Britain’s King Charles has donated to support the humanitarian efforts of an international charity working in Syria.
The International Rescue Committee UK (IRC) expressed its gratitude, calling the king’s support an honor. King Charles has been the charity’s patron since 2021. Khusbu Patel, the acting executive director of IRC UK, said the donation reflects the king’s dedication to tackling global challenges and helping people impacted by crises rebuild their lives.
“We deeply thank His Majesty for his donation to support our work in Syria. This contribution will help us provide critical services such as health care, child protection, and emergency financial aid to those who need it most. His commitment draws much-needed attention to these urgent issues, inspiring others to contribute as well,” Patel stated.
Syria’s Struggles
Syria remains a top global concern, ranking fourth on the IRC’s 2025 Emergency Watchlist. The country has suffered 13 years of devastating civil war, compounded by Western sanctions targeting former president Bashar Al Assad’s regime, which collapsed last month.
Millions of Syrians have been displaced, and the country’s economy and infrastructure are in ruins. A recent report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that around half of Syria’s hospitals are no longer operational. The UN estimates that 70% of the population requires urgent assistance.
The IRC has been active in Syria since 2012, focusing on communities in the north-east where conflicts persist. A recent assessment highlighted critical issues such as unsafe childbirth conditions, a rise in cold-related illnesses, contaminated water, and severe shortages of medical supplies.
Expanding Humanitarian Aid
With new areas in Syria becoming accessible, the IRC is expanding its support. The charity provides essential services like primary and mental health care, trauma treatment, and mobile health services. They also offer counseling for survivors of violence, child protection, early childhood support, and emergency cash assistance to help families recover.
The donation from King Charles comes at a crucial time. On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia also launched a humanitarian air bridge to Syria through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief). The initiative includes food, medical supplies, and shelter. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, head of KSrelief, confirmed that more aid through a land bridge is expected soon.
By supporting humanitarian organizations like the IRC, King Charles highlights the urgent need to address Syria’s ongoing crisis and encourages global efforts to help its people recover and rebuild.
