Azaz, Syria – A bomb explosion shook a shopping area in Azaz, a city in northern Syria held by pro-Turkish forces on Sunday, resulting in eight deaths and over 20 injuries, according to a war monitor. The alarming incident took place late at night in the midst of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, as reported by an AFP correspondent on the ground.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the tragic toll, stating that a car bomb detonated in a crowded market, causing extensive damage and igniting a fire. The ongoing security threats in regions controlled by pro-Turkish factions in northern Syria are exacerbated by internal conflicts among armed groups and the looming risk of attacks by Islamic State militants.
Emergency responders swiftly mobilized at the scene of the explosion, which left behind a scene of devastation and fear among residents. Eyewitnesses like Khaled al-Nowmeh and Thaer Hafar recounted their harrowing experiences of running for safety amid the chaos, drawing attention to the pervasive sense of insecurity plaguing the area.
Authorities have tightened security measures at checkpoints and are actively reviewing surveillance footage to identify potential suspects behind the attack. The complex dynamics in Syria’s prolonged conflict have led to a deteriorating situation marked by violence, displacement, and widespread destruction of infrastructure.
Turkish forces, along with their Syrian allies, maintain control over key border areas, including Azaz, where such deadly incidents serve as a grim reminder of the fragility of peace and stability in the region. Amid successive military offensives targeting various groups, the threat of further violence looms large over communities already reeling from years of brutal conflict.
Recent events, such as the car bombing at a checkpoint in Al-Rai and the prison break in Afrin, underscore the persistent security challenges facing both residents and authorities in northern Syria. The recurring cycle of violence continues to claim lives and sow fear among civilians, underscoring the urgent need for sustained efforts to restore peace and security in the war-torn country.