In the months following Assad’s fall, over 200 returning refugees in Syria have died from landmines. Over 1.2 million Syrians are returning home, but dangerous remnants of war remain widespread. Experts warn of the long-term dangers and the conference in Brussels aims to address humanitarian concerns amidst these challenges.
Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, over 200 returning refugees, including children, have tragically lost their lives to landmine explosions in Syria. As approximately 1.2 million Syrians attempt to return to their homes after years of displacement, the presence of thousands of landmines and unexploded munitions remains a critical danger in both urban and rural areas affected by the civil war.
According to experts from the Halo Trust, around 640 Syrians have been killed or injured due to these leftover munitions. Bomb disposal experts caution that “there is no safe area in Syria.” The United Nations reports that one-third of the victims of such incidents are children, who often mistake mines and shells for toys.
Mohammad Sami al-Mohammad, a bomb disposal expert associated with the White Helmets aid organization, stated, “We cannot say there is any area in Syria free of war remnants,” emphasizing that it may take decades to clear the mines. He further noted that nations where wars ended even decades ago still grapple with the remnants, making the situation in Syria particularly dire.
Volunteers are engaging in demining efforts to assist returning residents; however, this work is perilous, with many volunteers facing injury or death. An upcoming annual conference in Brussels aims to raise funds for Syrian humanitarian efforts. This conference will feature representation from the newly established regime following Assad’s removal and will include international ministers and UN representatives.
Previously, the conference had operated without representatives from the Syrian regime, redirecting aid to UN organizations instead. In light of ongoing violence, including recent executions related to regime clashes, the conference is deemed vital, particularly as the United States is scaling back its humanitarian aid worldwide, according to European officials.
In summary, the return of refugees to Syria is met with significant challenges due to the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance, resulting in numerous casualties. Experts highlight the daunting task of clearing these hazards, which may take decades. The upcoming Brussels conference represents a critical opportunity to address humanitarian needs, albeit amidst ongoing violence and operational shifts in international aid dynamics.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
