The United Nations has expressed its deep concern of the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the eastern part of Ghouta region of Damascus, where some 400,000 people are trapped.
"The UN has not reached any part of eastern Ghouta since October last year," said Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General, in the daily briefing at UN Headquarters in New York on Monday.
Dujarric said that the UN stands ready to immediately deliver life-saving assistance to those in need of assistance in eastern Ghouta, should a pause be established and abided with by all parties to the conflict.
The spokesperson added that the UN remains concerned about reports of intensified fighting among non-State armed groups in the enclave over the past few days.
With commercial and humanitarian supplies still blocked, prices of basic staple goods have gone up significantly, he said, noting that civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities and schools, continue to be affected by the tight restrictions and reports of shelling, airstrikes, and ground fighting.
Mr. Dujarric also announced that the Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme, David Beasley, is visiting Lebanon and Syria on May 3rd, his first visit since taking office last month. He is due to meet Syrians affected by the ongoing crisis and witness first-hand the profound humanitarian crisis.

Source: WAM