19 Jul 2020 | 04:52 PM UTC
Syria: Multiple injured in VBIED attack in Afrin (Aleppo province) July 19
Multiple injured in VBIED attack in Afrin (Aleppo province) July 19; further attacks possible over the near term
Event
At least 13 people were injured on Sunday, July 19, in a reported vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attack in central Afrin (Aleppo province). The attack occurred after unknown assailants placed the explosive in a Syrian National Army (SNA) vehicle.
A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of the blast over the coming hours. Further attacks in Afrin and the surrounding region are possible over the near term.
Context
The Syrian Civil War - which began in 2011 - 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 completely. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.
