British Prime Minister David Cameron yesterday called for increasing aid to Middle Eastern countries that are hosting Syrian refugees. He urged the support of refugees in countries close to Syria "so they don't make that perilous journey across the seas [to Europe] which has led to such appalling losses of life."
Cameron spoke after a meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah II and visit to a refugee camp that hosts more than 80,000 Syrians. He said, "There is an enormous number who could decide to come to Europe. That underlines the importance of other countries supporting the [Middle Eastern] refugee camps and supporting people who remain in Syria." He also said the European Union resettlement plans would spur more refugees to risk their lives traveling to Europe.
The New York Times reports that cash-strapped U.N. aid agencies cut back on food and cash assistance to Middle Eastern host countries. This has prompted more to travel to Europe seeking help.
Naguib Sawiris, an Egyptian billionaire, has proposed a unique temporary encampment. He is working to acquire two Greek islands that can be used to host Syrian refugees until they can return to their home country. The plan would need to approval of the Greek government.
Read more in the New York Times and Bloomberg.
