Mon Apr 21 12:42:49 UTC 2025: ## Syria’s Hidden War: Demining Efforts Urgently Needed After Surge in Landmine Casualties
**Idlib, Syria –** The end of Syria’s brutal civil war hasn’t brought peace to all its citizens. A surge in landmine casualties highlights the urgent need for expanded demining efforts across the country, according to human rights groups and international organizations.
The harrowing story of Suleiman Khalil, a 21-year-old olive harvester who lost a leg to a landmine four months ago, exemplifies the ongoing danger. While harvesting, Khalil and his friends inadvertently triggered a mine, resulting in severe injuries. His experience underscores the pervasive threat posed by unexploded ordnance, remnants of the nearly 14-year conflict.
According to a recent Human Rights Watch (HRW) report, Syrian government forces, their allies, and armed opposition groups widely deployed mines and explosives since 2011. These weapons have contaminated vast areas, many now accessible following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government. This increased accessibility has tragically led to a sharp rise in casualties.
The International NGO Safety Organisation (INSO) reports at least 249 deaths and 379 injuries from these munitions since December 8th, including 60 child victims. Experts estimate tens of thousands of landmines remain buried, particularly in former frontline regions like rural Idlib.
The impact extends beyond immediate physical harm. HRW highlights the long-term psychological trauma, displacement, property loss, and restricted access to essential services caused by landmines.
The organization is urging the transitional government to create a civilian-led mine action authority, working with the UN Mine Action Service, to significantly accelerate and broaden demining operations. The urgent call reflects the critical need to address this deadly legacy of war and secure a safer future for Syria’s population.
First Piper 