26 Nov 2024 | 04:43 PM UTC
Syria: Suspected Israeli airstrikes reported near Homs Nov. 26
Suspected Israeli airstrikes reported near Homs, Syria, Nov. 26, likely targeting Iran-backed militia personnel; increased security likely.
Suspected Israeli airstrikes, likely targeting Iran-backed militia personnel, have been reported in the vicinity of Homs on Nov. 26. There have been no immediate reports of casualties or significant material damage. 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 the Lebanese Hizballah, across Syria.
Military forces in northern Israel and Syria will likely 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.
Consider avoiding nonessential travel to Syria, particularly the shared border region with Lebanon and Israel, until the situation stabilizes. 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 issue further instructions.
Tensions remain high in the region. Israel has repeatedly expressed concerns about Iranian proxies in 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.
