New Delhi: A deadly explosion tore through a market in the northern Syrian city of Azaz, under the control of pro-Turkish forces. The blast resulted in the tragic loss of at least eight lives and left around thirty individuals injured. Emergency services rushed to the scene, transporting critically wounded victims to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment.
Witnesses described the car bomb detonating in the bustling market area, causing chaos and igniting a fire. Yaseen Shalabi, a bystander, noted that the timing of the explosion coincided with a period of heavy congestion by shoppers. This Arab-majority town governed by Syrian rebel factions supported by Turkey has endured relative calm in recent times, following a car bombing incident two years prior.
Unfortunately, towns in the northwestern border region have been recurrent targets for bombings, often impacting densely populated civilian areas. These violent acts are part of the broader Syrian conflict, which originated in 2011 from government crackdowns on peaceful protests, ultimately spiraling into a complex and devastating war involving extremist groups, foreign interventions, and widespread displacement of civilians.
Over the years, Turkey has conducted several military operations in Syria, mainly targeting Kurdish militants associated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Turkish forces, in collaboration with Syrian allies, have established control over various regions along the border, including significant cities like Azaz. The conflict has claimed over 507,000 lives, displaced countless individuals, and severely damaged the country’s infrastructure.
As investigations into the Azaz market explosion continue, the toll of death and destruction serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing turmoil in Syria and the enduring challenges faced by its people. The incident underscores the urgent need for sustained efforts towards peace and stability in the region, amidst a backdrop of political tensions and military operations.