07 Jun 2020 | 08:23 AM UTC
Syria: Suspected Israeli airstrikes target military base in Deir Ezzor province June 6
Suspected Israeli airstrikes target military base and kill 12 suspected militiamen in Deir Ezzor province on June 6; further attacks possible in near term
Event
Suspected Israeli aircraft carried out airstrikes targeting a military site near the city of Deir Ezzor during the evening of Saturday, June 6, killing at least 12 suspected militiamen. The target was reportedly a pro-Iranian militia base, and the individuals killed were reported to be Afghan and Iraqi nationals. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the site had received supplemental ammunition and weapons immediately prior to being attacked. There has been no comment from the Israeli government.
Further airstrikes in the area are a possibility in the near term.
Context
The Israeli military has struck more than 200 targets in Syria over the past two years, many of which have been arms depots and military facilities allegedly receiving arms and fighters from Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah group.
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.