Civilian Casualties

Civilian Casualties

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Incident Code

TS440

Incident date

July 16, 2020

Location

1km من مركز مدينة الدرباسية, 1KM from Al Darbasiyah city centre, Hassakah, Syria

Geolocation

37.063942, 40.652917 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Street level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

One civilian was allegedly by a Turkish drone strike on Ad Darbasiyah.

ANHA wrote: “At about 10:00 a.m., a Turkish airliner was believed to have bombed one of the city’s points, 1 km from the center of Ad-Derbasiyah district on Ad-Derbasiyah-al-Hasakah road.

The shelling resulted in a civilian injury, from the people of Amouda, and works in the industry with minor injuries, according to a reporter from ANHA agency in the district.  That after medical assistance, the wounded man returned to his home and is in stable condition.”

Wladimir also tweeted that one civilian was injured.

The incident occured at approximately 10:00 am local time.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Civilians reported injured
    1
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Unknown

Sources (3) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (1) [ collapse]

  • Damage allegedly caused by Turkish drone strike on Ad Darbasiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via Wladimir)

Geolocation notes (1) [ collapse]

Reports of the incident mention the road between Al Darbasiyah (الدرباسية) and Al Hassakah (الحسكة‎) being struck approximately 1km away from the city centre of Al Darbasiyah. Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further. The coordinates for this approximate location are: 37.063942, 40.652917.

  • Reports of the incident mention the road between Al Darbasiyah (الدرباسية) and Al Hassakah (الحسكة‎) being struck approximately 1km away from the city centre of Al Darbasiyah.

    Imagery:
    Google Earth

Turkish Military Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    Turkish Military
  • Turkish Military position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Civilians reported injured
    1
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Unknown

Sources (3) [ collapse]

Incident Code

TS441

Incident date

July 16, 2020

Location

الدرباسية, Ad Darbasiyah, Hassakah, Syria

Geolocation

37.063375, 40.655364 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Neighbourhood/area level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Between one and three civilians were allegedly injured by a Turkish drone or mortar strike on Ad Darbasiyah.

Woofers tweeted: “Casualties reported (all injuries) are two Russian soldiers, a Syrian soldier, and a local civilian.

It would seem that the local civilian casualty may not exist and may be the Syrian soldier who may have been out of uniform.

No one I’ve spoken to has seen the reported UAV. I don’t know if it really was an airstrike. But everyone is reporting it as one.”

Rudaw reported: “At least one Russian soldier was injured in a drone attack in Darbasiyah town in northeast Syria (Rojava) on Thursday, according to Kurdish security forces (Asayesh) who blamed Turkey for the incident in which civilians were also hurt.

‘Turkish planes targeted a Russian forces point in the vicinity of Darbasiyah,’ read a statement from the Asayesh. ‘A drone, which belongs to the invading army, targeted a Russian forces military point on Thursday.’

‘A Russian soldier and three civilians were injured,’ stated the Asayesh, describing the site that was hit as a ‘strategic coordination point one kilometre south of Darbasiyah town on the road to Hasakah city.”

Other sources did not report civilian harm and said that at least two Russian soldiers and possibly one Syrian regime soldier were injured.

Nina described the attack as a “kamikaze drone strike” on Twitter.

Zafer Kabaoglu said three Russian soldiers and two YPG members were injured.

Rob Leee pointed out that the pictures of the munition used rather looks like a mortar round than Turkish drone missiles.

The local time of the incident is unknown.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Civilians reported injured
    1
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Other
  • Belligerents reported injured
    2–5

Sources (23) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (13) [ collapse]

  • Soldier allegedly injured by Turkish drone on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via ZOKA)
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via ZOKA)
  • Soldier allegedly injured by Turkish drone on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via ZOKA)
  • Soldier allegedly injured by Turkish drone on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via ZOKA)
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via SOHR)
  • Munition used in alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via SOHR)
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via SOHR)
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via SOHR)
  • Munition used in alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via SOHR)
  • Munition used in alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via ZOKA)
  • Munition used in alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via ZOKA)
  • Munition used in alleged Turkish drone attack on Ad Darsabiyah on July 16th, 2020 (via ZOKA)

Geolocation notes (2) [ collapse]

Reports of the incident mention a Russia military checkpoint or area approximately 1km outside from Al Darbasiyah (الدرباسية). Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further. A possible location for this strike, that matches the type of building within the audio-visual material, is at these coordinates: 37.063375, 40.655364.

  • Reports of the incident mention a Russia military checkpoint or area approximately 1km outside from Al Darbasiyah (الدرباسية).

    Imagery:
    Google Earth

  • A possible location for this strike, that matches the type of building within the audio-visual material.

    Imagery:
    Google Earth

Turkish Military Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    Turkish Military
  • Turkish Military position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Civilians reported injured
    1
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Other
  • Belligerents reported injured
    2–5

Sources (23) [ collapse]

Incident Code

RS4516

Incident date

July 19, 2020

Location

تل واسط, Tal Waset, Idlib, Syria

Airwars assessment

One man was killed and at least one civilian, a woman, was injured by alleged Russian or regime airstrikes or artillery strikes on the village of Tal Wasit, Hama on July 19th 2020.

Syrian Civil Defense reported: “A civilian was killed and a woman was seriously wounded today, Sunday, July 19, by artillery and missile shelling by the regime forces, which was hit by the village of Tal Wasit in the western countryside of Hama.”

Alhadath Syria reported others were injured. The majority of sources reported only one woman was injured who was the wife of the civilian killed.

Multiple sources reported the civilian was a displaced civilian from east Hama countryside working as a sheepherder.

The sources attributed the strike to multiple belligerent groups. Multiple sources claim the strike was due to Assad’s but other claim Russian Militia were responsible. @hadikhraat tweeted that Iranian militias were also responsible. Therefore this is a contested strike.

The local time of the incident is unknown.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Contested strike
  • Strike type
    Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • (1 man)
  • Civilians reported injured
    1–2
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Contested
    Competing claims of responsibility e.g. multiple belligerents, or casualties also attributed to ground forces.
  • Suspected attackers
    Russian Military, Syrian Regime

Sources (31) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (4) [ collapse]

  • Syrian Civil Defence volunteers responding to shelling in Tal Waset which resulted in the killing of one civilian and the injury of another on July 19th, 2020. (via SCD)

  • This media contains graphic content. Click to unblur.

    The body of the civilian killed by alleged Russia airstrikes on Tal Was it on July 19, 2020. (Image posted by @hadikhraat)

Russian Military Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    Russian Military
  • Russian Military position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Syrian Regime Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    Syrian Regime
  • Syrian Regime position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Contested strike
  • Strike type
    Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • (1 man)
  • Civilians reported injured
    1–2
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Contested
    Competing claims of responsibility e.g. multiple belligerents, or casualties also attributed to ground forces.
  • Suspected attackers
    Russian Military, Syrian Regime

Sources (31) [ collapse]

Incident Code

TS442

Incident date

July 20, 2020

Location

جرنك, Gerenke, Hassakah, Syria

Geolocation

37.069256, 41.269203 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Neighbourhood/area level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Between two and three civilians were allegedly injured by Turkish shelling on Qamishli.

Syriacpress wrote: “A Syriac Press correspondent in Zalin reported that Turkish forces targeted the city center with a missile in the morning.

Our correspondent declared that the Turkish missile landed in Roj Garage, injuring two civilians who were transferred to a nearby hospital for treatment.”

Rojava Network tweeted: “The Turkish occupation army randomly shelled the city Qamişlo with a mortar. 2 civilians were wounded and are under good conditions. Russian forces has sent a military delegation to the impact location.”

Kongra Star Women’s Movement Rojava, Ronahi tv and Rudaw put the casualty toll at three injured. Rudaw added: “Faisal Osman, a resident of the neighborhood, told Rudaw on Monday that Turkish artillery targeted the neighborhood and wounded three civilians.

‘At 9:30 am on Monday, Turkish artillery shelled our area; it resulted in wounding three civilians, and damaging civilian cars,’ Osman claimed. ‘We are all civilians here.'”

The incident occured at 09:30:00 local time.

The victims were named as:

Ibrahim Jolly
50 years old male injured
Talal Seeno
40 years old male injured

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–3
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Unknown

Sources (11) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (4) [ collapse]

  • Car allegedly damaged by Turkish shelling on Qamishli on July 20th, 2020 (via ANHA)
  • Car allegedly damaged by Turkish shelling on Qamishli on July 20th, 2020 (via ANHA)
  • Car allegedly damaged by Turkish shelling on Qamishli on July 20th, 2020 (via ANHA)

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention Roj Garage being struck in the Gerenke (جرنك) area, north east of Qamishli (قامشلي). Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further. The generic coordinates for this area are: 37.069256, 41.269203.

Turkish Military Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    Turkish Military
  • Turkish Military position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–3
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Unknown

Sources (11) [ collapse]

Incident Code

USSOM311

Incident date

July 21, 2020

Location

Timirshe, Bari, Somalia

Geolocation

10.56245, 50.42396 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Neighbourhood/area level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Seven ISIS fighters were killed by a US airsrtrike near Timirshe, according to AFRICOM.

The press release said: “In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against ISIS-Somalia terrorists after they attacked partner forces in a remote location near Timirshe, Somalia, July 21. Timirshe is located 140 kilometers southeast of Bosasso.

At this time, it is assessed this airstrike killed seven (7) ISIS-Somalia terrorists.

Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of these airstrikes.”

Radio Dalsan said eight ISIS members were killed and two vehicles destroyed.

The strike was conducted in support of the Puntland Security Forces, according to Real Clear Defense: “Local reporting has said that the PSF engaged in a multi-hour gunfight with the ISS militants, which led to the supporting U.S. airstrike.”

After an exchange on Twitter with Rita Katz, AFRICOM conceded that one partner force sustained in injury in the incident, after initially claiming it had not.

Halgan Media later published details about one of the ISIS members killed in the operation: “The Somali-ISIS faction has released a statement of admission revealing one of there senior figures Khalid Jama Mohamed, better known as Abu Osama Al-Muhajir was killed in a US drone strike in the Bari province of Northeast Somalia.

The statement by Somalia’s Islamic State faction stated that the now, deceased Abu Osama Al-Muhajir was key figure in the Somali-ISIS faction, prior to his death.

Abu Osama Al-Muhajir was said to be of Pakistani orgin and was a former member of Al Shabaab’s media branch prior to defecting to the Somali-ISIS faction.”

Garowe said that the incident took place in the Golis Mountains and provided further information: “In addition, the Puntland forces confirmed that over 20 militants were killed following an airstrike and subsequent ground combat.”

The outlet added: “During the operation, Puntland said, two trucks and several explosives were seized by ground forces, with several other militants also surrendering to the security teams.”

It is unclear whether US special forces supported the operation on the ground and to what extent the Puntland Security Forces are supported by the US.

The incident occured in the afternoon.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Declared strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Counter-Terrorism Action (Ground), Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    No
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Known attacker
    US Forces
  • Known target
    ISIS - Somalia
  • Belligerents reported killed
    7–8
  • Belligerents reported injured
    1

Sources (14) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (3) [ collapse]

  • Screenshot of ISIS media outlet mourning the death of Abu Osama Al-Muhajir, allegedly killed by a US airstrike near Timirshe on July 22nd, 2020 (via Puntland Mirror)

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention the vicinity of Timirshe. Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further. The generic coordinates for Timirshe are: 10.56245, 50.42396.

US Forces Assessment:

  • Known belligerent
    US Forces
  • US Forces position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Original strike reports

US Forces
Official source

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against ISIS-Somalia terrorists after they attacked partner forces in a remote location near Timirshe, Somalia, July 21. Timirshe is located 140 kilometers southeast of Bosasso.

"We continue to apply pressure on terrorist groups and assist our Somali partners in disrupting their operations," said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Miguel Castellanos, deputy director of operations, AFRICOM. "We continue our support to rid Somalia of the likes of ISIS and al-Shabaab."

At this time, it is assessed this airstrike killed seven (7) ISIS-Somalia terrorists.

Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of these airstrikes.

When this airstrike occurred, U.S. forces were in the area in order to advise and assist Somali and partner forces. Terrorist groups continue to resort to the tradecraft of terror and propaganda in an effort to intimidate the local populace.

"Mistruths and lies are the terrorist weapons of choice," said Col. Chris Karns, director of public affairs, AFRICOM. "ISIS-Somalia and al-Shabaab have bankrupt narratives and visions of the future. Our partnership to unmask and degrade the capability of these terrorists is essential to security and stability in Somalia."

U.S. Africa Command continues to support the Government of Somalia by strengthening its security forces and promoting regional security, stability, and prosperity. Concurrently, the command is building enduring relationships and strategic alliances in East Africa to address looming challenges and malign activity by near-peer competitors.

The U.S continues to provide support to Somali efforts and counter violent extremist threats. The challenges in Africa will require African and international solutions. U.S. Africa Command remains committed to working with our African partners.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Declared strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Counter-Terrorism Action (Ground), Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    No
  • Civilians reported killed
    Unknown
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Known attacker
    US Forces
  • Known target
    ISIS - Somalia
  • Belligerents reported killed
    7–8
  • Belligerents reported injured
    1

Sources (14) [ collapse]

Incident Code

TI042

Incident date

July 26, 2020

Location

the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish, Duhok, Iraq

Airwars assessment

Two men were killed in alleged Turkish airstrikes on two vehicles near Hasinpirka village, Duhok province, on July 26th, 2020. Sources are conflicted about whether the men were civilians or PKK militants.

Kurdistan24 reported that “a Turkish airstrike in rural parts of the Kurdistan region’s Duhok province killed at least two civilians, a security source told Kurdistan 24 on Sunday. The raid struck and destroyed two vehicles, killing all occupants”, adding that initial reports claimed that the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) had been targeted.

ANF Turkey wrote that the strikes hit civilians cars and identified the victims as Dilovan Şahin Omer Kesani and Ebdullah Ehmed. @eha_news, however, reported that two PKK vehicles were struck, adding that “sources report that high-ranking militants have been killed in the operation coordinated between the Turkish intelligence and army.”

Roj News initially reported only one death, but later wrote that two civilians were killed. The same source did write that “Abdullah Ahmed is said to be PKK’s intelligence peshmerga.”

The mayor of the Bamarne sub-district, Hamid Zubair, told Rudaw: “The two vehicles belonged to PKK fighters and they were targeted at [around] 4:30pm on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish villages in Bamarne sub-district, killing two people in the vehicles.” According to Mr Zubair, “the airstrikes did not cause any human losses among civilians.”

According to NRT, one of the victims was a PKK militant, whereas the other was a civilian.

Civil defence teams reportedly put out the fire that was caused by the airstrikes.

The incident occured at approximately 4:30 pm local time.

The victims were named as:

Dilovan Şahin Omer Kesani
Adult male from Gulle village killed
Ebdullah Ehmed
Adult male from the village of Bendkê killed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    2
  • (2 men)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Other
  • Belligerents reported killed
    2

Sources (18) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (26) [ collapse]

  • The mother of one of the victims of alleged Turkish airstrikes in Duhok province on July 26th, 2020 at the site (via Kurdistan 24)
  • Two vehicles were targeted in alleged Turkish airstrikes in Duhok province on July 26th, 2020 (via Kurdistan24).
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish on July 26th, 2020 (via ANF).
  • The vehicles that were targeted in alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish on July 26th, 2020 (via ANF).
  • Two vehicles were targeted by alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish in Duhok province, July 26th (via ANF).
  • The site after the alleged Turkish airstrike on Duhok province on July 26th (via ANF).
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish on July 26th, 2020 (via ANF).
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish airstrikes on Dohuk province on July 26th, 2020 (via ANF).
  • Dilovan Şahin Omer Keşanî and Ebdullah Ehmed were killed in alleged Turkish airstrikes on July 26th, 2020 (via Roj News).
  • One of the vehicles that was targeted in alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish on July 26th, 2020 (via @eha_news).
  • One of the victims of alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish on July 26th, 2020 (via @GoranShakhawan).
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish on July 26th, 2020 (via @GoranShakhawan).
  • Dilovan Şahin Omer Keşanî and Ebdullah Ehmed were killed in alleged Turkish airstrikes on July 26th, 2020 (via @Hawar_).
  • Aftermath of alleged Turkish airstrikes on the road between Barzanke and Ghilpish on July 26th, 2020 (via @MapsZagros).
  • Dilovan Şahin Omer Keşanî and Ebdullah Ehmed were killed in alleged Turkish airstrikes on July 26th, 2020. It unclear which victim is pictured in this photo (via @afatbaz).
  • Dilovan Şahin Omer Keşanî and Ebdullah Ehmed were killed in alleged Turkish airstrikes on July 26th, 2020. It unclear which victim is pictured in this photo (via @afatbaz).
  • Vehicles on fire after alleged Turkish airstrikes in Dohuk province on July 26th, 2020 (via @Oliver_Miller70 ).
  • Translation: “Images of the #PKK vehicle targeted by a Turkish F-16 fighter jet in the #Dohuk area of northern #Iraq” (via @aucuneideegtyb).
  • One of the bodies covered by a blanket after alleged Turkish airstrikes on Dohuk province, July 26th (via lswnews).
  • Translation: “The incursion and the attacks of the Turkish army continue to kill people in South Kurdistan. This afternoon, the Turkish air force targeted 2 civilian vehicles in Bamernê, in the province of #Dohuk, killing several people. We do not yet know the number of dead and injured” (via @Le_CDKF).

Turkish Military Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    Turkish Military
  • Turkish Military position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    2
  • (2 men)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Other
  • Belligerents reported killed
    2

Sources (18) [ collapse]

Incident Code

TS442a

Incident date

July 27, 2020

Location

قرطوان, Qurtwiran, Aleppo, Syria

Geolocation

36.5069, 37.70239 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Five or six civilians from the same family including children were reported killed and more up to ten others injured in alleged Turkish forces or Turkey-backed forces mortars and artillery attack on the villages of Qurtwiran and Willanli in Manbej, Aleppo on July 27th, 2020, according to local sources.

Some sources said that the six of those injured are all children, of whom two are in a critical condition.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said they “have documented the killing of six civilians of the same family, including children, and the injury of more than six others, including children and women, in shelling with artillery and mortars by Turkish forces stationed in Al-Sheikh Naser village. The shelling hit civilian positions in and around Qert Wayran village, controlled by Al-Bab Military Council in the east of Manbij city in eastern Aleppo.”

Local sources identified five of the victims as Eliya Diyab (aged 60), Fatime Mexlûf (aged 35), Faris Diyab (aged 13), Xifran Diyab (aged 7) and Cemîle Diyab (aged 11). Two of the injured children were identified as 7-year-old Mehmud Diyab and 12-year-old Ehmed Diyab and both were taken to intensive care unit.

The local time of the incident is unknown.

The victims were named as:

Family members (7)

Alia Diab
60 years old female killed
Fatima Makhlouf
35 years old female Fatime Mexlûf killed
Fares Diab
13 years old male killed
Ghofran Diab
7 years old female Xifran Diyab killed
Jamila Diab
11 years old female Cemîle Diyab killed
Mahmoud Diab
7 years old male Put in intensive care injured
Ahmed Diab
12 years old male injured

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    5 – 6
  • (3 children2 women)
  • Civilians reported injured
    6–10
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Unknown

Sources (24) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (24) [ collapse]

  • Funeral and burial of civilians killed in alleged Turkish forces shelling on Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city, July 27th, 2020. (via SOHR)
  • Burial of civilians killed in alleged Turkish forces shelling on Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city, July 27th, 2020. (via SOHR)
  • Funeral and burial of civilians killed in alleged Turkish forces shelling on Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city, July 27th, 2020. (via SOHR)
  • Funeral and burial of civilians killed in alleged Turkish forces shelling on Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city, July 27th, 2020. (via SOHR)
  • Funeral and burial of civilians killed in alleged Turkish forces shelling on Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city, July 27th, 2020. (via SOHR)
  • Funeral and burial of civilians killed in alleged Turkish forces shelling on Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city, July 27th, 2020. (via SOHR)
  • Funeral and burial of civilians killed in alleged Turkish forces shelling on Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city, July 27th, 2020. (via SOHR)
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • Images showing the destruction caused by Turkish artillery and mortar fire on civilian houses in Qert Wayran village in the countryside of Al-Bab city on July 27th, 2020. (Via SOHR).
  • The two children who got injured in alleged Turkey or Turkey-backed forces artillery attack on Qert Wayran village on July 27th, 2020. Five or six of their family members were killed.
  • A protest by civilians after the alleged Turkish shelling that killed at least five civilians in Manbej on July 27th, 2020. (via ANF)

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention the village of Qurtwiran (قرطوان), for which the generic coordinates are: 36.5069, 37.70239. Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further.

Turkish Military Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    Turkish Military
  • Turkish Military position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    5 – 6
  • (3 children2 women)
  • Civilians reported injured
    6–10
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    Turkish Military
  • Suspected target
    Unknown

Sources (24) [ collapse]

Incident Code

USSOM312-C

Incident date

July 29, 2020

Location

جيليب, Jilib, Middle Juba, Somalia

Geolocation

0.494527, 42.777868 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Town level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

The US military reported on the same day that it had conducted an airstrike against al Shabaab fighters in the town of Jilib. However it was locally claimed that the attack had killed three young children, whose bodies were shown on social media.

In a press release published on the evening of the attack, AFRICOM noted: “The command’s initial assessment concluded this airstrike killed one (1) terrorist and wounded one (1) terrorist. An al-Shabaab compound was destroyed in the airstrike.”

The release also noted that “U.S. Africa Command is aware of reports alleging civilian casualties resulting from this airstrike. At this time, U.S. Africa Command currently assesses no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike.”

However al Shabaab released images which it said were taken at the scene of the US strike, showing the bodies of three young boys and a destroyed structure. Morad news named the dead as Abukar Ahmad, 8 years old; Abdisamad Hussain, aged 12; and Abdullahi Mohamad, aged 13.

AllBalcad said: “The bombing, which took place at around 2pm, featured pro-al-Shabaab media showing the bodies of three children and the destruction of a house. The children were said to be between the ages of 8 and 13 and Alshabab did not say who else was injured in the bombing.”

Mareeg reported: “But the strike has killed at least 3 children under the age of 13, and destroyed their wooden house in the town.

The children were playing outside their home when they were struck by a heavy metal fragment from the munition and then, all died on scene, a witness, who asked to be anonymous said.”

Halgan Media and other sources said it was a drone strike.

In it fourth quarter civilian casualty assessment AFRIOM said: “After review, the reports were assessed as unsubstantiated. Contrary to the reports stating the airstrike targeted a residence killing three children, the airstrike was executed on July 29, 2020 against two al-Shabaab members on a known al-Shabaab compound used as a senior al-Shabaab leadership meeting place. U.S. intelligence confirmed that the compound was only accessible to al-Shabaab members, and the casualties of the strike were al-Shabaab members. It is assessed with a high degree of confidence that no civilian casualties occurred as a result of U.S. military action. One source also used one photo that was previously published in 2015.”

Airwars found that one picture used by Goobjoog had indeed been used before.

The incident occured at approximately 2:00 pm local time.

The victims were named as:

Abukar Ahmad
8 years old male killed
Abdisamad Hussain
12 years old male killed
Abdullahi Mohamad
13 years old male killed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Declared strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    3
  • (3 children)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Discounted
    Those killed were combatants, or other parties most likely responsible.
  • Known attacker
    US Forces
  • Known target
    Al Qaeda in East Africa
  • Belligerents reported killed
    1
  • Belligerents reported injured
    1

Sources (19) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (13) [ collapse]

  • This media contains graphic content. Click to unblur.

  • This media contains graphic content. Click to unblur.

  • 'The United States says a bombing in Jilib has killed a number of al-Shabab members, wounded others and destroyed a military base. Al Shabaab has denied the allegations, saying three children were killed in the shelling. Expect their names.'

  • This media contains graphic content. Click to unblur.

    Picture of alleged victim of US airstrike on Jilib on July 29h, 2020 (via Somali Memo)

  • This media contains graphic content. Click to unblur.

    Picture of alleged victim of US airstrike on Jilib on July 29h, 2020 (via Somali Memo)

  • This media contains graphic content. Click to unblur.

    Picture of alleged victim of US airstrike on Jilib on July 29h, 2020 (via Somali Memo)

  • This media contains graphic content. Click to unblur.

    Picture of alleged victim of US airstrike on Jilib on July 29h, 2020 (via Hon Siciid Ibnu dhakhtar)
  • Aftermath of alleged US airstrike on Jilib on July 29h, 2020 (via Somali Memo)
  • Aftermath of alleged US airstrike on Jilib on July 29h, 2020 (via Somali Memo)
  • Aftermath of alleged US airstrike on Jilib on July 29h, 2020 (via Somali Memo)

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention the town of Jilib, for which the generic coordinates are: 0.494527, 42.777868. Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further.

US Forces Assessment:

  • Known belligerent
    US Forces
  • US Forces position on incident
    Non credible / Unsubstantiated
    Insufficient information to assess that, more likely than not, a Coalition strike resulted in civilian casualties.
  • Reason for non-credible assessment
    Other
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None

Civilian casualty statements

US Forces
  • Nov 6, 2020

  • July 29, 2020 (Unsubstantiated) USAFRICOM received three (3) reports from online media sources and a social media account claiming up to three (3) civilians were killed as a result of a U.S. airstrike in the vicinity of Jilib, Somalia, on July 29, 2020. After review, the reports were assessed as unsubstantiated. Contrary to the reports stating the airstrike targeted a residence killing three children, the airstrike was executed on July 29, 2020 against two al-Shabaab members on a known al-Shabaab compound used as a senior al-Shabaab leadership meeting place. U.S. intelligence confirmed that the compound was only accessible to al-Shabaab members, and the casualties of the strike were al-Shabaab members. It is assessed with a high degree of confidence that no civilian casualties occurred as a result of U.S. military action. One source also used one photo that was previously published in 2015.

Original strike reports

US Forces
Official source

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabaab terrorists in the vicinity of Jilib, Somalia, July 29.

“U.S. Africa Command continues to assist the Federal Government of Somalia in disrupting al-Shabaab plans for destruction,” said U.S. Air Force Col Chris Karns, director of public affairs, AFRICOM. “We remain committed to supporting our partners in our mutual fight against violent extremism.”

The command's initial assessment concluded this airstrike killed one (1) terrorist and wounded one (1) terrorist. An al-Shabaab compound was destroyed in the airstrike.

U.S. Africa Command is aware of reports alleging civilian casualties resulting from this airstrike. At this time, U.S. Africa Command currently assesses no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike.

As with any allegation of civilian casualties we receive, U.S. Africa Command reviews reasonably available information it has about the incident. U.S. Africa Command complies with the law of armed conflict and takes all feasible precautions to minimize risk to civilians.

In support of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces will use a range of effective and appropriate methods to assist in the protection of the Somali people. Together with partner and allied forces, U.S. Africa Command works on a daily basis to improve security conditions to enhance governance and economic development while preventing al-Shabaab's desire to expand their reach and further export violence.

U.S. Africa Command continues to work with its Somali partners to transfer the responsibility for long-term security in Somalia to the Federal Government of Somalia and its Member States.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Declared strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike, Drone Strike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    3
  • (3 children)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Discounted
    Those killed were combatants, or other parties most likely responsible.
  • Known attacker
    US Forces
  • Known target
    Al Qaeda in East Africa
  • Belligerents reported killed
    1
  • Belligerents reported injured
    1

Sources (19) [ collapse]