Since President Bashar Assad’s ousting, landmines in Syria have killed or injured at least 188 children, where over 60 have died in recent months. With nearly 1.2 million people returning to war-torn regions, the risk increases. Save the Children and Humanity and Inclusion highlight the urgent need for clearance of these hazards to protect families and prevent further casualties.
In Syria, the ongoing dangers posed by leftover landmines and unexploded ordnance have resulted in the deaths or injuries of at least 188 children since President Bashar Assad’s removal in December. Save the Children reported that more than 60 fatalities were among this group and emphasized that the situation may worsen with more families returning to the war-torn nation.
The report indicated that landmines and explosive remnants accounted for approximately 628 casualties, representing more than two-thirds of the total casualties recorded in 2023. The United Nations noted that around 1.2 million individuals have returned to Syria in the last three months, raising concerns about further threats to public safety.
Bujar Hoxha, the charity’s Syria director, highlighted the alarming average of two child casualties per day in the past three months due to these explosives still lingering in many parts of Syria after over a decade of conflict. Save the Children has called for action from transitional authorities and international donors to expedite the clearance process for these hazards.
A related report by Humanity and Inclusion pointed out the grave dangers from unexploded munitions remaining from the civil war that erupted in 2011. Estimates suggest that between 100,000 and 300,000 of the around one million used munitions have not detonated, significantly raising the risk of casualties.
The humanitarian crisis in Syria continues to escalate as demonstrated by the tragic incidents, such as the recent explosion of unexploded ordnance in a home in northwestern Syria that claimed the lives of at least eight civilians, three of whom were children. The need for effective removal strategies for these hazards is paramount to protect returning families and restore safety in affected areas.
The persistent threat of landmines and unexploded ordnance in Syria has resulted in a harrowing toll on children, emphasizing the urgent need for action to ensure their safety. With rising return rates of displaced families, the call for effective mine clearance and increased humanitarian assistance becomes increasingly critical. The alarming statistics underscore the devastating impact of prolonged conflict, requiring immediate attention from both local authorities and international entities to mitigate risks and safeguard lives.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
