Syria: Increased security and additional protests likely in northern regions through early July as tensions escalate at the border /update 1

Increased security is likely in northern Syria through at least early July as tensions escalate between protesters and Syrian and Turkish security forces. Protests broke out in several cities, including Al Bab, Afrin, Aleppo, and Idlib, on July 1 in response to anti-Syrian demonstrations that occurred in Turkiye on June 30 after a Syrian national allegedly harassed a minor in Kayseri. Additional demonstrations are likely to denounce increased attacks on Syrians in Turkiye and oppose Turkiye's continued presence in Syria.

Authorities controlling the Bab Al-Hawa border crossing between Syria and Turkiye announced the closure of the crossing until further notice. Turkiye also announced the closure of the Bab Al-Salamah, Al-Rai, and Jarabulus crossings as tensions between protesters and security services escalated.

Syrian and Turkish authorities will likely maintain an increased security presence in northern Syria. Further demonstrations will likely occur at popular protest sites, such as border crossings, government buildings, public squares, and city centers. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely near all protests, particularly at the border crossings. Authorities could also implement internet restrictions in northern Syria to de-escalate tensions. Further clashes between security forces and protesters are possible, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or fail to comply with police instructions.