24 Jul 2019 | 10:20 AM UTC
Syria: Unconfirmed Israeli airstrikes on Tel Haraa July 23
Media reports claim Israeli airstrikes hit Tel Haraa on July 23; similar attacks possible over the near term
Event
Media reports indicate that Israel forces have carried out airstrikes on Tel Haraa in southern Syria overnight (local time) on Tuesday, July 23. According to sources, the area is now under Iranian-backed militias control. No injuries were immediately reported.
Similar Israeli airstrikes are possible in Syria over the coming hours and days. Retaliatory Syrian strikes targeting Israel cannot be ruled out.
Context
Over the past year and a half, the Israeli military has struck more than 200 targets in Syria, many of which have been arms depots and military facilities allegedly receiving arms and fighters from Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah group.
To date, the Syrian conflict 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.