Syrian Civil Defense calls for release of kidnapped volunteer

The Syrian Civil Defense on Thursday renewed its call for the immediate and unconditional release of volunteer Hamza al-Amarin, who was kidnapped by armed groups in the southern city of Sweida.

The organization said in a statement that al-Amarin has been missing for 225 days after contact with him was lost on July 16 while he was carrying out an evacuation mission for a United Nations team in Sweida province.

The Civil Defense said al-Amarin had dedicated his life to humanitarian work and was frequently among the first responders in emergency situations.

It described his abduction as a violation of international humanitarian law that guarantees the safety of humanitarian workers and called on those responsible to ensure his safe return.