Syria: Turkish military position near Afrin hit by artillery fire on September 12

Event

A Turkish military position was reportedly hit by artillery fire on Saturday, September 12, near the town of Afrin (Aleppo governorate). Unconfirmed reports indicate that the attack originated from the western outskirts of Nubl and al-Zahraa, with several wounded, including one Turkish soldier. The al-Zahraa area is controlled by Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) and Syrian regime forces. No groups have claimed responsibility for the attack. Emerging reports allege that Turkish forces have carried out retaliatory strikes against regime forces in the countryside west of Aleppo, but Turkish officials have so far denied these claims.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in Aleppo governorate, with further clashes along the front line between Turkish-backed rebel groups and regime forces likely 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.