Syria experiences rising casualties among children from landmines, with at least 188 reported by Save the Children since December 2023. The UN notes over 1.2 million returns to Syria, raising concerns about safety. Parallel geopolitical issues persist in Sudan, Turkey, and Israel, indicating a tumultuous situation across the Middle East.
Recent reports indicate that landmines and unexploded ordnance in Syria have caused severe casualties among children since the overthrow of President Bashar Assad. The organization Save the Children reported that at least 188 children have either died or sustained injuries since December 8, with over 60 fatalities. This alarming trend may worsen as more families return to Syrian territories affected by years of conflict, which has resulted in considerable remnants of war throughout the nation.
The toll of such explosives has compounded the humanitarian crisis, with approximately 628 casualties attributed to landmines and remnants of war in just three months, representing an overwhelming majority of total casualties for 2023. In light of these statistics, the charity has urged victims to take immediate action to expedite the clearance of dangerous munitions from populated areas.
Amidst growing concerns regarding safety in Syria, the United Nations reported that about 1.2 million individuals returned to Syria in the last three months, including a significant number who were previously internally displaced. With the country heavily polluted by mines, calls for action by transitional authorities and international donors have become increasingly urgent.
In related news, ongoing global issues also include rising tensions in Sudan, where the UN Security Council has expressed anxiety over a new charter signed by paramilitary forces, potentially exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. Moreover, tensions within Turkey persist as calls for the disarmament of the PKK strengthen in response to its founder’s appeal to lay down arms.
The international community also remains engaged in discussions about Kurdish oil exports at talks in Baghdad aimed at re-establishing pipeline agreements with Turkey. These developments indicate a complex geopolitical landscape across the Middle East that continues to impact civilian life and safety.
Additionally, Israel’s government is moving forward with proceedings to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara over alleged disagreements with the administration. In a related note, recent comments from former US President Donald Trump concerning Gaza have further complicated the context of Israeli-Palestinian negotiations and ceasefires.
In conclusion, the humanitarian situation in Syria remains precarious due to unexploded ordnance causing significant casualties among children. The urgency for demining efforts increases as more families return to war-torn areas. Concurrently, geopolitical tensions in Sudan, Turkey, and Israel continue to present challenges, underscoring the necessity for diplomatic interventions and humanitarian support to navigate the complexities of the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com