Iran/Syria: Iran fires missiles into eastern Syria October 1

Event

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard reportedly launched ballistic missiles into eastern Syria on the morning (local time) of Monday, October 1. According to Iranian state media, the missiles targeted suspected militants in the Abul Kamal region, killing and wounding an unconfirmed number of people. The targets were reportedly connected to the attack in Ahvaz (Iran) on September 22 that left at least 24 people dead and another 60 wounded. Further cross-border strikes are possible in the coming days.

Context

The Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahvaz (ASMLA) and the Islamic State (IS) have both claimed responsibility for the September 22 Ahvaz attack. Iranian officials have blamed the US and regional allies Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Israel for facilitating the assault.

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, Russian, Iranian, and Turkish governments, a US-led coalition, and numerous armed groups (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.