Fr Tony O’Riordan, a Cork priest and the lead of the Jesuits’ response to the crisis in Aleppo, has witnessed firsthand the devastating aftermath of the earthquake that struck Syria. In a hard-hitting eye-witness report, he described a heart-wrenching scene of bodies strewn about and a family’s desperate search for a loved one. The Jesuit priest spoke of the “chilling image” of a large articulated truck bearing white body bags, which he saw during his visit to one of the 126 emergency shelters established in Aleppo.
O’Riordan recounted the harrowing stories of survivors, who are still reeling from the trauma of the earthquake. He spoke of a man who spent over 12 hours talking to his trapped family members, only to be told of their tragic demise. The priest relayed the survivors’ accounts, describing the overwhelming sense of terror and shock that has descended upon the community. They are struggling to come to terms with the loss of their homes, loved ones, and sense of security.
Despite the dire circumstances, O’Riordan observed glimmers of hope in the “safe zones” where psychological counseling is being provided to the bereaved and injured. The Jesuit earthquake appeal fund, fueled by cash donations, has enabled the distribution of psychological support to over 700 individuals, resulting in significant improvements in their overall well-being. O’Riordan stressed the importance of cash donations, citing the time-consuming yet cost-effective nature of this intervention.
The crisis is compounded by the harsh winter temperatures, exposing millions to sub-zero conditions without access to electricity or heating. O’Riordan recounted his own experiences, describing the discomfort of sleeping in a cold room without heating, and acknowledging the greater fears of the Syrian people, who have endured years of war, hunger, and poverty.
Fr Tony O’Riordan (Via Fr Tony O’Riordan/Twitter)
In the midst of this chaos, O’Riordan expressed admiration for the resilience of the Syrian people, who have continued to uphold their sense of community and solidarity in the face of unimaginable adversity. His observations are a testament to the human spirit, which remains unbroken despite the unfathomable challenges faced.
As a seasoned aid worker, O’Riordan is no stranger to crisis management, having previously responded to humanitarian emergencies in Moyross, Limerick, Ballymun, Dublin, and South Sudan. His personal experiences have instilled in him a deep understanding of the complex needs of affected communities and the importance of targeted support.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, O’Riordan’s courage and compassion are a beacon of hope for those affected. His testimony serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of natural disasters and the importance of rapid, effective, and sustained humanitarian aid. As the response continues to unfold, it is imperative that international communities remain vigilant, providing critical support to the Syrian people as they navigate this unprecedented crisis.
