Mine event in Damascus, Kanaker area, Syrian Arab Republic on Tue 2nd July 2024

On July 2, 2024, a Syrian regime forces artillery detachment, stationed in Brigade 121 on the outskirts of Kanaker town in western Rural Damascus governorate, fired multiple shells targeting the town. one of the shells struck a bus transporting workers, killing three civilians from the town; identified as Ramadan Hassan Zina, Belal Taha al-Masri, and a boy named Suhaib Emad Hejazi. Additionally, the shells partially destroyed and slightly damaged a number of houses. The area is under the control of Syrian regime forces.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) notes that through this attack, Syrian regime forces have again unequivocally violated UN Security Council resolutions 2139 & 2254, both of which categorically prohibit indiscriminate attacks, as well as violating the rules of international humanitarian law on distinguishing between civilians and fighters. Such attacks aim solely to spread fear and panic among civilians, to drive them from their lands and homes, and to forcibly displace them. An estimated 6.5 million people are currently internally displaced in Syria.

The international community must put pressure on the Syrian regime and its allies to support a process of political transition. Pressure should be applied on all parties to compel them to launch such a transition within a period of no more than six months, so that millions of displaced people can be ensured a safe and stable return to their homes.