Syria: Dozens killed in suicide attack in Sweida July 25

Event

Suspected Islamic State (IS) militants conducted multiple suicide attacks in the southern town of Sweida (As-Suwayda province) on the morning (local time) of Wednesday, July 25. According to initial media reports, at least 38 people were killed in the blasts. Pro-government forces also reportedly killed two militants before they could detonate their devices. IS fighters also attacked three villages around the town, killing and wounding an unconfirmed number of people. Shortly after the attacks, Syrian government forces launched airstrikes on suspected militant positions.

Context

Before the Syrian government offensive in southwestern Syria, which began in June, the region had been relatively calm for the past year because of a "de-escalation" agreement brokered by the US, Jordan, and Russia. Syria remains enmeshed in a complex civil war that started between the Assad government and opposition forces in March 2011.

Today, the conflict in Syria involves many parties, including the Syrian government, the Russian government, the Iranian government, the Turkish government, a US-led coalition, and numerous armed groups on the ground (including the Islamic State) with competing goals.

Advice

Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise against all travel to Syria, with some banning travel to the country. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.