The sprawling Al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria, described as one of the world's most hazardous humanitarian crises, is facing heightened turmoil due to the recent U.S. aid suspension. Over 37,000 residents, predominantly women and children linked to the Islamic State (IS), struggle for survival amid crushing insecurity and deteriorating living conditions.
The suspension of aid by a U.S.-backed agency at the camp has exacerbated already dire conditions. While Ahmad Abdullah Hammoud, a resident, managed to use stored food supplies momentarily, the chaos that ensued when support halted has amplified attention to the precarious existence at the camp.
Al-Hol camp is infamous for its overcrowded, trash-strewn environment, housing those with alleged affiliations to IS. This setback emanated from the Trump administration's decision to freeze foreign aid, leading to the abrupt disruption of services and provisions essential for daily survival, including water, kerosene, and bread, formerly supplied by the U.S.-based agency Blumont.
Jihan Hanan, the camp director, lamented this decision, emphasizing the distress and uncertainty it casts over the camp's future. She criticized the U.S. for undermining humanitarian aid efforts, noting, “If food cannot be provided, some residents argue for permission to leave.”
The scarcity of aid has prompted camp authorities and regional players to seek alternative solutions. The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), controlling northeastern Syria, are reportedly exploring strategies to counteract the impact of this aid freeze. Commander Mazloum Abdi remains hopeful for a waiver or exemption to alleviate the situation.
Human rights advocates continue to criticize the camp's conditions, urging international intervention and assistance. As the camp lacks basic infrastructure such as paved roads and essential sanitation, its youngest inhabitants, primarily teenagers and children, are often found loitering, sometimes engaging in activities reflecting the extremist teachings of the past.
Safety concerns heightened after intelligence indicated potential IS mobilization following the Syrian regime's collapse. Since then, security efforts have intensified, but the fear of IS exploiting another humanitarian crisis persists.
The camp's population, composed mainly of Iraqis and Syrians, alongside a separate section known as the Annex, includes individuals from various countries, often perceived as staunch IS loyalists. Consequently, leaders, including the U.S. Central Command’s Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, stress the necessity for countries to repatriate their nationals, minimizing the perpetuation of extremist ideologies.
Jihan Hanan has highlighted that a significant number of Syrian residents wish to return home, given the evolving local political landscape. She stated, “Any Syrian who wishes to leave can return to areas controlled by the new rulers.” While this decision may reduce camp numbers, the reliance on consistent foreign aid remains crucial.
The comprehensive challenge of managing Al-Hol’s humanitarian conditions dominates international dialogues, demanding a coordinated approach bridging humanitarian relief efforts with political and social restructuring. The fear remains that without sustained support, the camp could nurture the harbored grievances and insecurities leading to future instability.
