28 Jun 2021 | 12:17 AM UTC
Syria, Iraq: US airstrikes target Iranian-backed militias along the Syria-Iraq border early June 28
US airstrikes target sites belonging to Iranian-backed militias along the Syria-Iraq border early June 28. Further violence possible.
Event
US airstrikes targeted operational and weapons storage facilities belonging to Iranian-backed militias along the Syria-Iraq border early June 28. The airstrikes reportedly targeted two sites in Al-Bukamal, Syria, and one in Al-Qaim, Iraq. Initial reports indicate that at least five people were killed. The US Department of Defense stated that the airstrikes were carried out in response to attacks by Iranian-backed militias against US personnel and facilities in Iraq.
Further airstrikes and retaliatory attacks remain possible over the coming days.
Context
Tensions remain heightened between the US and Iranian-backed Shi'a militias in Iraq. Shi'a militias have frequently targeted supply convoys belonging to US-led coalition forces in Iraq. Additionally, Shi'a militias have regularly launched rocket attacks against the US Embassy in Baghdad and military bases housing US and coalition troops.
Advice
Exercise caution and avoid all military sites in Syria and Iraq. Heed the instructions of local security forces. If airstrikes, artillery fire, or warning sirens are reported in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter until given further instructions by authorities.
