02 Dec 2019 | 05:32 PM UTC
Syria: Airstrikes kill at least 21 in Idlib and Aleppo December 2
Separate Syrian and Turkish air raids kill at least 21 civilians in Idlib and Aleppo provinces December 2; similar incidents likely over the near term
Event
At least 11 civilians were killed and dozens of others were wounded in air raids conducted by Syrian government forces in Idlib province on Monday, December 2. The airstrikes reportedly struck two outdoor markets, one in Maaret al-Numan and the other in Saraqib. According to media sources, government air raids also targeted a detention facility in Idlib on Monday, though no casualties were immediately reported.
In a separate incident, at least 10 civilians were killed in a Turkish airstrike on the Kurdish-held town of Tal Rifaat (Aleppo province).
Similar attacks are to be expected in Idlib and Aleppo provinces over the near term.
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.
