UN warns Syria crisis is not over in new donor appeal

BRUSSELS (AP) — Top officials are warning that the crisis in Syria is not over and are calling for large-scale support for people in need on the eve of a major donors' conference.

U.N. humanitarian chief Mark Lowcock said Wednesday that "without an immediate and substantial injection of funds, lifesaving provisions of food, water, health care, shelter and protection services will likely be interrupted."

The U.N. says $3.3 billion is required to help meet Syria's aid needs, plus $5.5 billion to support Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey, where most Syrians take refuge.

Around 55 countries and 80 delegations are expected to attend Thursday's donor conference in Brussels.

As the conflict enters its ninth year, about 11.7 million Syrians still depend on aid. Almost as many have fled or been displaced inside the country.