Syrians Returning Home Face Deadly Risk from Landmines, Warns Mine-Clearing Group
Syrians Returning Home Face Deadly Risk from Landmines, Warns Mine-Clearing Group
Syria’s returnees are facing a deadly risk as they return to their homes—landmines. These explosive remnants from years of conflict still contaminate large areas. According to a mine-clearing group, Syrians returning home landmine risk remains high. Many are unaware of the dangers beneath their feet.
1. The Continuing Landmine Crisis in Syria
Syria’s conflict has left the country riddled with landmines. Areas once controlled by various factions are now dangerous to civilians. Hidden explosives, including landmines and improvised devices, remain buried in the ground. As people return to these areas, they unknowingly step into harm’s way.
Key regions, like Idlib and Aleppo, face severe contamination. Many displaced Syrians are eager to rebuild their homes but are unaware of the risks. This lingering threat puts lives at constant risk, preventing full recovery.
2. The Danger to Returnees
The influx of returnees only adds to the problem. Syrians are eager to reunite with their families and rebuild their lives, but landmines obstruct their path. Many are returning to areas where demining efforts have not yet been completed.
People often don’t know where mines are located. The lack of proper clearance increases the risk of injury and death. The mine-clearing group has highlighted that returnees are “horribly vulnerable” in these areas.
3. Increased Need for Demining Operations
The need for more mine-clearing operations in Syria is urgent. While organizations work to clear contaminated zones, the process is slow. De-mining requires specialized equipment and skilled personnel. As the conflict persists, landmine removal efforts continue to be hindered by a lack of resources and ongoing violence.
Experts argue that greater international support is essential for accelerating clearance efforts. More funding could help ensure that key areas are made safe more quickly, reducing the risk to returning Syrians.
4. Rural Areas Face Greater Challenges
Rural areas in Syria are especially dangerous. Many villages still have high concentrations of mines, making it hard for people to access land or resources. The mines prevent safe farming, complicating efforts to revive the agricultural economy.
Without demining, families cannot return to their homes or livelihoods. The presence of landmines is also delaying the construction of schools and roads, leaving these areas in a state of stagnation.
5. Long-Term Impact on Syrian Society
Landmines not only kill and injure but also create a long-term barrier to Syria’s recovery. The psychological impact of living in a mine-contaminated area is severe. People constantly fear stepping on landmines. This fear stalls efforts to rebuild normal life.
In addition to physical dangers, landmines prevent economic recovery. Communities are unable to resume normal activities, which delays Syria’s overall progress.
6. International Support Needed
The global community must respond to the landmine crisis in Syria. Governments, humanitarian organizations, and NGOs should join forces. Clearing mines will make areas safer for returning Syrians and help the country rebuild.
Support for mine-clearing efforts must be a priority. With proper resources and international collaboration, Syria can begin to heal from the trauma of landmines.
Conclusion
The landmine risk for Syrians returning home is a deadly and ongoing challenge. Increased demining efforts, education, and global support are critical to ensuring safety. Without these actions, many Syrians will continue to face danger as they return to their homeland.