Syria: Authorities confirm flights halted at airports in Damascus and Aleppo, Oct. 12, following Israeli airstrikes /update 1

Event

Authorities have confirmed they halted all flights at Damascus International Airport (DAM) and Aleppo International Airport (ALP) Oct. 12 following Israeli airstrikes that damaged the runways at both facilities. There are no immediate reports of casualties. The halting of operations at DAM and ALP will severely limit commercial air travel options in and out of Syria.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) did not immediately issue a public acknowledgment of the suspected cross-border attack. Military forces in northern Israel and Syria military forces will almost certainly remain on a considerably heightened security posture over the coming days, especially in light of the current conflict between Hamas and Israel, which began Oct. 7. 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. However, simultaneous airstrikes targeting two of Syria's key passenger air transport hubs mark an escalation of Israeli operations in Syria.

Advice

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 further instructions are issued by authorities. Plan for delays at DAM and ALP and make alternative travel arrangements where necessary.