Salvation Army decides not to launch humanitarian aid programme in Middle East

FOLLOWING a factfinding visit to Syria by a team of International Emergency Services personnel from International Headquarters, The Salvation Army has decided not to mount a humanitarian aid programme in the region at the present time, believing that local groups and international aid agencies already well established in the area are better able to provide the support that is needed.

The Salvation Army team studied the effects of the fighting in Lebanon, involving Israeli defence forces and Hizbollah – particularly the plight of refugees who have fled to neighbouring countries, such as Syria – and were pleased to witness local organisations, United Nations agencies and government ministries working together to address the relief requirements.

With thousands of displaced families returning to their homes, aid will continue to be needed to help them in their recovery process. However, widespread help is currently being provided by local groups and agencies with longstanding programmes in the region. The Salvation Army has no established presence in the area and feels that to launch a relief programme from scratch would not, on this occasion, be a sufficiently effective or cost-efficient enterprise.

The Salvation Army will, however, continue to monitor the situation and will also continue to urge prayer for sustained peace and for those attempting to rebuild their lives.