PhotoSeventy-three Syrian aid groups suspended their cooperation with the United Nations on Thursday, accusing the world body of complacency in the face of what they called manipulation by the government to deny help to people in opposition-held areas. Signers of the letter included the Syrian American Medical Society and the Syrian Civil Defense, which operate in areas held by insurgents opposed to Mr. Assad. He also said that under the United Nations information-sharing system, some aid intended for civilians winds up in Syrian military bases. United Nations officials in Syria have often complained that Mr. Assad’s government had impeded their aid delivery and repeatedly implored it to allow unobstructed access. But as in other countries where the United Nations provides services, it must operate with the permission of the host government.

Source: New York Times September 08, 2016 21:53 UTC