Syria: Air defenses engage Israeli missiles around Damascus Aug. 24 /update 1

Event

Syrian air defenses reportedly engaged Israeli missiles which targeted Iranian military positions around Damascus on Saturday evening (local time), August 24. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later confirmed the airstrikes were carried out to disrupt an attempt by Iranian forces in Syria to target Israel using armed drones. 

Similar Israeli attacks are possible in Syria over the near term.

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.

Advice

Individuals in Damascus are advised to monitor developments, seek shelter, avoid nonessential travel and affected areas, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

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.