The Yarmouk refugee camp, located on the outskirts of Damascus, was once recognized as the cultural hub of the Palestinian diaspora. However, the ongoing conflict in Syria transformed it into a desolate landscape of wrecked buildings that used to be home to bustling markets, pharmacies, and mosques. Since government bombardments and the incursion of various militant groups, the camp has largely been deserted since 2018, with structures that survived the bombings demolished by authorities or looted by individuals. Those wishing to return to restore their homes found themselves facing a labyrinth of bureaucratic hurdles and security protocols.
Recently, a slow resurgence of former residents has begun, particularly after the swift collapse of former President Bashar Assad’s government on December 8, prompting many to hope for a chance to return. Yet, doubts linger among Syria’s Palestinian refugees, who number around 450,000, about their role in the emerging political landscape. “We lack communication with the new Syrian leadership, and it is unclear how they will address the Palestinian issue,” expressed Samir al-Rifai, the Palestinian ambassador to Syria.
In the aftermath of the regime’s downfall, life has started to resume in Yarmouk, as women congregate in the streets and children play amid the remnants of their former homes. Some areas that suffered less destruction have revitalized, including a busy market selling fruits and vegetables. Residents returning are either checking on their properties for the first time in years or contemplating rebuilding efforts after past visits.
Ahmad al-Hussein, who left Yarmouk in 2011 amidst the uprising, has recently returned to his relatives’ home in a less-affected section of the camp. Now, he aspires to reconstruct his property that lies in ruins and is slated for demolition. He shared how under Assad’s regime, gaining access to enter the camp required arduous permission from security services. Completing onerous questioning and navigating through complex protocols to earn approval was the norm. Al-Hussein noted a shift in sentiment, as individuals previously hesitant about returning are re-evaluating their decisions to come back, including his son who sought refuge in Germany.
On a visit, Taghrid Halawi expressed nostalgia and the yearning for better days when Yarmouk thrived. “Even amid devastation, this place feels like heaven. I wish everyone would return, those who have fled or are displaced elsewhere,” she said, highlighting the enduring connection many feel to their homeland.
Established in 1957 as a refugee camp, Yarmouk evolved into a lively suburb populated by working-class Syrians. Pre-war estimates indicated approximately 1.2 million residents, including around 160,000 Palestinians. In stark contrast to those figures, the camp now houses about 8,160 Palestinian refugees who have remained or returned.
Palestinian refugees in Syria enjoy certain rights distinct from their counterparts in Lebanon, where they face restrictions on property ownership and employment. Within Syria, they historically shared the rights of citizens, except for voting and holding office. However, the relationship between Palestinian factions and Syrian authorities has been complicated, marked by historical tensions and mutual suspicion.
Mahmoud Dakhnous, a retired educational professional, remarked on his past experiences with Syrian intelligence, noting the discrepancy between the regime’s media portrayal of support for Palestinian struggles and the underlying realities faced on the ground. In recent years, the government has increasingly imposed restrictions on Palestinian property rights, fostering uncertainty about future policies under the new regime.
Reflecting on the uncertainty, Dakhnous stated, “It’s too early to form a judgment on the new leadership’s stance toward Palestinians.” Nevertheless, he noted encouraging signals from the new administration concerning citizens’ affairs.
During the civil conflict, Yarmouk’s Palestinian factions endeavored to maintain neutrality; however, they became embroiled in various alliances as the situation evolved. Now, as Assad’s government has fallen, these factions are navigating their relationships with the new authorities. Recently, a coalition of Palestinian factions announced the creation of a governing body to facilitate communication with the newly established Syrian leadership.
While the new administration, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has yet to make definitive statements regarding Palestinian refugees or its position on Israel, the interim government has lodged complaints with the U.N. Security Council over Israeli military actions in the Golan Heights and elsewhere in Syria. HTS’s leader has indicated the new administration does not seek conflict with Israel.
Ambassador al-Rifai reported that security forces of the new regime entered offices of Palestinian factions, confiscating weapons, raising questions about an official disarmament policy. “The new leadership has pressing issues to address beyond the Palestinian refugee situation, and stability remains the priority,” he noted. For the time being, the Palestinian community can only hope for a more favorable relationship with the new rulers, aspiring for improvements in their circumstances.