The UN aid route was established in July 2014 following the adoption of Security Council resolution S/RES/2165.
Emergency measure, turned into a daily lifesaver
Designed as an emergency measure to prevent changing security conditions and damaged infrastructure, the operation became a vital lifeline for millions of people.
Between August 2014 and the closure of the route, 58,955 trucks delivered assistance and an additional 6,124 trucks moved through consent-based arrangements. with the Syrian authorities, bringing the total to more than 65,000 trips.
UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric announced the conclusion of the mission during his regular daily press briefing on Monday, highlighting the immense scope of work done during the last decade.
“More than a decade after its inception, the United Nations has concluded its cross-border humanitarian operations from Türkiye into Syria, following the reopening of border crossings to commercial traffic and improving access through regular supply routes,” Dujarric said.
He highlighted the magnitude of the logistical achievement, saying: “Our humanitarian colleagues say this was one of the largest and most complex humanitarian supply chains…the need to coordinate across multiple borders and authorities, and the challenges of delivering aid across changing security conditions.”
earthquake horror
He reminded reporters of the devastating earthquake that hit the border region in February 2023.
Throughout the operation, UN humanitarian inspection teams provided independent verification to ensure compliance and transparency. According to the UN, the trucks delivered critical aid to support an average of 1.25 million people per year.
“Over the years, we have successfully moved more than 65,000 trucks of critical aid across borders to support an average of 1.25 million humans each year.“added Dujarric.
The UN aid coordination office, OCHA, characterized the closure of the operation as a forward-looking transition based on partnership, accountability and impact.
Aid chief Tom Fletcher said this new model builds on years of sustained progress in the region, ensuring aid delivery continues to evolve alongside the improved stability of commercial supply chains.