Syria: Suspected Russian airstrikes kill 51 people in Idlib province June 7

Event

Suspected Russian airstrikes struck the opposition-controlled town of Zardana (Idlib province) late on Thursday, June 7 (local time), killing at least 51 people and wounding dozens of others. The strikes represent the deadliest single attack carried out in the area so far in 2018, according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The Russian Ministry of Defence has denied involvement in the strikes. The death toll may rise in the coming hours. Additional Russian airstrikes are expected in rebel-controlled areas in Idlib province in the near-term.

Context

Syria remains enmeshed in a complex civil war that started between the Assad government and opposition forces in March 2011. Today, the conflict in Syria involves many parties, including the Syrian government, the Russian government, the Iranian government, the Turkish government, a US-led coalition, and numerous armed groups on the ground (including the Islamic State) with competing goals.

Advice

Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise against all travel to Syria, with some banning travel to the country. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.