Damascus: Residents are preparing for the worst – prices for basic goods are rising

Sandy decided to stay home in Damascusto follow events in Syria. Rebels led by extremist Islamists continue to advance on key cities.

“I had no desire to go out, and we all preferred to stay at home to learn the news with our loved ones.”said a young student who did not want to reveal his last name. “We don’t understand anything anymore. In one week, events have developed so quickly that we cannot keep up with them. The anxiety is obvious, but we must learn to remain calm.”Sandy added, receiving many messages on his mobile phone.

Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the Syrian army left the city today Homswhich is located 150 kilometers from the capital. However Ministry of Defense this was denied.

IN Damascus Many residents are trying to stock up on food and essentials to be prepared for possible changes. “Every time there are rumors, people start buying bread, rice, sugar and detergents.”– speaks 56-year-old Aminowner of a grocery store in the area Sheikh Saad. “I restocked twice today to meet demand.”he added.

Rumors and false news are increasing anxiety among residents. Ministry of Defense condemned the spread of fake videos that show explosions at the headquarters and called on citizens not to believe “lies”the purpose of which is “spread chaos and panic”.

Due to this situation, prices for some goods in the capital increased by 30%. For example, the dollar exchange rate increased from 15,000 liras November 27 to 19,000 liras Today. In restaurants and cafes in the area Bab Sharky there were few visitors. Some shops close as soon as darkness falls due to a lack of customers. Damascus University postponed exams indefinitely, and Syrian Football Federation suspended matches at the request of most teams in the first league.

Yesterday passed calmly. Official agency SANA reported that during Friday prayers, imams called on believers “don’t panic and support the Syrian army in defending the homeland”emphasizing that this “responsibility of all”.

Some local radio stations no longer broadcast entertainment programs, only news bulletins and patriotic songs. On television channels, political analysts and correspondents discuss the current situation. Sometimes they perform “eyewitnesses” from major cities, which deny reports that the rebels have captured areas other than Aleppo And Hams.

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