Syrian TV: 3 explosions rock central Aleppo

ZEINA KARAM Associated Press Published:

BEIRUT (AP) -- Three powerful explosions rocked the main square in a government-controlled central district of Aleppo on Wednesday, the Syrian state-run TV said. Activists reported multiple casualties and heavy material damage.

There were no immediate details on the nature of the blasts, which activists said were likely caused by car bombs.


Syrian TV reported the triple bombings at the Saadallah al-Jabri square, describing them as the work of "terrorists." Authorities refer to rebels fighting to topple Assad as terrorists and armed gangs.

The TV did not provide further details.


The area is controlled by government forces and there is a military club nearby which activists said may have been the target.


In a statement, it said the explosions went off following a clash between guards at the military club and gunmen, suggesting the attacks may have been suicide bombings.

Suicide and car bombings targeting security agencies and soldiers have become common in Syria, particularly in the capital, Damascus, during the course of the 18-month-uprising against Assad.

But such bombings have been rare in Aleppo, which was spared the mayhem that struck other Syrian cities during the first year of the revolt. Then, in February, two suicide car bombers hit security compounds in Aleppo's industrial center, killing 28 people.

The uprising against Assad that erupted in March 2011 ago has gradually morphed into a bloody civil war. The conflict has killed more than 30,000 people, activists say, and has devastated entire neighborhoods in Syria's main cities, including Aleppo.