In a world witnessing radical changes and rapid shifts, the plight of refugees remains a painful reminder of a reality that should not be ignored. Many Syrian refugees face immense challenges in their quest for a better life, with some now enduring harsh conditions in Greece. Tweets and testimonies convey distressing events that cannot be dismissed. These individuals deserve to have their cries reach the entire world.
On August 8, 2023, journalist Mustafa Rostom posted a poignant tweet accompanied by a video depicting a heart-wrenching scene. The video portrayed an elderly man, battling heart disease, fighting for survival alongside a group of Syrian refugees trapped since July 14. Among them were pregnant women and children.
The following day, August 9, "Independent Arabia" published a tweet with a video confirming the ongoing dire conditions of Syrian refugees stranded on the island. Greek border guards refusing entry, heedless of their pleas for help.
On August 12, I reached out to one of the Syrian refugees to learn more about their dire circumstances. He confirmed they were transferred to the "Abu Shabak Detention Center for Migrants" in the town of Sofli on August 11. The room held 36 individuals, including women, children, and the elderly. They endured harsh treatment, including physical abuse and humiliation, lacked food since their transfer, and were denied essential medical care and medications.
By August 13, I learned from one of them that they were moved from the detention center to an island in the middle of the Evros River. Large vehicles transported them, totaling more than 100 people. Tragically, during the transfer, two individuals and a child died, as reported by the source.
These realistic and tragic details reveal a darker aspect of the refugees' reality, as they struggle for dignity and survival. This incident demands an urgent response from the international community, urging enhanced efforts to provide humanitarian aid and support to these individuals.
Humanitarian organizations must act swiftly to deliver urgent assistance to the Syrian refugees stranded in Greece, ensuring their right to seek asylum, access to food, healthcare, and necessary medications.
Please note: To reach the stranded refugees in Greece, follow the following map on Google where their location is marked.