The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has written to the Foreign Secretary, the Rt Hon James Cleverly, to express deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in northern Syria following the recent earthquake in the region. The MCB has also called for the Foreign Office to work with international partners to establish humanitarian corridors into northern Syria, allowing much needed aid to be delivered to the Syrian people in affected areas.
Click here to view a PDF version of the letter.
The full text of the letter is as follows:
Dear Foreign Secretary,
I write to you on behalf of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), the largest and most diverse umbrella body for Muslim-led organisations in the UK, with over 500 affiliated local national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.
I am writing to you to express my deep concern about the humanitarian situation in northern Syria following the recent earthquake that struck the region, and to request action be taken to address this. As you may already know, the earthquake caused widespread damage and destruction in Türkiye and Syria, leaving many people homeless, injured and in need of basic necessities like food, water, and medical aid.
We have witnessed an international outpouring of support for the region, with aid making its way to communities impacted in Türkiye. However, significant challenges remain in delivering much needed aid to the people of northern Syria. The Syrian people remain gravely affected by a lengthy and ongoing conflict. This natural disaster has greatly compounded the suffering of the people of northern Syria, in particular. The local infrastructure and healthcare system have been severely impacted, and it is imperative that aid be allowed to reach those who are in dire need of assistance.
I understand that the security situation in northern Syria remains complex and challenging, but I strongly believe that it is our moral obligation to help those in need, regardless of the circumstances. As such, I implore you to engage with the relevant international organisations and governments to establish humanitarian corridors through which aid can be delivered into northern Syria. The people of northern Syria are in dire need of support, and it is time for us to act.
I would be grateful if you could acknowledge receipt of this letter and for any information on what actions may be taken to address this humanitarian crisis.
Thank you for your time and consideration in the matter.
Yours sincerely,
Zara Mohammed
Secretary General,
Muslim Council of Britain