On December 1, 2024, fixed-wing Syrian regime forces warplanes fired multiple missiles at Idlib city, killing 16 civilians, including eight children and three women, and injuring 59 others, including 21 children and 19 women in an initial estimate. The attack also moderately damaged the structure and interior furnishing of a clinic affiliated with Violet Organization, as well as one of its ambulances. In addition, the Uossm’s Central Refer and Medical Aid System Center’s interior furnishing was damaged, with slight damages to the windows and doors of the Idlib Health Directorate’s building. The area targeted is under the control of armed opposition factions and Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) notes that through this attack, Syrian 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 members. 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 to their homes.
