Turkish Drone Strike in Syria Injures Civilians Near Tishreen Dam
By Kardo Roj
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Civilians protesting near Tishreen Dam in northern Syria were injured on Saturday after a Turkish drone targeted their gatherings twice, eyewitnesses reported.
The drone strikes occurred amidst ongoing protests against Turkish attacks on the strategically significant dam, located near the town of Manbij in Aleppo’s countryside.
Escalating Turkish Strikes
Sources told North Press that the drone strikes targeted a convoy of protesters near the dam, injuring several civilians.
Earlier on Saturday, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) reported that Turkish warplanes had carried out multiple airstrikes in the southern countryside of Kobani, including areas near Tishreen Dam and Karakozak Bridge. One of the airstrikes destroyed a school, while another obliterated a civilian auto repair shop in the town of Sirrin.
The SDF also noted that nearby villages such as Tineh were hit by Turkish bombardment, causing significant damage to civilian infrastructure.
Dam at Risk of Collapse
The attacks come amid heightened concerns over the structural integrity of Tishreen Dam. On Wednesday, the SDF issued a warning about the potential collapse of the dam due to repeated Turkish strikes.
The dam, which controls a critical section of the Euphrates River, supplies water and electricity to large parts of northern Syria. Its destruction would have devastating humanitarian and environmental consequences, affecting tens of thousands of residents in the region.
Journalists Targeted
Thursday’s drone strikes on the dam also injured three journalists who were covering civilian protests.
The SDF condemned the attacks as a violation of international laws protecting civilians and critical infrastructure during conflicts. They reiterated calls for the international community to intervene and hold Turkey accountable for its actions.
Context of the Conflict
Since the fall of the Assad regime, areas in northern Syria, including Manbij and Kobani, have been the target of frequent Turkish attacks and incursions by Ankara-backed factions. These assaults have led to displacement, civilian casualties, and heightened tensions in the region.
Appeal for International Action
Local authorities and rights groups are urging international bodies, including the United Nations and humanitarian organizations, to take decisive action to prevent further targeting of civilian populations and essential infrastructure.
The escalating violence underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and protect civilians caught in the crossfire of this ongoing conflict.