Syrian child killed after touching explosive device near Damascus

A child was killed near Damascus after an explosive device detonated when the youngster touched it, local officials said. The incident occurred in a residential area on the outskirts of the capital, where the unexploded ordnance is believed to be a remnant of the ongoing conflict that has left large quantities of munitions scattered across the region. Emergency responders arrived promptly, but the blast proved fatal, and the child's identity has not been released pending notification of relatives.

Authorities have warned residents about the dangers of unexploded devices and have called for increased public awareness and reporting of suspicious objects. Security forces are conducting a sweep of the area to locate and safely dispose of additional ordnance, a task complicated by the extensive damage sustained during years of fighting. The tragedy underscores the persistent risk that leftover explosives pose to civilians, particularly children, in war‑affected zones.