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 [](https://shelterbox.org/) - [\|](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/conflict/) - ## International affiliate websites Our affiliates share our belief in a world where no family is without shelter after conflict and disaster, and support us in making this a reality. - [ Australia](https://www.shelterboxaustralia.org.au/) - [ BeLux](https://www.shelterboxbelux.org/) - [ Canada](http://shelterboxcanada.org/) - [ Denmark](https://www.shelterbox.dk/) - [ France](https://www.shelterbox.fr/) - [ Finland](https://www.shelterboxtuki.fi/) - [ Germany](https://www.shelterbox.de/) - [ Italy](https://www.shelterbox.it/) - [ Netherlands](https://www.shelterbox.nl/) - [ New Zealand](https://www.shelterbox.org.nz/) - [ Sweden](https://sweden.shelterbox.org/) - [ Switzerland](https://www.shelterbox.ch/) - [ United Kingdom](https://shelterbox.org/) - [ USA](https://shelterboxusa.org/) - [International affiliates](https://shelterbox.org/about/affiliates/) - Our work - Our Work - - Learn more about ShelterBox, and how we work with disaster-affected communities to help people rebuild their lives. - [Our work](https://shelterbox.org/our-work/) - [What we do](https://shelterbox.org/what-we-do/) - [Where we work](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/) - [Aid items](https://shelterbox.org/what-we-do/aid-items/) - [Disasters explained](https://shelterbox.org/disasters-explained/) - [Women and Girls](https://shelterbox.org/women-and-girls/) - [Climate change and conflict](https://shelterbox.org/our-work/climate-and-conflict/) - [Rotary partnership](https://shelterbox.org/rotary-international-partnership/) - [Your impact in 2024](https://shelterbox.org/what-we-do/your-impact-in-2024/) - [](https://shelterbox.org/donate/) [Donate today Support people facing disaster](https://shelterbox.org/donate/) - Stories - Stories - - Discover the stories behind ShelterBox’s work – the people and the places. - [Stories](https://shelterbox.org/stories/) - [Press releases](https://shelterbox.org/category/news/press-release/) - [Blog](https://shelterbox.org/category/blog/) - [Impact stories](https://shelterbox.org/impact/) - [Where we work](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/) - [Disasters explained](https://shelterbox.org/disasters-explained/) - [Disasters explained](https://shelterbox.org/disasters-explained/) - [](https://shelterbox.org/email-updates-signup/) [SIGN UP NOW Get the latest from ShelterBox delivered straight to your inbox](https://shelterbox.org/email-updates-signup/) - About us - About Us - - We want to see a world where no family is left without shelter after disaster. 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[Home](https://shelterbox.org/) / **Syria conflict explained**  ## Why is there a war in Syria? **The conflict in [Syria](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/) dates back to 2011.** Many people were unhappy about the high levels of unemployment, widespread corruption and lack of political freedom. Inspired by the ‘Arab spring’ uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt, peaceful protests started in March. However, the peaceful demonstrations were met by swift government opposition. When the government used deadly force to crush the dissent, protests erupted nationwide. The violence rapidly escalated, eventually giving way to a brutal war. The conflict caused the displacement of over half of Syria’s population. ## What is happening in Syria? **The Assad regime in Syria fell in late 2024. Marking a historic turning point in the 14-year-long civil war.** The situation is fast-moving and control is still shifting between different armed groups and opposition forces. Curfews are in place in many areas. The situation is volatile in [northeast Syria where we’re working](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/) with Bahar Organisation. There is escalating violence between different armed groups and lots of crime. Since early 2026, fighting has flared again between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) which was one of the main opposition forces during the civil war. The renewed violence has caused civilian deaths, mass displacement, and the breakdown of a fragile ceasefire. More than 190,000 people, mostly women and children, have been displaced. There is renewed hope for families who have been displaced to return home and reunite with friends and family. **But there is also a lot of uncertainty.** There are hundreds of thousands of people on the move, but they don’t know what they will face or whether their homes are still standing. Millions of people are still entirely reliant on [humanitarian aid](https://shelterbox.org/what-we-do/aid-items/). And for people left exposed without adequate shelter or the right support, the harsh and unpredictable winter poses a significant risk to life. ## Who is involved in the Syrian conflict? **There are many players in the Syrian conflict.** The conflict began as a Syrian uprising against the Government of Syria and its then-leader, President Bashar al-Assad. Since then, many groups have joined the fighting, with many fighting each other. These groups include the Free Syrian Army (FSA), Kurdish Rebel Fighters, so-called Islamic State, Jabhat Fath al-Sham, Hezbollah, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). **More than half a million people have been killed since the civil war began in 2011.** International involvement has shaped the course of the conflict, too. Russia and Iran have backed the Syrian government. At the same time, the opposition has been supported by Turkey, several Western powers and some Gulf Arab states. Ultimately, there is no clear frontline in this war. It’s a fractured conflict with multiple parties. Civilians are caught in the middle of shifting power dynamics and territories, not knowing where will be safe for them and their families. ## Why have peace talks failed? Many peace negotiations have taken place over the years, but they have failed. 2012: The first peace talks The United Nations held the first peace talks in 2012 in Geneva. A transition period which would result in Assad’s removal was discussed, but in 2015 Assad began consolidating his position with Russia and Iran’s backing. 2016: A second attempt in Astana In 2016 there was a second attempt at peace talks in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. ‘De-escalation zones’ were agreed upon, which temporarily reduced the violence. Eventually, it failed when the Syrian regime continued airstrikes in the de-escalation areas. 2018: New talks in Sochi Two years later in January 2018, Russia sponsored new talks in Sochi. But the Syrian opposition refused to take part in the meeting because Assad’s removal from power was not a pre-condition for the talks. 2020: A ceasefire In 2020, Russia and Turkey brokered a ceasefire which reduced the intensity of fighting. Localised fighting continued, and millions of displaced Syrians faced brutal winters, floods and financial issues. November 2024: Rebel forces launch a major offensive in north-western Syria In November 2024, the ceasefire collapsed. The Syrian civil war was reignited by the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. The Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied rebel forces seized control of a number of towns and villages in Alppeo and Idlib provinces. December 2024: The collapse of the Assad regime On the 8th December 2024 the Assad regime collapsed during a major offensive by opposition forces. This was led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This was the result of months of mounting tension, with HTS forces gaining numerous provinces around Syria. Syria’s former president Bashar al-Assad stepped down and fled to Russia, ending his 24-year rule. This was a pivotal moment for Syria. However, the future remains highly uncertain for Syrian civilians. Early 2026: Fighting between Syrian government forces and SDF Since early January 2026, fighting has flared again between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) which was one of the main opposition forces during the civil war. The renewed violence has caused civilian deaths, mass displacement, and the breakdown of a fragile ceasefire. The violence has highlighted ongoing tensions, as the Government of Syria seeks to bring SDF under its military structure – an effort Kurdish groups continue to resist. More than 190,000 people, mostly women and children, have been displaced across eastern Aleppo, Ar-Raqqa, and Deir ez-Zor. Many are now staying in overcrowded schools, community buildings, or with host families, and countless others lack proper shelter at the coldest time of year. People need adequate shelter and essential items to keep warm.  NEWSLETTER ## Join over 24,000 people like you to receive: - **Updates on our work from around the world** - **Incredible stories of hope and recovery from the people we’ve met** - **Exclusive videos and footage of our work in action** [Sign up now](https://shelterbox.org/email-updates-signup/)   Hamda and her children (pictured above) are one of the millions of families who were forced to flee their home in Syria. They are currently living at a displacement camp. Hide ## How has the country been affected? **Right now, over 12 million people have fled their homes.** There is significant human suffering, with more than 16 million people needing humanitarian assistance. The conflict has led to soaring food prices, electricity blackouts and difficulties accessing medical support. The need for [emergency shelter](https://shelterbox.org/what-we-do/aid-items/) supplies remains, as people will continue to be displaced by ongoing conflict between armed groups, and existing shelters need repair after years of use. There is still an exhausting level of upheaval for many and no clear path to peace. [Donate now](https://shelterbox.org/donate/)  ## Where have Syrian refugees gone? **The majority of Syrian refugees have stayed in the Middle East. Syria’s neighbours, Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey are hosting over 90%.** Other families have fled to neighbouring Iraq, Egypt or North Africa. Some refugees have fled to European countries. At the height of the [European migrant crisis in 2015,](https://shelterbox.org/blog/shelterbox-in-syria-14th-anniversary-of-the-syrian-crisis/) 1.3 million Syrians requested asylum with Germany, Sweden, Hungary, Greece, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, France and Bulgaria receiving the most applications. ## Is the Syrian War over? **No, there is still no clear path to peace.** Despite the recent fall of the Assad regime, the situation remains volatile. Each armed opposition group, and the countries that back them, have different aims and goals. There is hope, however. Within Syria, families demonstrate incredible resilience and resourcefulness, creating homes, running schools and businesses and giving children some sense of normality, all within displacement camps. And beyond Syria’s borders, an emerging generation of young refugees are building their skills and seeking solutions through further education, determined to rebuild their shattered country when they can at last return. ## What problems do people face in Syria? Ongoing violence **Syria is the third least peaceful country in the world.** Although the large-scale violence subsided in Idlib after the March 2020 ceasefire agreement, localised violence continues. People are suffering from the effects of artillery shelling, air strikes, land mines, and unexploded bombs. Financial crisis **Soring food prices, economic sanctions have drastically increased the cost of living.** The average price of a food basket increased by 52% after the Ukraine crisis. Basic items like fuel, food and medicine are impossible to access for many due to extortionate cost. Environmental shocks **[Environmental socks and crises](https://shelterbox.org/disasters-explained/) are common due to Syria’s geographical location.** It’s vulnerable to climate variability and climate change impacts. Risks of droughts, extreme heat events, floods and fires increase. Also, it is highly prone to [earthquakes.](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/turkey/earthquake-2023/) Learn about how ShelterBox is [supporting people in Syria.](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/) ## Read more Learn more about our work in Syria, and how we’re supporting people. [ ShelterBox in Syria. 14 years since the start of the Syrian crisis To mark the 14 year anniversary of the crisis in Syria, we look back at our longest ShelterBox response to date, in photographs.](https://shelterbox.org/blog/shelterbox-in-syria-14th-anniversary-of-the-syrian-crisis/) [See More](https://shelterbox.org/blog/shelterbox-in-syria-14th-anniversary-of-the-syrian-crisis/) [ Our work in Syria We are providing shelter for families who have been forced to leave their homes due to the conflict in Syria.](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/) [See More](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/) [ About us We provide emergency shelter to people who have lost their home to disaster, enabling them to rebuild their lives.](https://shelterbox.org/about/) [See More](https://shelterbox.org/about/)  support people facing crisis ## **Donate today.** General donations enable us to continue to respond in Syria, and around the world. Your support will provide emergency shelter for people affected by disasters. [Donate now](https://shelterbox.org/donate/)  ###### Sign up to our newsletter Your support will help people affected by disaster around the world. 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ShelterBox Is A Charity, Independent Of Rotary International And The Rotary Foundation.  - [](https://www.facebook.com/ShelterBox/) - [](https://twitter.com/shelterbox) - [](https://www.youtube.com/user/shelterboxuk) - [](https://www.instagram.com/shelterboxuk)

 ## Why is there a war in Syria? **The conflict in [Syria](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/) dates back to 2011.** Many people were unhappy about the high levels of unemployment, widespread corruption and lack of political freedom. Inspired by the ‘Arab spring’ uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt, peaceful protests started in March. However, the peaceful demonstrations were met by swift government opposition. When the government used deadly force to crush the dissent, protests erupted nationwide. The violence rapidly escalated, eventually giving way to a brutal war. The conflict caused the displacement of over half of Syria’s population. What is happening in Syria? **The Assad regime in Syria fell in late 2024. Marking a historic turning point in the 14-year-long civil war.** The situation is fast-moving and control is still shifting between different armed groups and opposition forces. Curfews are in place in many areas. The situation is volatile in [northeast Syria where we’re working](https://shelterbox.org/where-we-work/syria/) with Bahar Organisation. There is escalating violence between different armed groups and lots of crime. Since early 2026, fighting has flared again between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) which was one of the main opposition forces during the civil war. The renewed violence has caused civilian deaths, mass displacement, and the breakdown of a fragile ceasefire. More than 190,000 people, mostly women and children, have been displaced. There is renewed hope for families who have been displaced to return home and reunite with friends and family. **But there is also a lot of uncertainty.** There are hundreds of thousands of people on the move, but they don’t know what they will face or whether their homes are still standing. Millions of people are still entirely reliant on [humanitarian aid](https://shelterbox.org/what-we-do/aid-items/). And for people left exposed without adequate shelter or the right support, the harsh and unpredictable winter poses a significant risk to life. Who is involved in the Syrian conflict? **There are many players in the Syrian conflict.** The conflict began as a Syrian uprising against the Government of Syria and its then-leader, President Bashar al-Assad. Since then, many groups have joined the fighting, with many fighting each other. These groups include the Free Syrian Army (FSA), Kurdish Rebel Fighters, so-called Islamic State, Jabhat Fath al-Sham, Hezbollah, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). **More than half a million people have been killed since the civil war began in 2011.** International involvement has shaped the course of the conflict, too. Russia and Iran have backed the Syrian government. At the same time, the opposition has been supported by Turkey, several Western powers and some Gulf Arab states. Ultimately, there is no clear frontline in this war. It’s a fractured conflict with multiple parties. Civilians are caught in the middle of shifting power dynamics and territories, not knowing where will be safe for them and their families. ## Why have peace talks failed? Many peace negotiations have taken place over the years, but they have failed. The United Nations held the first peace talks in 2012 in Geneva. A transition period which would result in Assad’s removal was discussed, but in 2015 Assad began consolidating his position with Russia and Iran’s backing. In 2016 there was a second attempt at peace talks in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. ‘De-escalation zones’ were agreed upon, which temporarily reduced the violence. Eventually, it failed when the Syrian regime continued airstrikes in the de-escalation areas. Two years later in January 2018, Russia sponsored new talks in Sochi. But the Syrian opposition refused to take part in the meeting because Assad’s removal from power was not a pre-condition for the talks. In 2020, Russia and Turkey brokered a ceasefire which reduced the intensity of fighting. Localised fighting continued, and millions of displaced Syrians faced brutal winters, floods and financial issues. In November 2024, the ceasefire collapsed. The Syrian civil war was reignited by the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. The Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied rebel forces seized control of a number of towns and villages in Alppeo and Idlib provinces. On the 8th December 2024 the Assad regime collapsed during a major offensive by opposition forces. This was led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This was the result of months of mounting tension, with HTS forces gaining numerous provinces around Syria. Syria’s former president Bashar al-Assad stepped down and fled to Russia, ending his 24-year rule. This was a pivotal moment for Syria. However, the future remains highly uncertain for Syrian civilians. Since early January 2026, fighting has flared again between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) which was one of the main opposition forces during the civil war. The renewed violence has caused civilian deaths, mass displacement, and the breakdown of a fragile ceasefire. The violence has highlighted ongoing tensions, as the Government of Syria seeks to bring SDF under its military structure – an effort Kurdish groups continue to resist. More than 190,000 people, mostly women and children, have been displaced across eastern Aleppo, Ar-Raqqa, and Deir ez-Zor. Many are now staying in overcrowded schools, community buildings, or with host families, and countless others lack proper shelter at the coldest time of year. People need adequate shelter and essential items to keep warm.   Hamda and her children (pictured above) are one of the millions of families who were forced to flee their home in Syria. They are currently living at a displacement camp. Hide ## How has the country been affected? **Right now, over 12 million people have fled their homes.** There is significant human suffering, with more than 16 million people needing humanitarian assistance. The conflict has led to soaring food prices, electricity blackouts and difficulties accessing medical support. The need for [emergency shelter](https://shelterbox.org/what-we-do/aid-items/) supplies remains, as people will continue to be displaced by ongoing conflict between armed groups, and existing shelters need repair after years of use. There is still an exhausting level of upheaval for many and no clear path to peace. [Donate now](https://shelterbox.org/donate/)  ## Where have Syrian refugees gone? **The majority of Syrian refugees have stayed in the Middle East. Syria’s neighbours, Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey are hosting over 90%.** Other families have fled to neighbouring Iraq, Egypt or North Africa. Some refugees have fled to European countries. At the height of the [European migrant crisis in 2015,](https://shelterbox.org/blog/shelterbox-in-syria-14th-anniversary-of-the-syrian-crisis/) 1.3 million Syrians requested asylum with Germany, Sweden, Hungary, Greece, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, France and Bulgaria receiving the most applications. Is the Syrian War over? **No, there is still no clear path to peace.** Despite the recent fall of the Assad regime, the situation remains volatile. Each armed opposition group, and the countries that back them, have different aims and goals. There is hope, however. Within Syria, families demonstrate incredible resilience and resourcefulness, creating homes, running schools and businesses and giving children some sense of normality, all within displacement camps. And beyond Syria’s borders, an emerging generation of young refugees are building their skills and seeking solutions through further education, determined to rebuild their shattered country when they can at last return. What problems do people face in Syria? **Syria is the third least peaceful country in the world.** Although the large-scale violence subsided in Idlib after the March 2020 ceasefire agreement, localised violence continues. People are suffering from the effects of artillery shelling, air strikes, land mines, and unexploded bombs. **Soring food prices, economic sanctions have drastically increased the cost of living.** The average price of a food basket increased by 52% after the Ukraine crisis. Basic items like fuel, food and medicine are impossible to access for many due to extortionate cost. ## Read more Learn more about our work in Syria, and how we’re supporting people.