Ordnance from Syria's 13-year conflict explodes in port city, killing at least 16

ABC News - Mar 16th, 2025
Open on ABC News

In Lattakia, Syria, an explosion from leftover ordnance dating back to the country's prolonged conflict resulted in the collapse of a building, killing 16 people, including women and children, and injuring 18 others. The explosion took place in a metal scrap storage area on the ground floor of a four-story building. Rescue efforts by the Syrian Civil Defense, also known as the White Helmets, continued overnight to recover bodies and assist the injured.

The incident highlights the ongoing dangers of unexploded ordnance in Syria, a legacy of its 13-year conflict. Despite efforts by the United Nations and other organizations to clear these hazards, incidents persist, posing a significant threat to civilian safety. The explosion also underscores the volatile security situation in Lattakia, a strategic port city that recently saw a surge in violence following an ambush by Assad loyalists. The broader implications include ongoing instability and the challenge of post-conflict recovery in Syria, with entrenched divisions and sporadic violence threatening peace and reconstruction efforts.

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RATING

6.2
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The news story provides a timely and relevant account of a tragic incident in Lattakia, Syria, highlighting the dangers of unexploded ordnance and the ongoing violence in the region. While the article benefits from credible sources like the Syrian Civil Defense and the United Nations, it lacks diverse perspectives and detailed analysis, which could enhance its balance and impact. The story is generally clear and readable, with a straightforward presentation of events, but certain claims, such as the mention of Bashar Assad's ouster, require careful verification. Overall, the article effectively raises awareness about the humanitarian toll of Syria's conflict but could improve its engagement and impact by incorporating a wider range of voices and providing deeper context.

RATING DETAILS

6
Accuracy

The story provides a detailed account of an explosion in Lattakia, Syria, attributed to ordnance from the country's long-standing conflict. The report claims that 16 bodies were recovered, including women and children, with 18 others injured. However, the mention of Bashar Assad's ouster in December is potentially inaccurate, as there has been no widely reported change in his status. Additionally, the claim of more than 1,000 deaths due to recent violence requires further verification. The story's accuracy is supported by the involvement of the Syrian Civil Defense, known as the White Helmets, a credible source for such events. Overall, while the story aligns with some established facts, certain claims necessitate cautious verification.

5
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the explosion and its immediate aftermath, with limited exploration of broader perspectives. It mentions the Syrian Civil Defense and United Nations efforts but lacks input from Syrian government sources or local residents directly affected by the incident. The narrative might benefit from a more balanced presentation by including perspectives from different stakeholders, such as government officials or independent observers, to provide a fuller picture of the situation in Lattakia.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its presentation, with a straightforward account of the explosion and its consequences. The language is accessible, and the structure logically follows the sequence of events. However, some sentences could be more precise, particularly regarding the claim of Bashar Assad's ouster, which may confuse readers. Overall, the article effectively communicates the key points, but minor adjustments could enhance clarity.

7
Source quality

The story cites the Syrian Civil Defense, known as the White Helmets, a reputable organization with a history of reporting on conflict-related incidents in Syria. It also references the United Nations, lending credibility to the claims about unexploded ordnance and demilitarization efforts. However, the article could enhance its source quality by incorporating a wider range of voices, including local authorities or independent analysts, to corroborate the reported facts and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.

6
Transparency

The article provides some context about the ongoing conflict in Syria and the role of unexploded ordnance. However, it lacks transparency regarding the methodology used to gather information, such as whether reporters were on the ground or relying on second-hand reports. The story would benefit from clearer disclosure of how information was obtained and any potential limitations or biases in the sources used.

Sources

  1. https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/ordnance-syrias-13-year-conflict-explodes-port-city-119845831
  2. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/explosion-syrias-latakia-kills-people
  3. https://www.lmtonline.com/news/world/article/ordnance-from-syria-s-13-year-conflict-explodes-20224183.php