Sun. Sep 7th, 2025

The Syrian Human Rights Foundation (SHRF) has released a report based on satellite images, revealing that the National Defense Army (NDA) has taken control of 19 rare earth mines in Syria. This discovery has significant implications for the global rare earth market and raises concerns about the exploitation of these critical resources. Rare earth elements are essential for the production of advanced technologies, including electronics, renewable energy systems, and defense equipment. The NDA, a militia group backed by the Syrian government, has been expanding its influence in the region, and this latest development suggests a strategic move to consolidate control over valuable resources. The satellite images, analyzed by SHRF, show a significant increase in activity around the mines, including the construction of new infrastructure and the deployment of military personnel. This has led to concerns about the potential for human rights abuses and environmental degradation in the region. The rare earth mines in question are located in the northeastern part of Syria, an area that has been plagued by conflict and instability in recent years. The NDA’s control over these mines could provide a significant source of revenue for the group, potentially funding further military expansion and entrenching their position in the region. The international community has expressed concern over the situation, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability in the extraction and trade of rare earth elements. The SHRF report highlights the need for increased monitoring and regulation of the rare earth market, particularly in conflict-affected areas. The use of satellite imagery has become an increasingly important tool in monitoring human rights abuses and environmental degradation, providing a unique perspective on events unfolding in remote or inaccessible areas. The SHRF’s findings have sparked a wider debate about the role of militias and armed groups in the exploitation of natural resources, and the need for greater international cooperation to prevent the illicit trade of these critical materials. As the situation continues to unfold, it is likely that the international community will be watching closely, with many calling for swift action to prevent further instability and human rights abuses in the region. The rare earth market is a complex and highly competitive sector, with many countries vying for control over these critical resources. The NDA’s control over the 19 mines in Syria could have significant implications for the global market, potentially disrupting supply chains and impacting the production of advanced technologies. The SHRF report has also highlighted the need for greater awareness and understanding of the rare earth market, particularly among policymakers and industry leaders. As the demand for rare earth elements continues to grow, it is essential that the international community takes steps to ensure the responsible and sustainable extraction of these critical resources. The situation in Syria serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater transparency and accountability in the rare earth market, and the importance of protecting human rights and the environment in the face of exploitation and conflict. The SHRF’s findings have significant implications for the global community, highlighting the need for increased cooperation and regulation to prevent the illicit trade of rare earth elements and protect the rights of local communities. The use of satellite imagery has proven to be a powerful tool in monitoring the situation, providing a unique perspective on events unfolding in the region. As the situation continues to evolve, it is likely that the international community will be watching closely, with many calling for swift action to prevent further instability and human rights abuses in the region. The rare earth market is a critical sector, with many countries relying on these elements for the production of advanced technologies. The NDA’s control over the 19 mines in Syria could have significant implications for the global market, potentially disrupting supply chains and impacting the production of electronics, renewable energy systems, and defense equipment. The SHRF report has highlighted the need for greater awareness and understanding of the rare earth market, particularly among policymakers and industry leaders. As the demand for rare earth elements continues to grow, it is essential that the international community takes steps to ensure the responsible and sustainable extraction of these critical resources.

Source