SAMS Deeply Alarmed by Renewed Violence in Aleppo and Its Impact on Civilian Communities
January 8, 2026
The Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) expresses deep concern over the renewed escalation of violence in Aleppo over the past two days, particularly in and around the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah neighborhoods. Recent clashes involving the use of heavy and medium weapons have extended into densely populated civilian areas, once again placing residents at grave risk and disrupting daily life across the city.
Medical and humanitarian reports from the ground indicate civilian casualties and injuries as hostilities intensified, alongside significant displacement as families fled their homes seeking safety. At least five civilians have been killed, including women and children, and 27 civilians have been injured. Approximately 30,000 people have reportedly been displaced as a result of the escalation. Many civilians remain trapped inside affected neighborhoods due to insecurity and movement restrictions, while access to essential services, including medical care, heating, and basic supplies, has been severely disrupted amid harsh winter conditions. The presence of heavy military deployments around civilian areas has further heightened fear and uncertainty among residents.
Critical healthcare infrastructure has been affected. Zahi Azarak Hospital, Ibn Rished Hospital, and Othman Hospital have reportedly ceased operations due to damage, while Al Salam Hospital has also been impacted. Humanitarian corridors through Al-Awarid and Al-Zuhour crossings enabled the evacuation of at least 850 people, though many vulnerable civilians remain unable to flee.
These developments are especially alarming for communities in Aleppo that have been exposed to repeated shocks over many years; prolonged conflict, displacement, economic collapse, infrastructure destruction, and limited access to essential services. For families who have endured multiple cycles of violence and loss, the latest escalations compound existing vulnerabilities and deepens long-standing physical and psychological trauma. Renewed hostilities at this moment threaten to erode fragile coping mechanisms and undermine any remaining sense of stability.
SAMS underscores the importance of immediate de-escalation and respect for international humanitarian and human rights law. The protection of health facilities, medical personnel, patients, ambulances, and healthcare infrastructure must be ensured at all times.
As violence once again disrupts lives in Aleppo, SAMS is scaling up its preparedness and stands ready to support affected families and communities through the provision of medical and humanitarian assistance and remains committed to working closely with local authorities and humanitarian partners to respond to urgent needs and support efforts toward safety, dignity, and stability.
For inquiries, please contact:
Mais Balkhi
HQ Advocacy Manager
mbalkhi@sams-usa.net
+1 (202) 930-7804
www.sams-usa.net
Photo Credit: Omar Haj Kadour/AFP/Getty Images
