Unexploded Missile from Syrian Conflict Detonated in Damascus

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – A controlled detonation of an unexploded missile left over from previous battles was carried out on Monday in the Jobar neighborhood of Damascus, raising renewed concerns over the lingering dangers posed by remnants of war across Syria.

According to local sources, engineering teams safely detonated the missile, which had been discovered in the basement of the neighborhood’s grand mosque. The explosion did not result in any casualties or material damage, officials confirmed.

A media representative from the Jobar Information Office told North Press that the missile had remained in the area since 2018, a period marked by intense fighting in the district before government forces reestablished control over the capital’s eastern outskirts. “The missile was found in a structurally compromised building and was relocated to a secure site for detonation,” the representative stated.

The presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains a critical security challenge in many parts of Syria, particularly in areas that witnessed heavy bombardment and ground combat. Civilians continue to face risks from abandoned explosives, landmines, and other remnants of war, which have caused numerous casualties over the years.

In regions under the administration of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), specialized demining teams, often working alongside international partners, have been engaged in clearing war remnants to ensure civilian safety. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which play a crucial role in securing northern and eastern Syria, have repeatedly called for increased international assistance to address this issue.

While Damascus and other formerly contested areas continue to grapple with UXO-related hazards, northeastern Syria has also faced similar challenges. The SDF, backed by the Global Coalition, has conducted extensive clearance operations in areas liberated from the Islamic State (ISIS), where explosive devices left by the extremist group remain a significant concern for civilians and security personnel alike.

The controlled detonation in Damascus underscores the long-term impact of the conflict on Syria’s security landscape. As authorities work to clear war remnants, concerns persist over the lack of systematic demining efforts in many areas, particularly where access to resources and expertise remains limited.

Experts warn that UXO will continue to pose a threat for years to come, particularly in urban centers that saw prolonged fighting. Without coordinated demining operations and international support, the risk of civilian casualties remains high.

In northeast Syria, the AANES and SDF continue to advocate for sustained demining initiatives, emphasizing the necessity of security and stability for long-term reconstruction and governance efforts. Meanwhile, incidents like the recent controlled detonation in Damascus highlight the ongoing challenges Syria faces in mitigating the remnants of war and ensuring a safer environment for its people.