Syria: Unconfirmed reports of Israeli drone attacks in Deir al-Zor September 3

Event

Unconfirmed media reports indicate that the Israeli military carried out a series of drone attacks in Al-Bukamal (Deir al-Zor province) on Tuesday, September 3. The attacks reportedly caused some damage to Syrian military and Hezbollah positions. No injuries were reported as of Wednesday, September 4. The Syrian military denied any such attack on their positions; the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has not commented on the incident as of Wednesday.

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.