Addressing the Humanitarian Crisis: Landmines and Refugee Returns in Syria

Over 200 returning refugees in Syria have been killed by landmines since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Experts predict that decades may be needed to clear these remnants, posing significant safety risks. An important conference in Brussels aims to address humanitarian assistance and stability in Syria, marking a critical juncture as the country navigates its new political landscape.

In the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s regime fall, over 200 returning refugees in Syria have lost their lives to landmine explosions and unexploded munitions. This alarming toll includes many women and children, and it is rising as roughly 1.2 million Syrians return to their homes after years of displacement due to civil war. The long-term presence of landmines and explosive remnants from the 14-year conflict renders many areas unsafe.

Experts assert that there is no safe region in Syria, as thousands of landmines and unexploded shells remain hidden in both urban and rural locales, where significant battles occurred. The Halo Trust reports that as of last week, 640 individuals have suffered casualties due to these remnants. Mohammad Sami al-Mohammad, a bomb disposal expert affiliated with the White Helmets, indicated that a substantial portion of the victims consists of children, who sometimes mistake such weapons for toys.

Al-Mohammad remarked that it would require decades to render Syria safe from landmines, drawing parallels to other nations where conflicts ended decades ago yet still grapple with similar issues. As locals return, volunteer groups attempt to clear these dangerous remnants but often face severe risks, including injury and fatalities during demining operations.

An annual humanitarian conference in Brussels aims to address Syria’s ongoing crises. Historically organized by the European Union since 2017, this year’s meeting will include representation from Syria’s transitional government under Ahmad al-Sharaa, marking a significant shift from the previous exclusion of Assad’s regime. Notably, the conference will address humanitarian needs amidst continuing violence, including recent attacks on civilians from the Alawite minority.

European Union Foreign Minister Kaja Kallas commented on the pressing challenges facing Syria during these tumultuous times, as international aid dynamics change with the United States notably reducing its support for humanitarian assistance globally. The conference is vital for discussing strategies to support Syria’s path toward stability and recovery amid ongoing violence and instability.

The return of refugees to Syria is marred by the pervasive danger posed by landmines and unexploded ordinance, which has claimed over 200 lives in recent months. With thousands of such remnants scattered across the country, experts anticipate a drawn-out demining process that could span decades. Furthermore, the upcoming Brussels conference signifies a pivotal moment for international support amid ongoing humanitarian challenges and violence in Syria. The need for immediate and effective action remains paramount as the nation endeavors to achieve a semblance of stability.

Original Source: www.ynetnews.com