idlib’s AlJazira Camp

Some 30 Palestinian families displaced from Yarmouk Camp, AlTadhamun neighborhood, and AlGhouta, in Damascus, continue to sound distress signals over the dire humanitarian situation they have been enduring in AlJazeera Camp, in Atama, in Idlib, near the Turkish borders. The situation has been characterized by an acute dearth in financial resources, relief aid, and vital services. The residents said no

Syrian Regime Seizes Houses in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Members of the regime’s Fourth Division seized on Friday civilian houses in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Local sources told AGPS that the seized buildings will be turned into military sites. An eight-member armed group showed up near AlNuman AlMazani Mosque and grabbed hold of a recently-reconstructed house whose owner was displaced to northern Syria displacement camps

Building Collapse Risk Increasing in Yarmouk Camp

A three-story building collapsed in Haifa Street, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The building sustained heavy material damage due to violent shelling by the Syrian and Russian air forces. In 2019, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) published the results of an assessment of the damage to Syrian cities caused by seven years

AGPS: 5,584 Physical Violations Recorded against Palestinians in War-Torn Syria

AGPS kept record of endless physical violations perpetrated against Palestinian refugees since the launch of the Syrian conflict. 4,121 Palestinian refugees were killed as a result of the deadly air strikes, bloody shootouts, harsh torture, the blockade, or on way to other destinations via the “death boats.” 2,000 others have, meanwhile, been secretly held in Syrian dungeons

Spain Contributes to Rehabilitation of Clinic in Yarmouk Camp

With support from the Government of Spain, works have been under progress to reconstruct and equip a clinic located in AlMadres Street, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees.  The clinic will go operative in September 2023. At the same time, efforts have been ongoing to rehabilitate the sewerage and AlFija water network in the camp.  

School Uniforms Distributed in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The Palestine Embassy in Damascus distributed 700 school uniforms in Yarmouk Camp in Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The initiative was launched by ambassador Samir AlRefa’i and head of the Relief Committee Mahmoud AlKhaled.  

On Int’l Day for Elimination of Violence against Women: Hundreds of Palestinian Women Displaced, Tortured in War-Torn Syria

AGPS figures indicate that 487 Palestinian women died of war-related incidents, most notably bombardment, sniper bullets, and torture behind prison bars.  Over 110 women and girls have also been incarcerated in Syrian prisons and their fate has remained shrouded in mystery. A sworn affidavit by a female ex-detainee provided evidence for harsh torture tactics and oppressive penal policies perpetrated

Displaced Palestinian Families Appeal for Rehabilitation of Vital Services in Yarmouk Camp

Another bread distribution site has been allotted to residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. So far, four such sites have been installed in Yarmouk in an attempt to bring life back to normal in the ravaged camp. Residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes and to

Activists Warn Yarmouk Residents against Attempts to Turn Their Property into Bargaining Chips

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, to stand on guard to all attempts to force them to forfeit their houses and property at low prices. With the return of a number of families to Yarmouk, prices of houses and property have skyrocketed in the Camp. Prices of homes in their current condition in the Waseem

Civilians Call for Identification of Buildings at Risk of Collapse in Yarmouk Refugee Camp

Residents of Yarmouk camp in Damascus called on the Palestinian Engineers Union to identify buildings that are at risk of collapse and to submit an official report to the Yarmouk municipality and Damascus governorate. Civilians said buildings at risk of collapse should be removed. A few days earlier, a four-story building in Yarmouk collapsed. In the conflict, the camp became

Palestinians in Northern Syria Continue to Rally over Dire Conditions

Displaced Palestinian refugees continue to rally for the ninth consecutive day in Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, north of Syria, protesting the deteriorating living conditions in the poorly-equipped facilities. The refugees called on AFAD, UNRWA, and all other concerned parties to take up their responsibilities regarding the squalid conditions they have been struggling with in the poverty-stricken area. They further

135 Palestinian Refugees Extra-Judicially Executed since Outbreak of Syrian Conflict

135 Palestinian refugees have been subjected to extra-judicial execution since the outburst of Syria’s warfare until November 17, 2022 according to AGPS data. The list includes 17 members of the Palestine Liberation Army who were killed just one month after they were kidnapped in mid-2012 on their way back home to AlNeirab Camp in Aleppo from a military site in

UN Delegation Shows Up in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

A United Nations delegation paid on Sunday a visit to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, Syria. The delegation was accompanied by representatives of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and representatives of the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR). UNRWA representatives said the Agency will embark on the construction of a clinic

Palestinian Refugees Denounce Property-Theft in Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have called on Syrian authorities to take urgent action in response to increasing burglary and violence. Recently, thieves violently beat a resident after they broke into his family home, resulting in severe fractures. The man’s brother said the family brought the case to the court. However, their appeals have gone

252 Palestinian Children Killed in War-Torn Syria

AGPS has recorded the death of 252 Palestinian refugee children in war-torn Syria. Hundreds more have gone orphaned after they lost one or both of their parents in the deadly warfare. The list of Palestinian victims includes 70 children who died due to the blockade imposed by the Syrian government forces and its armed allies on Yarmouk camp for Palestinian

Building Collapses in Yarmouk Camp, Property-Theft Ongoing

A four-story building fell down in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. No injuries were reported. Local sources warned of similar incidents due to cracks inflicted by heavy shelling by Syrian and Russian fighter jets. The residents also warned that due to theft of iron from abandoned buildings similar collapses are likely to occur. Maintenance works have been

Palestinian Refugee Child Held in Syrian Prison with His Mother for 9th Year

Palestinian woman Yasmeen Abdullah, 39, and her six-year-old child Obada have been forcibly disappeared in Syrian regime prisons for the ninth consecutive year. They were arrested by Syrian security forces on July 27, 2013 at a government-run checkpoint in Nisreen Street, in AlTadhamun neighborhood, adjacent to Yarmouk Camp. The family’s 73-year-old father, Mawloud Khalid AlAbdullah, diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases and

Yarmouk’s Displaced Families Applaud Reconstruction Initiatives

Palestinian refugees acclaimed a new initiative launched to reconstruct houses in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. Vulnerable families will also benefit from a new power generator installed as part of the initiative.   The Charity Committee installed 14 solar panels in AlMadares neighborhood. One week earlier 40 such devices were installed in adjacent areas. Entering its 12th year, the Syrian

Palestinians Rally in Deir Ballout over Abject Conditions

Displaced Palestinian refugees have rallied in Deir Ballout camp, north of Syria, protesting their deteriorating living conditions in the poorly-equipped facility. The refugees called on AFAD, UNRWA, and all other concerned parties to take up their responsibilities regarding the squalid conditions they have been struggling with in the poverty-stricken area. They further urged the international human rights institutions, the Palestine

DNA Samples of Relatives of Migrant Boat Victims Dispatched to Tunisia

The political advisor to the Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ambassador Ahmed Al-Deek, said that DNA samples taken from the families of missing Palestinians arrived in Tunisia yesterday. This comes after dead bodies of migrants were spotted off Tunisian coast. A few days earlier, activists launched an appeal to identify the fate of the missing Palestinian Muhannad Muhammad

Palestinian Refugees Rally in Northern Syria over Squalid Conditions

Displaced Palestinian refugees have rallied in Deir Ballout camp, north of Syria, protesting their deteriorating living conditions in the poorly-equipped facility. The refugees called on AFAD, UNRWA, and all other concerned parties to take up their responsibilities regarding the squalid conditions they have been struggling with in the poverty-stricken area. They further urged the international human rights institutions, the Palestine

Four Palestinians from Yarmouk Camp Arrested by Syrian Regime

Four Palestinian refugees, including a 15-year-old child, were arrested on November 09 after Syrian security forces broke into their houses in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Syria. Local sources said members of the Fourth Division showed up in the camp overnight on Wednesday and ransacked houses. They also stole civilian property. Reports of burglary continue to emerge in

Palestinians from Syria Appeal for Justice, Humanitarian Assistance

More than twelve years after demonstrations started in Syria, the majority of Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country have been grappling with an abject humanitarian situation. UN data indicates that over half of the Palestine refugees in the country have been displaced at least once because of the brutal conflict that ensued, including 120,000 who have sought safety

2 Films by Palestinian Directors Present at International Film Festival

Two films by Palestinian-Syrian directors participated in the international “Palestine Cinema Days” festival, wrapped up a few days ago in Ramallah, in the occupied West Bank.  The first film is entitled “Red Passport” by Abdah Assadi, currently living in the Netherlands. The second film is “Summer…City and Camera” by Anas Zahrawi, living in Damascus. Another Film entitled “Farha” by

Damascus Governorate: Huge Funds Needed to Rehabilitate Power Network

Member of the Executive Office at Damascus Governorate, Kays Ramadan, told the pro-regime SHAM FM radio station that a technical study is being conducted to rehabilitate the power network in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Ramadan said the power crisis is very complicated and large sums of money are needed to fix it. He added that efforts

Palestinian Refugee Woman Rescued off Aegean Sea

Greek coast guard rescued a total of four illegal Palestinian migrants at sea, south of Samos island in the East Aegean. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said police located and rescued four migrants who told authorities they were onboard an inflatable dinghy before it capsized on October 31.  The migrants are Mohamed Masoud, Husain Sarjoun, Ahmed Achour, and

Displaced Families Call for Urgent Return to Yarmouk Camp

Activists continue to call on residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, to return to the camp and retrieve their property as the only way to pressurize authorities to reconstruct destroyed infrastructure and vital facilities.  Lawyers warned of ongoing attempts to empty the camp of its residents, saying increasing the pace of family returns is the

Rubble-Clearance Ongoing in AlHajar AlAswad

Syrian authorities started removing debris from AlHajar AlAswad neighborhood, adjacent to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. The AlHajar AlAswad council said debris has been removed from Tishreen neighborhood pending similar drives in other neighborhoods. Efforts have also been ongoing to rehabilitate the sewerage network and the UNRWA health centre in the area. Residents of the adjacent neighborhoods of Uruba and

Palestinian Refugees in Syria Severely Affected by Decade-Long Conflict

The eleven-year Syrian war has had a tragic impact on Palestinian refugees sheltered in the country. Unemployment, debts, high levels of poverty, overcrowded dwellings, food insecurity, loss of livelihoods, and economic hardship have had a heavy toll on the Palestinian refugee community in the war-torn country. According to UNRWA, the full humanitarian impact of the conflict remains impossible to catalog

Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria Launch Cry for Help with Advent of Winter

Hundreds of displaced Palestinian families taking refuge in northern Syria continue to raise concerns over their fate as a freezing winter season has been just around the corner. The families continue to lash out at the apathy maintained by UNRWA, the Palestinian Authority, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and all other local and international bodies regarding their tragic situation. Palestinian refugees

Damascus Governor: Joint Efforts Should Be Made to Reconstruct Yarmouk Camp

Damascus Governor Mohamed Tareq Kreishani said  efforts have been underway to rehabilitate the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. He said contacts will be held with the Social Affairs Minister Mohamed Seid AlDeen to that end. The governor pledged that means of transportation will be available starting Saturday. Kreishani called for joint efforts between the different government bodies and CSOs

Owners of Destroyed Houses Appeal for Recompensation

Activists and residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, appealed to the Syrian authorities, UNRWA, the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR) and the Palestine Liberation Organization to provide cash grants to residents whose houses have been completely destroyed. Last year, Palestine Ambassador in Syria, Samir AlRefai said the reconstruction of destroyed houses in Yarmouk Camp

Damascus Governor: Efforts Ongoing to Rehabilitate Yarmouk Refugee Camp

Damascus Governor Mohamed Tareq Kreshati said efforts have been under progress to rehabilitate vital services in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. He said several reconstruction drives have seen the day in cooperation with CSOs and concerned authorities. In a statement released during the inauguration of Nour Centre for Community Development, the governor said starting next week buses will be transferring

2 Palestinians Detained after Being Rescued in Boat Tragedy off Tunisian Coast

Two Palestinian refugees holding Syrian travel documents have been detained by Libyan authorities after they were rescued off the Tunisian coast of Jarjis. Palestinian ambassador Ahmad AlDick said the two refugees are Moomen Mohamed Ali and Khaled Mohamed AlABtah.  Palestinian refugee Mohamed Majdoub Abdullah, a Palestinian-Syrian refugee, was found dead. Muhannad Mohamed Atiyeh, displaced from Yarmouk Camp to Lebanon

Palestinian Refugee Family Denied Humanitarian Asylum in Sweden for 7th Year

Palestinian refugee Mazen Abu Ajaj and his family have been denied asylum in Sweden, where they have been living for the seventh consecutive year. Mazen, his wife, and six children are sheltered in Salvastor camp, located between Helsingborg and Angelholm, south of Sweden. In an interview with Radio Sweden, Mazen said he has been dreaming of building a promising career

Water Crisis ongoing in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The Charitable Association for Palestinian Relief repaired power generators and installed new ones in order to help rehabilitate the main water unit in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq. Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central Damascus, continue to set off alarm bells over the lack of basic services and dire socio-economic conditions rocking

Palestinian Refugees Left without Healthcare in Syria

A report issued by AGPS on the World Mental Health Day has sounded alarm bells over the deteriorating humanitarian condition of Palestinian refugees in/from war-torn Syria. The warfare in Syria, which has now entered its eleventh year, has had traumatic fallouts on Palestinian refugee children in and outside the Syrian territories. Post-traumatic stress disorders, mental psychosis, sleeplessness and nightmares, eating

Awareness-Raising Campaigns Launched in Palestinian Refugee Camps in Syria

The Palestinian Red Crescent Organization in Syria held sessions to raise awareness about breast cancer at its reproductive health center in AlNeirab camp in Aleppo.  The sessions provided tips on how to deal with the psychological pressures of patients and injured people. So far, 288 benefited from the move. A similar drive was held by the organizarion, in cooperation

UNRWA to Embark on Reconstruction Project in Yarmouk Camp

An activist from Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, said UNRWA is slated to launch a project to build a youth development centre and a school comprising 24 classrooms. The project will last for nine months and is expected to be finalized in July 2023. A few weeks earlier, Damascus Governor Mohamed Tarek Kreishati gave instructions to Damascus

Displaced Palestinian Families Appeal for Urgent Reconstruction of Their Houses in Yarmouk Camp

A number of Palestinian refugee families sheltered in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, have appealed to the concerned authorities and international humanitarian organizations to help them reconstruct their ravaged houses. In appeals emailed to AGPS, a number of families said they have been overburdened by exorbitant house rents in and around Damascus. Recently, Walid AlKurdi, UNRWA’s education chief in Yarmouk

Residents of AlRaml Camp for Palestinian Refugees Denounce Mistreatment at UNRWA Clinic

Residents of AlRaml Camp, in Latakia, have spoken out against the mistreatment they have been subjected to by staff members at the UNRWA-run clinic. A number of patients who showed up at the facility for treatment have reportedly been mistreated by paramedics at the clinic.  Local activists have urged the UN refugee agency, the General Authority for Palestinian Arab

Syria Education Ministry: School Shifts Will Not Be Changed

The Syrian Ministry of Education said it has approved the launch of the school year at all public and private kindergartens and schools. School shifts start from 08:00 a.m.  Palestinian refugee schoolchildren and students continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the eleven-year conflict. Available data by UNRWA indicates that 32 UNRWA facilities have been reduced to

New Power Generators Allotted to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Five power generators are to be installed in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. In an interview with Sham FM, Damascus governor said the power network was completely damaged in the eleven-year conflict and efforts have been underway to rehabilitate two power plants at an estimated budget of over 10 billion Syrian pounds each. The unabated warfare has

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Wins Jordan Bodybuilding Championship

Palestinian refugee from Syria Shadi AlFar won the first place in the open bodybuilding championship (100kgs) held in Jordan.  Shadi fled Syria’s Yarmouk refugee camp in 2012 to AlZahira, in Damascus, before he headed for Jordan, where he had stayed for a couple of years. He then travelled to the UAE and took part in international muscle shows.  

On Int’l Day of Non-Violence, Thousands of Palestinian Refugees Subjected to Human Rights Abuses in Syria

Statistics released by AGPS on the International Day of Non-Violence, observed on October 2, kept record of thousands of human rights abuses perpetrated against Palestinian refugees in war-torn Syria Over 4,500 Palestinian refugees were killed as a result of the deadly air strikes, bloody shootouts, harsh torture, the blockade, or on the migration route. At the same time, more

Damascus Governor Calls for Rehabilitation of Vital Services in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Damascus Governor Mohamed Tarek Kreishati gave instructions to Damascus authorities to provide the residents of Yarmouk refugee camp with basic services and to rehabilitate the power and water networks. The governor called for increased cooperation among local departments and CSOs in order to bring life back to normal in the camp.  Sometime earlier, the governor told SHAM FM radio

Palestinian Refugee Families Denounce Mistreatment of Schoolchildren at Northern Syria Displacement Camp

Displaced Palestinian refugees sheltered in Efrin outskirts, north of Syria, said their children have been subjected to violence by teachers at the school of AlMuhammadiya displacement camp. The residents said their children have been verbally and physically insulted. Parents called on the education directorate to establish an investigation committee in order to follow up on violence complaints. Hundreds of Palestinian

Palestinian Mother of Triplets Appeals for Urgent Humanitarian Action in Northern Syria

A Palestinian-Syrian refugee from Yarmouk camp who gave birth to triplets in a hospital in the northern Syrian city of Efrin appealed to local and international humanitarian organizations to provide her with cash and in-kind aid in order to feed her newborns. Over 1,500 Palestinian refugee families have reached northern part of the Syrian Arab Republic since the start

Palestinian Girl Gets Highest Score at UNRWA School

Palestinian-Syrian girl Rama Salam, displaced from Yarmouk refugee camp to Dummar, is among thousands of students who recently passed the national ninth-grade exam. She scored 3,090 out of a total 3,100 points, the highest score of all UNRWA students in Syria. Rama experienced the trauma inflicted by the eleven-year conflict, with daily scenes of bloodshed and deadly shelling

Rights Group Acclaims Rehabilitation of Yarmouk School

Association 302 for defense of refugees rights acclaimed the upcoming re-inauguration of Assad Ibn AlFourat School in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Association 302 said in a press statement issued on September 29, the school will reopen its doors on Sunday, October 02. The group said the move is a fruitful step in the right direction, expressing

Palestinian Activist Reyad Hamid Pronounced Dead in Egypt

Palestinian-Syrian activist Reyad Hamid Abu Muadh was pronounced dead in Egypt. Reyad assisted scores of Palestinian and Syrian refugees fleeing war-torn Syria to Egypt in 2013. Reyad was born and raised in Yarmouk Camp. His family hails from Dalata village, in Palestinian territories occupied in 1948. He is the brother of Palestinian doctor Hayel Hamid, who has been forcibly disappeared

Pro-Regime Party in Syria Rejects Plan to Remove Destroyed Buildings from Yarmouk Camp

The Palestinian leadership of the Baath Party rejected a plan by Damascus governorate to destroy damaged buildings and remove their debris from Yarmouk Camp. In a statement issued in response to reports about the entrance of heavy machinery to Street 30 to remove rubble, the party said such a move contravenes Law 3 of 2018 and violates civilians’ ownership rights

Displaced Families Call for Gradual Reconstruction of Destroyed Buildings

Activists from Yarmouk Camp have called on Palestinian refugees to start reconstructing their destroyed houses and commercial facilities in order to avoid having them removed from the master plan. Local sources said bulldozers and trucks were spotted on Sunday on Street 30 to remove rubble pending the launch of reconstruction works. Activists and residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to slam

Number of Palestinians Dying of Strokes in Syria Gets Higher

Sudden deaths have increasingly been reported among Palestinian refugees in/from war-torn Syria due to the traumatic upshots of the warfare. Over recent days, ten Palestinian refugees died of heart attacks or strokes, among them five residents of AlNeirab Camp for Palestinian refugees, in the northern Syrian province of Aleppo, aged between 30 and 35. The list also includes two residents

Activists Call On Displaced Families to Return to Yarmouk Camp

Activists called on families displaced from Yarmouk Camp to return to AlZein neighborhood in the camp as the situation appears to be back to normal in the area. The calls came after a number of commercial shops unlocked their doors and water and power started to be rehabilitated in the camp. UN data indicates that before the eruption of the

Mahmoud Abbas Foundation Provides Cash Aid to Yarmouk Camp Residents

The Mahmoud Abbas Foundation paid a visit to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. This came as part of four-day trip to Syria aiming to provide humanitarian and cash aid to vulnerable families. A number of residents said, however, that cash aid was only handed over to families affiliated with Fatah Movement and the Palestine Liberation Organization.  

Property-Theft Ongoing in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Reports of burglary continue to emerge in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, where hundreds of Palestinian refugees had been taking shelter. Anonymous gangsters have reportedly stolen furniture from abandoned buildings in and around Yarmouk neighborhoods. Palestinian families displaced from the area continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes and to press

Displaced Families Continue to Return to Yarmouk Camp

Activists continue to call on residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, to return to the camp and retrieve their property as the only way to pressurize authorities to reconstruct destroyed infrastructure and vital facilities.  Lawyers warned of ongoing attempts to empty the camp of its residents, saying increasing the pace of family returns is the

UN: Situation of Palestinian Refugees Alarming

Palestinian refugees are struggling for survival and need urgent humanitarian action, warned the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Addressing the UN Security Council, Philippe Lazzarini said: “Since I last briefed this Council in May last year, the situation of Palestine refugees has further deteriorated.” “Over 80 per

Mother of Forcibly Disappeared Palestinian Refugee in Syria Appeals for Information

Mother of Suleiman Mohammed Mabrouk, from Yarmouk Camp, continues to appeal for information over the condition and whereabouts of her son who has gone missing for over ten years.  Ayeda Amayri said her son disappeared ten years ago. His fate has been shrouded in mystery.  Unverified reports said Suleiman reached Germany. 333 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 38

Families Continue to Return to Yarmouk Refugee Camp

Another batch of displaced families have returned to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees to retrieve their abandoned houses and property which sustained heavy material damage in the conflict.  A number of families managed to reconstruct their houses while others have been unable to cope with the increasing prices of construction materials. The unabated warfare has had disastrous fallouts on

UNRWA to Distribute School Furniture to Palestine Refugee Students

UNRWA pledged to distribute school furniture to all registered Palestine schoolchildren and students in Syria. As the new academic year has stepped in, Palestinian refugee schoolchildren and students continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the eleven-year warfare across the Syrian territories. Available data by UNRWA indicates that 32 UNRWA facilities have been reduced to rubble in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian Refugee Involved in War Crimes in Syria to Be Brought before German Court

The public trial of a Palestinian refugee accused of war crimes as he fought alongside the Syrian regime will begin on Thursday, August 25, 2022, at the Berlin Regional Court at Turmstrassr 91 Berlin 10559.  The Syrian Center for Legal Studies and Research, provided witnesses and evidence to the Public Prosecutor. The centre’s head, lawyer Anwar Al-Bunni, will be

Palestinians Get High Scores at Final High School Exams

Palestinian refugee students obtained high scores as part of the second session of high school exams. Student Mohammed Moadh Abdul Hamid Omeish, from Jaramana camp, obtained his high school certificate with a full mark (2900/2900) in the scientific branch. Student Ilham Yehya Henawi, raised in Yarmouk refugee camp obtained a score of 239/240 (scientific branch); Mohamed Wasim Khaled Hawach, from

Palestinian Refugee Wins 3rd Place in Dubai Championship

Palestinian refugee from Syria Shadi AlFar won the third place in Dibba International Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship in the United Arab Emirates.  280 participants took part in the contest, held by Dibba body building center at the Meydan Hotel in Dubai. Shadi fled Syria’s Yarmouk refugee camp in 2012 to AlZahira, in Damascus, before he headed for Jordan, where

Dozens of Palestinians Killed, Detained While Assisting War-Affected Communities

AGPS kept record of the death of nearly 4,000 Palestinians and incarceration of over 1,900 others in the beleaguered Syrian territories. Palestinian medics and relief activists have also been permanently targeted by the Syrian regime forces on claims of assisting opposition affiliates. Several relief workers and volunteers died under torture in government lock-ups. The list of Palestinian medics

Equipment for Dental Clinic Donated to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The Union of Palestinian Communities and Organizations in Europe donated medical equipment needed to operate a dental clinic at Fayez Halawa Hospital run by the Palestine Liberation Army, affiliated with the Syrian regime, in Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Earlier this year, the PLA inaugurated the Helwa Zeidan Cultural Centre and Raja Abu Amasha Clinic in Yarmouk

Following Death of Palestine Refugee Child in Aleppo, UNRWA Calls For Clearing Explosive War Remnants

A ten-year-old Palestine refugee boy tragically lost his life when an explosive remnant of War (ERW) he was tampering with exploded on 16 August in the Masaken Hanano neighbourhood of Aleppo, in the north of Syria.   Several similar tragic ERW incidents have killed or heavily impacted Palestine refugee children in Syria over the last year.  Last March, a

Activists Warn Yarmouk Residents against Attempts to Turn Their Property into Bargaining Chips

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, to stand on guard to all attempts to force them to forfeit their houses and property at low prices. With the return of a number of families to Yarmouk, prices of houses and property have skyrocketed in the Camp. The activists have warned against attempts by crooked real estate

Palestinian Refugee Child Killed by War Remnants in Syria

A Palestinian refugee child died after a suspicious object went off in Hanano. The victim is ten-year-old Abdullah Ahmad Saker, a resident of AlNeirab Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Aleppo, north of Syria. Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which are particularly unpredictable and difficult to detect, continue to put millions of people, including Palestine refugees

Palestinian Refugee Families in Northern Syria Displacement Camps Launch Distress Signals

The Union of Southern Damascus Activists said nearly 1,800 displaced families in Deir Ballout and AlMuhammadiya camps in Gindires, north of Syria, have been struggling for survival. The Union said prices of medicines and food items have skyrocketed in an area where displaced families have not received aid, except for bread loafs, for over three months. Several families are

Donor Pays Surgery Fees for Displaced Palestinian Refugee Girl in Syria

A donor paid the surgery fees for Palestinian refugee girl Ola AlKusaini displaced from Deir Ballout Camp, north of Syria.  16-year-old Ola will undergo a cataract surgery to implant an artificial eye lens. She was displaced from Yarmouk Camp to Deir Ballout refugee camp, north of Syria.  Nearly 200 Palestinian families are taking shelter in AlMuhammadiya and Deir

Palestinian Refugee Youths in/from Syria Caught Between Hammer and Barrel

Palestinian refugee youths continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the ten-year warfare in Syria, amidst a deadly pandemic outbreak. The war has resulted in increasing rates of juvenile delinquency, unemployment, and psychological disorders. Reports of drug consumption and trafficking have also increasingly emerged in displacement camps set up for Palestinian refugees in Syria Daily scenes of destruction and

Thief Shot Dead in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

A gangster involved in property-theft in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, Syria, was fatally gunned down on Saturday as he attempted to burglarize a house. Other members of the gang were detained over similar accusations. Reports of burglary continue to emerge in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, where hundreds of Palestinian refugees had been taking shelter. Over

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Urgent Reconstruction

Residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes and to press ahead with reconstruction projects. Civilians said infrastructure, including power and water networks, along with other vital facilities should be immediately rehabilitated in order to help bring life back to normal in the ravaged camp. The unabated warfare

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Urge Syrian Authorities to Unlock Palestine Thoroughfare

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees have called on local authorities to unblock the access road to Palestine Street in order to allow civilians and vehicles to smoothly enter and exit the area. After more than a decade of bloody conflict, families who have returned to Yarmouk Camp have been grappling with a dire humanitarian situation.  The absence

Missing Palestinian Refugee from Syria Spotted in Germany

Palestinian young man Firas Abu AlAla, who disappeared on August 9, was spotted in Berlin, Germany. Firas, born and raised in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, fled war-torn Syria to Germany with his family following the conflict outbreak. According to AGPS data, 333 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the

Japanese Delegation Pays Visit to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

A Japanese delegation accompanied by UNRWA director of Syria operations, Michael Amanya Ebye, showed up in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, Syria. The visit comes as part of ongoing attempts to rehabilitate UNRWA premises in Syria, including its schools, clinics, and other vital facilities. The residents lashed out at the delegations, saying visits to the camp have

Explosive Device Goes Off in Deraa Camp

A blast rocked Deraa refugee camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Syria, after an explosive device went off at April 7 School. The explosive device was implanted by anonymous parties at a time when a wedding ceremony was being held in the camp. Material damage was reported. Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which are particularly

Palestinian Refugees Struggling for Survival in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Palestinian refugees sheltered in displacement camps in northern Syria have been enduring a tragic situation. Most of them have been crammed in poorly-equipped tents and denied their rights to vital services. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been struggling for survival in the poorly-equipped Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, among other camps, after they were forced out of Yarmouk and southern

Schools to Be Rehabilitated in Yarmouk Camp

Head of the Damascus Education Directorate Suleiman Younes has stressed the need to speed up reconstruction works to rehabilitate all schools in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. This came in a meeting with UNRWA’s education chief Walid AlKurdi. They discussed the most practical mechanisms to reconstruct government-run schools in Yarmouk Camp. Younes pledged that the Assad Ibn

Turkish Police Seize Identity Documents of Palestinian Refugee

The Turkish authorities seized the passport and the kimlik temporary protection card along with the work permit of Palestinian refugee Nour AlDeen Abu Seyam, who was displaced from Syria.  Abu Seyam said he has been left without travel documents since mid-June and denied access out of the Turkish territories. He risks to be deported to Syria in mid-August. Abu

Palestinian Refugee Spotted at Palestine Branch in Damascus

An ex-prisoner said he had met Palestinian refugee Ahmad Mustafa Maw’ed in a Syrian regime prison. Ahmad, raised in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, was spotted at Palestine Branch 235 in Damascus. AGPS data indicates that over 1,800 Palestinian refugees have been secretly held in Syrian government dungeons since the outburst of deadly hostilities. AGPS also documented the death

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Wins Gold Medal in Karate Contest

Palestinian-Syrian boy Wadii Mahmoud, from Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, won the gold medal in the Kyokushinkai championship (50 kgs). Wadii has qualified for the Arab Championship, which will be taking place in September 2022 in the Lebanese capital, Beirut. The tournament was organized by the Palestinian Kyokushinkai Federation on Wednesday, August 27, 2022, at the Saida

Water Cut off in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees for 3rd Day Running

Residents of AlTahrir neighborhood, in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq said water and power have been cut off for the 3rd day running. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to buy water supplies for privately-owned tanks at exorbitant prices. Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central Damascus, continue

Syria Newspaper Calls for Releasing Clips of Regime Massacre in Tadhamun

Zaman AlWasl newspaper has called on Syrian nationals and Palestinian refugees who caught sight of one of their relatives or acquaintances in the leaked footage of the Tadhamun massacre, committed by the Syrian regime, to write to the newspaper. Zaman AlWasl said it has been exerting pressure on NIOD Institute to release the remaining 25 clips of the footage. It

Ex-Prisoner: Palestinian Refugee Forcibly Disappeared in Syrian Regime Prison

An ex-prisoner said he had met a Palestinian refugee in the so-called Palestine Branch, a military branch for detainees caught by the Syrian regime. In a letter, the ex-prisoner identified the Palestinian refugee as Ahmad Mustafa Maw’ed, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. The latter has been secretly held in prison for nearly seven years. Ahmad reportedly appealed

Palestinian Refugee Student Scores 100% at Medicine Faculty

Palestinian refugee Salam Ghassan Abu Kharaj passed her exams at the Faculty of Medicine in the Cuban capital city of Havana with a score of 100%. Salam’s family hails from Safouriya village, in occupied Palestine. She had been raised in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, Syria.  

Palestinian-Syrian Writer Issues Short Stories about Refugee Narratives

Palestinian-Syrian writer Thaer AlSahli issued a new collection of short stories covering narratives about asylum and its consequences as lived by Palestinians in/from Syria. Thaer has produced several articles and stories about the tragedy of the Palestinians of Syria.  In a short film entitled MiG and produced in 2013, Thaer chose the aircraft that destroys the dreams of Syrians/Palestinian

2 Palestinian Refugees Win Syria Sports Competition

Palestinian refugees Ahmad Mazen Awad and Mohamed Naji Hasan, residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, have won the first and second places in martial arts for self-defense in Syria. Ahmed Awad won the first rank in the youth kickboxing contest in Syria while Mohamed Hassan snatched the second place in sanshou. Hundreds of displaced Palestinian refugees in/from Syria have

Palestinian Refugee Runs for Municipal Elections in Sweden

Palestinian refugee Zaher Hamid is competing in the Helsingborg municipality council in Sweden and the Skona regional council along with the Swedish Parliament (Nyans party), which advocates for refugee issues and the Palestinian cause. Zaher, was born in 1970 and raised in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. His family hails from the occupied city of Safad, in

Syrian Trading Institution Rehabilitated in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The Syrian Trading Company, run by the Ministry of Interior and Consumer Protection, has launched works to rehabilitate its sales hall on Palestine Street, in Yarmouk camp. The company will reopen its doors sometime soon. Food supplies will be sold in the camp at subsidized prices. After more than a decade of bloody conflict, families who have returned to Yarmouk

Palestinian Refugees Get Basic School Diploma with Honour

Palestinian refugee student Hala Muayad Hadid, displaced from Yarmouk Camp to Rif Dimashq, got the highest score as part of 9th grade exams across the Syrian Arab Republic. UNRWA schools across Syria have scored a 94.03% pass rate. 103 students got their diplomas with an honour and obtained scores of over 300.

Yarmouk Camp Residents Lash Out at UNRWA

Families displaced from Yarmouk and those who have returned to the camp have slammed Palestinian factions, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and UNRWA for dragging their feet regarding their appeals for urgent humanitarian assistance and reconstruction projects. Refugees said instead of paying huge sums of money on celebrations and commemorations, Palestinian factions should rather work on rehabilitating vital services and bringing

Palestinian Girl from Syria Gets Highest Score at UNRWA Schools

Palestinian refugee from Syria Labiba Ahmad Salim obtained the highest score at UNRWA schools in Tripoli, north of Lebanon. She is also ranked the 7th in Lebanon. Labiba was displaced from Yarmouk Camp to Naher AlBared Camp, north of Lebanon, with her mother in 2012.  

42 Palestinians Arrested in 2021 in Syria

AGPS said in its recent annual report for 2021 that as many as 1,898 Palestinian refugees have been incarcerated in Syria prisons until the end of 2021, including 42 refugees who were arrested in 2021. The list also includes 32 Palestinian refugees who were arrested by opposition forces in northern Syria. AGPS data indicates that 10 refugees were arrested

Palestine Ambassador Shows Up in Yarmouk Camp Cemetery

Palestine Ambassador in Syria, Dr. Samir AlRefai’, paid a visit to AlShuhadaa Cemetery in Yarmouk Camp. The delegation included representatives of the Palestine Liberation Organization and of the Palestinian refugee community in Syria. Over recent years, activists have slammed the Russian and Syrian government forces for ransacking the old cemetery of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, in search of the body

For 1st Time in 10 Years, Eid Prayers Held in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees held their Eid prayers at Abdul Kader AlHusaini Mosque for the first time in years. On August 10, 2021, the Syrian Ministry of Endowment okayed the reopening of Abdul Kader AlHusaini Mosque and called on staff to work on removing debris and cleaning the mosque basement, pending the rehabilitation of daily congregational prayers

Palestinian Refugee Wins Hairdressing Contest in Netherlands

Palestinian refugee Husain AlSheikh Khaled won the first prize in the Skills Heroes hairdressing competition held in The Netherlands. Husain managed to snatch a seat at the Dutch national team, which will enable him to take part in international competitions. Displaced from Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, Husain arrived in The Netherlands some eight years ago and worked as a hairdresser

Father of Palestinian Victim Seen in Al-Tadamon Massacre Footage Urges UNHRC to Bring Criminals to Justice

On behalf of the Action Group for Palestinians of Syria (AGPS) and the Palestinian Return Centre (PRC) in London, the father of Palestinian refugee Waseem Seyam, who was identified in a recent footage of the victims of a Damascus massacre, delivered a statement as part of Agenda Item 4 of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). “My name is

Displaced Palestinian Families Denounce Attempts to Block Their Return to Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have denounced ongoing attempts to block their access to their homes and property in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. Eye-witnesses said members of the AlNour community, wearing special dresses, have been raking through evacuated homes and holding sway over civilians’ property and reconstruction materials. Activists and residents of Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian Refugees Slam Apathy of Political Factions

Families displaced from Yarmouk and those who have remained in the camp have slammed Palestinian factions, including the Palestine Liberation Organization, for dragging their feet regarding their appeals for urgent humanitarian assistance and reconstruction projects. Refugees said instead of paying huge sums of money on celebrations and commemorations, Palestinian factions should rather work on rehabilitating vital services and bringing life

Families Call For Implementation of 2004 Master Plan in Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have called on the Syrian authorities to implement the 2004 master plan approved in 2013 regarding damaged buildings. Civilians and activists have appealed to Damascus Governorate to hand them reconstruction permits in order to help them retrieve their property and bring life back to normal in the ravaged camp. Over

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Means of Transportation

Civilians continue to appeal to the concerned authorities to secure transportation means to give them daily lifts to their destinations and workplaces. Students, workers, and sick people are made to wait for hours daily to reach their destinations. Living conditions in Khan Dannun have sharply deteriorated due to the lack of financial resources and high unemployment rates wrought by the

UN: 306,887 Civilians Killed in Syrian War

The UN Human Rights Office published a report that, following rigorous assessment and statistical analysis of available data on civilian casualties, estimates that 306,887 civilians were killed between 1 March 2011 and 31 March 2021 in Syria due to the conflict. This is the highest estimate yet of conflict-related civilian deaths in Syria. The report, mandated by the UN

Yarmouk Camp Residents Call on UNRWA to Launch Reconstruction Works

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is expected to carry out reconstruction works at Assad Ibn AlFurat School, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The residents have slammed UNRWA for turning its back on their appeals for urgent reconstruction works in order to facilitate civilians’ return to the camp. Available data by UNRWA indicates that 32 UNRWA facilities

3 Palestinians Brought Before European Courts over War Crime Allegations

At least three Palestinian refugees have been brought before courts in European countries over war crime allegations in Syria. Two others have been accused of committing war crimes. In 2017, an Austrian court sentenced a Palestinian refugee from Syria’s AlAyedeen refugee camp, in Hums, to life over charges of killing 20 regime-affiliated soldiers as he fought alongside AlFarouk opposition group

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Raise Funds to Reconstruct Destroyed Property

A number of displaced Palestinian families who returned to Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, have raised funds in an attempt to help reconstruct the ravaged infrastructure and rehabilitate vital facilities. Recently, a number of families bought solar panels to help operate the water wells in the area. Activists and residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to slam Damascus authorities over their

PLO Official Meets with Rubble-Clearance Committee of Yarmouk Camp

Head of the Department of Refugee Affairs of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Dr. Ahmad Abu Holi and the Palestine Ambassador in Damascus Dr. Samir AlRefa’i met on June 22 with the committee tasked with following up on debris-clearance and the reconstruction of AlShuhadaa Cemetery in Yarmouk Camp. The meeting was held at the office of the Palestine Embassy in

UN Delegation Shows Up in Palestinian Refugee Camps in Syria

A delegation of UNRWA Advisory Commission members visited UNRWA in Syria on the 18and 19June 2022, the first such visit since the conflict started in the country over a decade ago.   The delegation included Finland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Norway, Palestine, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, and the European Union was accompanied by Leni Stenseth, UNRWA Deputy Commissioner-General, and Amanya Michael-Ebye

2 More Palestinian Refugees Tortured to Death in Syrian Prisons

AGPS has documented the death of two Palestinian refugees under torture in Syria’s state-run prisons, according to a testimony by an ex-prisoner released on August 01, 2014. 20-year-old Marwan AlMousa, from AlSabina refugee camp, and Ahmad Shahata, from Yarmouk Camp, died under torture in a collective cell in Military Branch 227 in Damascus.  

500 Families from Yarmouk Refugee Camp Sign Memorandum Handed Over to Int’l Delegation

Residents of Yarmouk Camp handed over two memorandums to the UN delegation that showed up in Yarmouk Camp on June 18. The residents called for increased support to UNRWA’s emergency budget and the reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp. The memorandum, signed by over 500 families, also stressed the need for handing over cash allowances to help civilians reconstruct their destroyed houses

On World Refugee Day, Thousands of Palestinian Refugee Families in/from Syria Torn from Home

June 20 marks the World Refugee Day, an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe and people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. UN data indicates that more than 6.4 million Palestinian refugees are registered in the records of the United Nations Relief and Works

Reconstruction Works Launched in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The Yarmouk Camp municipality embarked on Sunday on maintenance works to rehabilitate the sewerage network. Local sources said the municipality mayor, engineer Rola Maw’ed, is supervising the progress of reconstruction works. Over recent years, residents of Yarmouk Camp slammed the Syrian Council of Ministers for dissolving, in late 2018, the local committee for Yarmouk camp, which was previously tasked with

4,116 Palestinians Pronounced Dead in Syria since Conflict Outbreak

AGPS has documented the death of 4,116 Palestinian refugees, including 493 women and girls, in Syria's war as the country's fragile stateless minority struggles to survive in the deadly eleven-year conflict. Yarmouk Camp topped the list with 1,490 casualties. Scores of Palestinian refugees have also been left wounded, including dozens who have undergone limb amputation or

UN Delegation Pays Visit to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

a delegation of UNRWA Advisory Commission members visited UNRWA in Syria on the 18and 19June 2022, the first such visit since the conflict started in the country over a decade ago.   The delegation included Finland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Norway, Palestine, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, and the European Union was accompanied by Leni Stenseth, UNRWA Deputy Commissioner-General, and Amanya Michael-Ebye

Residents Warn of Child Abductions on the Rise in Syria’s Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees continue to sound alarm bells over the simmering child abductions in the area. Over recent years, several civilians, including children, have gone missing in Jaramana Camp. Palestinian child Zein Ahmad Taameh disappeared from AlAmeen Street in Jaramana Camp on Monday, April 1, on his way back home from Palestine School, run by UNRWA

Property-Theft ongoing in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Reports of burglary continue to emerge in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, where hundreds of Palestinian refugees had been taking shelter. Anonymous gangsters have reportedly stolen furniture from abandoned buildings in and around Yarmouk neighborhoods. Palestinian families displaced from the area continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes and to press

Palestinian Doctor Ahmed AlHasan Killed by Syrian Regime

Nine years on, the family of Palestinian surgeon Ahmad AlHasan continue to remember his death with deep sorrow. Ahmad was killed on June 17, 2013. His brother said he was killed in an air strike launched by the Syrian regime on Palestine Hospital, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Dr Ahmed Nawaf al-Hassan, a surgeon at the

First Aid Training Courses Held in Yarmouk Camp

On June 15, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Damascus, held a training session on first aid basics at its office in Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The four-day event includes courses on cardiopulmonary resuscitation, suffocation, burns, fractures, wounds, diabetic coma, strokes, heart attacks and food poisoning

Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees in Syria Gripped with Water Crisis

Palestinian refugees sheltered in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, continue to launch distress calls over the water blackout, which has been ongoing for years. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to buy water supplies for privately-owned tanks at exorbitant prices. Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central Damascus

Artist Safa Sultan Calls for Raising Funds for Reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian singer Safaa Sultan has launched calls for raising funds in order to reconstruct the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Safaa said positive responses have been made by the Ministry of Culture and the Palestine Embassy in Damascus to help bring life back to normal in the camp. Entering its eleventh year, the Syrian warfare has

Palestinian Red Crescent Pays Visit to Elderly People in Yarmouk Camp

Representatives of the Palestinian Red Crescent paid a visit to elderly people sheltered in the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The Red Crescent team provided free medical check-ups and medicines to people with chronic diseases, including diabetes and hypertension. The visit saw the day following joint efforts by the Palestinian Red Crescent, the Danish Red Cross

Increasing Number of Families Return to Yarmouk Camp

An increasing number of families have returned to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. A number of returnees told AGPS that they have been able to reconstruct one room or, in the best of cases, two rooms, of their destroyed houses. The families said they have been overburdened by exorbitant house rents in nearby zones. In Qudsaya town

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Volunteer for Ruble-Clearance

CSOs and civilians in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have started clearing debris from Beer AlSaba’ neighborhood. Seven families raised funds for the initiative. Activists lashed out at Damascus Governorate over its reluctance regarding the situation in Yarmouk Camp, saying the Governorate has done little to improve vital services, reconstruct destroyed facilities, and clear rubble from access

Yarmouk Camp Families Slam Apathy of Damascus Governorate

Activists and residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to slam Damascus authorities over their apathy regarding their appeals to reconstruct destroyed premises and facilitate civilians’ return to the camp. The refugees said none of the pledges made by Damascus Governorate regarding the rehabilitation of Yarmouk Camp have been materialized on the ground. Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities

UNRWA to Rehabilitate 3 Premises in Yarmouk Camp

UNRWA has carried out reconstruction works in an attempt to rehabilitate its school, a community centre, and an aid distribution centre in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Local sources said UNRWA has supplied equipment for AlMansoura School, in AlQuds neighborhood. The school used to operate 21 classrooms. A youth centre on AlMadaris Street and an aid distribution

Palestinian Family Reveals Shocking Details about Tadamun Massacre by Syrian Regime

DW news site conducted an interview with the family of Waseem Siyam, the victim of the Tadamun massacre perpetrated by pro-regime militias in 2013.  In late April 2022, a Syrian defector leaked the video of the Tadamun massacre. Hundreds of Syrian families watched the clip, hoping to learn what had happened to their missing sons. Waseem left his home

UNRWA Rehabilitates 3 Premises in Yarmouk Refugee Camp

UNRWA has carried out reconstruction works in an attempt to rehabilitate its school, a community centre, and an aid distribution centre in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Local sources said UNRWA has supplied equipment for AlMansoura School, in AlQuds neighborhood. The school used to operate 21 classrooms. A youth centre on AlMadaris Street and an aid distribution

UNRWA Chief Reopens Premises in Deraa Camp for Palestinian Refugees

This week, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, inaugurated an UNRWA school and health centre and visited repaired shelters in Dera’a refugee camp, in southern Syria. The camp, once home to 10,000 Palestine refugees, was severely damaged during the conflict. Since their displacement, over 3

3 Palestinians from Syria Detained by Turkish Police

Three Palestinians from Syria: Ahmad AlMakhous, Hasan Methkal, and Mohamed Abdullah Issa, residents of Yarmouk Camp in Syria, were detained by Turkish police. Police said the refugees do not hold temporary protection cards known as “kimlik”. Unofficial statistics indicate that 10,000 Palestinians from Syria have sought shelter in Turkey, where they have been facing dire socio-economic conditions and denied

Palestinian-Iraqi Refugee Dies Under Torture in Syria

Iraqi-Palestinian refugee Amer Lutfi Mohamed AlQudsiya died under torture in Syrian regime prisons. His family was updated about his death following the latest amnesty issued by the country’s president Bashar AlAssad giving a general pardon to people convicted on terrorism charges before 30 April 2022. The amnesty excludes acts that have led to killings or kidnappings, and those against whom

Aid Items Distributed to Palestinian Orphans in Damascus

The Charitable Association for Palestinian Relief distributed meat portions to a number of families sheltered in Yarmouk Camp and Qudsaya town, south of Damascus. The Association also distributed cash grants to 34 orphans in Palestinian displacement camps in Syria. The eleven-year Syrian war has had a tragic impact on Palestinian refugees sheltered in the country. Unemployment, debts, high levels of

Displaced Palestinian Families Appeal for Urgent Return to Yarmouk Camp

Four years after the Syrian regime regained control over Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, displaced Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes and to press ahead with reconstruction projects. Over recent years, activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, to stand on

Dozens of Dead Bodies Trapped Under Rubble in Yarmouk Camp

Scores of dead bodies in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, south of Damascus, remain trapped under the mounds of debris piled up in the camp. The victims were mostly killed in strikes launched by the Syrian regime and their Russian partners on April 19, 2018. According to local activists, the bodies of Haifa AlHaj and her husband Mohamed Hadaba

Damascus Governor Meets Palestinian Diaspora Communities

Damascus Governor Eng. Adel Aleibi met with a delegation of the General Secretariat of the Union of Palestinian Communities, Institutions and Events in the Diaspora (Europe), on Tuesday, May 17th. The governor discussed the situation in Yarmouk camp and efforts made by the governorate to bring life back to normal in the camp. He added that hundreds of families returned

UN: 1,200 Families in Palestinian Refugee Camp of Yarmouk Struggling for Survival

Director of UNRWA Affairs in Syria Amanya Michael-Ebye stated: “Some 1200 families have returned to Yarmouk; they live amidst rubble and possibly around unexploded devices, in very dire conditions.” “Eleven years of conflict, displacement, soaring inflation, loss of livelihoods and now two years of COVID-19 all make their life untenable. UNRWA assistance to Palestine refugees in Syria and in

Palestinian Woman Hoda AlRoba Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 9th Year

Palestinian refugee Hoda Shahada AlRoba has been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons for the 9th consecutive year. Hoda was arrested as she attempted to enter bread to starved families in the then-blockaded Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees in 2013. She disappeared at a checkpoint pitched near the main entrance to the camp. AGPS data indicates that over 1,800

Activists Warn Yarmouk Residents against Attempts to Turn Their Property into Bargaining Chips

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, to stand on guard to all attempts to force them to forfeit their houses and property at low prices. With the return of a number of families to Yarmouk, prices of houses and property have skyrocketed in the Camp. The activists have warned against attempts by crooked real estate

Palestinian Refugee Earns Coach Diploma in The Netherlands

Palestinian refugee Mohammed Marwan Maw’ed obtained a coach diploma from ABC Swim School in the Netherlands. Mohamed, born in 1984 in Yarmouk camp, is a graduate of the Sports Institute in Damascus. He attended many training and educational courses in body building and swimming. He also obtained many certificates in diving and marine emergencies in Algeria in 2014. Mohamed dedicated

On Int’l Day of Families … Thousands of Palestinian Refugee Families in/from Syria Torn from Home

Tens of thousands of Palestinians in/from Syria have been dispersed by the conflict and remain away from their homes and families. Torn from the nourishment of home and warmth of family, Palestinians have been scattered across Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Libya, Sudan, Thailand, Malaysia, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Britain, the Netherlands, Finland, Switzerland, France, Brazil, Chile, and Canada, among other destinations

Law 03/2018 Greenlights Rubble-Clearance in Yarmouk Camp

Damascus Governorate has announced its intention to remove debris from March 8th Street, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, in accordance with Law 03 of 2018. The move comes following complaints filed by civilians about the severe damage inflicted on their houses and property due to uncleared rubble. Law no 03/3018 gives the governor the authority to

AlTadhamun Massacre…A Reminder of the War Crimes Committed against Palestinian Refugees in Syria

Palestinian refugee families continue to live in perpetual fear over the condition and whereabouts of their forcibly-disappeared relatives after the Guardian published an investigation with footage showing a massacre taking place in Tadamon, near Syria’s capital Damascus, in April 2013, and claiming the lives of 41 people, including Palestinian refugees. Three Palestinian refugees--Wasim Omar Seyam, Sa’id Ahmad Khatab, Abd Luay

Palestinian Refugee Families Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime

Members of same families have been secretly held behind Syrian prison bars for years. The list includes four members of the Palestinian Daoud family: Nour Ahmad Daoud, born in 1987, a resident of AlHajar AlAswad area, and the father of a young girl. He was kidnapped in 2013; Daoud Ahmad Daoud, born in 1986, a resident of AlHajar AlAswad, and

Food Parcels Distributed in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

AlMarhama Charity Convoy distributed on Thursday, May 12, food parcels to vulnerable families in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Head of the Convoy Khaled AlYousef sounded the alarm over the dire humanitarian condition endured by Palestinian and Syrian families in the ravaged Yarmouk Camp. After more than a decade of bloody conflict, families who have returned to

UNRWA: Palestine Refugees in Syria Live in Extremely Dire Conditions

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reiterated its call to support Palestine refugees in Syria and in neighboring countries at the VI Brussels conference on “Supporting the Future of Syria and of the Region.” UNRWA said in a press release that there are nearly 440,000 Palestine refugees who still

15 Palestinian Refugees Released from Regime Prisons in Syria, Hundreds Remain in Secret Detention

15 Palestinians have been released from Syrian regime prisons over the past week, following a presidential amnesty issued the country’s president Bashar AlAsad.  The release decision has been issued at random, leaving hundreds of families on tenterhooks as they continue to impatiently seek information about the condition and whereabouts of their relatives. AGPS has been able to identify the

Palestinian Refugee Family in Iraq Appeal for Information over Their Forcibly-Disappeared Relative in Syria

The family of Palestinian refugee Amer Lutfi AlQudsiya continues to appeal for information about the condition and whereabouts of their forcibly-disappeared relative. Amer has been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons since 2012. The Association of Palestinians of Iraq said Amer, an Iraqi-Palestinian, was a resident of Loubiya Street, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. He was

Palestinian Refugee Released from Syria Prison with Memory Loss

Palestinian refugees Mohamed Khalil Kasem, born in 1972 and raised in Yarmouk Camp, along with Noufen Mohamed AlMukanen, a resident of Latakia city, were released from a regime prison in Syria. Noufen reportedly lost memory as a result of brutal torture in prison. On Saturday, Syrian President Bashar AlAssad issued a decree giving a general amnesty to people convicted on

AGPS Provides Free Access to Palestinian Prisoners Names in Syria

AGPS has launched on online portal providing free access to data and statistics about Palestinian prisoners forcibly disappeared by the Syrian regime. This comes following hundreds of emails and appeals by prisoners’ families seeking to identify their relatives’ conditions and whereabouts after they have been unaccounted for for years. AGPS calls on Palestinian refugee families in Syria to register the

For 3rd Year, Yarmouk Camp Residents Denied Access to Local Cemetery

Residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to denounce the movement crackdowns and cordon imposed by Syrian regime forces around the old Shuhadaa Cemetery. Civilians have reportedly been denied access to the local cemetery to pray for their deceased relatives.  Over recent years, activists have slammed the Russian and Syrian government forces for ransacking the old cemetery of Yarmouk Camp, in

Palestinian Journalist Muhannad Omar Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Gov’t for 10th Year

Palestinian journalist Muhannad Mohamed Omar has been enduring a mysterious fate in Syrian government lock-ups for the tenth year running. Omar was kidnapped by the government troops from the office of AlAlem Channel on February 29, 2012 on account of his affiliations with opposition outfits. The journalist was born in Yarmouk in 1985. He is the father of two kids

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Long For Eid Joy

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have expressed hope that life would be back to normal in the ravaged camp. Recently, families and children have been spotted at the Abu Hashish Square, where swings have been installed. As the holy Eid AlFitr (Fast-breaking festival) has been celebrated by Muslims across the globe, Palestinian refugees in Syria

Following New Video of Torture Victims, Palestinian Families Express Concern over Fate of Forcibly-Disappeared Relatives in Syria

Palestinian prisoners in Syria and their families have been deprived of the joy of Eid in the war-torn country, where thousands of civilians have been killed and thousands more have fallen prey to enforced disappearance. Over 1,790 Palestinian refugees, including minors and women, have been held behind Syria’s prison bars. “We have not celebrated Eid for years. We miss

3 Palestinian Victims of Syria Massacre Identified in New Video

The Guardian published an investigation on Thursday with footage showing a massacre taking place in Tadamon, near Syria’s capital Damascus, in April 2013, and claiming the lives of 41 people, including three Palestinian refugees. The three refugees are Wasim Omar Seyam, Sa’id Ahmad Khatab, Abd Luay AlKubra, residents of Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. Informed sources told AGPS that Wasim

101 Palestinian Refugees Extra-Judicially Executed in War-Torn Syria

101 Palestinian refugees have been subjected to extra-judicial execution since the outburst of Syria’s warfare until April 30, 2022 according to AGPS data. The list includes 17 members of the Palestine Liberation Army who were killed just one month after they were kidnapped in mid-2012 on their way back home to AlNeirab Camp in Aleppo from a military site in

Displaced Families Continue to Return to Yarmouk Camp for Palestine Refugees

Another batch of families displaced from Yarmouk Camp have returned to the area to retrieve their houses and property, wishing that life would be back to normal in the ravaged camp. Trucks laden with furniture have been spotted near the main entrances to the camp. A number of commercial stores and facilities have also gone operative. So far, 6,500

UNRWA Commissioner-General Calls For Support To Palestine Refugees In Syria

The Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Philippe Lazzarini called on the international and donor community to support Palestine refugees in Syria.  After a visit to Damascus on 19-21 April, and ahead of the international conference on “Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region” to be held

Cultural Centre, Clinic Opened Up in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The Palestine Liberation Army (PLA), affiliated with the Syrian regime, inaugurated the Helwa Zeidan Cultural Centre and Raja Abu Amasha Clinic in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees following reconstruction works that lasted for several months.  The two facilities were massively destroyed in the conflict.   

Two Palestinian Brothers Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 10th Year

Palestinian brothers Waseem and Anas Mahmoud Muhahi have been held in Syrian government dungeons for the tenth consecutive year. Both were kidnapped in October 2012 from Street 30, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees south of Damascus. Wasseem, born in 1977 and the father of seven kids, had led Muslim prayers at a local Mosque. Mahmoud, born in 1986 and

Palestinians Refugees Struggling for Social Integration in Europe

Hundreds of Palestinian refugees who fled war-Torn Syria to Europe have been struggling with language acquisition and socio-cultural discrepancies, particularly in northern European countries. Mohamed, a refugee who fled Syria to Germany in 2013, told AGPS that he finds it difficult to familiarize himself with the new customs and different ways of thinking. To this day, he longs to return

Dutch Media Applauds Self-Discipline of Palestinian Refugee Teacher

News outlets in The Netherlands have acclaimed the strong determination and perseverance maintained by Palestinian refugee Nabil AlAyedi, who pursued his academic career as a technical assistant teacher in Amsterdam. Nabil taught physics at Yarmouk Camp schools until 2012. He graduated from Damascus University and worked at UNRWA schools, which have been reduced to rubble in the conflict.  Nabil

Palestinian Brothers Ammar and Jihad Mteiji Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 9th Year

Palestinian refugees Ammar and Jihad Mteiji have been secretly held in Syrian regime prisons for nine years running. Their family continues to appeal for information about their condition and whereabouts. Ammar, born in 1992, was arrested in 2013 by Syrian intelligence forces in Bab Tuma, in Damascus. Jihad, born in 1993, was detained four months later on his way out

UNRWA Chief Calls for Support to Palestine Refugees in Syria

Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, called for increasing support for vulnerable Palestinian refugees in Syria. “During my many meetings with refugees and staff in the five fields of UNRWA operations over the last months, I have witnessed increased disarray and frustration, which sometimes has turned into

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Call for Evenhanded Reconstruction Works

Palestinian families displaced from Yarmouk Camp said reconstruction works have been launched across a number of residential neighborhoods.  However, other neighborhoods, including Uruba, AlTakadum, and March 8, which cover up 1/3 of the camp area, have not yet been included by such drives. Recently, the rubble-clearance committee run by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) suspended debris-removal works in those

Palestinian Child Killed by Explosive Ordnance

Palestinian refugee child Khaled Fadi Hasan succumbed on Thursday evening to wounds he sustained last week in a fuel tank blast in Kafr Sabt School, in Jaramana Camp, in Rif Dimashq province. Residents of Jaramana Camp marched in the child’s funeral procession after his family bid him last farewell. Sometime earlier, Palestinian refugee Ramzi Alyan Ali died as he carried

As UNRWA Chief Visits Syria Displacement Camp, Palestinian Refugees Express Deep Anger

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini paid a visit on Tuesday, April 19, to Khan Dannun Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Syria’s Rif Dimashq province. Lazzarini was accompanied by representatives of the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR) and UNRWA department heads in Syria. Palestinian refugees voiced their deep disappointment as the Commissioner-General did not hold a meeting with the residents

Displaced Families Denounce Movement Crackdown on Yarmouk Camp

The Syrian security forces have tightened grip on the main entrances to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees, in Rif Dimashq, blocking civilians’ free access out of an into the area. A new batch of checkpoint established a couple of weeks ago have also hindered the entry of reconstruction workers and companies. Over recent months, Syrian authorities have granted over 4

Palestinian Refugees Survives Beirut Gunshot

Palestinian refugee Ibrahim AlMadani sustained moderate wounds after he was hit by shrapnel in his head. Ibrahim was injured on Thursday, April 14, as he left a LibanPost office south of Beirut. Local sources said two young men opened fire at random at civilians passing through the area. Ibrahim fell into a coma and was rushed to a nearby hospital

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Call for Rehabilitation of Local Mosque

Civilians and activists in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have called on the Palestine Ambassador and the Palestine Liberation Organization along with other factions in Syria to work on rehabilitating the Abdul Kader AlHusaini Mosque for the upcoming Eid prayers On August 10, 2021, the Syrian Ministry of Endowment okayed the reopening of Abdul Kader AlHusaini Mosque

Child Psychological Support Initiative Held in Yarmouk Camp

The Palestinian Red Crescent Organization held a psychological support initiative for children at AlZaytouna Centre, in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The warfare in Syria, which has now entered its eleventh year, has had traumatic fallouts on Palestinian refugee children in and outside the Syrian territories.  Post-traumatic stress disorders, mental psychosis, sleeplessness and nightmares, eating disorders

Palestinian Brought Before German Court over Syria War Crime Allegations

Political activists in Germany said the German Public Prosecutor referred the Palestinian refugee Moufeq Dawah to the judiciary pending a series of court hearings on charges of committing war crimes in Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees in Damascus. Palestinian refugee Mofeq AlDaouah, a military commander at the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine General Command (PFLP-GC), affiliated with the

UNRWA’S Syria Chief Visits Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Director of UNRWA operations in Syria, Amanya Michael Ibye, paid a visit to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. The UN official inspected the UNRWA-run clinic that has been recently rehabilitated and a catering centre previously operated by the agency. Amanya said UNRWA will consider reconstructing a government school and a clinic as soon as funds are made available to that

Palestinian Refugees Win Silver Medal at Damascus Sports Contest

Palestinian player Khaled Abdel Sattar Atiyeh won the silver medal at the Muay Thai championship in Syria.  Experts in martial arts from Thailand were in attendance. Khaled, born in 2000 in Hama, is currently undergoing medical treatment after he was injured in the competition, in preparation for his upcoming participation in the West Asian Championship, representing Palestine. At the

Palestinian Refugee Pronounced Dead, 2 Children Injured in Explosion in Jaramana Camp

An explosion that rocked the UNRWA-run Kafr Sabt school, in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, has claimed the life of a Palestinian refugee and left two others wounded. An AGPS correspondent, said a fuel tank went off during maintenance works. Worker Ramzi Alyan Ali was pronounced dead while two students sustained wounds.  Military patrols showed up

Activists: Reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp Hinges on Family Returns

Activists continue to call on residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, to return to the camp and retrieve their property as the only way to pressurize authorities to reconstruct destroyed infrastructure and vital facilities.  Lawyer Nour AlDeen Salman warned of ongoing attempts to empty the camp of its residents, saying increasing the pace of family

Yarmouk Camp Returnees Denied Access to Vital Services

After more than a decade of bloody conflict, families who have returned to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have been grappling with a dire humanitarian situation.  The absence of vital facilities, most notably healthcare services and access to education, along with the poor infrastructure and absence of means of transportation have made the situation unbearable in

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Continue to Rail Against Property-Theft

Reports of burglary continue to emerge in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, where hundreds of Palestinian refugees had been taking shelter. Trucks laden with furniture stolen from abandoned buildings continue to freely enter and exit the camp. Palestinian families displaced from the area continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes and

AGPS Report Documents Progress of Reconstruction Works in Yarmouk Camp

On April 06, AGPS issued a report documenting the latest developments regarding the return of families to Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, and the progress of reconstruction works. The 43-page report includes return permits granted by Syrian authorities to displaced families along with the challenges faced by those wishing to return to the camp and retrieve their property. The report

Food Aid Distributed in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

The Palestine Commission for Relief and Development distributed food parcels to Palestinian families sheltered in Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, north of Syria. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been struggling for survival in the poorly-equipped Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, among other camps, after they were forced out of Yarmouk and southern Damascus towns. For many displaced Palestinian refugees, the

Families Displaced from Yarmouk Camp Push for House Reconstruction

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have appealed to Palestinian expatriates to help them raise funds in order to reconstruct their destroyed houses and bring life back to normal in the camp. The residents said reconstruction of damaged buildings and rehabilitation of vital facilities is a priority. The unabated warfare has had disastrous fallouts on Palestinian

Palestinian Refugee Wins Syria Karate Championship

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Majd Shaaban Abdullah won the karate contest and was selected to join the Syrian national team. Mohamed Majdi, born on April 05, 2005 in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, won the gold medal in individual and collective fighting (18kgs). Hundreds of displaced Palestinian refugees in/from Syria have achieved success stories, despite the traumatic upshots

Palestinian Refugees Grappling With Tough Ramadan Conditions in Lebanon

This year's Holy Ramadan month has been tougher for Palestinian refugees from Syria (PRS) in Lebanon as the economic breakdown means that many PRS have not been able to reunite with or provide for their families. Several displacement camps for Palestinian refugees in Lebanon are missing the decorations that used to fill the streets for this occasion.  Lebanon

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Slam Services Department, Push for Rehabilitation of Old Committee

Civilians and activists have called on local authorities in Damascus to reactivate the local committee which was previously tasked with administering civilians’ affairs in Yarmouk Camp. They said the services department assigned by Damascus Governorate has failed to take note of civilians’ needs and rehabilitate vital facilities. Yarmouk’s local committee was dissolved by the former Prime Minister Emad Khamis in

Palestinian Families in Syria’s Ataa Camp Launch Distress Signals

Some 73 displaced Palestinian families taking shelter in Ataa camp, in Idlib’s northern outskirts, north of Syria, have been enduring a dire humanitarian situation.  The vast majority of refugees have been crammed in poorly-equipped houses of no more than 30 square meters and denied access to vital services. The camp is home to 400 Palestinian and Syrian families, 30

Palestinian Refugee Families Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for Years

Members of same families have been secretly held behind Syrian prison bars for years. The list includes four members of the Palestinian Daoud family: Nour Ahmad Daoud, born in 1987, a resident of AlHajar AlAswad area, and the father of a young girl. He was kidnapped in 2013; Daoud Ahmad Daoud, born in 1986, a resident of AlHajar AlAswad, and

Palestinian Refugees in Syria Severely Affected by Decade-Long Conflict

Social Workers Suhad Aboud, from the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), said the eleven-year Syrian war has had a tragic impact on Palestinian refugees sheltered in the country. Unemployment, debts, high levels of poverty, overcrowded dwellings, food insecurity, loss of livelihoods, and economic hardship have had a heavy toll on the Palestinian

Palestinian Family Secretly Held in Syrian Prisons for 9th Year

AGPS continues to sound alarm bells over the mysterious fate of several elderly Palestinian refugees who have been secretly held captive in Syrian dungeons. The list of missing refugees includes Mouloud Khaled AlAbdullah’s four-member family, kidnapped on July 27, 2013 at a government-run checkpoint in Nisreen Street, in AlTadhamun neighborhood, adjacent to Yarmouk Camp. The family’s 73-year-old father, Mouloud Khaled

Vulnerable Families in Jaramana Camp in Need of Urgent Humanitarian Assistance

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, have launched appeals for cash and in-kind aid with the advent of the holy Ramadan Month. Civilians and activists have appealed to expatriates working abroad to raise funds for vulnerable families in the camps. Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central Damascus, continue to set off

Women’s Empowerment Project Launched in AlNeirab Camp

The Palestinian Red Crescent Organization in AlNeirab Camp for Palestinian refugees, north of Syria, said a number of women have managed to earn a living thanks to processing wool tutorials held by the organization.  Recently, a women’s empowerment project has been launched by the Red Cross in partnership with the UN Development Fund in order to help women integrate

Residents of Jaramana Camp Denounce Increasing Fraud

Palestinian refugee families in Jaramana camp, in Rif Dimashq, have raised concerns over the increasing fraud attempts in the area. Recently, a self-alleged donor claimed that he intends to help vulnerable families by replacing their empty gas cylinders with new ones. However, the man disappears once he gets the gas cylinder. Reports of abductions, home-burglary, and sexual harassment also continue

Palestinians of Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Urgent Action

Families displaced from Yarmouk and those who have remained in the camp have slammed Palestinian factions, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and UNRWA for dragging their feet regarding their appeals for urgent humanitarian assistance and reconstruction projects. Refugees said instead of paying huge sums of money on celebrations and commemorations, Palestinian factions should rather work on rehabilitating vital services and bringing

Palestinian Refugee Wins 2nd Place in Bodybuilding Championship

Palestinian refugee from Syria Shadi AlFar won the second place in the open bodybuilding championship held on March 26 in Jordan.  95 participants took part in the contest, held at Rashed AlZayoud sports hall, in AlHusain city. Shadi fled Syria’s Yarmouk refugee camp in 2012 to AlZahira, in Damascus, before he headed for Jordan, where he had stayed for

Activist Udai Teym Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 9th year

Palestinian activist Udai Aref Teym has been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons for the ninth consecutive year. Udai was kidnapped by Syrian security forces on August 29, 2013 from his house in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq. He was born on May 12, 1993 in Yarmouk refugee camp, south of Damascus. His family hails from the

Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria Displacement Camps Send Open Letter to Political Leadership

Palestinian refugees sheltered in northern Syria displacement camps have sent an open letter to the Palestine Liberation organization, the Palestinian embassy, political factions, and UNRWA to take up their responsibilities vis-à-vis the tragic situation they have been enduring in substandard camps established in the area. In the letter, the displaced families said the humanitarian situation has been exacerbated by

Property-Theft Reported in AlHajar AlAswad

Syrian pro-regime patrols deployed in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees broke into the nearby neighborhood of AlHajar AlAswad and stole property from civilian homes. Local sources said members of the National Defence Forces were caught near AlYazor school, in AlHajar AlAswad, where they ravaged abandoned buildings and took away power cables, wood bars, windows, doors and other furniture. Thousands of

Palestinian Refugees in/from Syria Suffer War-Related Trauma

The eleven-year warfare rocking the Syrian territories has forced Palestinian refugees, most notably children and the elderly, to endure terrible experiences and witness nightmarish scenes that far exceed one’s capacity to get to grips with them. With scenes of destruction, bloodshed, displacement, and death occurring around the clock, Palestinian refugees have gone traumatized and are now in need of psychological

AGPS Raises Alarm over Condition of Forcibly-Disappeared Palestinian Refugee Women in Syria

The Action Group for Palestinians of Syria (AGPS) and the Palestinian Return Centre (PRC) in London sounded the alarm over the ambivalent condition of dozens of Palestinian refugee women secretly held behind Syrian prison bars. This came in an oral statement delivered by PRC’s speaker Farrah Koutteineh as part of Agenda Item 3 of the interactive dialogue with UN Special

Civilians’ Life Jeopardized by Building Collapse Risk in Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have warned that their children’s lives are at risk as walls of the Fayez Halawa Hospital risk imminent collapse. The residents called on concerned authorities to immediately remove ravaged walls or install road signs warning civilians of a nearby building collapse risk. In 2019, the United Nations Institute for Training

Palestinian Refugee Ahmad Khamis Held in Syrian Gov’t Jails

Palestinian ex-prisoner Ahmad Khamis, who was released from Israeli jails as part of an Israel-Russian swap deal and re-arrested by Syrian security forces, has been enduring an unknown fate in Syrian prisons for the third consecutive year.  Khamis was arrested in June 2019 and has been subjected to exhaustive interrogation by Syrian intelligence officers at Palestine Branch 235. 

4 Palestinian Refugees Arrested South of Damascus

22 young men, including four Palestinian refugees, were arrested by Syrian security forces in southern Damascus.  The Palestinian arrestees were residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, before they were displaced to the nearby Beit Sahem town. On Tuesday, March 8, Syrian forces patrolled Babilla and Sidi Mikdad. The sweep culminated in the detention of 22

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Push for Reconstruction of Power Network

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, signed a petition urging the Ministry of Electricity to rehabilitate the power network in the camp. Lawyer Nour AlDeen Salman said some 500 families who returned to the camp and wish that life be brought to normal are entitled to sign the petition. The lawyer said Damascus Governorate has received

Palestinian Refugee Succumbs to Wounds Inflicted by War Remnants

A mine blast in the northern Syrian province of Aleppo claimed the life of Palestinian refugee boy Wahid Mohamed. The explosion occurred at an abandoned school in Jub AlKubba in Aleppo. The boy was transferred to AlRazi Hospital, where he underwent a hand amputation and other surgeries.  The victim, aged 15, lives with his family in Aleppo after they

Palestinian Refugee Women Struggle with Multiple Hardships in Syria

Palestinian refugee women in Syria are among the most vulnerable groups in the war-ravaged country. Protracted displacement and an unabated COVID-19 outbreak, along with the absence of vital services and psychological support initiatives have added to the torment already experienced by Palestinian women for over a decade. According to UNRWA records, female Palestine refugees account for 60 per cent of

Palestinian Refugee Child Wins 3rd Place at Syria Karate Championship

Palestinian refugee child Sima Mohamed Gharib, born and raised in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, won the third place in the Syrian Club Karate Championship held in Damascus. Last month, Palestinian refugee Mahmoud Mufeed Diab, born and raised in AlSabina Camp for Palestinian refugees, won the gold medal at the Karate contest held in AlJalaa Club, in Damascus. Dozens of

487 Palestinian Women Killed, Dozens Forcibly Disappeared in War-Torn Syria

AGPS has documented the death of 487 Palestinian women and girls all the way through Syria’s ten-year conflict, according to death toll data for the period from March 2011 until March 8, 2022. AGPS figures indicate that 243 female refugees died under shelling; 68 died as a result of the blockade and medical neglect in Yarmouk Camp; and 28 others

Palestinian-Qatari Leadership Push for Reactivating Yarmouk Camp Committee

Sources close to the Palestinian AlSa’eka Organization, affiliated with the Syrian regime, said that the Qatari Secretary of the Palestinian-Qatari leadership, Mohamed Kays, urged the Syrian Ministry of Local Administration to reactivate the local committee for Yarmouk camp, which was dissolved by a decision of the Syrian Council of Ministers. Yarmouk’s local committee, which was previously tasked with administering civilians’

Vaccination Campaign Launched in Jaramana Camp

A campaign to vaccinate children aged below five years-old against poliomyelitis has seen the day in Jaramana camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq. In live photos, medics and paramedics appear touring residential alleyways in order to immunize children. Recently, the Syrian Health Ministry announced the launch of a 10-day national campaign to vaccinate children against poliomyelitis across government-held provinces

Missing Palestinian Refugee Spotted in Austria Migrant Camp

The family of Palestinian refugee Jihad Odeh, missing since January 01, 2022, said they finally managed to contact him after they learned that he is taking shelter in a migrant facility in Austria. Jihad Odeh, born in 1982 and raised in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, disappeared as he tried to reach Hungary from Serbia.  According to AGPS data

Relief Items Distributed in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Khayra Ummah organization has distributed garments and blankets in displacement camps in northern Syria as part of the third phase of its humanitarian campaign. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been struggling for survival in the poorly-equipped Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, after they were forced out of Yarmouk and southern Damascus towns. For many displaced Palestinian refugees, the perils of

Family Appeals for Information over Condition of Missing Palestinian Refugee

A Palestinian family continues to appeal for information over the condition and whereabouts of Jihad Odeh, born in 1982 and raised in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. Jihad disappeared on January 28, 2019 as he tried to reach Hungary from Serbia.  According to AGPS data, 333 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since

Family Appeals for Information over Forcibly-Disappeared Palestinian Refugee in Syria

The family of Palestinian refugee Mohamed Mazen Anbatawi continues to appeal for information about the condition and whereabouts of their relative, who has been secretly held in Syrian regime prisons for seven years running. Mohamed, born in 1983 and raised in Yarmouk Camp, was a 2nd year university student. He had not been involved in any political or military activity

Gas Distribution Centre Established in Yarmouk Camp

A gas distribution site has been established at the main entrance to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus.  A few months earlier, as weather temperature have gone down, Palestinian refugee families in Syria displacement camps expressed fear that they won’t be able to cook their food or keep the cold out of their homes due to fuel

Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees in Syria Gripped with Water Crisis

Palestinian refugees sheltered in Jaramana Camp, in Syria’s Rif Dimashq province, continue to launch distress calls over the water blackout, which has been ongoing for weeks. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to buy water supplies for privately-owned tanks at a price of up to 10,000 Syrian pounds a tank. Residents of Jaramana Camp

Efforts Underway to Bring Life Back to Normal in Yarmouk Camp

The Syrian regime has reportedly given greenlight for signing rental contracts for residential and commercial structures in Yarmouk Camp as part of efforts to rehabilitate the camp and bring life back to normal. At the same time, the Syrian Education Ministry Darem Tabaa’ has given instructions for the reconstruction of a government-run school in Yarmouk Camp. This came in a

Elderly Palestinian Refugees Suffering Multiple hardships in War-Torn Syria

Elderly Palestinian refugees in Syria are among the most vulnerable groups in the war-ravaged country. Protracted displacement and an unabated COVID-19 outbreak, along with the absence of vital services and psychological support initiatives have added to the torment already experienced by elderly Palestinian men and women for over a decade. Many elderly refugees have been their families’ sole breadwinners despite

4 Palestinian Students Win Programming Marathon

Four Palestinian refugee students won the Kids and Adolescents Programming Marathon' organized by the Syrian Virtual University in cooperation with the Agency for Excellence and Creativity in Damascus.  Some 213 children from across Syria participated in this annual event. The UNRWA Informatics Club members, however, swept away the competition, with 14-year old Majd Abdul Aziz winning the gold medal

Rubble-Clearance Works Suspended in Yarmouk Camp

The committee in charge of rubble clearance in Yarmouk Camp has suspendzs works to remove debris piled up across residential alleyways in the camp, sparking anger among the residents. Engineer Mohamed Mustafa Salman said the committee has suspended rubble clearance under the pretext of funding shortage. He added that the residents have already taken charge of removing debris from their

Fuel Supplies Distributed to Displaced Palestinian Families in Northern Syria

The Palestine Commission for Relief and Development distributed fuel supplies to displaced Palestinian families in Deir Ballout and AlMuhamamdiya camps, north of Syria. Every registered family received 20 liters of fuel. Sometime earlier, the Palestinian Youth Movement distributed charcoal in the area. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been struggling for survival in the poorly-equipped Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, after

AGPS: Over 4,000 Palestinian Refugees Pronounced Dead in War-Torn Syria

AGPS has documented the death of 4,116 Palestinian refugees in Syria, including 493 women and girls, since 2011 as a result of war-related incidents. Yarmouk Camp topped the list with 1,490 casualties, followed by Daraa Camp with 272 victims, 204 in Khan Eshieh Camp in Damascus countryside, 184 in Aleppo ’s AlNeirab Camp, and 127 in AlHusainiya Camp

International NGO Shows Up in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

A delegation of Premiere Urgence Internationale paid a visit to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus, to inspect the condition of the government-run school in an attempt to contribute to its reconstruction. Première Urgence Internationale has been present in Syria since May 2008. Since 2012, it has been one of the few international NGOs authorized to operate in

8 Years On…Massacre Perpetrated by Syrian Regime on AlMuzeireeb’s Palestinian Refugee Community Unforgettable

This week marks the eighth anniversary of a massacre perpetrated by the Syrian regime army on AlMuzeireeb Palestinian refugee community in Daraa, south of Syria. On February 18, 2014, the Syrian government forces targeted Ein Al-Zaytoun school and a local clinic run by UNRWA in AlMuzeireeb with barrel bombs, taking away the lives of over 18 civilians, including schoolchildren and

Family of Forcibly-Disappeared Palestinian Refugee Appeal for Information

The brother of Palestinian refugee student Salma Abdul Razak has appealed to the Syrian regime to reveal his sister’s condition and whereabouts. Last year, Salma’s sister, Kholoud, who fled to France, told AGPS that the family paid large sums of money to government officers and brokers to identify Salma’s condition, but to no avail. Salma, who was enrolled at the

Directorate of Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria

The newly-formed Directorate of Palestinian Affairs in opposition-held zones in northern Syria said its missions will basically cover areas where Palestinian refugee communities are taking shelter, including Efrin, I’zaz, and AlBab, in Aleppo’s outskirts. Families sheltered in Idlib will be included on the list in the near future.  The directorate’s chief Mohamed Bader said this temporary government-run body comes

Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees in Syria Gripped with Sanitation Crisis

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees in Rif Dimashq continue to rail against poor sewerage network and improper waste disposal. The residents attributed the crisis to clogged drain pipes.  The displaced families warned of the life-threatening diseases wrought by the unpleasant smells stemming from contaminated sewage poured near their refugee camp. Frequent power outage has added bad to

2,000 Families Return to Yarmouk Camp

2,000 families have returned to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, over recent months, according to Damascus Governorate. The Governorate said 4,000 entry permits were issued to families wishing to return to the camp and retrieve their property. The data was released during a meeting between Damascus Governor Adel AlAleibi and Secretary-General of the Popular Front

Palestinian Refugees in Syria’s Jaramana Camp Terrorized by Sexual Harassment

Palestinian refugee families sheltered in Jaramana camp, in Syria’s Rif Dimashq province, have raised concerns over the increasing abductions and sexual harassment reported in the area, particularly overnight due to chronic power blackouts.  Over recent years, residents of Jaramana Camp have launched cries for help over the dire socio-economic conditions, high unemployment rates, poor infrastructure, steep rental fees, and

Residents of Jaramana Camp Slam Indifference by UNRWA, Political Factions

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, have slammed Palestinian factions, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and UNRWA for dragging their feet regarding their appeals for urgent humanitarian assistance and reconstruction projects. The refugees denounced the mistreatment they have been subjected to at cash aid distribution offices. Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central

Palestinian Aid Convoy Dispatched to Northern Syria

A humanitarian convoy of 80 trucks laden with relief items was dispatched by the Alkouloub Arrahima Association in occupied Palestine to northern Syria displacement camps through Turkey. The convoy is loaded with 1,280 tons of fuel, 300 tons of flour, 3,000 tent insulations, 2,000 blankets, 2,000 parcels of cleaning materials, winter clothes, and about 1,000

Charcoal Distributed in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

The Free Youth Movement, in partnership with Palestinians from Wadi Ara, in Palestinian territories occupied by Israel since 1948, distributed charcoal to displaced Palestinian and Syrian families sheltered in Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps in the northern Syrian region of Efrin district. The move makes part of “Kheirak Dafa 9” campaign seeking to assist displaced families during winter. Hundreds of

NRC Pays Visit to Yarmouk Camp Schools

Representatives of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) visited on February 02, 2022 schools run by the Syrian Ministry of Education in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The move falls in line with NRC’s intent to assess the damage wrought on educational facilities and help with the reconstruction of partially-damaged schools. In October 2021, the NRC toured 12

Residents of Jaramana Camp Call for Urgent Actions in Response to Deadly Accidents on Airport Highway

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees continue to appeal to the Syrian authorities to set up a bridge for pedestrians and speed bumps on the access road to Damascus international airport in order to curtail run-over accidents by vehicles driving at high speed. Several deadly accidents took place in the area. In late September 2021, young man Ahmed Saleh

Palestinian Refugee Missing from Syria Displacement Camp

Palestinian refugee Ayman Ahmad Ahmad disappeared on Thursday after he left his house in Khan Eshieh Camp, in Rif Dimashq, to receive UNRWA aid. Ayman works in the Equestrian Club in Sahnaya and is the father of four children. 333 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare, mostly

Activists Call On Displaced Families to Return to Yarmouk Camp

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp to submit more demands for entry permits to Yarmouk Camp in order to retrieve their property. A number of residents said they are unable to return to the camp and reconstruct their houses after they lost their livelihoods and got their belongings and furniture stolen from the abandoned camp. A resident

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Push for Urgent Reconstruction to Curtail Property-Theft

Residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to call upon the concerned authorities and wealthy expatriates to help them reconstruct their homes and commercial facilities in order to curb property-theft in the area. Recently, water pipes, wooden and marble door frames, ceramics, and covers for sewage pits made up of font and aluminum have been stolen. Over recent years, pro-government militias have

AGPS: 252 Palestinian Children Killed in War-Torn Syria

AGPS has recorded the death of 252 Palestinian refugee children in war-torn Syria from the start of the conflict, in 2011, until February 07, 2022. The list of victims includes 70 children who died due to the blockade imposed by the Syrian government forces and its armed allies on Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The data pointed

UNRWA Starts Clinic Rehabilitation in Yarmouk Camp

UNRWA has embarked on the reconstruction of its catering centre in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The centre will be used as a clinic replacing the automobile clinic used in the area. The move will further facilitate families’ return to the camp and the rehabilitation of vital facilities.   Available data by UNRWA indicates that 32 UNRWA

Over 4,000 Entry Permits Granted to Yarmouk Residents in 2 Months

Syrian authorities have reportedly granted 4,200 permits to families wishing to return to Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, and retrieve their property over the past couple of months. An average of 67 entry permits have been issued daily. At the same time, 1,800 permits have been issued for house reconstruction in the camp. Lawyer Nour AlDeen Salman continues

Winter Assistance Provided to Families in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Ighatha 48 Association distributed food parcels and winter aid items to displaced families sheltered in substandard facilities set up in northern Syria.  Palestinian refugees sheltered in displacement camps in northern Syria have been enduring a tragic situation. Most of them have been crammed in poorly-equipped tents and denied their rights to vital services. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been

Palestinian Refugee Families in Northern Syria Displacement Camps Struggling for Survival

Palestinian refugee families sheltered in displacement camps set up in northern Syria continue to launch distress signals over their abject humanitarian condition in the substandard facilities set up in the area. Displaced Palestinian families said they have not benefited from cash aid and relief items collected in favor of marginalized and vulnerable families in northern Syria. Palestinian refugees sheltered in

Activists Warn Yarmouk Residents against Attempts to Turn Their Property into Bargaining Chips

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, to stand on guard to all attempts to force them to forfeit their houses and property at low prices. With the return of a number of families to Yarmouk, prices of houses and property have skyrocketed in the Camp. Prices of homes in their current condition in the Waseem

'Military Evaders' Face Unlawful Seizure of Property in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian refugees said Syrian authorities have refused the authorizations they obtained from Syrian embassies abroad in order for their relatives to retrieve their property in Yarmouk Camp. The refugees said authorities have greenlighted seizing the property of “military evaders”. Syria’s Military Conscription Law allows for the immediate seizure of assets for men who did not serve in the military and

Rubble Mounds Block Displaced Families’ Access to Yarmouk Camp

House owners and shopkeepers in the neighborhoods of Uruba, AlTakadum, and March 8, in Yarmouk Camp, have called on the concerned authorities to clear the rubble piles that continue to block civilians’ return to their houses and property. Rehabilitation of vital facilities in the camp reportedly hinge on the number of returnees. “I wish I can regain access to my

Palestinian Refugee Woman Wins UK Scholarship

Palestinian refugee Reham Abu Rashed has won a grant from a British university after she garnered high scores at the University of Southern Denmark, specializing in Mechatronics Engineering. The Nuclear Research Center CERN in Switzerland also approved her request for trainings at its research centers. Reham fled Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in war-torn Syria, to Denmark with her family

23 Asylum Seekers Released by Libyan Authorities

The Libyan authority to combat illegal migration released 23 asylum-seekers, including 13 Palestinian refugees from Syria, after nearly 48 hours in custody. Libyan coast guard rescued on January 23 some 23 irregular migrants, including 13 Palestinian refugees, who tried to reach the Italian island of Lampedusa. The coast guard received a distress call from Naval Operations Room, about 70 nautical

Palestinian Refugee Nidhal Layla Missing for 3rd Year

A Palestinian family from Syria has launched appeals for information over the condition of their relative Nidhal Ali Leyla who disappeared some three years ago in Austria. The family had last contacted Nidhal, born in 1968 and raised in Yarmouk Camp, while he was in Austria, which he entered in 2015. He received a visa in 2017.  

Displaced Families Called Upon to Submit Demands for Return to Yarmouk Camp

Activists have called on residents of Yarmouk Camp to submit applications to return to their houses and retrieve their property. Lawyer Nour AlDeen Salman said return permits are granted in a one hour time-span as authorities prepared detailed maps of habitable and non-habitable buildings. Residents with property built on land belonging to the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR)

Family Appeals for Information over Condition of Missing Palestinian Refugee in Poland

Palestinian Refugee Mahmoud Amayri has gone missing in Poland for nearly one month. His family continues to appeal to the concerned embassies and human rights organizations to work on disclosing his condition and whereabouts. Mahmoud’s father, Khaled, said his son, born in 1998 and raised in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, disappeared in December 2021. He last contacted him

House Burned Down by Thieves in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian refugees who have recently returned to Yarmouk Camp have spoken up against property-thieves who have been ransacking civilian homes and stealing their belongings. Recently, unknown persons set fire to a civilian house after they attempted to burglarize it. “They are pulling out all the stops to force us to leave our house”, the house owner told AGPS. “Our children

Yarmouk Camp in Syria Still Suffering from Heavy Toll of Regime Blockade

AGPS has documented the death of 204 Palestinian refugees due to malnutrition and medical neglect as a result of the tough siege slapped a few years earlier by the Syrian regime on Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The camp continues to grapple with the devastating consequences of the attacks and air strikes launched by the Syrian regime

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Vital Services

Families who returned to Yarmouk Camp have called on Syrian authorities to rehabilitate vital facilities in an area where most public amenities have gone out of operation. The unabated warfare has had disastrous fallouts on Palestinian refugee camps across the Syrian territories. Palestinians who remained in Yarmouk or returned to the camp sometime later have been struggling for survival. Over

As Palestinian Refugees Appeal for Return to Ravaged Yarmouk Camp, Fatah Movement Commemorates 57th Anniversary

Activists who attended a ceremony held on Sunday January 9 at the Arabic Club in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, to mark the 57th anniversary of Fatah Movement founding in Syria, leveled heavy criticism at Fatah, saying the ceremony comes at a time when hundreds of Palestinian refugee families have been left without roofs over their heads in and outside

Cash-Stripped Palestinian Refugees in War-Torn Syria Lash Out at Fatah Delegation

Palestinian refugees in Syria leveled heavy criticism at a Fatah delegation that showed up in Damascus on January 6, led by the secretary of the group’s Central Committee, Jibril AlRujoub. The refugees said Fatah leaders have turned blind eyes and deaf ears to the dire humanitarian situation in displacement camps for Palestinian refugees across the Syrian territories. They added that

Syrian Authorities Greenlight Return to Yarmouk Camp

Local sources told AGPS that families’ return to Yarmouk Camp has become a more feasible endeavour. Engineer Mohamed Salman said permits are rapidly granted by the security branch of Street 30 to families wishing to regain access to their homes and retrieve their property.  Salman said families applying for return should present their ownership documents, personal photo, and the

Palestinian Refugee in Sweden Creates Electronics Dictionary

Palestinian refugee Shehadeh Shamdin Atwa, born in 1959, has compiled a special dictionary of electrical and electronic terms to facilitate vocational studies in Swedish institutes. Shehadeh Atwa, was a resident of Yarmouk camp. He is the father of five children. He graduated from the Faculty of Economics and Commerce in 1984 and arrived in Sweden in 2014 fleeing war-torn Syria

Family Appeals for Information over Forcibly-Disappeared Relative in Syria

A Palestinian family has appealed for information about the condition and whereabouts of Adnan Ahmad Ghanayma, who has been secretly held in Syrian prisons for eight years running. Adnan was born in 1970 in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. He has not been involved in political or military action. He was arrested on March 18, 2013 near Adra Petrol Centre

Over 1,200 Palestinian and Syrian Refugees Killed in Ali AlWahsh Tragedy

Some eight years ago, over hundreds of Palestinian and Syrian refugees, including women and minors, were killed by pro-regime militias deployed at Ali AlWahsh checkpoint, south of Damascus.  The crime culminated in the murder of 1,200 Palestinians and Syrians, among them hundreds of women and minors trapped in the then-blockaded Yarmouk Camp. In early January 2014, the Syrian

Civilians’ Life Threatened by Motorbike Riders in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, have raised concerns over the increasing abductions, home-burglary attempts, and sexual harassment reported in the area, particularly overnight due to chronic power blackouts.  Civilians said masked motorcyclists driving at high speed and without regard for road safety rules have been involved in robbery in the area. Jaramana camp is

Applications for Return to Yarmouk Camp Resumed

Families in Yarmouk camp have submitted demands for return after the local municipality suspended return applications. Palestinian lawyer Nour AlDeen Salman said concerned residents should submit their ownership documents to concerned authorities in Street 30. Permits are to be granted in a few days after the demand is submitted. Sometime earlier, the rubble-clearance committee in Yarmouk Camp said return permits

Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria Displacement Camps Appeal for Urgent Humanitarian Action

Palestinian refugee families sheltered in displacement camps set up north of Syria continue to appeal for urgent humanitarian action by the concerned authorities in Syria, United Nations bodies, and international humanitarian organizations. The families continue to lash out at the apathy maintained by UNRWA, the Palestinian Authority, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and all other local and international bodies regarding their

AGPS Appeals for Information about Condition of Forcibly-Disappeared Journalists in War-Torn Syria

AGPS condemns the apathy maintained by the international community and Palestinian leadership as regards the extrajudicial killing, harsh torture, and arbitrary detention of Palestinian journalists and activists in war-ravaged Syria. AGPS stresses the important role that the media has in society. AGPS reiterates that journalists must be allowed to carry out their work freely, while realizing their right to free

Father of Victim of Greece Boat Tragedy Reveals Shocking Details

AGPS has conducted an interview with the father of Palestinian refugee Rawnd Alayedi who drowned at sea after a boat capsized off a Greek coast on Friday, December 24. Rawnd Alayde,  a Palestinian-Syrian refugee born on November 21, 1998, risked her life onboard the Greek-bound “death boat” whishing to reunite with her family whom she has not seen for

AGPS Reveals Details of Greece Tragic Boat Accident

AGPS has received new details about the cause of the fatal boat accident off a Greek coast which claimed the lives of dozens of migrants. The vessel set sail on Friday morning carrying 88 migrants onboard, more than two times its real capacity. Smugglers are held accountable for the tragic incident as they crammed people onto unseaworthy boats and failing

8 Palestinians from Syria Pronounced Dead as Boat Capsizes off Greece

Eight Palestinian refugees from Syria have drowned off a Greek coast as their boat capsized last Friday. The victims are Rawand Mohamed AlAyedi, from Yarmouk Camp; Dentist Mohamed Kamel Ajaj, 38, a resident of Damascus; Ahmad Yousef Mohamed, born in 1965 and raised in Jaramana Camp; Abdul Karim Ismail; Alaa Abdul Karim Ismail, from AlSayeda Zeinab Camp in Rif Dimashq

4 Palestinian Refugee Doctors Forcibly Disappeared in War-Torn Syria

Four Palestinian doctors have been enduring mysterious fates in Syrian prisons for over eight years running. Palestinian medic Hayel Hamid has been forcibly disappeared since August 13, 2012. He was kidnapped from his clinic in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, on charges of tending to wounded persons. Hayel, born in 1948 in Dalata in occupied Palestine, worked as a professor

Child Psychological Support Event Held in Yarmouk Camp

A party was held by Athar Foundation for children in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees.  Palestinian refugee children in Syria continue to walk past the debris of war everyday to reach their schools in nearby suburbs, enduring a scary journey that never ceases to remind them of the weight of displacement, hardship and the loss of loved ones. Thousands

Return of Displaced Families to Yarmouk Camp Delayed

The Municipality of Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, has reportedly delayed receiving applications from families wishing to return to the camp. This comes days after local authorities promised to facilitate the families’ return to Yarmouk Camp at the earliest possible date. Palestinian refugees who headed for the municipality to submit their demands have been told that applications will be received

Displaced Families Call for Immediate Return to Yarmouk Camp

Activists have called on Palestinian refugees families to submit applications at the municipality of Yarmouk Camp in order to return to the area and retrieve their property. Those who do not own original property documents are also entitled to submit demands for entry permits using copies of their ownership documents or power/water bills. Recently, activists have called on the residents

DFLP Opens Up New Office in Yarmouk Camp

The Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP) – Syria Branch inaugurated on Friday, December 17, its new office in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. A DFLP member said the move comes amidst efforts to bring the situation back to normal in Yarmouk Camp.  In 2020, Free Palestine Movement and Fatah Movement reopened their offices

PLO Delegation Shows Up in Yarmouk Camp

Representatives of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) visited on Thursday Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus, to inspect rubble-clearance works in the area. Mahmoud AlKhaled, member of the committee overseeing rubble-clearance in the camp, said serious efforts have been underway to facilitate civilians’ return to their houses. He added that Yarmouk municipality will take charge of entry permits instead

9 Years On, Tragic Traces of ‘Mig Massacre’ Still Present in Yarmouk Camp

December 16, 2020 marks the ninth anniversary of the so-called “Mig Massacre”, also known as “Abdul Kader AlHusaini massacre”, in reference to the onslaughts launched by the Syrian fighter jets on Abdul Kader AlHusaini Mosque, in Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus. At the time of the attack, the mosque served as a shelter for hundreds of families who

Yarmouk Municipality Receives Return Applications

The Yarmouk municipality has started receiving applications from families wishing to return to the camp. Families who have proven ownership documents are eligible to apply for return, pending authorities’ final consent. A number of residents said they have received entry permits from security forces deployed at a military checkpoint pitched on Street 30. The security forces denied having received instructions

Residents of Jaramana Camp Appeal for Humanitarian Aid

Residents of Jaramana Camp have appealed to expatriates formerly sheltered in the camp to assist cash-stripped families who have remained in the area. Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central Damascus, continue to set off alarm bells over the lack of basic services and the dire socio-economic conditions rocking the area as a result of the

Palestinian Refugee Student Participates in Dubai Expo 2021

Palestinian refugee student from Syria Lin Sakhr Salah participated in the ReWired Global Education Summit held as part of Dubai Expo 2020, staged between December 12-14. Falah spoke about her dreams and the hurdles she currently faces as a Palestinian refugee. Lin, a UNRWA student, said Palestinians’ right to education is inalienable and expressed her pride of speaking up for

New Initiative Launched in Jaramana Camp to Rehabilitate Water Network

The General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR) has set a new plan to pump potable water from a tank in the vegetables market to civilian homes in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq. The new plan comes in response to the chronic power blackout in the camp which has severely affected the flow of water from the

Property-Theft Reported at UNRWA Schools in Yarmouk Camp

Families that returned to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, said property and equipment at UNRWA schools in the camp have been stolen by unknown thieves.  In photos circulated on social media, schools in Yarmouk Camp appear to be ravaged and furniture thrown outdoors. Reports of burglary continue to emerge in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, where

Lighting Initiative Launched in Khan Eshieh Camp

Volunteers from Khan Eshieh Camp have embarked on a campaign to improve street lighting in the camp. As part of the initiative, every three house owners are required to alternately connect a 20 cm led lamp to their electricity batteries and install it outside of their houses.  The power crisis has made the humanitarian situation inside the camp far

Palestinian Student Yazen Ereisheh Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime

Palestinian student at Damascus Law Faculty Yazen Areisheh, born in 1989 and raised in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, has been secretly held in Syrian state-run prisons for nearly eight years. He was arrested by Syrian security forces in 2014. His condition and whereabouts could not be identified. Yazen’s family continues to appeal to the Palestine Liberation Organization to pressurize the Syrian

Debris-Clearance Started at 3 UNRWA Centres in Yarmouk Camp

UNRWA has started removing rubble from three premises in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. The education chief in Yarmouk Camp said the move aims to enhance infrastructure in the ravaged camp.  At the same time, the general medical clinic and the dental clinic in AlMansoura Street continue to provide healthcare services in AlMadaris Street.  

Power Cut off in Yarmouk Camp

Families who returned to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, and the nearby AlTadhamun neighborhood have denounced the power blackout in the area. The residents called on the concerned authorities to install new power lines and repair old ones in order to alleviate the power crisis. UN data indicates that before the eruption of the conflict in 2011

Displaced Families Call on Damascus Authorities to Schedule Return to Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian refugee families displaced from Yarmouk Camp have called on authorities in Syria to set a specific schedule for their unconditional return to the camp. Palestinian Engineer Mohamed Salman has called on the concerned authorities to set a specific date for the families’ return. Residents of Yarmouk Camp have slammed Damascus authorities over their apathy regarding their appeals for return

Water Crisis Ongoing in Jaramana Camp

Palestinian refugees sheltered in Jaramana Camp, in Rif Dimashq, continue to launch distress calls over the water blackout, which has been ongoing for months. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to buy water supplies for privately-owned tanks at over 10,000 Syrian pounds a tank. The crisis has been exacerbated by the chronic power blackout

Palestinian Refugee Youth Succumbs to Car Accident in Germany

Palestinian young man Fadi AlSheikh Khalil was pronounced dead on Sunday after he was hit by a car in Berlin. Fadi was raised in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, before he fled to Germany following the outbreak of the conflict in Syria. He learned the German language and started working in the European country.

Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria Launch Cry for Help with Advent of Winter

Hundreds of displaced Palestinian families taking refuge in northern Syria continue to raise concerns over their fate as a freezing winter season has been just around the corner. The families continue to lash out at the apathy maintained by UNRWA, the Palestinian Authority, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and all other local and international bodies regarding their tragic situation. Palestinian refugees

Sand Barriers Block Civilians’ Free Movement near Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian refugee families who have returned to Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, said sand barriers set up in the area have blocked their access out of and into nearby towns. Photos circulated on social media network Facebook showed sand barriers as high as two meters being pitched on the main access roads to the camp. Civilians said the move aims

UNRWA Starts Reconstruction Works in Yarmouk Camp

UNRWA has started reconstructing its premises in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The residents called for the urgent rehabilitation of local schools, in an area where students and schoolchildren walk for over 2 kilometers to reach their academic institutions. Several UNRWA facilities were destroyed in the Syrian warfare and others have gone out of operation, including two

Following Wind Strom, Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria Displacement Camps Launch Cry for Help

The Syria Response Coordination Group has launched calls for urgent humanitarian assistance in displacement camps set up in northern Syria following the heavy windstorm that rocked Idlib and Aleppo, north of Syria. Photos circulated on social media showed several tents being uprooted and dismantled to strong wind.  The group said over 13 camps were ravaged by the windstorm on

800 Families Currently Sheltered in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Member of the Reconstruction Committee in Yarmouk Camp, engineer Mahmoud AKhaled, said some 800 families have returned to Yarmouk Camp and retrieved their property. Prior to reconstruction and rubble-clearance works, some 500 families had been sheltered in the camp. AlKhaled said returns have been occurring at a slow pace due to poor infrastructure and absence of vital services. He added

Paralyzed Palestinian Refugee Youth Appeals for Life-Saving Treatment

Palestinian refugee Nawres Haythem AlMesri was injured by bullet fire in the then-besieged Yarmouk Camp has renewed appeals for urgent humanitarian action to save his life. Nawras, born in 1986, has gone hemiplegic after a sniper bullet penetrated his back and chest. Nawras suffers from ulcers resulting in large holes in his lower back due to lack of movement and

Palestinian Refugee in Turkey Renews Appeals for Urgent Treatment

Palestinian refugee Udai Shehabi, from Yarmouk Camp, has renewed appeals to the Palestinian embassy, the international humanitarian institutions, and relief organizations in Istanbul to help him secure as sum of 120,000 Turkish liras needed for urgent, life-saving treatment. Udai has expressed fears that his leg would be amputated if he does not receive proper treatment at the soonest possible

Palestinian Refugee Achieves Highest Voter Turnout in Danish Municipality

Palestinian refugee from Syria Mohamed Stitan has got the second highest voter turnout in municipal elections in Denmark. Mohamed, affiliated with the United List party, won a reserve seat in the municipal council, No. 4 on the candidate list. Mohamed reached Denmark in 2014 and worked in eldercare centres. He is an active member of the United List Party which

Food Boxes, Winter Garments Distributed in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Kayra Ummah Organization in cooperation with Shafaq Foundation has distributed food boxes and winter clothes to displaced Palestinian and Syrian families in northern Syria displacement camps. Palestinian refugees sheltered in displacement camps in northern Syria have been enduring a tragic situation. Most of them have been crammed in poorly-equipped tents and denied their rights to vital services. Hundreds of Palestinian

Property-Theft Ongoing in Yarmouk Camp

Reports of burglary continue to emerge in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, where hundreds of Palestinian refugees had been taking shelter. Members of pro-government groups have reportedly stolen furniture from abandoned buildings in and around Yarmouk neighborhoods. Palestinian families displaced from the area continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes and

Family Appeals for Information over Condition of Forcibly-Disappeared Palestinian Refugee in Syria Prison

18-year-old refugee Amar Mustafa Aziz has also been locked up in Syrian regime lock-ups since March 2013. His family continues to appeal for information over his condition and whereabouts. Amar, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, was kidnapped on March 31, 2013 at a checkpoint in Damascus and dragged to an unidentified destination. AGPS has kept record of the secret incarceration

Palestinian Refugee Succumbs to Coronavirus in Syria Displacement Camp

Two Palestinian refugees displaced from Yarmouk Camp have died of coronavirus.  Over recent months, AGPS has warned of an unabated outbreak of COVID-19 in Palestinian refugee camps in Syria, where limited access to running water, pharmacies and medical facilities means displacement camps are more susceptible to the spread of the highly infectious virus. Displacement camps set up in northern

Penalties Imposed on Debris Disposal in Yarmouk Streets

The rubble-clearance committee in Yarmouk Camp warned that residents who dispose of debris in residential alleyways and access roads would be subjected to tough penalties. Sometime earlier, the Syrian authorities extended the deadline for rubble clearance from ravaged structures and buildings until November 15. UN data indicates that before the eruption of the conflict in 2011, Yarmouk was home to

Displaced Families Call for Rehabilitation of Local Committee in Yarmouk Camp Committee

Civilians have called on authorities in Damascus to reactivate the local committee which was previously tasked with administering civilians’ affairs in Yarmouk Camp and which was dissolved by the former Prime Minister Emad Khamis in late 2018. Civilians say the services department assigned by Damascus Governorate has failed to take note of civilians’ needs and hinder the return of displaced

Stray Dogs Sway Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have raised concerns over their children’s safety as packs of stray dogs have been spotted in and around the camp. The refugees appealed to the concerned authorities and NGOs to take urgent action over the spread of feral dogs in the camp. After ten years of conflict, Palestine refugees continue

Paralyzed Palestinian Refugee Youth Appeals for Life-Saving Treatment

Palestinian refugee Nawres Haythem AlMesri was injured by bullet fire in the then-besieged Yarmouk Camp has appealed for urgent humanitarian action to save his life. Nawras, born in 1986, has gone hemiplegic after a sniper bullet penetrated his back and chest. Nawras suffers from ulcers resulting in large holes in his lower back due to lack of movement and absence

Residents of Yarmouk’s Deir Yassin Neighborhood Appeal for Rubble-Clearance

Residents of Deir Yassin neighborhood have slammed the apathy maintained by the rubble-clearance committee in Yarmouk Camp regarding their appeals to remove debris from the area. In a letter to Damascus Ambassador, Samir AlRefai, the residents said the committee has reneged on its promises to remove debris. They called on the Ambassador to pressurize the committee to launch debris-clearance works

Palestinian Refugee Obtains University Diploma with Honor

Palestinian refugee from Syria Raghad Ahmad Ali AlAyedi has achieved outstanding results at the Information Technology Faculty at the Islamic University in the Israeli-blockaded Gaza Strip. Raghad was born and raised in Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus. She fled to Egypt after the conflict outbreak in Syria before she headed for the Gaza Strip. She graduated from the College of Information

Water Network Rehabilitated in Jaramana Camp

The Charity Committee repaired the main water tank feeding the neighborhoods of Balat and AlQuteiah in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq.  Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central Damascus, continue to set off alarm bells over the lack of basic services and dire socio-economic conditions rocking the area as a result of

Palestinian Refugee Trapped in Northern Cyprus Appeals for Humanitarian Action

Palestinian refugee Ali Walid AlSukari has sounded distress signals from a detention centre in Northern Cyprus, where he has been held for the 10th consecutive day. Ali, who was born and raised in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, entered Northern Cyprus (officially the Turkish republic of Northern Cyprus) in an attempt to reach the Greek side of

Property-Theft Reported in Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees said their houses have been subjected to property-theft following rubble-clearance works in the camp. Residents of the Uruba Street, in Yarmouk, said their houses have been ravaged and walls demolished, resulting in mounds of rubble. Over recent years, pro-government militias have been raking through evacuated homes in Damascus and holding sway over furniture

PA President Receives Representatives of Reconstruction Committee in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas met on Friday with representatives of the reconstruction and rubble-clearance committee in Yarmouk Camp at the presidency headquarters in Ramallah, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The delegation briefed Abbas on the progress of debris-removal works in Yarmouk Camp and underway efforts to facilitate the return of hundreds of displaced families to their homes. Abbas pledged

Palestinian Refugee Trapped on Cyprus Island Launches Cry for Help

Palestinian refugee Ali AlSukari has sounded distress signals following his detention by the Cyprian authorities. Ali, who was born and raised in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, entered Northern Cyprus (officially the Turkish republic of Northern Cyprus) in an attempt to reach the Greek side of the island onboard an inflatable boat. He has been held in

Family of Missing Palestinian Refugee in Turkey Appeals for Information

The family of Palestinian refugee Ahmad Ghazi Ramadan have renewed their appeals for information about his condition and whereabouts after he has gone missing in Turkey for nearly a year and a half. Ahmad was born in 1971 and took shelter in Yarmouk Camp, which had come under a tight blockade by the Syrian regime since the outbreak of the

Norwegian Council Shows Up in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Representatives of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) paid a visit to Yarmouk Camp and toured 12 schools run by the Syrian government and UNRWA in the area. The delegation is assessing the damage wrought on educational premises in Yarmouk Camp in order to contribute to reconstruction projects. Earlier this year, Director-General of the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR)

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Missing in Turkey

The family of Palestinian refugee Ahmad Ghazi Ramadan continues to appeal for information about his condition and whereabouts after he has gone missing in Turkey for nearly a year and a half. Ahmad was born in 1971 and took shelter in Yarmouk Camp, which had come under a tight blockade by the Syrian regime since the outbreak of the conflict

Palestinian Refugees in Syria’s Jaramana Camp Terrorized by Simmering Abductions, Property-Theft

Palestinian refugee families in Jaramana camp, in Rif Dimashq, have raised concerns over the increasing abductions, home-burglary attempts, and sexual harassment reported in the area, particularly overnight due to chronic power blackouts.  A few days earlier, an anonymous person attempted to kidnap a girl at around 07:00 p.m. The girl kept screaming, forcing the kidnapper to run away

For 1st Time in Years, Public Bus Available in Yarmouk Camp

The first public microbus has gone operative in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Local sources told AGPS that the minibus has been transferring students and civilians to and back from the main entrance to the camp. The expenses are covered by Fatah Movement. Before the eruption of the conflict in 2011, Yarmouk was home to approximately 160

Palestinian Refugee Woman, Her Daughter to be Deported from Sweden

The Swedish immigration authorities issued a deportation order against a Palestinian refugee and her daughter on claims that Damascus, where they had been sheltered, is now safe. The refugee, who spoke with AGPS on condition of anonymity, said she received the order shortly after she was notified by the migration authorities in Sweden. The mother and her daughter will be

Palestinian Refugee Women Struggle with Multiple Hardships in Syria

AGPS has documented the death of hundreds of Palestinian women and the enforced disappearance of several others in the embattled Syrian territories. AGPS data indicates that as many as 487 Palestinian women and girls have died of war-related incidents since the outbreak of the Syrian conflict. Palestinian refugee women who died all the way through Syria’s ten-year conflict make up

Activists Warn Yarmouk Residents against Attempts to Turn Their Property into Bargaining Chips

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, to stand on guard to all attempts to force them to forfeit their houses and property at low prices. The activists have warned against attempts by crooked real estate brokers to pressurize civilians to sell their homes and properties following the latest price hike. Real estate dealers have reportedly

Missing Palestinian Refugee Found Dead on Migration Route

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Muneer Rayen, who disappeared on October 18, has been pronounced dead. Mohamed’s family said his body was found at Alexandroupolis hospital in northeastern Greece following intensive contacts with Turkish and Greek hospitals and border posts. Mohamed, aged 19 and raised in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, disappeared on October 18 as he attempted to reach the Greek territories. He

Residents of Jaramana Camp Denounce Water Crisis

The main water pump has gone inoperative in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, leaving the residents of Al-Bilat and Al-Qaytiyah neighborhoods without water. Local sources told AGPS that water has been pumped into the camp using the small secondary pump, pending maintenance works to repair the water network. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to

Palestinians of Syria Enduring Multiple Hardships

Eleven years after demonstrations started in Syria, the majority of Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country have been grappling with an abject humanitarian situation. Prices have skyrocketed at the local market, where vital products have been sold at exorbitant costs. At the same time, long queues are spotted daily outside of local bakeries as members of extended families continue

AGPS at Copenhagen Conf: Situation of Palestinians in Northern Syria Tragic

AGPS has raised alarm bells over the squalid humanitarian condition facing Palestinian refugees in displacement camps set up in northern Syria. Speaking on behalf of AGPS in a conference held in Copenhagen on October 30, journalist Maher Shawish said Palestinian refugees have been twice displaced in Syria, where they continue to grapple with food, social, and legal insecurity and denied

Young Man Dies While Clearing Rubble in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian refugee Husam Abdel Kader Shalabi succumbed to a serious injury he sustained while clearing debris from Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. Husam suffered fractures in his rib cage after a concrete pole collapsed while he was clearing rubble. He was rushed to the hospital but died shortly after. Many buildings risk to collapse in Yarmouk Camp as a result

Family of Palestinian Refugee Mohamed Rayen Appeals for Information

The family of Palestinian refugee Mohamed Muneer Abdullah Rayan, aged 19 and raised in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, continue to appeal to the international human rights organizations to work on revealing Rayan’s condition and whereabouts. Rayan disappeared on October 18 as he attempted to reach the Greek territories. He crossed the river on the Turkish-Greek borders before he paused for a

Drug Consumption Reported in Deraa Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Palestinian refugee youths continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the eleven-year warfare in Syria, amidst a deadly pandemic outbreak. Palestinian refugee youths (aged 12 – 30) make up nearly 30% of the Palestinians of Syria, estimated at 540,000 in 2014. The war has resulted in increasing rates of juvenile delinquency, unemployment, and psychological disorders. Reports of drug

Palestinian Child Survives Dangerous Electrocution

A Palestinian girl, sheltered in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, was injured in an electric shock.  An AGPS reporter said the girl was electrocuted as she walked near a billboard on her way back home from school. Jaramana camp is 8km from Damascus on the road to Damascus International Airport.  The camp was established in 1948. UN data

At Copenhagen Conference, AGPS Calls for Int’l Protection for Palestinians of Syria

AGPS has called on the international community to work on securing the humanitarian needs of Palestinian refugees in war-torn Syria. This came in an international conference held in Copenhagen on October 30. AGPS representative Maher Shawish sounded the alarm over the squalid humanitarian condition faced by the Palestinians of Syria in displacement camps across the war-torn country, including Yarmouk Camp

Resident of Yarmouk Camp Appeals for Urgent Medical Treatment

Palestinian refugee Udai Shehabi, from Yarmouk Camp, appealed to the Palestinian embassy, the international humanitarian institutions, and relief organizations in Istanbul to help him secure treatment fees before it is too late. Udai expressed fears that his leg would be amputated if he does not receive proper treatment at the soonest possible time. Udai got his leg broken at his

AGPS: 252 Palestinian Children Killed in War-Torn Syria

AGPS has recorded the death of 252 Palestinian refugee children in war-torn Syria from the start of the conflict, in 2011, until October 30, 2021. The list of Palestinian victims includes 70 children who died due to the blockade imposed by the Syrian government forces and its armed allies on Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The data

Rubble-Clearance Works in Yarmouk Camp Suspended

The rubble-clearance committee in Yarmouk Camp said it will suspend works for a couple of days. The committee said on Facebook that rubble clearance works will be suspended pending the removal of the mounds of rubble piled up in the area so far. The committee said rubble has been removed from large areas in the camp.

Palestinian Poet Receives Euro-Asian Gold Medal of Honor

The General Union of Palestinian Writers in Syria held a ceremony on Friday to honor the Palestinian poet Abdullah Issa after he was awarded the Gold Eurasian Medal of Honor. The Eurasian Medal is awarded for the first time in history by the international forum "21st Century Eurasia World" in the field of literature. Hundreds of writers were nominated for

Damascus Health Workers Union Honors Palestinian Technician

On October 26, the Damascus Health Workers Union honored the Palestinian technician Muhammad Ali Abu Eid, from Yarmouk camp. Mohamed, working at the Directorate of Laboratories of Control and Drug Research, received a reward and a certificate of appreciation for his dedication and creativity. According to the office of the Damascus Health Workers Syndicate, the refugee carried out maintenance work

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Qualified as Talent Coach in Germany

Palestinian youth Alaa Al-Shihabi received a Medal of Merit from the Football Association in the German city of Leipzig. Alaa was also honored as a talent coach.  Alaa, displaced from Yarmouk camp, south of Damascus, started his football career at the age of 15. He played for nine years in Al-Wahda Club at the Syrian Professional League. He joined

Rubble-Clearance Committee Denies Allegations of Favoritism

The rubble-clearance committee in Yarmouk Camp said it will evenly work on removing rubble form all neighborhoods in the camp according to a balanced plan of action. Recently civilians lashed out at the committee and accused it of nepotism, saying it has been clearing rubble from certain neighborhoods under the request of estate owners having ties with pro-regime parties. The

Italian Gov’t Considering Delivering Cash Aid for Reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp

Chargé d’Affairs of the Italian Embassy in Syria Massimiliano Dantono said during his meeting with the Director General of the Political Department of the Palestine Liberation Organization Anwar Abdel Hadi that Italy is considering providing assistance for reconstruction projects in Yarmouk camp. Dantono pledged that his country will continue to support the Syria education programme of the United Nations Relief

Palestine Refugee Youth in Syria Caught Between Hammer and Barrel

Palestinian refugee youths continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the eleven-year warfare in Syria, amidst a deadly pandemic outbreak. Palestinian refugee youths (aged 12 – 30) make up nearly 30% of the Palestinians of Syria, estimated at 540,000 in 2014. The war has resulted in increasing rates of juvenile delinquency, unemployment, and psychological disorders. Reports of drug

Family Appeals for Information over Condition of Palestinian Refugee Mohamed Muneer Rayan

The family of Palestinian refugee Mohamed Muneer Abdullah Rayan, aged 19 and raised in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, have appealed to the international human rights organizations to work on revealing Rayan’s condition and whereabouts. Rayan disappeared on October 18 as he attempted to reach the Greek territories. He crossed the river on the Turkish-Greek borders before he paused for a break

Owners of Destroyed Houses in Yarmouk Camp Appeal for Humanitarian Assistance

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Syria, whose houses have been severely damaged in the warfare, have appealed to the Syrian authorities, UNRWA, the Palestinian Authority, and the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR) to allocate cash aid in order to help them reconstruct their destroyed houses. Activists slammed the statements released by Ambassador Samir AlRefai’

UNRWA Conducts Building Damage Assessment in Yarmouk Camp

A specialized ad hoc committee appointed by UNRWA showed up in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, and started earmarking houses and commercial structures. The committee will assess the condition of buildings and categorize them in habitable and non-habitable. Civilians expressed hope that the committee’s work is a prelude for cash aid by the Agency in order to

Palestinian Refugee in Turkey Appeals for Urgent Treatment

Palestinian refugee Udai Shehabi has launched calls for urgent treatment in Turkey, saying he has failed to secure the remaining 120,000 Turkish liras to receive medical treatment at a Turkish hospital. Speaking with AGPS, Udai said he was displaced from Yarmouk Camp to Qudsaya town, in Rif Dimashq, and illegally travelled to Turkey by land. He got his leg

Civilians Allowed to Re-Enter Yamouk Camp for Rubble-Clearance

The rubble-clearance committee in Yarmouk Camp said Syrian authorities extended the time-limit for debris-removal by civilians from their houses and shops in Yarmouk Camp until November 15. The committee urged the residents to transfer the cleared mounds of rubble on the outskirts of their residential neighborhoods so as not to hinder the movement of workers and vehicles.

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Denounce Water Crisis, Call for Debris Clearance

Residents of AlZein neighborhood in Yarmouk Camp called on the rubble clearance committee formed by the Palestine Liberation Organization to include their neighborhood on the list. Mounds of rubble continue to block civilians’ free access out of and into AlZein neighborhood. Students and schoolchildren continue to face difficulties trying to reach their schools and academic institutions. In AlFidaeya neighborhood, home

Awareness-Raising Campaign about War Remnants Kick-Started at UNRWA Schools in Syria

UNRWA in Syria embarked on a four-day campaign to raise awareness about explosive ordnance among parents, students, and teaching staff. As part of the event, sponsored by the Italian government, UNRWA reached out to over 33,000 Palestinian refugee students, parents, and teaching staff. Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which are particularly unpredictable and difficult

Water Cut Off in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The General Water Company in Damascus said water will be cut in the city for two days starting Sunday due to maintenance works. The water cut affects Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees and other areas in Damascus.

Free Medical Days Held in Yarmouk Camp

The Quds Charity launched free medical days for children and women starting October 19 until 21 at the Shuhadaa Clinic in Yarmouk Camp. Before the crisis started in 2011, Yarmouk was a bustling home to almost 30 percent of the Palestine refugee population in Syria. Today, the weight of displacement, hardship and the loss of loved ones add to the

Engineers Start Building Assessment in Yarmouk Camp

An engineering committee started on Thursday earmarking houses in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees in order to assess their condition. Buildings will be assessed as either habitable, restorable, or uninhabitable. Activists said the assessment phase will keep going at the same time as rubble is being cleared from the camp. In 2019, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research

Civilians Launch Calls for Rehabilitation of Yarmouk Camp

Activists have called on residents of Yarmouk Camp to work on reconstructing their houses and destroyed commercial facilities. The activists said buildings and commercial structures located in AlRija and Abu Hashish squares should be rapidly rehabilitated in order to get life back to normal in these vital areas and encourage civilians to return to the camp. Entering its eleventh year

Palestinian Refugee Nader AlNader Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 7th Year

Palestinian refugee Nader Adel AlNader has been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons for over seven years running. Nader, born in 1978 in Yarmouk Camp, was arrested in January 2014 as he turned himself in to security forces deployed near the main entrance to Yarmouk Camp. At the time, Nader had hoped to reconcile with the Syrian regime and work

Calls Launched for Return Permissions in Yarmouk Camp

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp to submit demands at security offices in order to be able to return to their homes and retrieve their property. The activists said the displaced residents should take profit from the complete closure of the camp for rubble-clearance work in order to pressurize authorities to greenlight their return to their homes

11 Palestinian Students from AlNeirab Camp Admitted into Aleppo Medicine Faculty

A number of Palestinian refugee students were admitted into Syria’s public universities. The list includes 11 students from the AlNeirab Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Aleppo, who will pursue their studies at the Aleppo Faculty of Medicine. Last year, some 25 Palestinian students graduated from the Faculty of Medicine in Syria. Ten graduates are residents of AlNeirab Camp in Aleppo

Civilians Push for Removal of Sand Barriers around Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp and adjacent areas called on the Syrian authorities to lift the sand barriers set up between the camp and AlTadhamun neighborhood. Civilians said sand barriers block their free access out of and into the area at a time when the Syrian regime forces have regained control over the camp and its surroundings. Entering its eleventh year

Palestinian Refugees Launch Distress Signals from Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Palestinian refugees have rallied in Deir Ballout and AlMuhammadiya displacement camps, in the northern Syrian region of Efrin, protesting their deteriorating living conditions in the poorly-equipped facilities. The refugees said they have been deprived of potable water, bread, and fuel along with much-needed relief supplies and life-saving medicines. The refugees called on AFAD, UNRWA, and all other concerned parties to

Damascus Ambassador: Reconstruction of Destroyed Houses in Yarmouk Complicated

Palestine Ambassador in Syria, Samir AlRefai said the reconstruction of destroyed houses in Yarmouk Camp remains a complicated task due to the severe damage inflicted on buildings. AlRefai quoted the Syrian PM as stating, during a meeting with Palestinian factions in Damascus last year, that owners should pay for the reconstruction of their destroyed houses and that in return owners

Psychological Support Activities Held for Palestinian Refugee Children in Syria

The Shuhadaa Clinic held psychological support activities for a number of children who returned to the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The warfare in Syria, which has now entered its eleventh year, has had traumatic fallouts on Palestinian refugee children in and outside the Syrian territories.  Post-traumatic stress disorders, mental psychosis, sleeplessness and nightmares, eating

Rubble-Clearance Works Kick-Started in Yarmouk Camp

Efforts have been underway in Yarmouk Camp to clear debris from ravaged buildings and access roads.  Bulldozers and trucks have been spotted in the area as of Wednesday, October 6. A source from the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) said the process has been supervised and expenses paid by the PLO. Works are expected to be finalized in one month

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Wins Karate Championship

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Majd Shaaban Abdullah won the first place in a karate youth tournament held in Syria. Mohamed, born and raised in Yarmouk Camp, participated in several other competitions and won several prizes with AlJaish Sports Club. Hundreds of displaced Palestinian refugees in/from Syria have achieved success stories, despite the traumatic upshots wrought by the daily scenes of bloodshed

Palestinian Girl Salma Abdul Razaq Secretly Held in Syrian Prison for 9th Year

Palestinian student Salma Abdul Razak, enrolled at the Architectural Engineering University in Damascus, has been enduring a mysterious fate in Syrian government penitentiaries. Born on March 30, 1990, Salma fled Yarmouk Camp after it was struck with Mig fighter jets. She was kidnapped as she attempted to re-enter the camp on December 30, 2012 via a checkpoint pitched near AlBashir

Displaced Families Appeal for Rubble-Clearance in Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp have appealed to the concerned institutions to remove rubble piled up across residential alleyways. Civilians said they cannot clear rubble due to high costs, slamming the apathy maintained by UNRWA and local municipalities regarding their appeals for urgent action. UN data indicates that before the eruption of the conflict in 2011, Yarmouk was home to approximately

Public Amenities in Jaramana Camp

Activists from Jaramana camp for Palestinian refugees have denounced acts of violence against public premises. Local sources said the camp said equipment of public facilities have been ravaged in the area. A number of bus stops and car parkings equipped with awnings were ravaged by anonymous persons.  Jaramana camp is 8km from Damascus on the road to Damascus International

Over 300 Palestinian Refugees Missing in War-Torn Syria

333 Palestinian refugees, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare, AGPS has found out. Most of those who have disappeared in the country are residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Activists have accused pro-government militias of targeting Palestinians in arbitrary abduction sweeps carried out under the security guise

Civilians Call On Syrian Authorities to Extend Time Span of Debris-Clearance

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, appealed to the Syrian authorities to extend the deadline of rubble-clearance works in the area. Mounds of debris continue to be spotted everywhere across the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, blocking civilians’ access to their homes and property. Some three years ago, precisely on April 19, 2018, Syrian regime

Palestine Ambassador in Damascus Visits Yarmouk Camp

The Palestine Ambassador in Syria, Samir AlRefai, showed up on October 3 in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, to keep tabs on rubble-clearance works. AlRefai said the committee appointed by the Palestine Liberation Organization has started removing debris from access roads in the camp. The ambassador said efforts have been underway to rehabilitate infrastructure and reconstruct destroyed

Art Exhibition Held by Palestinian Refugee from Syria in Copenhagen

An exhibition was staged on October 2 by Palestinian artist from Syria Maamoun AlShayeb in Copenhagen as part of a cultural event held by Shamat Amal Association.  A number of Arab and non-Arab academics and artists, along with Arab community representatives in Denmark, were in attendance. Maamoun AlShayeb was born in 1960 in Damascus-based Yarmouk Camp. His parents are

On Int’l Day of Non-Violence, Thousands of Palestinian Refugees Killed, Tortured in Syria

Statistics released by AGPS on the International Day of Non-Violence, observed on October 2, kept record of thousands of physical violations perpetrated against Palestinian refugees since the launch of the Syrian conflict. 4,500 Palestinian refugees were killed as a result of the deadly air strikes, bloody shootouts, harsh torture, the blockade, or on way to other destinations via the

Cash Aid Distributed to Residents of Yarmouk, Hindarat Refugee Camps

The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) handed over 200,000 Syrian pounds to families who returned to Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, and Hindarat Camp, in Aleppo. The Palestine Embassy in Damascus said the cash aid distribution was finalized on September 30, 2021 and included persons who returned or decided to return to the camps. The second batch will be distributed

School Bags Distributed to Palestinian Children in Northern Syria

Khayra Ummah Association distributed school bags and furniture to Palestinian and Syrian schoolchildren displaced from the refugee camps of Yarmouk, Khan Eshieh, Deraa, Hindarat, and Rif Dimashq to displacement camps set up in northern Syria. Displaced Palestinian families north of Syria continue to sound the alarm over their children’s lack of access to education as a result of the enforced

Palestinian Refugee Schoolgirl Writes Book about Mental Math in Netherlands

26-year-old Palestinian refugee Salam Ali Rahma has made the last touches on her book about mental calculations which teaches children the techniques of the four arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division). The book enables children to work out quick and complex arithmetic calculations. Salam fled the ravaged Yarmouk Camp through a Europe-bound migrant boat. She finally disembarked in The

Yarmouk Camp Residents Raise Concerns over Unexploded War Ordnance

Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which are particularly unpredictable and difficult to detect, continue to put millions of people, including Palestine refugees, at risk in Syria. Civilians in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees continue to sound distress signals over the threats posed by unexploded ordnance.  The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine

Displaced Families Call On UNRWA to Clear Debris in Yarmouk Camp

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees called on UNRWA to carry out rubble-clearance works in the area pending the reconstruction of the Agency’s premises. The refugees continue to denounce UNRWA’s reluctance regarding their appeals for urgent relief assistance. UN data indicates that before the eruption of the conflict in 2011, Yarmouk was home to approximately 160,000 Palestine refugees

Calls Launched for Rubble-Clearance Volunteers in Yarmouk Camp

The popular committee in Yarmouk Camp called for more volunteers to help the residents with debris-clearance in the camp. The committee said the volunteers will mainly assist vulnerable families who cannot afford to pay for rubble-clearance by private companies. UN data indicates that before the eruption of the conflict in 2011, Yarmouk was home to approximately 160,000 Palestine refugees

Palestinian Refugee Woman, Her 2 Children Kidnapped in Syria

A Palestinian woman sheltered in AlNeirab Camp, in Aleppo, was kidnapped along with her two children by anonymous gangsters. The woman and her children were on their way to Lebanon. AGPS has kept their names secret over security concerns. The kidnappers told the captives’ family that they will only release them on an arson of 3,000 USD. 335 Palestinian

2 Young Men Injured in Building Collapse in Yarmouk Camp

Two young men fell from a destroyed building while clearing debris from Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus. The wounded were rushed to AlShuhada Clinic before they were transferred to another hospital in Damascus. Their condition remains unknown. Mounds of debris continue to be spotted everywhere across the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, blocking civilians’ access to their

17 Palestinian Journalists Killed in War-Torn Syria

Statistics released by AGPS on the International Day of Solidarity with Palestinian Journalists have recorded the death of 17 Palestinian journalists since the outburst of deadly hostilities in March 2011, among whom academics and volunteers. The causalities died while covering scenes on the battleground or while providing civilians with relief assistance across the ravaged Syrian territories. The list includes nine

Yarmouk Camp Residents Call for Exemptions on Electricity Bills

Residents of Yarmouk Camp have called on Syrian authorities to exempt them from exorbitant power bills that have been overburdening them from the time the opposition forces captured the area. The unabated warfare has had disastrous fallouts on Palestinian refugee camps across the Syrian territories. Palestinians who remained in Yarmouk or returned to the camp sometime later have been struggling

Volunteer Teams Take Part in Debris Clearance in Yarmouk Camp

Members of the General Union of Palestinian Students in Syria in partnership with popular committees volunteered for debris-removal in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. The volunteers assisted vulnerable families in clearing rubble from their ravaged houses.  

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Wins 5th Place in UAE Bodybuilding Championship

Palestinian refugee from Syria Shadi AlFar won the fifth place in Fujairah bodybuilding championship in the United Arab Emirates.  400 male and female participants took part in the contest. Shadi fled Syria’s Yarmouk refugee camp in 2012 to AlZahira, in Damascus, before he headed for Jordan, where he had stayed for a couple of years. He then travelled to

Palestinian Refugee Tortured to Death in Syrian Prisons

An ex-prisoner in Syria said Palestinian refugee Majed AlMadani died under torture in Syrian regime prisons.  In August 2014, Majed was spotted in Security Branch 27. He was arrested during aid distribution in Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus. AGPS has documented the death of 620 Palestinian refugees in Syria’s state-run penal complexes since the outbreak of the conflict in 2011

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Denounce Blackmailing by Rubble-Clearance Teams

Families displaced from Yarmouk Camp and wishing to return to their houses said rubble-clearance staff request up to 10,000 Syrian pounds to remove debris from destroyed houses and structures. The residents said pro-regime committees continue to blackmail them and ask them to pay exorbitant sums to get rubble cleared from their houses. At the same time, engineers in the

Palestinian Refugee Mohamed Ayman Abu Husain Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 8th Year

Palestinian young man Mohamed Ayman Abu Husain, born in 1986, has been forcibly disappeared in Syria’s state-run prisons for the 8th consecutive year. Mohamed, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, was arrested on April 27, 2013 by pro-government militias in Jaramana Camp, in Damascus, and dragged to an unidentified destination. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees

Palestinian Mother Fatma AlSaadi and Her Daughter Rasha Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 8th Year

Palestinian refugee Fatma Ahmed AlSaadi, born on January 27, 1956, and her daughter Rasha Sai’d AlSaadi, born on July 08, 1983, have been secretly held in Syrian regime prisons for the eighth consecutive year. The mother and her daughter were arrested in 2013 by Syrian security forces deployed at a checkpoint in Yarmouk Camp.  Their relatives were told that

Palestinian Refugee Husam AlRefa’i Forcibly Disappeared in Syria Prisons

33-year-old Palestinian refugee Hussam Ali Al-Refai, a resident of Yarmouk, has been locked up in Syrian government penitentiaries for eight consecutive years. Al-Rafai was kidnapped by the government troops deployed at a Damascus checkpoint on May 15, 2013. AGPS documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in state-run penal complexes across war-torn Syria, among them 110 women and

Palestinian Refugee Woman Provides Horrific Testimonies about Torture in Syria Prisons

A female ex-prisoner has provided a harrowing account of torture in Syrian regime prisons. Speaking with AGPS on condition of anonymity, the Palestinian refugee woman said she was tortured by a man called “Azrael”, the angel of death, for one month. She said her two brothers were arrested in 2018 after Syrian security forces recaptured Yarmouk Camp. Both of them

Palestinian Refugee Students Honored in Yarmouk Camp

A ceremony was held by the Palestine Liberation Organization on Thursday to honor Palestinian refugee students who achieved high scores as part of their secondary and high school exams.  Hundreds of displaced Palestinian refugees in/from Syria have achieved success stories, despite the traumatic upshots wrought by the daily scenes of bloodshed and destruction across the embattled Syrian territories. This

Debris Clearance ongoing in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

The local committee in Yarmouk Camp has called on the residents to clear debris from their houses and commercial facilities by October 05 pending total debris-clearance by Damascus Governorate. Syrian authorities have allowed a number of families to re-enter the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees south of Damascus, and clear debris as of September 10 until October 05. Media

Palestinian Doctor Alaa AlDeen Yousef Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 9th Year

Palestinian medic Alaa AlDeen Youssef has been enduring a mysterious fate in Syrian penitentiaries, where he has been kept for the ninth consecutive year. Neurosurgeon Youssef has been forcibly disappeared since December 25, 2012. He was kidnapped from a checkpoint pitched near the main entrance to Yarmouk Camp. Medical staff and structures in war-torn Syria came under heavy shelling by

Sand Mounds Piled Up outside of Yarmouk Camp Cemetery following Russian Search

The Russian military and Syrian regime have finalized excavations in a cemetery at the Yarmouk Palestinian Refugee Camp in Damascus allegedly in search of the remains of Israeli soldiers who went missing during the First Lebanon War in 1982, Israeli news reported, citing Syrian media.  Russian troops began excavating the site on February 4, presumably searching for DNA samples

PLO Official Accuses UNRWA of Reluctance Regarding Palestinians in Syria

Head of the political department of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Anwar Abdul Hadi, has accused UNRWA of dragging its feet regarding Palestinians’ appeals for urgent relief services and reconstruction of the ravaged Yarmouk Camp, where at least 35 UN offices have been established. Abdul Hadi told Sham FM radio that civilians have been allowed a month-entry to the camp

Displaced Families Allowed to Clear Debris from Yarmouk Camp

Syrian authorities have allowed a number of families to re-enter the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees south of Damascus, and clear debris as of September 10 until October 05. Media sources said a volunteer Red Crescent team has been spotted in the area to assist the families who continue to remove debris from their destroyed buildings and property pending

Palestinian Child Killed by Explosive Ordnance in Syria Displacement Camp

Palestinian child Mohamed Bassem Mer’i succumbed to injuries he sustained in a cluster bomb blast in Hindarat Camp for Palestinian refugees, in the northern Syrian province of Aleppo. In late August, at least seven children, including Mohamed, were left wounded in Hindarat Camp as explosive debris went off in the area. The wounded were rushed to AlKindi Hospital in Aleppo

Palestinian Brothers Ahmad and Walid Mousa Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime

Palestinian brothers Ahmad and Walid Mousa Mahmoud have been held in Syrian government jails since February 2014. Both were kidnapped from their family home in Rukn AlDeen, in Damascus.  Their families have received no information over their whereabouts and conditions of captivity. AGPS documented the incarceration of 1,797 Palestinians in Syrian government lock-ups, among them women and children

Residents of AlHajar AlAswad Submit Return Demands

Rif Dimashq Governorate has started receiving demands by residents of AlHajar AlAswad neighborhood to return to their houses and retrieve their property. Efforts have been ongoing by the Governorate to reconstruct the infrastructure in AlHajar AlAswad, near Yarmouk Camp, where hundreds of displaced Palestinian families have sought shelter. Damascus Governorate said that over 70% of infrastructure has been rehabilitated in

73 Palestinian Families in Syria’s Ataa Camp Launch Distress Signals

73 displaced Palestinian families taking shelter in Ataa camp, in Idlib’s northern outskirts, north of Syria, have been enduring a dire humanitarian situation. Most of them have been crammed in poorly-equipped houses of no more than 30 square meters and denied their rights to vital services. The camp is home to 400 Palestinian and Syrian families, 30 among whom were

7 Children Injured by Unexploded Ordnance in Palestinian Refugee Camp in Syria

At least seven children were left wounded in Hindarat Camp for Palestinian refugees, in the northern Syrian province of Aleppo, as explosive debris went off in the area. The wounded were rushed to AlKindi Hospital in Aleppo. Reporting from northern Syria, an AGPS news correspondent said the children, aged between 14 and 16, were wounded as they gathered in a

Palestinian Refugee Arrested by Turkish Police

Palestinian refugee Husain Mohamed Aboud was arrested by Turkish police after he failed to obtain the “kimlik” temporary protection card. Some five days earlier, Husain turned in a young man to police after he found out that he was abusing a child. Police accepted his testimony and arrested the young man.  Husain, displaced from Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, was arrested

Palestinian Refugee Arrested in Turkey

Palestinian refugee Tareq Kasem was arrested by Turkish police in Esenyurt city, in Istanbul after he failed to obtain the temporary protection card known as “kimlik”. Tareq who was displaced from Syria’s Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus, has called for urgent action by the international humanitarian and human rights institutions in order to pressurize the Turkish authorities to

Father of Palestinian Refugee Appeals for Urgent Treatment

Palestinian refugee from Syria Khalil Abu AlAlaa has appealed to the Palestinian ambassador in Lebanon to help him get a visa to Turkey so as to be able to visit his cancer-stricken son Muadh. A few months earlier, Muadh, previously sheltered in Yarmouk Camp, appealed to the international humanitarian organizations, the Turkish authorities, and the Palestine Embassy to help him

UNRWA Committee in Syria Submits Demands to Philippe Lazzarini

The committee of UNRWA staffers in Syria handed over a memorandum to the Agency’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini. The committee demanded that daily contracts and LDCs be turned into fixed contracts, allowing voluntary early retirement, and revising the salary scale of UNRWA workers. The committee also called for resuming annual promotions for employees (Steps), securing medical insurance for UNRWA employees in

Food Aid Distributed to Palestinian Refugee Families in Syria

NGOs and relief institutions handed over meat portions to Palestinian refugees across war-ravaged Syria. The Palestine Commission for Relief and Development in partnership with the Islamic Organization for Relief of Orphans and Poor People handed over meat to 15,000 displaced families in opposition-held zones in northern Syria.  At the same time, Muhjat AlQuds Foundation distributed meat to orphans’

Yarmouk Camp Residents Denied Access to Local Cemetery

Residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to denounce the movement crackdowns at checkpoints run by Russian forces. Civilians have reportedly been denied access to the local cemetery to pray for their deceased relatives. Eye-witnesses told AGPS that checkpoints run by the Syrian and Russian forces continue to cordon off Street 30 and AlMaghareba neighborhood in Yarmouk Camp. Over recent years, activists

Talal Naji Appointed as Secretary-General of PFLP-GC

Talal Naji was elected as the new Secretary-General of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command (PFLP—GC), replacing Ahmad Jibril, who died on July 7 in Damascus. Talal Naji was born in 1946 in Nazareth. He earned a PhD in Political Sciences from Moscow in 1984. AGPS has documented the death of hundreds PFLP – GC

Resident of Deraa Camp Missing for 5th Day

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Issa Falaha, born in 1984, has gone missing since July 15 after he left Deraa Camp, south of Syria. His family continues to appeal for information about his condition and whereabouts. 333 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare, AGPS has found out. Most of

700 Palestinian Refugee Families Return to Yarmouk Camp

Secretary-General of the of the Palestinian Popular Struggle Front Khaled Abdul Majid said some 700 families have returned to Yarmouk Camp so far. He added that several measures have been taken to protect civilians’ property. Families should submit property ownership proofs to have their houses reconstructed. Speaking with the state-run SANA news agency, Abdul Majid said there exists significant efforts

After Being Tortured by Syrian Regime…Palestinian Refugee Suffers Memory Loss

Palestinian refugee Jihad Abu Abboud has been spotted in Damascus streets after he completely lost his memory. In a photo circulated on social media, the man looked totally lost, with a pale face and semi-closed eyes that conveyed a sense of intense frustration and deep sorrow. The refugee was arrested by Syrian security forces in 2013. He had last been

Residents of Jaramana Camp Appeal for Repair of Water Network

Residents of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, said water has been cut off for four days. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to buy water supplies for privately-owned tanks at a price of up to 10,000 Syrian pounds a tank. Residents of Jaramana Camp, located a few kilometers away from central

3 Year Pass By since Palestinian Photojournalist Niraz Sa’id Died Under Torture in Syrian Prisons

Palestinian photographer Niraz Sa’id, from Yarmouk Camp, died one year ago under torture in Syrian government jails, where he had been detained for three years. Niraz Sa’id was kidnapped on October 2, 2015 by Syrian government forces and dragged to a detention center in Damascus. Sa’id left Yarmouk after ISIS stormed the camp on April 1, 2015. Sa’id, along with

National Solidarity Campaign Launched in Yarmouk Camp

The Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad launched on Thursday July 15 the National Solidarity Campaign II to support Palestinian refugees in camps and shelters set up in foreign countries.  The campaign has just seen the day in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, which represents a living witness to the Palestinian refugee plight. The Conference’s coordination chief Mohamed Msheinash said

Yarmouk’s Displaced Families Level Heavy Criticism at Damascus Governorate

Displaced Palestinian families wishing to return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, continue to denounce the complicated red tape slapped by the Syrian authorities. Speaking with AGPS on condition of anonymity, a resident said regime officers continue to force civilians wishing to gain access to their houses and retrieve their property to pay sums of money at

Rehabilitation of Water Network Ongoing in Yarmouk Camp

Efforts have been in progress by the Damascus Water Company to rehabilitate water installations in Yarmouk Camp and the adjacent neighborhood of Al-Hajar Al-Aswad, south of Damascus. The Ministry of Financial Resources in Syria said maintenance works will be kept up to repair water generators as part of a three-month agreement. The Ministry added that potable water will be available

50 Palestinian Families Receive Cash Aid in Damascus

Muhjat AlQuds Foundation distributed cash aid to 50 vulnerable Palestinian families in Damascus.  The concerned families received a sum of 100,000 Syrian pounds each. Ten years after demonstrations started in Syria, the majority of Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country have been grappling with an abject humanitarian situation. UN data indicates that over half of the Palestine

Palestinian Students Achieve Excellent Results at Syria High Schools

A number of Palestinian students obtained their high school diplomas in Syria with honors. Tala Mahmoud Khalaf, from Yarmouk Camp, has earned the highest score (2900/2900); Kusay Mahmoud Abdullah, also from Yarmouk Camp got the highest score at the Literature Branch in his district; Lujain Suleiman and Lana AlKhadraa ranked fourth at the level of Damascus Governorate, with a score

UNRWA Provides Overview of Its Mission in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

UNRWA in Syria said it has began providing some basic services to returned Yarmouk residents since September 2020.  In an effort to offer services to particularly vulnerable persons in Yarmouk, UNRWA has worked closely with the General Authority for Palestine Arab Refugees (GAPAR) to resume essential primary health care and disease prevention in Yarmouk.  As of 23 September

Yarmouk’s Displaced Families Lash Out at Damascus Governorate

Families displaced from Yarmouk Camp continue to slam the apathy maintained by Damascus Governorate regarding their appeals for reconstruction works and rubble clearance. Engineer Mohamed Salman, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, said the Governorate continues to drag its feet over the families’ calls for reconstruction permits and rehabilitation projects. He added that local authorities have failed to protect civilians’ property

Civilians Raise Concerns over Unexploded Ordnance in Yarmouk Camp

Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which are particularly unpredictable and difficult to detect, continue to put millions of people, including Palestine refugees, at risk in Syria. Civilians in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees continue to sound distress signals over the threats posed by unexploded ordnance.  The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine

Kindergarten to Be Rehabilitated in Yarmouk Camp

Volunteers in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus, have joined efforts to rehabilitate the Return Kindergarten, west of the camp, pending a permit by the Syrian authorities to reopen the facility. Mounds of debris continue to be spotted everywhere across the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, blocking civilians’ access to their homes and property. Some three years ago

Mounds of Debris Block Civilians’ Access to Yarmouk Camp

Mounds of debris continue to be spotted everywhere across the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, blocking civilians’ access to their homes and property. Some three years ago, precisely on April 19, 2018, Syrian regime forces and their Russian allies showered the camp with missiles and mortars, resulting in dozens of deaths among Palestinian refugees and hundreds of injuries. Over

Palestinian Refugee Ahmad Salam Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 7th Year

Palestinian refugee Ahmad Saad AlDeen Salam has been secretly held in Syrian government jails since 2014. Ahmed, born in 1989, was kidnapped on January 5, 2014 from Ali AlWahsh street, in Hjeira town, south of Damascus, as he attempted to flee the then-blockaded Yarmouk Camp. AGPS documented the secret detention of over 1,790 Palestinian refugees, including women and minors

Stranded Palestinian Refugee in Greece Appeals

Palestinian refugee Abdul Rahman Ahmed Badwan, born in 1995 and raised in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, has appealed to the international human rights institutions and Palestinian Authority to pressurize the Greek authorities to release him from prison. Abdul Rahman said Greek police arrested him on August 22, 2018 on his way to Thessalonique while boarding a car with four of his

Palestinian Refugee Karam Afani Secretly Held in Syrian Jail for 9th Year

Palestinian refugee Karam Ahmad Afani, aged 29, has been mysteriously locked up in Syrian state prisons since September 15, 2013. Karam, a resident of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, was arrested in Qudsaya, in Rif Dimashq. AGPS has documented the imprisonment of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in Syrian government jails, among them 110 women and girls.  

Activists Warn Yarmouk Residents against Attempts to Turn Their Property into Bargaining Chips

Activists have called on the residents of Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, to stand on guard to all attempts to force them to forfeit their houses and property at low prices. The activists have warned against attempts by crooked real estate brokers to pressurize civilians to sell their homes and properties following the widely-condemned reconstruction plan proposed by Damascus Governorate. Real

UNRWA Pushes For Facilitating Return of Yarmouk’s Displaced Families

UNRWA’s Director of Syria Operations Amnya Michael Ebye said efforts have been ongoing to facilitate the return of displaced Palestinian families to the refugee camps of Yarmouk, in Damascus, and Ein Tel, in Aleppo. In a meeting with Palestinian Ambassador Samir AlRfai’, Amanya said UNRWA has rehabilitated some of its services in the two camps, including food aid distribution and

Palestinian Refugee Children Haunted by Destruction in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian refugee children in Syria continue to walk past the debris of war everyday to reach their schools in nearby suburbs, enduring a scary journey that never ceases to remind them of the weight of displacement, hardship and the loss of loved ones. Thousands of Palestine refugee children in Syria bear the scars of the Syrian war. Although cautious calm

Palestinian Refugee Youths Fall Prey to Drug Consumption in War-Torn Syria

Palestinian refugee youths continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the eleven-year warfare in Syria, amidst a deadly pandemic outbreak. Palestinian refugee youths (aged 12 – 30) make up nearly 30% of the Palestinians of Syria, estimated at 540,000 in 2014. The war has resulted in increasing rates of juvenile delinquency, unemployment, and psychological disorders. Reports of drug

Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees in Syria Gripped with Water Crisis

Palestinian refugees sheltered in AlHamam neighborhood in Jaramana Camp, in Rif Dimashq, continue to launch distress calls over the water blackout, which has been ongoing for weeks due to damaged water pipes. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to buy water supplies from privately-owned tanks at a price of up to 10,000 Syrian pounds

Swedish Authorities to Reconsider Asylum Application by Palestinian Family from Syria

A Palestinian refugee called Salma said the Swedish Migration Department will reexamine her demand for humanitarian asylum which had been rejected some five years ago. Salma and her four children fled the ravaged Yarmouk Camp to Lebanon before they reached Sweden, where the migration authorities refused to grant her asylum on claims that she came from a safe destination—Lebanon. Salma

Yarmouk’s Displaced Families Denounce Apathy by Palestinian Actors in Syria

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, have slammed the apathy maintained by Palestinian political factions regarding the dire humanitarian condition in the camp. In a poll conducted by AGPS, 77.3% of the respondents leveled heavy criticism at the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Only 2.2% acclaimed the PLO’s position.  52.9% said they are

UNRWA Seeks Cooperation with Syrian Authorities

UNRWA’s Director of Syria Operations met with the Minister of Local Administration and Environment Husain Makhlouf. The meeting comes as part of ongoing attempts by UNRWA to boost cooperation with the Syrian government in order to enhance vital services for Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country. The two sides discussed the latest developments regarding Yarmouk Camp and underway efforts

420 Members of PFLP-GC Pronounced Dead in Syria Conflict

AGPS has documented the death of hundreds of members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command (PFLP – GC) as they fought alongside the Syrian government forces across war-torn Syrian, mostly in Yarmouk Camp. Sometime earlier, PFLP – GC’s Deputy Secretary-General, Talal Naji, told Sputnik news site that 420 PFLP – GC gunmen were killed

Syrian Authorities Ban Opening of Commercial Shops in Yarmouk Camp

The Syrian authorities continue to ban shopkeepers in Yarmouk Camp from reopening their shops. Palestinian refugees told AGPS that Syrian security forces have prevented shopkeepers from unlocking their stores and groceries to sell food items in order to provide for their families. Some 200 families have remained in Yarmouk Camp. Scores of stranded families fled the camp following the 33-day

Following Pressure by Palestinian Refugees, Spokesman Appointed in I’zaz City

The opposition-run local council in northern Syrian has appointed a spokesman for Palestinian refugees in I’zaz city and its outskirts, north of Aleppo, in order to follow up on the refugees’ situation and broker their access to vital services, including registration of rent/sales contracts, ownership proofs, and personal information updates. Some 215 Palestinian families displaced from the refugee camps of

Psychological Support Initiative Launched in Favor of Yarmouk Children

AlAmana Foundation held psychological support sessions for a number of children displaced from Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The association pledged that every child in the camp will benefit from the psychological assistance program. The warfare in Syria, which has now entered its eleventh year, has had traumatic fallouts on Palestinian refugee children in and outside the

15 PLA Fighters Pronounced Dead following Break-Away from Pro-Gov’t Forces

15 members of the Palestine Liberation Army (PLA) were pronounced dead after they broke away from the battalion. Several others were tortured to death in Syrian government jails. The list includes Lieutenant Iyas Naimi, who died under shelling in Yarmouk Camp on July 30, 2013. Seven others died under torture: Handball coach Osama AlKhadra, Sergeant Muhammad Hamdan, commander Mohammed Farah

Palestinian Refugees in Sehnya Town Facing Dire Conditions

Some 1,500 Palestinian refugee families who fled southern Damascus to Sehnaya and AlAshrafiya, in Rif Dimashq, continue to struggle with abject living conditions. The first Palestinian exodus to the area saw the day in July 2012. In December, a larger wave occurred, with nearly 140,000 people fleeing Yarmouk Camp. In late 2013, nearly 10,000 residents of AlSabina

UNRWA Director in Syria Meets with Damascus Governor

UNRWA’s Director of Syria Operations Michael Amanya met on Monday with Damascus Governor Adel Aleibi to discuss the humanitarian situation and assess efforts to secure humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable families. AlAleibi said the Governorate has been doing its best to facilitate the return of displaced families to Yarmouk Camp. The meeting underscored the need for pressing on with

AGPS: Thousands of Palestinian Refugees Displaced in/from Syria

In a report released on the International Refugees’ Day, marked annually on June 20, AGPS said thousands of Palestinian refugees in/from Syria have been displaced from their houses and refugee camps. Heavy shelling on the displacement camps of Yarmouk, Khan Eshieh, AlSabina, AlHusainiya, Hindarat, and Deraa, among other camps in Syria, forced hundreds of Palestinian families to flee to other

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Long For Reconstruction Permits by Syrian Authorities

UNRWA has expressed its readiness to reconstruct its destroyed premises in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Palestinian Ambassador Samir AlRefai also said, during his meeting with UNRWA’s Director of Syria Operations Michael Amanya, that the rubble-clearance committee is awaiting an official permit by local authorities to finalize its works in the area.

Sister of Forcibly-Disappeared Palestinian Refugee in Syria Appeals for Information

A Palestinian refugee has called upon the Syrian authorities and international human rights organizations to work on disclosing the condition and whereabouts of her brother Abdul Karim Jamal Abu Hashish, forcibly disappeared by the Syrian regime for the eighth year running.  Abdul Karim, aged 40, and his father, Jamal, were both arrested in February 2014 at a security checkpoint

UN blacklists Syrian Government for Violations against Children

On Friday, UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, included the Syrian Army on the blacklist of countries and groups violating the rights of children in conflict areas. In addition to Syrian government forces, the UN also blacklisted Myanmar army and Houthi militants in Yemen. This came hours after re-appointing Guterres, who has been as UN Secretary-General since 2017, for a second

76% of Yarmouk Camp Residents Unable to Reconstruct Their Destroyed Houses

A poll conducted by AGPS has revealed that 72% of Yarmouk Camp residents cannot reconstruct their destroyed houses and property. 23.1% said they need funds; Only 4.9% said they can carry out reconstruction works on their own. 79.5% of the respondents said reconstruction falls under the mandate of the Syrian government, UNRWA, and the Palestinian Authority. 53

Yarmouk’s Displaced Families Level Heavy Criticism at Damascus Governorate

Merchants and families displaced from Yarmouk Camp slammed Damascus Governorate and the member of its executive office Samir AlJazaerli for hindering projects seeking to reconstruct ravaged houses and destroyed infrastructure. The residents warned of attempts by the Governorate to implement the widely-condemned reconstruction plan issued last year. The families called on Jazaerli to step down as he reneged on his

Yarmouk Camp Residents Push for Urgent Reconstruction

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus, who received permits to return to their houses and retrieve their property called on Damascus Governorate to remove debris from residential alleyways and greenlight reconstruction projects. Residents of Deir Yassin neighborhood said their appeals for house reconstruction permits were turned down by local authorities. After ten years of conflict, Palestine

Missing Palestinian Refugee Child Found in Syria

Palestinian child Yousef Hafedh Mutleq, born in 2007 and raised in Deraa refugee camp, south of Syria, was found a couple of days after he had gone missing in Gilin town, in Deraa’s western outskirts.  333 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare, AGPS has found out

1,458 Palestinian Residents of Yarmouk Camp Die of War-Related Incidents in Syria

1,458 Palestinians sheltered in Yarmouk camp were killed in the raging Syrian warfare, 496 among whom died under shelling rocking the camp while the blockade and medical neglect took away the lives of 208 Palestinian refugees. 237 refugees were, meanwhile, fatally gunned down while 168 Palestinians were killed by sniper bullets. 215 others were tortured to death at the

Palestinian Poet Wins 3rd Place at Arab Poetry Criticism Competition

Palestinian poet and researcher Dr. Yousef Hateini, raised in Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, won the third prize of the Sharjah contest for Arabic Poetry Criticism.  Yousef’s work tackled the narrative techniques in contemporary Arabic poetry. Moroccan researcher Rachid Idrissi won the Sharjah Prize for Arab Poetry Criticism in its very first edition. According to the jury of the Prize, whose

Residents of Jaramana Camp Denounce Bread Crisis

Residents of Jaramana camp for Palestinian refugees said they continue to line up for hours under the scorching summer beams to receive bread. Civilians also denounced manipulation of prices and supplies and appealed for urgent action by the concerned authorities.  Jaramana camp is 8km from Damascus on the road to Damascus International Airport.  The camp was established in

Palestinians in T’seil Town Raise Concerns over Unexploded War Ordnance

Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which are particularly unpredictable and difficult to detect, continue to put millions of people, including Palestine refugees, at risk. Palestinian refugees taking shelter in T’seil town, west of the southern Syrian province of Deraa, said their children’s safety is at high risk due to landmines and other dangerous items. UN

Project to Install Solar Panels Finalized in Yarmouk Camp

The Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad finalized a project to install solar panels in Yarmouk Camp. Displaced Palestinian families wishing to return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp continue to denounce the complicated red tape slapped by the Syrian authorities. Yarmouk camp, once home to 160,000 Palestine refugees, suffered devastating destruction because of intense fighting that decimated most of

Reconstruction Works ongoing South of Damascus

Efforts have been ongoing by Damascus Governorate to reconstruct the infrastructure in AlHajar AlAswad, near Yarmouk Camp, where hundreds of displaced Palestinian families have sought shelter. Damascus Governorate said that over 70% of infrastructure has been rehabilitated in the nearby AlThwarah and Tishreen neighborhoods. It pledged to speed up works to reconstruct the sanitation, water, power, and telecommunications networks. 

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Appeals for Urgent Humanitarian Assistance in Turkey

A Palestinian refugee called Omar and displaced from Syria’s Yarmouk Camp to Turkey has appealed to the international humanitarian and human rights institutions to help him secure treatment charges. Omar suffered from retinal detachment--an emergency situation in which a thin layer of tissue (the retina) at the back of the eye pulls away from its normal position. He underwent an

2 Residents of Deraa Camp for Palestinian Refugees Injured at Gov’t Checkpoint in Syria

Two Palestinian young men from Deraa Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Syria, were injured with Israeli bullet fire as they crossed a government-run checkpoint pitched near the camp. Ahmad Abu Zard sustained serious injuries in his jaw and was rushed to the Deraa National Hospital. Omar AlMesri was wounded in his hand.  Recently, Syrian security forces abruptly closed

Red Cross Delegation Shows Up in Yarmouk Camp

An international Red Cross delegation toured Yarmouk Camp and inspected the condition of the local infrastructure. Muhjat AlQuds Foundation supervising a project to install solar panels in Yarmouk Camp called on the concerned human rights and humanitarian institution to join resources in order to rehabilitate Yarmouk Camp.  

Palestinian Refugee Maher Barghouth Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 9th Year

Palestinian refugee Maher Abdul Hafidh Barghouth has been secretly held in Syrian government prisons for the 9th consecutive year. Maher, born in 1981, was arrested in September 2012 on the access road between Yarmouk Camp and AlZahira neighborhood.   

Palestinian Refugee Behind Syria Prison Bars Appeals for Release

A newly-released prisoner in Syria quoted Palestinian refugee Basel Mohamed Ali AlShehabi as appealing to the international human rights institutions to pressurize the Syrian regime to release him from prison. Basel reportedly asked the ex-prisoner to reach out to his family and update them on his transfer to Adra central prison, in Damascus. The prisoner, in his 30s, was arrested

Syrian Regime Pledges Rehabilitation of Yarmouk Camp, Residents Appeal for Action

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in Syria, Bashar Al-Jaafari, said that instructions were issued by the Syrian President to immediately implement practical steps to smooth the return of Palestinian refugees to Yarmouk Camp. This came during a meeting between the Syrian President Bashar Al-Asad and representatives of Palestinian factions held a few days ago. Nour Association, close to

Qatar Fund For Development Continues to Support Palestinian Refugees in Syria

The Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) has contributed US$ 5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in support of its health programme in Syria.  UNRWA said in a press release that this generous donation is part of a US$ 20.7 million agreement that QFFD provided to the

Displaced Palestinian Families Call for Return to, Reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, and to press ahead with reconstruction projects. In 2019, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) published the results of an assessment of the damage to Syrian cities caused by seven years of relentless bombardment

Jaramana Camp for Palestinian Refugees in Syria Gripped with Water Crisis

Palestinian refugees sheltered in Omar Ibn AlKhattab neighborhood and near the local market in Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees continue to launch distress calls over the water blackout, which has been ongoing for weeks. Civilians have found no other way to secure potable water than to buy water supplies for privately-owned tanks at a price of up to 10,000

Palestinians Struggling for Survival in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Palestinian refugees sheltered in displacement camps in northern Syria have been enduring a tragic situation. Most of them have been crammed in poorly-equipped tents and denied their rights to vital services. Hundreds of Palestinian families have been struggling for survival in the poorly-equipped Deir Ballout and Muhammadiya camps, among other camps, after they were forced out of Yarmouk and southern

252 Palestinian Children Killed in War-Torn Syria

In statistics released on the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression, AGPS said it has recorded the death of 252 Palestinian refugee children in war-torn Syria. The International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression is a United Nations observance each 4 June. It was established on 19 August 1982. Originally focused on victims of the 1982 Lebanon

Food Baskets Distributed to Displaced Palestinian Families in Yarmouk

UNRWA, in cooperation with the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR) distributed on June 3 food baskets to vulnerable families in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Mounds of debris continue to be spotted everywhere across the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, which has come under heavy shelling all the way through Syria’s ten-year conflict. Some

Syrian Plan to Rehabilitate Yarmouk Camp Sparks further Controversy

Questions have been raised about the controversial master plan issued by Damascus Governorate to reconstruct Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. This came at a seminar held by the General Company for Engineering Studies on 25/5/2021, tackling the company’s experience of urban planning in Yarmouk Camp.  A lecture was delivered by engineer Amani AlHamad in the presence

Palestinian Refugees Raise Concern over Security Turmoil in Deraa

Tension has been running high in Deraa Camp for Palestinian refugees after Syrian security forces closed off access roads to and around the area. At the same time, an explosive device went off on Sunday, resulting in material damage. Recently, Syrian security forces abruptly closed off the access road to Deraa Camp for Palestinian refugees with sand barriers. Vehicles and

UNRWA Committee Assesses Damage in Deraa Camp for Palestinian Refugees

A UNRWA committee has entered Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Deraa, south of Syria, to assess the damage wrought on the Agency’s premises in the Syrian warfare pending their reconstruction. Residents of Deraa Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Syria, have called on the international human rights organizations to work on rehabilitating schools and vital premises, particularly healthcare facilities

Solar Lighting Devices to Be Installed in Yarmouk Camp

Muhjat AlQuds Foundation, in cooperation with the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad, has finalized preparations for an initiative aiming to rehabilitate lighting across Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The drive will see solar energy panels installed across residential thoroughfares. Displaced Palestinian families wishing to return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp continue to denounce the complicated red

Syrian Gov’t Forces Close Off Access Roads to Deraa Camp

The Syrian security forces abruptly closed off the access road to Deraa Camp for Palestinian refugees with sand barriers. Vehicles and civilians have been denied access out of and into the area. The Syrian forces also closed off the main thoroughfare between Deraa city and Yarmouk Camp. An AGPS reporter said sounds of heavy gunshooting have been detected in Deraa

Yarmouk Camp Students Transferred to Examination Centres

Students of the ravaged Yarmouk Camp have been transferred to examination centres outside the camp under the supervision of UNRWA and the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR).  Palestinian refugee schoolchildren and students continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the eleven-year warfare. Available data by UNRWA indicates that 32 UNRWA facilities have been reduced to rubble

Solar Lighting Devices Installed in Yarmouk Camp

A number of Yarmouk Camp residents have embarked on an initiative to rehabilitate lighting across the camp. The drive will see solar energy systems installed across residential thoroughfares. Displaced Palestinian families wishing to return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp continue to denounce the complicated red tape slapped by the Syrian authorities. Yarmouk camp, once home to 160,000 Palestine

UNRWA Addresses UNSC over Situation of Palestinians of Syria

Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has sounded the alarm over the squalid humanitarian condition endured by Palestinian refugees. UNRWA’s Philippe Lazzarini addressed the UN Security Council (UNSC) from the Agency’s headquarters in East Jerusalem, only a few hundred meters from the neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah, where eight Palestine refugee families face the

252 Palestinians from Yarmouk Camp Forcibly Disappeared in Syria

AGPS has documented the secret detention of 252 Palestinian residents of Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus in Syria’s state-run penal complexes. The list includes 25 women. 125 of Yarmouk detainees were arrested in the camp while nine refugees were arrested in the nearby AlTadhamun neighborhood. Seven residents were arrested in AlZahira, seven in Yalda, four in AlASayeda Zeinab, and four

Palestinian Refugees in Northern Syria Displacement Camps Denounce Bread Shortage

Displaced Palestinians and Syrians sheltered in Deir Ballout and AlMuhammadiya camps, in the northern Syrian province of Aleppo, denounced the poor bread distribution mechanisms. On May 28, the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency of Turkey (AFAD) distributed bread to over 600 displaced families taking refuge in the camps. The families were made to line up for hours under the scorching

Injured Palestinian Woman from Syria Threatened with Deportation from Denmark

The Danish migration authorities have refused to renew the visa of a Palestinian refugee woman displaced from Yarmouk Camp. Speaking with AGPS, Palestinian refugee woman Rehab Kasem said the judge of the grievance court ruled for deporting her from Denmark in a month after he claimed that Damascus is a safe zone. Rehab obtained the Swedish citizenship in 2009 before

Activists Push for Rehabilitation of Yarmouk Camp

Activists have launched calls for reconstructing Yarmouk Camp and allowing displaced residents to return to their houses and retrieve their property. The activists said the return of families to the camp will help bring back the situation to normal and pressurize authorities and vital facilities to reopen their doors. Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow

Property-Theft Reported in Jaramana Camp

Palestinian refugee families in Jaramana camp, in Rif Dimashq, have raised concerns over the increasing abductions, home-burglary attempts, and sexual harassment reported in the area, particularly overnight due to chronic power blackouts.  Over recent months, the Syrian authorities arrested gangsters involved in property-theft in the camp. A couple of days earlier, gunshots were fired in AlQeitiya neighborhood in the

AGPS: 86% of Yarmouk Camp Residents Displaced against Their Will

A poll recently conducted by AGPS about the reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp found out that 86.7% of the residents have been forcibly displaced from their houses in the camp. Only 13.3% said they voluntarily left the camp. According to the findings of the poll, 53.4% of the participants expressed their eagerness to return to the camp while

Family Appeals for Information over Forcibly-Disappeared Palestinian Refugee in Syria

The family of Palestinian refugee Ibrahim Ahmad Jamal, who has been forcibly disappeared in Syria for the seventh consecutive year, continues to appeal for information about his condition and whereabouts. Speaking with AGPS, Ibrahim’s mother said her son disappeared on March 10, 2014 while working at Bab AlHara restaurant, in Jaramana, in Rif Dimashq. Ibrahim was born on September 23

Palestinians of Syria Enduring Multiple Hardships

Ten years after demonstrations started in Syria, the majority of Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country have been grappling with an abject humanitarian situation. UN data indicates that over half of the Palestine refugees in the country have been displaced at least once because of the brutal conflict that ensued, including 120,000 who have sought safety in neighbouring

March Held in Northern Syria to Celebrate Gaza Ceasefire

Palestinian and Syrian refugees took to streets in Izaz city, north of Syria, to celebrate the ceasefire deal between Israel and the Palestinian resistance. The refugees chanted slogans in solidarity with Gaza and in protest at Israel’s atrocious crimes against the Palestinians. Recently, Rallies have swept Palestinian refugee camps in Syria in protest at the deadly Israeli airstrikes on Gaza

Bread Aid Suspended in Northern Syria Displacement Camps

Displaced Palestinian refugees sheltered in Deir Ballout and AlMuhammadiya, north of Syria, said distribution of bread by the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency of Turkey (AFAD) has been suspended, exacerbating their dire humanitarian condition. The refugees lashed out at AFAD and the international humanitarian institutions for turning deaf ears to their appeals for urgent humanitarian assistance. Hundreds of Palestinian families

51% of Yarmouk Camp Residents Express Distrust in Syrian Gov’t

A poll conducted by AGPS about the situation in Yarmouk Camp showed that 51.9% of the residents expressed their distrust in the promises made by the Syrian government to reconstruct the camp.  Only 18.6% of respondents said they are hopeful that these promises would be made true. Last month, AGPS published a new report comprising the findings

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Call for Urgent Action by Syrian Foreign Minister

Residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees urged Syrian Foreign Minister Faysal Miqdad to take serious action in response to the Israeli aggressions on Gaza. The refugees called on the Foreign Minister to also work on rehabilitating their houses and property in the ravaged Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, pending their return to their homeland. On the 73rd anniversary of

Palestinian Refugee Missing from Khan Dannun Camp

Palestinian refugee Khaled Halawah has gone missing from Khan Dannun Camp, in Rif Dimashq, for days. Khaled suffers from Down syndrome. 333 Palestinian refugees, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare. Most of those who have disappeared in the country are residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. Activists

Palestinian Girl Goes Missing in Syria

A Palestinian child called “Haneen” disappeared on May 15 as she left her family house in AlHusainiya, in Rif Dimashq. Her family continues to appeal for information over her condition and whereabouts. 333 Palestinian refugees, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare. Most of those who have disappeared in the country are

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Denounce Movement Restrictions due to Russian Checkpoints

Residents of Yarmouk Camp continue to denounce the movement crackdowns at checkpoints run by Russian forces. Civilians have reportedly been denied access to the local cemetery to pray for their deceased relatives. Eye-witnesses told AGPS that checkpoints run by the Syrian and Russian forces continue to cordon off Street 30 and AlMaghareba neighborhood in Yarmouk Camp. Over recent years, activists

Palestinians of Syria Express Dismay over Latest Israeli Aggressions on Gaza, Jerusalem

Rallies have swept Palestinian refugee camps in Syria in protest at the deadly Israeli airstrikes on Gaza and crackdowns on Palestinians in occupied Jerusalem. The rallies took place in the refugee camps of Yarmouk, Jaramana, AlNeirab, Hindarat, AlAyedeen, and displacement camps set up in northern Syria. Palestinian refugees voiced their strong condemnation of the latest surge in violence by Israeli

Rallies Held across Palestinian Refugee Camps in Syria over Israeli Aggressions on Gaza, Jerusalem

Rallies have swept Palestinian refugee camps in Syria in protest at the deadly Israeli airstrikes on Gaza and crackdowns on Palestinians in occupied Jerusalem. The rallies took place in the refugee camps of Yarmouk, Jaramana, AlNeirab, Hindarat, and AlAyedeen, among other displacement camps. Palestinian refugees voiced their strong condemnation of the latest surge in violence by Israeli forces and settler

Residents of Yarmouk Camp Sound Alarm over Squalid Conditions

Residents of Yarmouk Camp briefed the director-general of the political department of the Palestine Liberation Organization Anwar Abdul Hadi on their dire humanitarian condition due to protracted displacement and homelessness.  This came during a visit by Abdul Hadi to Yarmouk Camp’s cemetery.  

Palestinian Refugees Facing Dire Humanitarian Condition in Libya

Palestinian refugees who fled war-torn Syria to Libya have been grappling with squalid conditions due to the security turmoil and the frequent abductions and murders reported across the Libyan territories. So far, there exists no accurate statistics about Palestinians from Syria in Libya. A refugee displaced from Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, told AGPS that Palestinians from Syria have lost their

Palestinian Refugee Mohamed AlShehabi Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 8th Year

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Hasan AlShehabi has been secretly held in Syrian government prisons for eight consecutive years. Mohamed, born in 1981, was arrested at a checkpoint in Yarmouk Camp on July 10, 2013.  

Over 90% of Property in Yarmouk Camp Subjected to Theft

A poll conducted by AGPS about the reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp showed that civilian property and abandoned structures have been subjected to theft and burglary. 93.% of respondents said their property and houses were ransacked/stolen. However, they still want to go back to the camp and retrieve their property due to the exorbitant house rents and loss of livelihoods

UNRWA Deputy Commissioner-General Calls For Increased Services For Palestine Refugees in Syria

During her first official visit to Syria from 24-28 April 2021, newly appointed UNRWA Deputy Commissioner-General, Leni Stenseth, met with Palestine refugees and inspected UNRWA installations in Syria.  She met with several Government officials, including Dr. Bashar al-Jaafari, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and expatriates, Dr. Salwa al-Abdallah, Minister of Social Affairs and Labour, and Mr. Ali Mustafa, Director-General

Palestinian Activists Call For Holding Eid Prayers in Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian activists have called for holding Muslim prayers in congregation on the holy Eid Day in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. The activists posted calls on social media using the hashtag #Eid_prayers_in_our_camp. Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, and to press ahead with

Palestinian Refugee Mohamed Mohamed Secretly Held in Syrian Prisons for 9th Year

The family of Palestinian refugee Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamed, born in 1976, continues to appeal for information over their forcibly disappeared relative, who has been locked up in Syrian government jails since January 24, 2013. A resident of Yarmouk Camp, the refugee was kidnapped from his workplace in Dumar area, in western Damascus. An ex-prisoner who was released from the Syrian

Displaced Families Push for Return to, Reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, and to press ahead with reconstruction projects. In 2019, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) published the results of an assessment of the damage to Syrian cities caused by seven years of relentless bombardment

Palestinian Brothers Muhammad and Muayad Akawi Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime

Palestinian brothers Mohamed Saleh Akawi, born in 1982, and Muayad Salah Akawi, born in 1992, have gone missing since December 2013. Both of them were kidnapped by Syrian government troops deployed at AlBatikha checkpoint, set up on the access road to Yarmouk Camp.  

AGPS Publishes Poll about Reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp

AGPS has published a new report comprising the findings of an opinion poll about the reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp and the developments which occurred in the area after they Syrian government recaptured it. 264 people participated in the poll between March 15 – 31. The poll is made up of ten questions about the situation in Yarmouk Camp, the destruction

Resident of Khan Eshieh Camp for Palestinian Refugees Commits Suicide

A Palestinian refugee born in 1997 committed suicide inside his house in Khan Eshieh camp. Local sources told AGPS that the refugee suffered psychological disorders as a result of his involvement in bloody shootouts alongside Syrian regime forces. He had survived a stabbing in his neck by an ISIS militiaman.  11 years into the Syrian conflict, Palestinian refugees sheltered

Over 20 Shops Rehabilitated in Yarmouk Camp

Shopkeepers in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus, said they have started reconstructing their shops after they got permits to that end from local authorities. Activists told AGPS that over 20 commercial structures have been rehabilitated in Yarmouk at a sum of 30 million Syrian pounds. Over recent months, activists have warned against attempts by crooked real estate brokers

Palestinian Refugee Siraj Abu Reya Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 7th Year

Palestinian refugee Siraj Abu Reya has been secretly held in Syrian state-run prisons since 2014. Siraj, born in 1985, was arrested on January 05, 2014 in Ali AlWahsh neighborhood, in Hjeira town, south of Damascus as he attempted to leave the ravaged Yarmouk refugee camp.    

Humanitarian Condition Exacerbated by Theft of Power/Water Installations in AlHusainiya Camp

Residents of AlHusainiya Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, said water pumps and electricity wires have been stolen by anonymous thieves to sell them at cheap prices in the poverty-stricken area. Property-theft and house burglary have been increasingly reported at Palestinian refugee camps in Syria. Activists told AGPS that pro-government gunmen in Syria have been raking through Palestinian displacement

18 Palestinian Journalists Killed in War-Torn Syria

AGPS has recorded the death of 18 Palestinian journalists in Syria and the secret detention of dozens more since the outburst of deadly hostilities in March 2011, among whom academics and volunteers. The causalities died while covering scenes on the battleground or while providing civilians with relief assistance across the ravaged Syrian territories. The list includes nine journalists who died

Relief Items Distributed to Displaced Palestinian Families in Syria

The Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad in cooperation with Muhjat AlQuds Association distributed on May 2 relief items to 600 families who were displaced from Yarmouk Camp to the adjacent Yalda town. Over 5,000 Palestinian refugees taking shelter south of Damascus have been grappling with dire conditions due to the price leap, steep rental fees, and forced military conscription

Family Appeals for Information over Fate of Missing Refugee in Turkey

The family of Palestinian refugee from Syria Mohamed Ahmed Es’id has called upon the Turkish and Greek authorities along with the International Red Cross and other humanitarian institutions to work on disclosing Ahmed’s condition and whereabouts. Ahmed disappeared over two years ago as he tried to illegally enter the Greek island of Rhodes through Turkey. The family said Es’id was

Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad Distributes Relief Items in Yarmouk Camp

The Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad distributed relief items to residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus. 200 families benefited from the move. Representatives of the Popular Conference visited Fayez Halawah Clinic and the local bakery to assess the damage inflicted upon them in the warfare. The unabated warfare has had disastrous fallouts on Palestinian refugee camps across

Palestinian Refugee in Northern Syria Displacement Camp Appeals for Urgent Treatment

Palestinian refugee Amer Abu Hamda, sheltered in northern Syria, has appealed for urgent medical treatment in nearby Turkey. Reporting from northern Syria, an AGPS correspondent said Amer, displaced from Yarmouk Camp to Aleppo, suffers from pituitary adenomas (tumors affecting the pituitary gland) and is need of chemical doses that are unavailable in the under-equipped health centres set up in northern

2 Schools to Be Re-Opened in Yarmouk Camp

Syria’s Education Minister Darem Tabaa greenlighted the rehabilitation of the Yarmouk High School and Abdul Kader AlHusaini School, in Yarmouk camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The schools are slated to reopen starting the next academic year following reconstruction and maintenance works. On March 16, Director-General of the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR), Ali Mustafa, handed over

Fast-Breaking Meals Distributed to Displaced Palestinian Families in Qudsaya

Muhjat AlQuds Association in Syria distributed on April 29 some 200 Iftar meals to displaced Palestinian families sheltered in Syria’s Qudsaya town. Some 6,000 Palestinian families displaced from Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, continue to face dire socio-economic conditions in Qudsaya.  

Charity Banquet Held in Yarmouk Camp

The Palestine Liberation Organization held a fast-breaking banquet for 200 families living in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. The residents hailed the move, which they said comes at a time of multiple hardships inflicted by years of protracted displacement and the coronavirus pandemic.  

Real Estate Brokers Prevented from Manipulating Civilian Property in Yarmouk Camp

Instructions have been released by officials in charge of Yarmouk file to stand on guard to real estate brokers who have been attempting to buy/sell homes, shops, and civilian property in Yarmouk Camp. Over recent months, activists have warned against attempts by crooked real estate brokers to pressurize civilians to sell their homes and properties following the widely-condemned reconstruction plan

Missing Palestinian Refugee Child Found in AlRamadan Camp

Palestinian child Mohamed Ismail AlSalati, aged 12, was found a few days after he disappeared from AlRamadan refugee camp, in Rif Dimashq. More than 330 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare, AGPS has found out. Most of those who have disappeared in the country are residents of

Solar Panels Installed in Yarmouk Refugee Camp

The Syrian authorities greenlighted a project to rehabilitate the electricity network in Yarmouk Camp using solar panels. Over recent years, the residents have frequently complained that power cables have been stolen from abandoned houses and alleyways in Yarmouk refugee camp, where civilians’ life has already been marred by the frequent power blackouts. Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned

Palestinian Refugee Released by Syria Opposition Group after 3 Years

Tahrir AlSham Commission in the northern Syrian province of Idlib released on April 21 the Palestinian refugee Mohamed Mahmoud Khalil, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, after they kept him captive for three years. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in Syria, mostly in state-run penal complexes. AGPS also documented the death of over 600 Palestinian

Child Goes Missing in AlRamadan Refugee Camp

Palestinian refugee from Syria Mohamed Ismail AlSalati, aged 12, disappeared from Rif Dimashq province some four days earlier.  His family, sheltered in AlRamadan camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, continues to appeal for information about his condition and whereabouts. More than 330 Palestinian refugees from Syria, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of

Water Network to Be Rehabilitated in Yarmouk Camp

The General Construction and Reconstruction Company said it has signed a contract with the General Water Company in Damascus in order to rehabilitate the water network in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The contract is worth 200 million Syrian pounds. Reconstruction works are slated see the day in a few weeks. Water has been repeatedly cut off

Palestinian Refugee Mohamed AlBash Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 8th Year

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Bassam AlBash, from Yarmouk camp, has been secretly held in Syrian government prisons for the eighth consecutive year. Mohamed, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, was arrested on May 07, 2013 by Syrian security forces deployed near the main entrance to the camp. He is the brother of activist Ahmad AlBash, who was killed in an air strike

Palestinian Refugee Released from Turkish Custody

Palestinian refugee from Syria Abdul Rahman Dasouki, born in 2004, was released from Turkish custody, one week after he was arrested by Turkish police in Esenyurt city, in Istanbul, on April 15. Abdul Rahma, who fled Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, was arrested after police found out that he is a non-holder of the temporary protection card “kimlik”. He has been held

3 Years after Syrian Regime Bombarded Yarmouk Camp…Civilian Bodies Still Trapped Under Rubble

Civilian bodies have reportedly been trapped under rubble in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Damascus, three years after the Syrian fighter jets and Russian forces on April 19, 2018 showered the camp with bombs and missiles. Local sources told AGPS that dozens of bodies are still stranded under the debris of destroyed homes and facilities. The bodies of Abdul

Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees Gripped With Rubble Piles

Mounds of debris continue to be spotted everywhere across the ravaged Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, which has come under heavy shelling all the way through Syria’s ten-year conflict. Some three years ago, precisely on April 19, 2018, Syrian regime forces and their Russian allies showered the camp with missiles and mortars, resulting in dozens of deaths among Palestinian refugees

Palestinian Refugee Succumbs to Coronavirus in Lebanon

Palestinian refugee from Syria Emad Kaadan Abu Issa died of coronavirus in Lebanon. Emad, a resident of AlJalil camp in Baalbek, fled Yarmouk Camp in Damascus. So far, 22 Palestinians from Syria have succumbed to the deadly disease.  

Palestinian Ambassador in Damascus, Resident of Yarmouk Camp Succumb to Coronavirus

Palestinian Ambassador to Damascus Mahmoud Al-Khalidi died due to complications from coronavirus, Palestinian embassy in Damascus, Syria, announced on Saturday. “Al-Khalidi passed away in Jaffa Hospital in Damascus,” the embassy said. “The burial will take place in the  martyrs’ cemetery in the Yarmouk camp.” On his part, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas mourned Al-Khalidi’s death, declaring a one-day state

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Arrested in Istanbul

Palestinian refugee from Syria Abdul Rahman Dasouki was arrested by Turkish police in Esenyurt city, in Istanbul, on April 15. Abdul Rahma, who fled Syria’s Yarmouk Camp, was arrested after police found out that he is a non-holder of the temporary protection card “kimlik”. He has been held in a repatriation center in Istanbul. Abdul Rahman and his family illegally

Palestinian Refugees Assaulted Outside of Beirut Embassy

A number of Palestinian refugees who launched calls for urgent humanitarian assistance were assaulted outside of the Palestine Embassy in Beirut. In a live footage circulated on social media networks, a man called Atallah and affiliated with Fatah Movement appears to attack a Palestinian refugee woman displaced from Syria’s Yarmouk Camp. Last week, representatives of Fatah Movement in Lebanon called

Medical Equipment Delivered to Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian Refugees

Director of the political department of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), ambassador Anwar Abdul Hadi, sent medical supplies and a sum of money to the health center in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees. The facility is run by volunteer medics and provides free healthcare services to the residents. The procured material includes medical beds and wheelchairs for people with disabilities

Palestinian Refugee Mohamed Mustafa Forcibly Disappeared in Syria for 8th Year

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Awad Mustafa has been secretly held in Syrian government prisons for the 8th consecutive year. Mohamed, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, was arrested in December 2013 by Syrian security forces deployed AtAlHusainiya checkpoint. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in state-run penal complexes across war-torn Syria, among them 110 women and girls

Dutch Journalist Documents Tragedy of Palestinians of Syria

Dutch journalist Fernande Van Tets issued a new book entitled “Four Seasons in Damascus”, which provides a rare glimpse into the work of humanitarian workers in Syria and explains the dilemmas that face humanitarian workers there.  Through her book, Van Tets says she wanted to send a message to the Dutch government that Syria is not safe and return

Palestinian Refugee from Syria Wins 3rd Seat in Bodybuilding Contest

Palestinian refugee from Syria Shadi Ahmad AlFar has won the third and fifth seats in the Ajman Bodybuilding Championship, which was wrapped up on April 9 under the auspices of the Ajman Tourism Development Department, in cooperation with the Emirates Body Building and Fitness Federation. Shadi fled Syria’s Yarmouk refugee camp in 2012 to AlZahira, in Damascus, before he headed

UN: Explosive Contamination Jeopardizes Life of Palestinian Refugees in Syria

Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which are particularly unpredictable and difficult to detect, continue to put millions of people, including Palestine refugees, at risk, warned the UN Agency for Palestine refugees. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said in a tweet that some groups are at

Palestinian Refugee Amjad Yakoob Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 6th Year

Palestinian young man Ajmad Mohamed Yakoon, aged 18, has been secretly held in Syrian prisons since September 8, 2015. Amjad, a resident of Yarmouk Camp, was arrested by Syrian security forces at Beit Sahem checkpoint. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in state-run penal complexes across war-torn Syria, among them 110 women and girls. AGPS

Expatriate Pays Debts of Cash-Stripped Families in Jaramana Camp

A former resident of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees has paid the debts of the most vulnerable families in the camp. The donor, living in a foreign country, paid debt books at two groceries in AlQietiya and AlTahrir neighborhoods. He also paid rents of another poor family. Recently, activists from Jaramana refugee camp, in Rif Dimashq, have embarked on a

Displaced Palestinian Families Slam Damascus Authorities for Blurring Identity of Yarmouk Camp

Activists have accused Damascus authorities of attempting to blur the historical and demographic character of Yarmouk Camp as a living witness to the Palestinian refugee plight. Palestinian Engineer Mohamed Lutfi Salman said efforts have been ongoing by Damascus governorate to “erase” Yarmouk Camp, adding that dissolving the local committee, replacing “camp” with “neighborhood”, and imposing an ambivalent reconstruction plan are

Aid Items Distributed in Yarmouk Camp

UNRWA distributed on March 31 relief items to vulnerable families  in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. The distributed items include food baskets, mats, mattresses, blankets, plastic water bowls, kitchenware and detergents. 243 families benefited from the move.  

Leaked Document: Israeli Soldiers Buried in Yarmouk Camp

Former Israeli Security Minister Naftali Bennett revealed a document in Arabic, allegedly written by late Palestinian President Yasser Arafat, indicating the place of burial of three Israeli soldiers killed in the battle of Sultan Yaqoub in the Lebanese Bekaa, during the first Israeli war on Lebanon in 1982. WallaNews, a Tel Aviv-based Hebrew news agency, said that the document contained

Palestinian Family Secretly Held in Syrian Prisons for 8th Year

AGPS continues to sound alarm bells over the mysterious fate of several Palestinian families who have been held captive in Syrian dungeons. The list of missing families includes Mouloud Khaled AlAbdullah’s family, kidnapped on July 27, 2013 at a government-run checkpoint in Nisreen Street, in AlTadhamun neighborhood, adjacent to Yarmouk Camp. The family’s 73-year-old father, Mawloud Khalid AlAbdullah, had been

UNRWA Calls for Urgent Assistance of Palestine Refugees

At the 5th Brussels conference on "Supporting the Future of Syria and of the Region", the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reiterated its call to support Palestine refugees who are in Syria and in neighboring countries. In a press release issued on Monday, UNRWA said that since the start of the

Education Services for Palestine Refugees at Risk in War-Torn Syria

Palestinian refugee schoolchildren and students continue to struggle with the devastating impact of the ten-year warfare in Syria, amidst a deadly pandemic outbreak.  AGPS annual report about the situation of Palestinian refugees in Syria in 2020 indicates that this academic year, 51,000 Palestine refugee girls and boys have gone back to 103 schools run by the UNRWA in

Residents of Jaramana Refugee Camp Denounce Property-Theft

Palestinian refugee families in Jaramana camp, in Rif Dimashq, have raised concerns over the increasing abductions, home-burglary attempts, and sexual harassment reported in the area, particularly overnight due to chronic power blackouts.  A couple of weeks ago, the Syrian authorities reportedly arrested a two-member gang involved in property-theft in the camp. The two thieves were caught burglarizing a Palestinian

Displaced Palestinian Woman from Syria Holds Cultural Exhibition in Germany

Palestinian refugee Rana Mahmoud Ayed, displaced from Yarmouk Camp, held an exhibition to present Palestinian culture in Germany’s North Rhine-Westphalia. Paintings showing Palestinian heritage, cuisine, and culture were put on display. In line with the exhibition, German daily MV published a comparative report about Palestinian and German cultures. Hundreds of displaced Palestinian refugees in/from Syria have achieved success stories, despite

Suicide Attempts Increasingly Reported among Palestinians of Syria

11 years into the Syrian conflict, Palestinian refugees sheltered in the war-torn country continue to suffer multiple hardships. Scores of them sustained severe traumas.  A number of Palestinian refugees in/from Syria (PRS) committed suicide due to the psychological distress caused by years of relentless bombardment and protracted displacement. Three conscripts at the Palestine Liberation Army (PLA), affiliated with the

Damascus Authorities: Yarmouk’s Widely-Condemned Reconstruction Plan Under Examination

Member of Damascus Executive Office, Samir Jazaerli, said the controversial rehabilitation plan of Yarmouk Camp has not been canceled and is being examined by the Syrian Council of Ministers. He said that sometime earlier a quartet committee chaired by Damascus Governor saw the day after the Council of Ministers ruled for temporarily suspending the master plan. The quartet pledged to

Damascus Meeting Underscore Services Procurement in Yarmouk Camp

Member of the executive Office of Damascus Governorate Samir Jazaerli said he discussed with six international organizations the condition of vital facilities and services provision in and around Damascus Governorate.   The meeting discussed underway efforts by Damascus authorities to rehabilitate power/water and sewerage networks and remove debris from access roads. Activists and residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees

Palestinians in Northern Syria Appeal for Urgent Humanitarian Assistance

Displaced Palestinian families in Deir Ballout and AlMuhammadiya camps, north of Syria, have appealed for humanitarian aid from Palestinian territories occupied by Israel since 1948 (present-day Israel). The families continue to lash out at the apathy maintained by UNRWA, the Palestinian Authority, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and all other local and international bodies regarding their tragic situation. Hundreds of Palestinian

Palestinian Brothers Ahmed and Mahmoud Tamim Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime

Palestinian brothers Ahmad and Mahmoud Tamim have been secretly held in Syrian government prisons for over seven years. Ahmed was arrested on May 15, 2014. Mahmoud was arrested on March 12, 2015 during aid distribution in Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees, south of Damascus. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in state-run penal complexes across

Yarmouk Camp Residents Condemn Apathy of Syrian Authorities

Activists and residents of Yarmouk Camp for Palestinian refugees have slammed Damascus authorities over their apathy regarding their appeals to reconstruct destroyed premises and facilitate civilians’ return to the camp. The refugees said none of the pledges made by Damascus Governorate regarding the rehabilitation of Yarmouk Camp have been materialized on the ground. Palestinian families continue to call on the

Palestinian Staffer at UNRWA Missing from Damascus

Palestinian refugee Wasim Ahmed Taameh, a resident of Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, disappeared on Thursday March 18, 2021 from AlMezzeh area, in Damascus. Taameh has been a UNRWA staffer for years. 333 Palestinian refugees, including 37 women and girls, have gone missing since the outbreak of the Syrian warfare. Most of those who have disappeared in

Palestinian Refugee Mohamed Mohamed Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 8th Year

Palestinian refugee Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed, born in 1994, has been secretly held in Syrian prisons for 8 years running. Mohamed was arrested on May 27, 2014 at a checkpoint in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus.  AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in state-run penal complexes across war-torn Syria, among them 110 women and girls

On Mother’s Day…Palestinian Refugee Women in Syria Facing Multiple Hardships

AGPS has documented the death of hundreds of Palestinian women and the enforced disappearance of several others in the embattled Syrian territories. Data released by AGPS on the International Mother’s Day indicates that as many as 487 Palestinian women and girls have died of war-related incidents since the outbreak of the Syrian conflict. Palestinian refugee women who died all the

UN: 10 Years of Multiple Hardships for Palestine Refugees in Syria

Ten years after demonstrations started in Syria, over half of the Palestine refugees in the country have been displaced at least once because of the brutal conflict that ensued, including 120,000 who have sought safety in neighbouring countries, mainly Lebanon and Jordan, and beyond, said the UN Agency for Palestine Refugees. Once a vibrant community of over 550,000

Palestinian Refugee Adham Mohamed Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Regime for 8th Year

Palestinian refugee Adham Kheir Mohamed, born in 1990, has been secretly held in Syria’s state-run prisons for the 8th consecutive year. Adham was arrested by Syrian security forces on May, 30, 2013 at a checkpoint in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in state-run penal complexes across war-torn Syria, among

Palestinian Refugee Running for Membership at Germany Immigrants Council

Palestinian refugee from Syria Mohamed Nejmah said he will be running for membership at the Immigrants' Advisory Council in the city of Leipzig, in Saxony, in eastern Germany.  The vote will be carried out on March 22. Mohamed Nejma, who fled Yarmouk Camp in Syria, said he seeks to help immigrants and provide them with legal assistance. Hundreds of

Palestinian Refugees Struggling for Survival in War-Torn Syria

More than ten years into the Syrian conflict, Palestinian refugees in war-torn Syria (PRS) continue to struggle with growing poverty and economic hardship. The crisis in Syria has been one of the gravest and most demanding emergencies faced in the modern era. The vast majority of PRS families are unable to meet their basic needs. Many PRS lost their sources

Palestinian Refugee Families Denounce Bread Dearth in Northern Syria Displacement Camp

Displaced Palestinian and Syrian families in Deir Ballout and AlMuhammadiya camps, in northern Syria, have denounced the sharp decrease in bread quantities distributed by AFAD organization. Every person receives two and a half bread loafs per day, down from four and a half in previous months. Palestinian refugees sheltered in Idlib, AlMuhammadiya Camp, and Deir Ballout Camp, in northern Syria

Palestinian Refugee Woman Forcibly Disappeared in Syrian Prisons for 6th Year

Palestinian refugee Bayan Jumu’a, aged 19, has been forcibly disappeared in Syrian prisons for the 6th consecutive year. Bayan was arrested on March 17, 2015 at Palestine Street checkpoint in Yarmouk Camp as she headed for an aid distribution center to get relief items. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in Syrian prisons, among them

Russia Digs Up Graves in Palestinian Refugee Camp in Syria in Search of Dead Israeli Spy

Russian forces in Syria have spent the past weeks excavating a cemetery in a refugee camp in search of the body of a prominent former Israeli spy, according to Israeli sources Russians have been digging up graves in Yarmouk, a Palestinian refugee camp near Damascus, to retrieve the bodies of two Israeli soldiers and well-known spy Eli Cohen, who was

Swedish Embassy in Lebanon: Funds Needed to Rehabilitate Yarmouk Camp

The Swedish embassy said following a visit to Yarmouk Camp that resources are insufficient to cover the residents’ basic needs despite generous contributions by Sweden and other donor parties. The Embassy said in a Facebook statement that Yarmouk Camp, once a bustling home to 160,000 Palestinians, is struggling with difficult living conditions inflicted by the weight of displacement, hardship

AGPS Launches Opinion Poll about Yarmouk Camp

AGPS has called on Palestinian refugees to fill out an opinion poll about the reconstruction of Yarmouk Camp. The answers will serve as references for future studies about the situation in Yarmouk Camp. Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities to allow them a safe return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, and to press ahead

Palestinian Refugees Level Heavy Criticism at Damascus Authorities over Poor Services

Activists in Yarmouk Camp lashed out at Damascus Governorate which they said continues to turn its back on the residents’ appeals for vital services. The residents said local authorities have not provided them with much-needed services, except for rubble clearance.  They called on the Governorate to work on reconstructing destroyed facilities and rehabilitating infrastructure.  

135,000 Palestine Refugees in Syria Belong to Most Vulnerable Categories

For the last ten years, Syria has been devastated by prolonged conflict, destroying countless lives and displacing millions. According to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Palestinian refugees, already displaced, have been among the worst affected by the crisis. Each displacement triggered by the conflict follows an earlier displacement -- the

Palestinian Refugees in Syria Displacement Camp Appeal for Life-Saving Medicines

Jaramana Camp for Palestinian refugees, in Rif Dimashq, continue to launch distress signals over the acute shortage in much-needed medicines and medical kit.  The residents said expired medicines have been sold in the area at exorbitant prices. Jaramana camp is 8km from Damascus on the road to Damascus International Airport.  The camp was established in 1948. UN data

Swedish Delegation Shows Up in Yarmouk Camp

A Swedish delegation accompanied by UNRWA staffers and representatives of the General Authority for Palestinian Arab Refugees (GAPAR) paid a visit to Yarmouk Camp to inspect UNRWA premises in the area. GAPAR sources said UNRWA premises are likely to be reconstructed using Swedish funds.  

487 Female Palestinian Refugees Die of War-Related Incidents in Syria

AGPS has documented the death of hundreds of Palestinian women and the enforced disappearance of several others in the embattled Syrian territories. AGPS data indicates that as many as 487 Palestinian women and girls have died of war-related incidents since the outbreak of the Syrian conflict until February 07, 2021. Statistics released by AGPS on the occasion of the International

Displaced Palestinian Families Urge Syrian Authorities to Facilitate Return to Yarmouk Camp

Palestinian families continue to call on the concerned authorities to broker their safe return to their homes in Yarmouk Camp, in Damascus, and to press ahead with reconstruction projects. Such calls come in response to the reluctance maintained by local authorities in Damascus regarding the residents’ ongoing appeals to rehabilitate infrastructure and remove debris. A number of activists have also

Palestinian Family Appeals for Information over Forcibly-Disappeared Husam AlRefai

33-year-old Palestinian refugee Hussam Ali Al-Refai, a resident of Yarmouk, has been locked up in Syrian government penitentiaries for eight years. Al-Rafai was kidnapped by Syrian government troops deployed at a Damascus checkpoint on May 15, 2013. AGPS has documented the secret detention of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in state-run penal complexes across war-torn Syria, among them 110 women and

Palestinian Youth Ali AlShehabi Forcibly Disappeared by Syrian Gov’t for 7th Year

Palestinian young man Ali Abdul Salam Shehabi has been forcibly disappeared in Syrian prisons since February 2, 2014,  Ali and some other 130 young men were arrested on the same day on their way to receive food aid in Yarmouk Camp, where they took shelter. AGPS documented the incarceration of 1,797 Palestinian refugees in Syrian regime lock-ups, among