Syria: Eight killed in army shelling in Idlib province February 3

Event

Five Turkish soldiers and three civilians have been killed in Idlib province following a shelling from the Syrian army on Monday, February 3. The attack comes amid a Turkish presence in Syria as it seeks to oust Kurdish forces from border areas.

Similar attacks are expected to continue in Idlib province 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.