94 BiH citizens stranded in Syria: ambassador
Dec 13, 2024
Bosnia and Herzegovina [Sarajevo], December 13: There are 94 Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) citizens, including women and children, currently stranded in Syria in various camps, BiH's no-resident ambassador to Syria Slavko Matanovic said on Thursday.
Matanovic, who is based in Jordan, highlighted the dire conditions faced by these individuals, including limited access to necessities, medical aid, and psychosocial support.
A family composed of a Bosnian citizen, his Syrian wife, and three children has submitted an evacuation request, the ambassador confirmed to the Federal News Agency of BiH. Efforts are underway to verify their documentation and facilitate their return.
The repatriation process involves identity verification, collaboration with organizations including the International Committee of the Red Cross and UNICEF, and reintegration upon arrival in BiH.
Matanovic noted that while diplomatic relations with Syria formally exist, challenges in diplomatic communication remain.
A militant alliance led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham waged a major offensive from northern Syria since Nov. 27 and had since swept southwards through government-held areas, capturing the capital Damascus within 12 days.
Source: Xinhua News Agency
