UK Reaffirms Steadfast Support for Syrian People on Third Anniversary of Devastating Earthquake

UK Reaffirms Commitment to Syria

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its continued support for the Syrian people, coinciding with the third anniversary of the devastating earthquake that struck on February 6, 2023. The British mission to Syria conveyed this message via a post on X, stating that the UK 'continues to stand alongside Syrians during disasters and conflicts' by supporting local responders, delivering life-saving assistance, and helping communities rebuild.

Remembering the 2023 Earthquake

The earthquake of February 6, 2023, was a catastrophic event, with a powerful magnitude 7.8 tremor followed by a magnitude 7.7 aftershock, impacting southern Turkey and northern Syria. This natural disaster led to widespread destruction and a significant loss of life, with over 55,000 people reported dead across both countries. In Syria alone, estimates placed the death toll between 5,951 and 8,476. Areas such as Jandairis in the Aleppo countryside were particularly hard-hit, with hundreds of homes destroyed.

The earthquake exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation in Syria, a country grappling with over a decade of civil war. An estimated 8.8 million people resided in the most affected regions of Syria, and more than 10,600 buildings in the northwest were either completely or partially destroyed.

Ongoing UK Humanitarian Efforts

The UK has been a significant provider of humanitarian assistance to Syria. Since the onset of the Syrian crisis, the UK has committed over £4.6 billion in aid to the wider regional response, with approximately £910 million specifically allocated for aid within Syria. For the year 2025, the UK pledged up to £254.5 million to Syria and the surrounding region.

This support encompasses a broad range of critical services, including:

• Provision of life-saving humanitarian assistance
• Support for hospitals, clinics, and medical teams
• Delivery of food, shelter, and winter supplies
• Distribution of cash transfers to vulnerable populations

These efforts aim to reach millions of Syrians in need, both within Syria and in neighboring countries hosting Syrian refugees.

Commitment to Stability and Political Transition

Beyond immediate humanitarian aid, the UK continues to advocate for an inclusive political transition in Syria, which it views as crucial for long-term stability and prosperity. Recent statements from the UK, alongside France, Germany, and the USA in January 2026, underscored the importance of maintaining humanitarian corridors and ensuring the protection of civilians in North-East Syria. The UK's ongoing engagement reflects a sustained commitment to addressing both the immediate and long-term challenges facing the Syrian people.