More than 500,000 people living in Kobanê have been under a severe siege for 13 days. Difficulties in obtaining medicines are putting the lives of cancer patients and those with heart conditions at particular risk.
Due to severe cold weather and the lack of basic necessities, children, the elderly, and the sick are facing an increased risk of illness.
Bakeries in the city continue to operate in order to supply bread. However, due to shortages of fuel and flour, there is a risk that production will come to a halt if the siege continues.
Because roads are closed and farmers cannot access their agricultural land, vegetables have also become scarce in city markets. Other food products are likewise gradually running out in shops and markets across the city.
Despite the challenging conditions, city residents continue to maintain their determination to protect their neighborhoods and to resist.
Local institutions and humanitarian aid organizations in the city are supporting displaced citizens as much as possible, sheltering them in schools, mosques, and homes, and trying to meet their basic needs.
Despite the ceasefire declared between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Transitional Damascus Government, the siege is still ongoing.
Meanwhile, the Turkish authorities have so far not permitted the border crossing to be opened to allow humanitarian aid sent from Northern Kurdistan to reach Kobanê.