Wave of Terrorist Attacks in Northern Syria Kills 28 Civilians, Injures 45

A series of terrorist attacks have devastated the city of Manbij in northern Syria, leaving at least 28 civilians dead and 45 others injured since late December. The attacks, which targeted residential areas, kindergartens, and shops, have instilled fear among residents, forcing many to flee their homes.

Escalating Violence Since December

The wave of attacks began on December 24, when a bomb-laden vehicle exploded, killing two people and injuring two others. Just three days later, another car bombing near the Grand Mosque struck the city, though casualty figures were not disclosed.

On December 31, the violence escalated as a mortar attack hit a village near the Tishrin Dam on the Euphrates River, killing a woman and a child. The same day, a landmine explosion near the dam claimed the life of a driver.

Attacks continued into the new year, with a rocket strike on January 21 in Tal Arsh village, killing two civilians and injuring five others. Two days later, on January 23, another car bomb exploded in the southern countryside of Manbij, leaving one dead and seven injured.

The violence intensified on February 1, when a bomb-laden vehicle detonated near a kindergarten on Al-Rabita Street, killing three civilians and wounding 15 others. While no group has claimed responsibility, the attacks appear to be part of a coordinated campaign targeting civilian areas.

Deadliest Attack Leaves 17 Dead

The most catastrophic attack occurred yesterday, when a car bomb exploded in a crowded area, killing 17 civilians and injuring 16 others. Many of the victims were children and female agricultural workers who were in the vicinity at the time of the blast.

Residents in Fear, Pleading for Help

The relentless attacks have left the residents of Manbij in a state of fear and despair. Many are desperately trying to leave the city, fearing further violence.

“Civilians are constantly being killed,” said local resident Khalid Denkez. “The population is suffering. They keep sending car bombs. They have no fear of God.”

Another resident, Muhammed Assaf, expressed sorrow over the destruction of places meant for children. Pointing at a kindergarten wall covered in drawings, he said, “These pictures were meant to bring joy to children. Now, they have become images of sorrow.”

Assaf also highlighted the growing exodus from Manbij, stating, “We have no safe place left. Where can people go safely? They are taking their belongings and leaving.”

Calling for international intervention, Assaf urged the United Nations and the global community to step in and help the people of Manbij. “Are we forgotten, ignored people?” he asked.

Uncertainty Ahead

With no group claiming responsibility for the attacks and security conditions worsening, Manbij remains on edge. The city, which has long been a contested area in Syria’s ongoing conflict, now faces one of its most severe humanitarian crises in recent years.

Residents continue to call for urgent action as they struggle to survive amid the relentless wave of violence that has shattered their daily lives.