Damascus: Car Bomb Kills 20 in Northern Syria, Authorities Vow to Punish Those Responsible
A car bomb attack in northern Syria’s Manbij city has killed at least 20 people, authorities said on Monday, as the region remains embroiled in a conflict between Kurdish-led forces and Turkey-backed factions.
Car Bomb Attack
The attack, which was the deadliest since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, targeted agricultural workers on the outskirts of Manbij city. White Helmet rescuers said women and children were among those killed in the blast, which was condemned by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian presidency.
Elections in Syria
In a separate development, Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa said that organizing elections in the country could take up to five years, the week after he was appointed interim president and less than two months after ousting Assad. Sharaa, who was in Saudi Arabia for a second day on Monday, said in a pre-recorded television interview that the vote’s infrastructure "needs to be re-established, and this takes time."
Talks Between Authorities and SDF
The car bomb attack comes amid talks between the new authorities, who are close to Ankara, and the SDF over the group’s future. Sharaa said in the interview that "there are differences on certain details" between the two sides, but added that "nobody wants secession in Syria."
Turkey’s Role
Turkey, which opposes the SDF, is due to host Sharaa on Tuesday for his second international visit since Assad was toppled. Turkey has threatened a military operation against the SDF unless it accepts Ankara’s conditions for a "bloodless" transition after Assad’s fall. Syria’s new authorities have called on the force to hand over its weapons and integrate into a new national army, rejecting demands for Kurdish self-rule.
Conclusion
The car bomb attack in Manbij is a stark reminder of the ongoing violence in northern Syria, where various factions are vying for power and influence. As the country navigates a complex political landscape, the international community must remain vigilant and support efforts to promote peaceful resolution and stability in the region.
FAQs
- What was the car bomb attack in Manbij, Syria?
A car bomb attack in Manbij, Syria, killed at least 20 people, including women and children, on Monday. - Who is responsible for the attack?
The attack was claimed by no one, but the SDF and the Syrian presidency condemned it. - What is the current situation in northern Syria?
Northern Syria is embroiled in a conflict between Kurdish-led forces and Turkey-backed factions, with Turkey threatening a military operation against the SDF. - What are the key issues in the talks between the new authorities and the SDF?
The talks revolve around the SDF’s future, with the new authorities pushing for the group to hand over its weapons and integrate into a new national army, while the SDF is seeking greater autonomy and recognition.