Syria: Pro-Iranian fighters killed in airstrikes in Deir Ez-Zor on September 2

Event

At least 16 Iranian-backed fighters from Iraq have been killed in airstrikes in Deir Ez-Zor governorate overnight on Wednesday, September 3. Several attacks targeted positions in the vicinity of the cities of Al-Mayadin and Abu Kamal, with seven killed in Al-Mayadin and nine in Abu Kamal, near the Iraqi border. While not confirmed, Israeli aircraft have reportedly carried out several airstrikes on Iranian-linked targets in Deir Ez-Zor in recent months.

Further airstrikes in Deir Ez-Zor governorate are likely over 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.