Syria: US forces carry out raid in Idlib province October 26

Event

American defense officials confirmed that US Special Forces conducted a raid in Idlib province on Saturday, October 26. According to initial reports, the operation occurred in a northern part of Idlib and targeted a high-value target. Multiple airstrikes and explosions were reported in the area during the raid. Unconfirmed reports claim that the intended target of the operation was Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group. US President Donald Trump is expected to give a statement on the raid on Sunday, October 27. Details are still emerging.

Context

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.