A drone attack took place at a military college in Syria’s Homs province during a graduation ceremony, resulting in a devastating toll, reported Al Jazeera. Syrian Health Minister Hassan al-Ghabash confirmed that the drone attack had resulted in the loss of approximately 80 lives, with an additional 240 individuals sustaining injuries.
Tragically, among the victims were civilians, including six children, and military personnel. Concerns were raised about a possible increase in the death toll due to the severe condition of many of the wounded.
Who carried out the drone attack?
At the time of the initial reports, no group or entity had claimed responsibility for the Syria drone attack, leaving uncertainty about its origins and motives.
According to Syria’s military, the incident involved explosive-laden drones that targeted the graduation ceremony as it neared its conclusion. The military issued a statement attributing the attack to fighters “backed by known international forces.”
International Concerns
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed profound concern regarding the drone attack in Homs. His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, also noted “reports of retaliatory shelling” in northwest Syria, further underscoring the complex and volatile situation.
Minister’s Fortunate Exit
Syria’s defense minister had attended the graduation ceremony but departed just minutes before the drone attack occurred.
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic aftermath, with casualties strewn across the courtyard and uncertainty about the source of the explosives.