Closure of the Raqqa–Athriya Road and Its Conversion into a Military Zone

The Syrian Transitional Government forces have turned the Raqqa–Athriya road into a military zone after bringing in tanks and fighters, and fully closed the road, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The closure forced travelers to use the Deir Ezzor–Palmyra–Damascus Road, increasing their suffering, especially for patients and students, while others are compelled to resort to dangerous dirt roads due to the presence of gangs and ISIS.

The Observatory noted that some individuals are allowed to cross in exchange for money, which further complicates movement for local residents and doubles their daily hardship.