Syria: Russian and government forces renew clashes with ISIS in northwest region on November 28

Event

Russian and Syrian government forces resumed clashes with ISIS militants in northwestern Syria on Saturday, November 28. The clashes centered in the area between Hama, Aleppo, and Raqqa, with Russian and Syrian government aircraft striking ISIS positions while forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad carried out ground operations. Local sources report that regime forces lost at least ten soldiers, while 16 ISIS militants were killed. The casualty figures are expected to rise, with several government soldiers reportedly seriously injured in the fighting.

Further fighting is expected in northwestern Syria over the near to medium 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.