80 killed and 240 wounded in drone attack at military college in Syria’s Homs province
At least 80 people have been killed and 240 others wounded in a drone attack during a graduation ceremony at a military college in Syria’s Homs province, according to the country’s health minister, Hassan al-Ghabash.
The attack, which took place on Thursday, targeted the ceremony as it was coming to an end. Al-Ghabash revealed that among the casualties were civilians, including six children, as well as military personnel. The health minister expressed concerns that the death toll could rise further, as many of the wounded were in serious condition.
No group has claimed responsibility for the drone attack thus far. However, the Syrian military accused fighters “backed by known international forces” for the assault.
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, expressed deep concern over the incident, as well as “reports of retaliatory shelling” in northwest Syria. Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, conveyed the Secretary-General’s sentiments.
Notably, Syria’s defense minister was present at the graduation ceremony but left just minutes before the attack, as reported by Reuters. A Syrian man who had helped set up decorations for the ceremony mentioned that after the event concluded, explosions occurred in the courtyard without any prior warning.
Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr, who has extensively reported on Syria, stated that the attack represents a significant breach of security and a blow to the Syrian regime. She noted that it has been years since the forces of President Bashar al-Assad have been targeted in such a manner within government-controlled territory.
Following the attack, the Syrian regime allegedly started targeting residential areas in opposition-controlled enclaves in the northwest of the country. This led to at least five people being killed, including a woman and child, and 40 others wounded in the northwestern province of Idlib.
The Syrian Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, reported that the attacks targeted 20 villages and towns across Idlib governorate. The strikes, launched from government positions south and east of Jabal al-Zawiya, primarily aimed at a power station and a popular market.
The situation in Syria remains tense as authorities investigate the drone attack. The international community stands united in condemnation, urging an end to violence and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Additional reporting by Ali Haj Suleiman.