Landmines and unexploded ordnance in Syria have killed or injured at least 188 children since President Assad’s overthrow. The urgency for clearing these remnants of war is underscored by the return of over 1.2 million people, putting them at risk. Save the Children highlights the need for immediate action to prevent further casualties.
Recent reports reveal alarming incidents in Syria, where landmines and unexploded ordnance have caused casualties among children. The charitable organization Save the Children reported that since President Bashar Assad’s overthrow, at least 188 children have been killed or injured, with a substantial risk of increased numbers as families return to war-torn areas. Over 60 fatalities among children highlight the dire situation, with the ongoing conflict contributing to a legacy of unexploded weapons.
The UN has recently indicated that approximately 1.2 million people have returned to Syria within the past three months, intensifying the urgency for safety measures. Bujar Hoxha, the charity’s Syria director, emphasized the ongoing dangers, citing an average of two child casualties per day from these remnants of war. Calls for immediate action to clear mines from affected areas reflect the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by a decade-long conflict.
Support for transitional authorities and international donors is crucial to facilitate mine clearance in Syria, as highlighted by previous warnings from Humanity and Inclusion regarding the extensive dangers posed by unexploded munitions. With an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 undeployed explosives remaining, both civil safety and long-term recovery depend on rapid action to address this critical issue.
In conclusion, the fallout from Syria’s long-standing conflict continues to impact the nation’s children severely, with significant casualties resulting from leftover explosives. The call to expedite mine-clearing efforts is urgent as families begin returning to their homes, facing persistent threats. With coordinated international efforts, there appears hope for improved safety and recovery in this war-torn region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
