As a result of lack of access for the humanitarian aid agencies to the city, civilians blocked from reaching enough food, clean water and medical supplies, the HRW said.

The rights group accused the Turkish-backed Syrian rebels of looting and destroying civilian properties putting a heavier burden on the residents who are stranded in Afrin and surrounding villages.

“While the humanitarian conditions for all civilians who have fled fighting in Afrin are acute, those denied access to government held areas and suffering looting of the property are particularly vulnerable,” said Lama Fakih, deputy Middle East director at HRW.

“Turkish forces and anti-government armed groups should end the rampant looting and destruction of civilian property that is taking place in Afrin, and government soldiers need to stop blocking those trying to flee.”

The HRW interviewed a former Afrin resident who said there was lack of food, no electricity, no medical care, and no regular access to water.

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