Syria: Airstrikes reportedly target sites in Hama Governorate late May 13

Event

Suspected Israeli airstrikes reportedly targeted sites in Hama Governorate late May 13. The airstrikes targeted locations near Masyaf. Unconfirmed reports also indicate that sites on the coast near Tartus in Tartus Governorate may also have been targeted.

Military forces in northern Israel and in Syria will almost certainly maintain a heightened readiness level in the coming days. Further airstrikes, retaliatory attacks, and exchanges of cross-border fire are possible over the short term.

Context

Tensions between Syria and Israel remain extremely high. Israel has repeatedly expressed concerns about Iranian proxies in southwestern Syria and aims to prevent a build-up of Iran-backed forces in the region. Since 2017, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has launched hundreds of preemptive strikes in Syria, targeting suspected Hizballah and Iran-led fighters, weapons caches, and supply convoys, primarily in the country's southwestern governorates.

Advice

Exercise caution and avoid all military sites in Syria. Heed the instructions of local security forces. If airstrikes, artillery fire, or warning sirens are reported in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter until given further instructions by authorities.