Syrian Kurds hunker down amid fears of COVID-19
Most people in northeastern Syria seem to be obeying a lockdown imposed by the Kurdish autonomous administration to contain the spread of the coronavirus, but many are wondering how they will survive financially.
Facing a coronavirus pandemic that has invaded most countries of the world, the Kurdish autonomous administration in Syria has imposed a curfew and lockdown throughout its areas of control, as a preventive measure.
Under the lockdown, which began March 23, the administration also closed cafes, restaurants, public places, wedding and mourning halls, and even private medical clinics. Bakeries, grocery stores and pharmacies were excluded from the decision. The curfew was set for 15 days that could be extended if necessary.
Residents appeared to be strictly abiding by the restrictions in many neighborhoods and the main roads in northeastern Syria, especially the entrances to cities and roads leading to markets, according to video footage posted by the North Press Agency.
But clear violations were noted in some neighborhoods Al-Monitor visited, such as Ashouriya, Arbawiya, Bashiriya and Kaddour Beik. Al-Monitor met some children along the way. One of them said, “We aren't afraid of the coronavirus, and we will not wear gloves and masks. Our parents didn't ask us to stay home.” Another added, “We haven't heard that anyone is infected. We will wear gloves and masks when the virus gets here.”
