11 Sep 2022 | 09:46 AM UTC
Syria: Explosion reported in Qah Sept. 11
Explosion reported in Qah, Idlib Governorate, Syria, near border with Turkey, Sept. 11. Increased security likely. Avoid the area.
Event
An explosion was reported in Qah, Idlib Governorate, Sept. 11. An improvised explosive device inside a vehicle reportedly caused the blast. There are no immediate reports of casualties. There have been no claims of responsibility for the attack.
Increased security measures are likely near the affected area as authorities investigate the incident. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible near the incident site.
Qah is approximately 39 km (24 miles) west of Aleppo city, near the Turkish-Syrian border.
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.
