17 Feb 2022 | 07:03 AM UTC
Syria: Explosion reported in Al Bab Feb. 17
Explosion reported in Al Bab, Syria, morning of Feb. 17. Increased security likely. Avoid the area.
Event
A car explosion occurred near Fatima Zahra Mosque in Al Bab the morning of Feb. 17. Reports indicate at least one fatality. There have been no immediate claims of responsibility for the blast.
Increased security measures are likely near the affected area as authorities investigate the incident. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible though the afternoon of Feb. 17.
Al Bab is approximately 37 km (23 miles) northeast of Aleppo city.
Context
Turkey has attributed similar attacks in the region to the Syrian People's Protection Units (YPG). Ankara views the YPG as a militant group linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) based in Turkey. Several 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 also claimed responsibility for some attacks. Turkey's military presence in northern Syria will likely lead to further attacks in the future.
Advice
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Plan for localized ground travel and business disruptions. Heed the advice of security personnel.
