On August 12, 2024, Syrian regime artillery forces fired multiple mortar shells at Abu Hamam town in eastern rural Deir Ez-Zour governorate. Two of the shells struck Omar bin Abdul Aziz Mosque in the town, partially destroying its ceiling and walls, while the interior furnishing was slightly damaged as well. The area targeted is under the control of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
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 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 to their homes.
