In Aleppo, a curfew is declared at night: Zarmik Poghikyan
A curfew is being declared at night in Aleppo: Zarmik Poghikyan
Under the leadership of the Islamic Hayat Tahrir al-Sham militant political organization, armed groups have been causing widespread destruction in Aleppo and Idlib for several days. We spoke with Zarmik Poghikyan, the editor of the Gandzasar weekly newspaper in Aleppo, about the events in the country and the situation of the Armenian community.
— What is the situation like in Aleppo now? What is the mood among the people?
The city is under the control of the opposition forces. People are leaving their homes very rarely. In several areas, sounds of clashes can be heard, and there are airstrikes. This is the atmosphere in the city. The population only leaves their homes to meet essential needs. Schools and all institutions are currently closed. There might be some difficulties in securing food supplies in the coming days because all the roads are closed. Some stores open for a few hours, deplete their stock, and then close again, as almost every day a 12-hour rationed meal time is imposed, mainly at night.
— In these difficult conditions in the country, how are our compatriots living and what problems are they facing?
The entire population of Aleppo is concerned, including the Armenian community. Everyone is waiting to see what agreements will be made in the coming days. Today, one of our young Armenians was killed by a sniper’s shot. However, there have been no other injuries or fatalities in the city. In the neighborhoods, generally, there is no immediate danger, but the city is in a state of war.
— If necessary, will it be possible to ensure the safe exit of our compatriots from Aleppo?
In the early days, that is, on Friday and Saturday, some people left the city and went to safer areas like Latakia, Damascus, and others. There were cases where families left the city in their own cars, but now that route is also closed. The Khanaser road is blocked and dangerous. So, there is currently no way to leave the city.
— How is communication maintained with the local Armenian community?
The Armenian Apostolic Church regularly provides updates through messages for the people, trying to ensure that the population does not fall into panic. They call on people to share information about their situation and, if necessary, they are ready to provide assistance.