Citizens Caught in the Crossfire

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465,000 Syrian citizens have been killed since 2011, when the Civil War conflict began in their home country. Since then, one million innocent civilians have been severely injured, while twelve million, more than half of their prewar population, have been forced to flee their country. The crimes that have been committed against the Syrian people, though atrocious, are often left unnoticed. These most recent offenses have triggered the emotions of countless people around the world, including major political figures.

In March of 2018, dozens of people, mostly women and children, were unrightfully killed after the Syrian forces bombed an underground shelter in Eastern Ghouta. White helmet rescue teams estimate that at least 45 people were burned to death during this strike.

“The air strike entered through one shelter, where it exploded and killed everyone in it. The fires spread through to the second shelter, which soon became totally engulfed in flames,” activist Abul Yusr tells.

Those who managed to escape left the ruins with horrible second and third-degree burns. Though the survivors’ wounds can very easily be treated, it is expected that the death toll will rise due to the lack of emergency services within the area. Unfortunately, this crude example of violence is one of many. Since February 18th, an estimated amount of 1,500 civilians from Damascus alone have died.

A chemical attack upon the city of Douma occurred very recently in April. A minimum of 40 people died struggling for air and foaming at the mouth and approximately 500 civilians needed to be treated for their chemical wounds and symptoms. Footage was released of the scene, provoking outrage from almost all who watched. Bodies were shown strewn across the floor, including a young father clutching his child and foaming at the mouth.

The build-up of such inhumanities triggered leaders across the globe to take action. On April 13th 2018, the United States, along with France and Great Britain, bombed Syria in an attempt to set back the country’s ability to produce more chemical weapons. They bombed a research center, storage facility, and a command post. Many have criticized these nations for their actions, believing that too little was done too late. The missiles did not entirely dismantle Assad’s chemical weapon program, and they put the nations in danger of provoking anger from nuclear superpowers such as Russia. Donald Trump was put under fire for his actions towards Syria because they greatly contrasted his opinions in the past. The current commander-in-chief castigated Barack Obama for the military efforts he set forth in Syria in countless interviews and tweets.

Though the Syrian situation may seem hopeless to outsiders such as you and I, there are many ways for you to volunteer your time or donate money to better the victims of this horrible conflict. The Syrian Medical Society is an agency that helps the sick and wounded citizens of Syria. In 2016 alone, they treated over 2.6 million people because of generous donations from people all around the world. The White Helmets are a group of volunteers that offer their time and energy to rush to victims’ aid whenever disaster strikes. This organization’s bravery earned them a Nobel Peace Prize nomination in 2016 and their short documentary film won an Oscar in 2017.

Finally, one of the best ways that you can help the people of Syria is to inform your friends and family of the atrocities that are happening halfway across the world. The majority of the American population is unaware of the severity of the Syrian predicament because it is not broadcasted nearly as much as it should be. By talking to those around you about these current events, you increase the likelihood that these people will receive the help that they truly deserve. Don’t allow this topic to go left unnoticed, and seek action today.