Türkiye offers condolences to Syria after deadly bus crash

Diplomatic Response

Türkiye's Foreign Ministry on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over a deadly highway collision in Syria that claimed at least 35 lives, extending formal condolences to Damascus as Ankara continues efforts to normalize bilateral relations. The ministry said in a written statement that Ankara was "deeply saddened" by the tragedy on the Damascus-Deir ez-Zor highway, which also left 30 people wounded according to initial reports from the region.

Official Condolences

"We pray for God's mercy upon those who lost their lives in the accident and extend our condolences to their families and the people of Syria," the ministry said, underscoring Türkiye's solidarity with the Syrian people during this difficult time. The statement emphasized Ankara's readiness to support Damascus if requested, reflecting recent efforts to rebuild ties between the neighboring states.

Accident Details

The collision between two passenger buses occurred on the strategic route linking the Syrian capital to the eastern city of Deir ez-Zor, local sources reported. Syrian authorities have launched an investigation into the causes of the crash, which ranks among the deadliest traffic incidents in the region this year.

Traffic safety remains a significant concern across Syria, where years of conflict have degraded road infrastructure and strained emergency response capabilities in ways that complicate accident prevention. The Damascus-Deir ez-Zor highway serves as a crucial commercial corridor connecting the capital to eastern provinces despite recurring security challenges in the area.