10 Apr 2020 | 12:09 PM UTC
Syria: IS militants capture areas of Al Sukhnah (Homs province) in deadly clashes April 9
Dozens of casualties in IS attack on Al Sukhnah (Homs province) on April 9; further clashes possible in the near term
Event
At least 27 members of the regime forces and 22 Islamic State (IS) militants were killed as IS launched a major offensive on the town of Al Sukhnah (Homs province) on Thursday, April 9. The militants were reportedly able to capture parts of the town in the face of airstrikes from the regime's ally Russia's air force. It is unclear if the fighting is still ongoing as of Friday, April 10.
Further clashes are likely in Al Sukhnah and surrounding areas in the near term
Context
To date, the Syrian conflict 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.
