Thousands of residents are returning to Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, in a testament to their resilience despite widespread destruction and limited essential services. Camp officials estimate that approximately 7,500 families have returned after years of displacement.
Established in 1957 to house Palestinian refugees, Yarmouk Camp grew into a small city of over 100,000 inhabitants before 2011. The 2.1 square kilometer area suffered extensive damage during the Syrian conflict. Reports indicate that approximately 20% of buildings were completely destroyed, with another 20% sustaining partial damage.
Camp authorities report widespread looting of remaining homes. With the fall of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024, families began to gradually return, seeking to rebuild their lives despite the lack of basic amenities such as electricity and water, and the dangers posed by structurally unsound buildings.
Aziz Asmar, a resident who returned to open a small vegetable shop in a partially damaged building, shared his story. “I lost many relatives and neighbors in the shelling,” he stated. “My return today is a new beginning after years of displacement.”
Despite the challenges, the return of residents signals a determination to revive Yarmouk Camp, demonstrating the enduring spirit of its community. The lack of infrastructure and the prevalence of damaged buildings present significant obstacles, but the returnees are committed to rebuilding their lives and restoring their community.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation in Yarmouk Camp and will provide updates as the community rebuilds.
