A Syrian military academy was the target of a severe drone strike on Thursday, with casualties nearing 100, as a war monitor and official sources reported. This assault took place shortly after the departure of Syria’s defence minister from an academy graduation ceremony.
For a country beleaguered by a 12-year civil conflict, the use of armed drones in this manner is unparalleled, marking it among the deadliest strikes on a Syrian military facility.
Syria’s defence ministry confirmed the casualties encompassed civilians and soldiers, attributing the attack to “terrorist” entities utilizing drones. Yet, the culprits remain unidentified as no group has come forward to accept responsibility.
In retaliation to the drone incident, the Syrian government forces initiated extensive bombings on the rebel-controlled Idlib area. The nation’s defence and foreign ministries have promised a potent response.
The defence minister, present during the graduation, departed just moments before the onslaught, as sources informed Reuters.
A local engaged in the event’s preparations recounted the horror post-ceremony: “Explosions rocked the courtyard, leaving devastation and bodies everywhere. The attack’s origin remains a mystery.”
While the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported over 100 deaths and 125 injuries, Health Minister Hassan Al-Ghobash presented a conservative figure of 80 fatalities, including women and children, but acknowledged roughly 240 injuries.
While Assad has reclaimed most territories, parts of the northern region adjacent to Turkey remain under the control of opposition factions, some of which are extremist jihadist groups.
