14 Jul 2020 | 02:56 PM UTC
Syria: IED blast hits joint Russian and Turkish patrol on M4 highway (Idlib province) July 14
IED blast hits Russian and Turkish troops patrolling M4 highway (Idlib province) on July 14; further attacks possible
Event
At least three Russian and a number of Turkish troops were wounded in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack as they patrolled the M4 highway in Idlib province on Tuesday, July 14. The explosion occurred at 08:50 (local time) as the convoy traveled through the southern area of the Idlib de-escalation zone. An investigation into the attack is ongoing.
Context
In March, the Russian and Turkish governments began joint patrols on the M4 highway in the Idlib de-escalation zone. The decision was taken as part of a ceasefire agreement following fighting in the province between the Syrian government and Turkish-backed opposition groups. The deal includes a security corridor along the M4 highway.
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.
