Syria: Explosion in Ras al-Ain causes casualties on September 12

Event

Unconfirmed reports state that an explosion in Ras al-Ain (al-Hasakah governorate) has killed at least three people and injured five others on Saturday, September 12. Local media sources report that the casualties were civilians. The blast reportedly took place in front of the town's post office. The cause of the blast is currently unknown.

Further attacks in Ras al-Ain and throughout al-Hasakah governorate are likely in the near to medium term.

Context

Ras al-Ain, which lies on the Syrian-Turkish border, has seen heavy fighting since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. It has been controlled by several factions over the course of the conflict, most recently having been captured by Turkish and allied rebel Syrian forces in October 2019. It frequently sees attacks that target security forces and civilians indiscriminately.

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.