A U.N. official issued an urgent plea for increased humanitarian aid to Syria, calling the situation “one of the most deadly to civilians in the world.”

Adam Abdelmoula, a U.N. representative in Syria, made the appeal shortly after the 13th anniversary of the conflict. The war has devastated the country, displacing millions and leaving essential infrastructure in ruins.

“We are facing an unprecedented situation in Syria,” Abdelmoula said. “Millions are struggling, and ignoring this crisis will only worsen the suffering.”

The number of Syrians requiring humanitarian assistance has grown to 16.7 million, up from 15.3 million last year. Millions are internally displaced within Syria, while many others have fled as refugees to neighboring countries.

The war has plunged 90% of the population into poverty. Food aid programs have been forced to cut back due to a lack of funding, leaving many to face hunger.

“Hostilities continue to plague various parts of Syria, with a recent escalation in fighting,” Abdelmoula said. He highlighted the need for the international community to refocus its attention on the Syrian crisis.