Updates from the field
A Lifeline in Crisis
Delivering Medical Care in Northeast Syria
May 13, 2025 | by Joshua Bellingham
A Vital Medical Frontline Near the Border
Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, and Syria is facing a deepening crisis. The region has become increasingly unstable under interim leadership, while Turkish-backed Islamist militias—including the Syrian National Army (SNA)—intensify attacks near the border of northeast Syria. As conflict erupts, displaced families are fleeing extremist-held zones in search of refuge and safety, with many fleeing to northeast Syria under the leadership of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES).
In the midst of this chaos, DAANES remains one of the last areas offering religious freedom, pluralism, and a model of self-governance. Minority communities—Christians, Yazidis, Kurds, and Arabs—are seeking safety here, but services are overwhelmed and access to care is limited.
That’s where Shai Fund’s medical clinic in al-Qahtaniyah is stepping in.
A Lifeline Amid Growing Crisis
Since launching August 2023, the clinic has become a critical health hub for the region. It has treated 13,676 patients, including 3,342 emergency cases, offering compassionate, near-free medical services to those who otherwise have no access.
Strategically located just 15 kilometers from the Turkish border and serving 10 minority villages in the area, the clinic helps families bypass dangerous routes to faraway hospitals—especially during airstrikes or conflict. It is often the only option for displaced families arriving in the region injured, sick, or in crisis.
The clinic is equipped with an ambulance, X-ray imaging, diagnostic labs, and a full-time medical team of 16 professionals. On average, 25–30 patients are treated daily, including children suffering from malnutrition, women with post-displacement complications, and patients with chronic or trauma-related injuries.
Built by the Community, Sustained by Your Support
The facility is locally run and staffed by respected Christian doctors, Kurdish pediatricians, Arab lab technicians, and Yazidi nurses. Even the clinic’s guards are local Christian police officers who see the clinic as central to preserving life and community stability.
Medical professionals like Dr. Adnan and Dr. Moaed are on the frontlines daily, treating everything from fevers to fractures, delivering babies, and monitoring chronic conditions.
“This clinic stands for hope and dignity—I’m proud to be part of it. It’s a reminder that serving others is a noble path, and through kindness, we reflect the compassion that uplifts us all." - Dr. George Elias
In addition to meeting critical health needs, the clinic is helping to rebuild the region’s capacity. It offers internships for young medical students and has created jobs for returning professionals, drawing talent back to an area many have fled.
Emergency Response Amid Ongoing Attacks
The need is growing by the day. Following the October 2024 and March 2025 drone strikes that killed multiple civilians—including members of a Christian family—the clinic ramped up its emergency response.
Displaced communities are arriving in al-Qahtaniyah daily. In recent weeks, clinic staff have received Yazidi families fleeing the SNA and HTS-controlled zones. Others include Christian converts who fear identification and persecution if they remain behind. These families arrive with urgent medical needs, many having fled with nothing.
"I am afraid of what the future will bring, but I am also positive when I see these kinds of projects that help us in our struggle to survive. This clinic is so important to us and we are grateful that you have made it possible” - Patient
The ability to respond immediately—thanks to staff already on the ground—has saved lives and stabilized vulnerable populations amid crises.
“This clinic bears the cross, a symbol of our faith in Jesus,” shared one Christian officer wounded in a drone strike. “It reminds me that through Him and the work of His followers, healing and hope are still possible here.”
Looking Ahead: Saving Lives, Sustaining Freedom
As Islamist militias continue to gain ground and religious minorities face fresh waves of displacement, the role of this clinic has never been more urgent. The situation in Syria is rapidly deteriorating, and the existence of minority communities is under direct threat as seen by the recent violence against the northeast of Syria which is home to many ethno-religious components of Syria.
The clinic is not just a medical center—it is part of a defense line against the collapse of civil society and religious coexistence in the region. It enables families to stay in their homeland by making access to medical care possible.
Yet, to keep this lifeline open, more support is urgently needed. Additional funding will allow us to:
- Purchase sterilization equipment for minor surgeries
- Expand the clinic’s operating capacity
- Train additional staff
- Restock medicine and supplies for the influx of displaced patients
Help Us Keep the Doors Open
Your continued partnership ensures that displaced families have access to lifesaving care and the chance to stay in the only remaining region in Syria that protects freedom of religion and minority rights. Together, we are not only saving lives—we are preserving a future where peace, faith, and compassion can still take root.
