The UN Security Council has unanimously approved a resolution to extend the use of a land corridor to deliver humanitarian aid to war-stricken Syria for another six months.

Security Council President Ishikane Kimihiro on Monday said the cross-border operation from Turkey into northwest Syria meets the basic needs of the Syrian people.

Many refugee camps for citizens who have escaped attacks by government forces are located in the country's northwest.

Ishikane said he welcomes the extension, but said it should be for at least a year to provide the necessary assistance.

The United States and European countries also say a one-year extension of the operation is needed, so that non-governmental organizations and other support groups can plan ahead.

Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia reiterated that humanitarian aid should be provided through the administration of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and not via this route.