Thousands of Syrian Refugees Return Amid International Concerns
In a significant development, Jordanian Interior Minister Mazen Al-Faraya announced that over 7,000 Syrian refugees have returned to Syria since the fall of the regime of ousted President Bashar al-Assad approximately two weeks ago. The returnees, totaling 7,250, have crossed into Syria through the Jaber/Nassib crossing, with many not classified as refugees. This movement raises concerns about the implications for both the returnees and the host country, Jordan, which currently accommodates around 1.3 million Syrians, nearly half of whom hold refugee status.
The two countries share two main crossings: the
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7,000 Syrian refugees have returned to Syria since the fall of the regime of ousted President Bashar al-Assad approximately two weeks ago. The returnees, totaling 7,250, have crossed into Syria through the Jaber/Nassib crossing, with many not classified as refugees. This movement raises concerns about the implications for both the returnees and the host country, Jordan, which currently accommodates around 1.3 million Syrians, nearly half of whom hold refugee status.
The two countries share two main crossings: the "Old Customs" crossing, which has been out of service for years due to the repercussions of the crisis in Syria, and the "Nassib" crossing, which faces "Jaber" on the Jordanian side.
International Warnings and European Reactions
In light of the recent developments, Amy Pope, Director of the International Organization for Migration, expressed concerns regarding the large-scale return of Syrian refugees, stating that it could exacerbate tensions in a fragile post-Assad Syria. Pope emphasized that the towns in Syria are not adequately prepared to accommodate the displaced population, highlighting the need for a careful approach to repatriation. She also called for a review of the sanctions imposed on Syria to facilitate humanitarian efforts.
Meanwhile, in Europe, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced a review of the status of Syrian refugees who arrived in the country less than five years ago. Following the fall of the Assad regime, Nehammer suggested that the security situation in Syria should be reassessed to potentially allow for deportations. His government is offering 1,000 euros ($1,037) to those who choose to return voluntarily, amidst a backdrop of criticism from far-right factions in Austria. However, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees cautioned that initiating such measures is premature, asserting that safe and sustainable returns are not currently feasible.
