Syria: Air strikes in southwest kill 49 civilians /update 1

Event

The Syrian Army conducted airstrikes and shelling over the rebel-held southwest region of Daraa province this week, killing 49 civilians and disabling three hospitals as of Thursday, June 28. Human rights organizations estimate that the Russian-backed offensive has resulted in at least 96 civilian deaths since June 19 and has left tens of thousands displaced. Additional fighting between pro-government and opposition fighters is expected in the coming days; further displacement of civilians in Daraa province is possible in affected areas.

Context

Southwestern Syria had been relatively calm for the past year because of a "de-escalation" agreement brokered by the US and Jordan, which support the opposition, and Russia, a key ally of the Syrian government. The US has yet to respond to the Syrian government's violation of the agreement, despite a previous commitment to take "firm and appropriate measures."

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.