Syria: Air defenses intercept missiles over Homs on September 2

Event

Late on Wednesday, September 2, Syrian air defenses in the city of Homs were activated amid a suspected Israeli air attack on the Syrian Arab Air Force's T4 airbase to the east of the city. Syrian media reported that the majority of the missiles were intercepted and that there were no casualties. Heavy damage was reported to properties in the surrounding area. Israeli officials have yet to comment on the strikes.

Further airstrikes in the area cannot be ruled out over the near term.

Context

The Israeli military has launched hundreds of airstrikes into Syrian territory since the start of the civil war in 2011, many of which have targeted arms depots and military facilities allegedly receiving arms and fighters from Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah group. Having perceived an increasing Iranian presence in Syria, Israeli attacks have increased in their frequency over the past few months, with a series of airstrikes reported on almost a weekly basis in June.

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.