Dozens Killed in Syria Drone Attack on Graduation Ceremony
A devastating drone attack targeted a graduation ceremony for officers in Syria, leaving dozens dead and many more injured. The attack occurred just after the conclusion of the ceremony, causing chaos and panic among attendees. State media confirmed that 89 people lost their lives, including 31 women and five children, while 277 others sustained injuries.
The aftermath of the attack was filled with grief as distraught relatives gathered outside the Homs military hospital seeking information about their loved ones. Among them, a mother dressed in black adorned with white flowers was overwhelmed with sorrow over the loss of her son.
According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based monitor, the casualties were even higher, with 123 deaths, including 54 civilians, 39 of whom were women and children. The monitor also reported at least 150 people injured in the attack.
While no group has claimed responsibility for the assault, the Syrian army has placed blame on armed terrorist organizations. They alleged that the attack was carried out using drones loaded with explosives. The army has vowed to respond with full force.
Videos circulating on social media captured the panic and chaos that ensued during the attack, with people falling to the ground and pleading for help. In what appears to be retaliation, government forces launched heavy bombardment on the rebel-held Idlib region, resulting in the deaths of 15 civilians, as reported by the Observatory.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led by Al-Qaeda’s former Syria branch, controls parts of Idlib province and bordering areas. In the past, this jihadist group has utilized drones to target government-held territories.
Antonio Guterres, the United Nations chief, expressed deep concern over the drone attack and the subsequent shelling. The government has declared three days of mourning, set to begin on Friday.
The situation calls for a balanced view with consideration of the perspectives at play. As investigations continue and the nation mourns its losses, the focus remains on determining the responsible parties and preventing such tragic incidents in the future.
Keywords: Syria, drone attack, graduation ceremony, casualties, grief, armed terrorist organizations, retaliation, civilian deaths, United Nations, mourning
