AMMAN, Jordan — Cranes hoisted huge white bags with rice, lentils, and dates from Jordan into tent camps on the Syrian side of a border berm — an unprecedented way of delivering UN aid to tens of thousands of displaced Syrians cut off from outside help for almost two months.

The three-day delivery to two makeshift encampments in a remote desert area ended Thursday, UN aid agencies said.

Relief over getting badly needed aid to the Ruqban and Hadalat camps was muted by concern over deteriorating conditions there.

Some camp residents have dug holes for sleeping after selling flimsy shelters for scarce food and water, said a displaced Syrian, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of repercussions if he were to return home.

Aid agencies have said disease, malnutrition, and dehydration are on the rise.

This week’s shipment of 650 metric tons of food and hygiene kits was a one-off — Jordan has said it would bar future deliveries from its soil on security grounds.

The international community is scrambling for alternatives. Sending supplies from war-ravaged Syria appears risky, while UN officials say aid dropped by planes could end up in the wrong hands.

Associated Press