26 Jun 2024 | 10:25 PM UTC
Syria: Suspected Israeli airstrikes reported in Sayyida Zeinab early June 27
Suspected Israeli airstrikes reportedly targets Sayyida Zeinab, Syria, early June 27. Further cross-border attacks possible.
Suspected Israeli airstrikes reportedly hit a Hizbollah-aligned target in Sayyida Zeinab in Syria's Rif Dimashq Governorate on early June 27. Preliminary reports indicate that the strikes killed at least at least three people and damaged several nearby structures; authorities may update casualty and figures in the coming hours. While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have not publicly acknowledged the attack, Israeli airstrikes have regularly targeted bases of Iran-affiliated groups in 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.
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 authorities give further instructions.
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.
