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In a tragic incident, at least nine civilians were killed and over 34 others wounded when Russian warplanes conducted a series of air strikes on Idlib in northwestern Syria. The attacks, which occurred on Sunday, targeted a crowded vegetable market in the city of Jisr al-Shughour, situated in the eastern countryside of Idlib. The Syria Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, reported the devastating impact of the assault.
According to eyewitnesses, including Reda Hayshid, a 21-year-old vegetable vendor present at the market, chaos and devastation ensued after the air strike. Hayshid stated, “During our work today at the vegetable market, we were startled by an air strike that targeted the market where we were present, turning [it] into a pool of blood and the remains of victims.”
The Syria Civil Defence condemned the escalation of attacks by both the Syrian regime and Russian forces in the region, highlighting the immense challenges faced by rescue workers. Ahmed Yazji, a member of the Syria Civil Defence’s board of directors, expressed concern over the deliberate targeting of areas where their teams were present, hindering their efforts to save lives.
The vegetable market in Jisr al-Shughour holds significant importance for local farmers who rely on it to sell their produce. The devastating consequences of the air strike have left survivors traumatized, as they grapple with the loss of friends and the horrific injuries inflicted upon others. Rami Jaafar, who narrowly escaped the attack, rushed back to the market to check on his relatives.
Jaafar recalled, “On my way back home with my family, we heard the sound of an explosion coming from the direction of the vegetable market. I quickly secured my family in one of the houses in Jisr al-Shughour and rushed to the market to check on my cousins who were there.” He described the scene as one filled with dust, the stench of blood, and the cries of the wounded.
This tragic incident once again highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict in Syria and the toll it takes on innocent civilians. The indiscriminate attacks on populated areas and markets further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region. The international community continues to call for an end to the violence and the protection of civilian lives, urging all parties involved to prioritize the well-being and safety of the Syrian people.