Syria: Suspected Israeli airstrikes target locations in Damascus area late Aug. 21

Event

Suspected Israeli airstrikes have targeted sites in the vicinity of Damascus late Aug. 21. Syrian air defenses reportedly activated in response to the apparent attack following initial reports of an explosion in the area. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the airstrikes may have targeted Damascus International Airport (DAM) or locations near it; flight disruptions, including delays and cancellations, are possible at DAM over the coming hours.

There were no immediate reports of any casualties or damage in connection with the incident. While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) did not immediately issue a public acknowledgment of the suspected cross-border attack, alleged Israeli airstrikes have regularly targeted bases of Iran-affiliated groups, such as Hizballah, across Syria.

Military forces in northern Israel and Syria will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture over 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 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, take cover in the nearest bomb shelter and remain there until given further instructions by authorities.