Damascus, Mar. 3 (SANA) The Jdeidet Yabous border crossing with Lebanon witnessed a large influx of Syrian citizens returning home over the past 24 hours, with more than 10,000 people crossing since Monday amid ongoing regional developments. Authorities have implemented extensive organizational and service measures to ensure smooth passage.
Mohammad Al-Qassim, Head of Public Relations at the crossing, told SANA those essential needs for arriving families, including first aid and logistical support, were promptly provided. Buses and vehicles were sent to al-Masnaa crossing in Lebanon to transport those who arrived on foot, while additional halls were opened and vehicle flow organized to accommodate the large numbers.
Shadi Al-Hassan, Director of Emergencies and Disaster Management in Damascus Countryside, said emergency and civil defense teams assisted all arrivals, handling over 31 humanitarian cases and transferring some to Damascus hospitals. Urgent aid, including food, water, and relief supplies, was distributed to ensure safe travel to their destinations within Syria.
UNHCR spokesperson Céline Schmitt confirmed that teams are deployed at the Jdeidet Yabous and Jousieh crossings with contingency plans and pre-positioned supplies to support Syrian and Lebanese citizens in need, in coordination with local partners.
Returning citizens expressed appreciation for the organized and humane procedures. Mahmoud Al-Shadid from Raqqa, resident in Lebanon for four years, said the return was necessary due to recent security developments. Others highlighted the smooth and efficient processes and thanked staff for their support.
The return flow is part of a joint humanitarian response plan executed by civil defense, the Border Passports and Customs Authority, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant bodies, coordinated through joint operations rooms to alleviate difficulties caused by current regional security conditions.
M.Q.R
