Rebel fighters and civilians have begun preparing to leave the besieged town of Douma near the Syrian capital of Damascus after a chemical weapons attack over the weekend killed dozens and drew worldwide condemnation. “I am leaving tomorrow, God willing, because our mission has ended,” said a paramedic who treated the chemical attack victims. Though more than two dozen buses had gathered near Douma to begin the evacuation, it was unclear on Monday afternoon whether any had left the besieged city yet. “I am now spending my last farewell moments with my city, Douma, and I am leaving it hoping to return one day,” said an activist who planned to leave on Tuesday aboard the buses. “I have no choice, and my heart is aching with sadness at leaving my city, my small home, my street and its kind people.”

Source: The Guardian April 09, 2018 11:27 UTC