After devastating quake, thousands of Syrians return home to war zone

Syrians who lived in Turkey, stand together with belongings after they crossed into Syria at the border crossing of Bab al-Hamam in rebel-held town of Afrin, Syria February 17, 2023. REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi

Youssef Qramo fled conflict in Syria for safety in neighbouring Turkey but after the deadly earthquake which devastated parts of both countries, he and thousands of fellow Syrians are returning to their homes in the war zone - at least for now.

Taking advantage of an offer from Turkish authorities to spend up to six months in rebel-held northwest Syria without losing the chance to return to Turkey, many are rushing back to check on relatives who also suffered in the Feb. 6 quake.