On January 18, 2024, Syrian regime forces used a rocket launcher to fire two rockets at Msaibin village in southern rural Idlib governorate. While no casualties were recorded, the rockets directly hit the Msaibin 2 Model Elementary School building, penetrating the classrooms. As a result, the building was partially destroyed, while the interior furnishings were moderately damaged. The area is under the control of armed opposition factions and Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) notes that, while the school is currently operative, it was empty, with students still on vacation.
It should be also noted that that through this attack, regime forces have again unequivocally violated UN Security Council resolutions 2139 & 2254, both of which categorically prohibit indiscriminate attacks, as well as violating the rules of international humanitarian law on distinguishing between civilians and fighters. Such attacks aim solely to spread fear and panic among civilians, to drive them from their lands and homes, and to forcibly displace them. An estimated 6.5 million people are currently internally displaced in Syria.
The international community must put pressure on the Syrian regime and its allies to support a process of political transition. Pressure should be applied on all parties to compel them to launch such a transition within a period of no more than six months, so that millions of displaced people can be ensured a safe and stable return.
