Syria: Unconfirmed Israeli airstrike in Bariqa August 1

Event

Syrian state media reports indicate that the Israeli military launched an airstrike on the town of Bariqa in Quneitra governorate on Thursday afternoon (local time), August 1. The strike was reportedly targeting suspected Hezbollah militants in the area. 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.