Gareth Bayley, the UK Special Representative for Syria, said “sieges must be lifted to save lives and bring Syria closer to a political solution,” adding that “starving civilians is an inhumane tactic used by Asad and his allies.”
In a series of comments posted earlier today on twitter, Bayley said that “a six-month siege in Madaya by militias supporting Assad regime is slowly staving 40,000 civilians to death. Food aid is desperately needed.”
“850 infants are in urgent need of milk. Six babies have died as mothers were unable to feed them. 10 men have died trying to break Madaya siege. Further 15 men and six children have lost limbs due to landmines,” the special envoy added.
Bayley also said that “in besieged Madaya, the price of food has ‘spiralled uncontrollably’. 1kg bag of rice can cost as much as $100.” (Source: Syrian Coalition)