By Katelin van Zyl
Wednesday 6 September marks seven months since the devastating series of earthquakes that killed more than 55,000 people and injured 10,000 more in Türkiye and Syria. The number of people affected is estimated to be around 17 million, and almost 50,000 buildings have either become completely ruined or too damaged to inhabit. Johan Mooij, World Vision’s Syria response director reported last month that “Half a year has passed since the devastating earthquake struck northwest Syria and southern Turkey, and Syrians are dealing with its aftereffects, on top of ongoing distress caused by conflict, an economic downturn, a cholera outbreak, and harsh weather conditions.” Syria also faces a ‘hidden crisis’ of a high rate of disability. Some estimates consider up to a third of Syria’s population disabled in some way after 12 years of war and the earthquakes earlier this year. In northwestern Syria, many feel forgotten as their lives remain in limbo as they wait for help to repair and rebuild. Tented camps house those displaced in all cities affected, as even those whose apartment buildings were not completely destroyed fear that living in their former homes is too risky. The death toll and extent of destruction was greater in Türkiye, but the recovery effort in war-torn Syria is more complicated, especially in areas not controlled by the government. Fortunately, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has extended permission for the United Nations to dispatch aid to opposition-held areas through two border crossings shared with Türkiye until 13 November, after the deal had expired. While aid may be able to enter, it will likely take a very long time to rebuild, and in many areas even removal of debris has not begun.
In Türkiye, although destroyed buildings are being demolished and the rubble removed, there are serious concerns about the way it is being done. In the province of Hatay, survivors living nearby damaged buildings or the dumping sites for building debris fear the consequences of toxic dust (which includes high levels of asbestos) being inhaled or consumed through contaminated water and food. Many earthquake victims now report being sick. Many wear masks to avoid inhaling the dust. Some sites are being accused of violating safety regulations in the pursuit of speed over safety. Other possible contaminants of water include decomposing bodies still buried under the rubble. Since Türkiye is highly prone to earthquakes, the country is strengthening efforts towards greater earthquake preparedness. For example, there are predictions that Istanbul (and other cities along the coast) will be affected in the next few years, so many residents are accepting free inspections to identify whether their buildings are at high risk of collapse, especially after the February earthquakes. It is estimated that around 70% of the buildings in Istanbul were built before safety codes were strengthened in 2000. In the cities affected by the earthquakes this year, there are calls for criminal charges and resignations of those responsible for the construction of the recently built buildings that collapsed. When these cities are rebuilt, there are plans to change the way they are built to ensure greater safety to withstand future quakes and tremors.
While cities can be rebuilt, nothing can bring back loved ones who have been lost in the disaster. Victims of the earthquakes need God’s divine comfort to deal with the loss, pain, and trauma they continue to deal with. In both Syria and Türkiye, there is great need for psycho-social support services along with meeting ongoing physical needs such as food and sanitation. Rebuilding efforts include not only infrastructure, but individual lives and wider communities. Many churches and Christian ministries have been involved in relief work, but the global Church can pray for discernment to know how to help those affected in the long run, and for the provision of whatever is needed for the ministry work the Lord calls them to. May people have open hearts to receive the mercy, hope, and comfort of our compassionate and kind Jesus, who laid down his life in love so that we might be saved (John 3:16; Rom 5:8; Matt 9:36; 2 Cor 1:3-4; Isaiah 53:4-6; John 3:17). May those who were spared from death not miss the opportunity to respond to God’s gift of true salvation and everlasting life (Rom 10:9-10; Eph 2:8; John 10:10; Acts 4:12). It is very difficult to be a Christian in both countries, but God continues to save souls and build His Church. May we continue to prayerfully uplift our brothers and sisters in Türkiye and Syria who have endured so much. Like Paul and Timothy, may they be able to testify that “On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favour granted us in answer to the prayers of many.” (2 Cor 1:10-11 NIV).
Please pray with us for the following:
- For rebuilding and recovery to take place safely and sustainably, and for protection over and provision for people while they wait for new homes
- For the Church in Syria and Türkiye to bring God’s comfort, hope and healing power to those struggling physically, emotionally and spiritually
- For believers in Türkiye and Syria to be strengthened and encouraged to continue serving God in these countries where they face many challenges
