Why are UN aid groups suspending operations in northwest Syria?

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UN Aid Groups Suspending Operations in Northwest Syria Due to Increased Bombardment and Safety Concerns

UN-linked aid groups have suspended operations in parts of northwest Syria due to intensified bombardment by the Syrian regime and Russia, which is endangering humanitarian workers and beneficiaries. As of May 8, at least 16 humanitarian partners had ceased activities in conflict-affected areas. The World Food Programme, for instance, has stopped deliveries to approximately 47,000 individuals in towns and villages that have been subjected to shelling.
Intensified Regime and Russian Bombardment

Since late April, Syrian government forces, with Russian backing, have initiated a significant bombardment campaign targeting southern Idlib and surrounding regions. This escalation in air strikes and shelling has led to the displacement of 180,000 people between April 29 and May 9. The increased violence has also impacted critical infrastructure, affecting 15 health facilities and 16 schools.
Safety Risks for Humanitarian Personnel and Beneficiaries

The safety of humanitarian workers and the populations they serve is a primary concern driving these suspensions. Some organizations halted operations because their facilities were damaged, destroyed, or rendered unsafe by the ongoing violence. Others have suspended activities to ensure the safety of their staff and beneficiaries, or because the beneficiary populations themselves have been forced to flee the affected areas. Tragically, five humanitarian workers, including two health professionals, have reportedly been killed as a direct result of air strikes and shelling.
Disruption to Aid Deliveries and Partner Operations

The increased bombardment has directly disrupted vital aid delivery, as exemplified by the World Food Programme's suspension of deliveries to tens of thousands of people. Furthermore, the violence has displaced some of WFP's partners operating within Idlib, with a few sustaining injuries, further compounding the challenges faced by the humanitarian community in reaching those in need.

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Why are UN aid groups suspending operations in northwest Syria?

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