Syria: Suspected Israeli airstrikes target locations in Damascus early Oct. 1

Event

Syrian air defenses reportedly activated over Damascus amid suspected Israeli airstrikes in the area early Oct. 1. Initial reports indicate that explosions could be heard throughout the area. It is unclear whether the explosions were caused by airstrikes hitting targets or air defenses intercepting projectiles. 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 military forces 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.