Syria: VBIED targets a security checkpoint in Ras Al Ain, killing four security officials and wounding eight others Dec. 10 /update 1

Event

A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED), or car bomb, detonated near a security checkpoint in the Syrian border city of Ras Al Ain on Dec. 10. Four members of security forces, including two Turkish personnel, were killed by the blast, and eight others sustained injuries. As of yet, no group has formally claimed responsibility. Heightened security measures, as well as localized transport and business disruptions, are likely near the impact area.

Context

Turkey has attributed similar attacks in the region to the Syrian People's Protection Units (YPG), including an April 28 truck bombing in a market in Afrin that killed more than 50 people. Ankara views the YPG as a militant group linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) based in Turkey. A number of car bombings have occurred in areas along the Turkish-Syrian border since Turkey launched a military offensive into northeastern Syria in October 2019. The Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for some attacks. Turkey's military presence in northern Syria and persistent insecurity more generally will likely lead to similar attacks in the future.