Deadly Explosion Linked to Unexploded Ordnance Claims 16 Lives in Syria

In a tragic incident in the coastal city of Lattakia, Syria, an explosion attributed to an unexploded bomb has resulted in the deaths of at least 16 individuals. The incident occurred as a result of a scrap dealer handling the device, leading to the destruction of a four-story building and trapping residents beneath the debris.

The paramedic organization known as the White Helmets reported that rescue operations are ongoing, with at least 18 people suffering injuries from the blast. Video footage shared on social media shows rescue teams pulling survivors from the rubble.

The dangers posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain a significant concern in Syria, a country scarred by over a decade of civil conflict. According to estimates, between 100,000 and 300,000 of the approximately one million munitions deployed during the war failed to detonate. The United Nations highlighted that around 100 fatalities have occurred due to these remnants of war over the past 13 years.

Since the overthrow of long-time President Bashar Assad in December, efforts have been made to safely dismantle more than 1,400 unexploded devices. Aid organizations, such as Humanity and Inclusion, have identified numerous minefields and contaminated areas across regions including Idleb, Aleppo, Hama, Deir-ez-Zor, and Lattakia.

This explosion coincided with public commemorations marking the 14th anniversary of the uprising against Assad's regime. The city of Lattakia has recently experienced heightened violence, with government-led offensives resulting in extensive destruction and retaliatory attacks against the Alawite minority community, which includes Assad's supporters.

As the situation in Syria remains volatile, the risks associated with unexploded munitions continue to pose a threat to civilians, underscoring the urgent need for ongoing demining efforts and humanitarian assistance in the region.