Mines remain widespread in northwestern Syria – Ministry of Defense
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Ministry of Defense said on Thursday that mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain widespread across northwestern Syria.
Explosions from landmines and UXO occur almost daily in the region and other parts of the country, with children making up the majority of the victims.
According to the Ministry, heavily contaminated areas include the southern and western countryside of Idlib—particularly around Khan Shaykhun, Maarat al-Numan, and Kafr Nabl —as well as the western countryside of Aleppo, including Andan, Hreitan, and Kafr Hamra.
The threat also extends into the northwestern neighborhoods of Aleppo city and former front-line agricultural zones and roads.
The Ministry explained to North Press that it employs a multi-stage demining strategy. Military engineering teams first survey suspected areas using advanced technologies and modern detection devices. This is followed by manual and mechanical clearance operations, utilizing specialized mine-removal equipment in open areas.
In its statement, the Ministry emphasized the importance of public safety measures, avoiding metallic or unfamiliar objects, heeding warning signs posted in contaminated zones, and promptly reporting suspicious items to the relevant authorities or through the ministry’s hotline.
The Ministry of Defense also highlighted the broader societal impact of mines, including the disruption of agriculture, a rise in permanent injuries and disabilities—particularly among children—the spread of fear and anxiety, and the continued displacement of families from villages that remain unsafe.
To address the crisis, the Ministry called for an acceleration of clearance efforts through increased logistical and technical support, expanded awareness campaigns in schools and local communities, and greater international backing to provide funding and modern demining technologies.