Abandoned mine claims life in Deir Ezzor countryside
DEIR EZ-ZOR, Syria (North Press) – A man was killed on Saturday after a landmine, believed to be a remnant of armed Iranian-backed groups, exploded in the eastern countryside of Deir Ezzor.
Local sources told North Press that the victim, identified as Mohammed Hassan al‑Huweijah, died while working at a stone quarry near the town of Diblān.
The explosion caused fatal injuries immediately, according to the sources, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by unexploded ordnance in areas previously controlled or contested by armed factions.
Last week, two employees were injured by a landmine explosion in the al-Taym Oilfield in southern Deir Ezzor, emphasizing that leftover explosive devices remain a serious threat across the governorate.
In response to these ongoing threats, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Autonomous Administration, in coordination with humanitarian organizations, have intensified efforts to remove landmines and unexploded ordnance. These clearance operations aim to protect civilians and reduce the risk of fatalities and injuries from remnants of past conflicts.