05 Mar 2020 | 01:15 AM UTC
Syria: Suspected Israeli airstrikes in Homs and Quneitra March 4-5 /update 6
Syrian air defenses reportedly activate overnight from March 4-5 in Homs and Quneitra; no immediate reports of casualties or damages
Event
Multiple airstrikes were reported near the cities of Homs and Quneitra overnight (local time) from Wednesday, March 4, into Thursday, March 5. According to Syrian state media, air defense systems intercepted missiles fired from Lebanese airspace. While no country has immediately claimed responsibility for the strikes, the Syrian military has accused Israel of conducting the operations. No casualties or damages were immediately reported.
Further airstrikes targeting military positions and militant groups in Syria are likely over the near term.
Context
The Israeli military has struck more than 200 targets in Syria over the past two years, many of which have been arms depots and military facilities allegedly receiving arms and fighters from Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah group.
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.