GPC Statement on the Protection of Civilians in Dara’a al-Balad, Syria

Since 24 June, the situation in Dara’a in Southern Syria remains tense with indiscriminate shelling and intensified ground clashes resulting in civilian casualties. More than 38,000 people – most of them women and children – have been displaced from Dara’a Al-Balad and reside with relatives and host communities and in six collective shelters. An estimated 5,000 to 6,000 families remain in Dara’a Al-Balad.

Considering the threats to the protection of civilians associated to the siege-like situation in Dara’a al-Balad, the Global Protection Cluster recalls that all parties to the conflict have obligations to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure under International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Law.

Read the full statement by the GPC calling for immediate action here.