IRC Opens Office in Damascus, Bringing Aid Closer to Syrian People

Damascus, Syria, October 7, 2025 - Nearly one year since the fall of the Assad-led government, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) opens its national office in Damascus, expanding its presence in Syria. At a time when nearly the entire population is in dire need of humanitarian aid, the historic move enables the IRC to bring vital assistance even closer to the Syrian people, and swiftly respond to urgent needs and support communities across the entire country.

Juan Gabriel Wells, IRC Syria Country Director, said:

"Expanding the IRC's presence in Syria comes at a critical time. Nearly 17 million people urgently need support, while another million Syrian refugees who have returned home after a decade of displacement face destroyed infrastructure, insecurity, and virtually no opportunities to start anew. As global aid budgets shrink and Syria's economy continues to deteriorate, both returnees and those who never left are being pushed even deeper into crisis."

Against the background of global aid cuts, with only 15% of humanitarian funding needs in country currently being met, poverty levels in Syria have reached record levels, and critical infrastructure-from schools and homes to hospitals, water systems, and electricity networks-has been decimated. Families are struggling to meet their most basic needs, while children face rising rates of malnutrition and disrupted education. Insecurity, sectarian violence, and localized conflict - most recently in Suwayda- continue to result in civilian casualties and renewed waves of displacement.

"We are committed to working hand-in-hand with our Syrian staff, local partners, and the Syrian authorities to provide life-saving aid and address the most pressing humanitarian needs, while creating enabling conditions for employment so Syrians can try to rebuild their lives with dignity," added Wells.

"The IRC calls on the international community to sustain its support for Syria and its people. Continued financial and political commitment is essential to deliver effective humanitarian aid, create jobs, and support the country's reconstruction."

The IRC has been working in Syria since 2012. We provide lifesaving health care, including support for health facilities and mobile health teams offering critical trauma, primary, reproductive, and mental health services. The IRC also delivers counseling and protection services for women and children, particularly survivors of violence, along with cash assistance, early recovery and early childhood development support. We also support Syrian refugees in neighboring countries.