Syria: Explosions heard in Damascus as air defenses engage suspected Israeli targets over Rif-Dimashq Governorate late May 20

Event

Syrian air defenses have reportedly engaged suspected Israeli targets over Rif-Dimashq Governorate late May 20, with associated explosions heard in Damascus. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident; however, it has regularly targeted military sites belonging to Syrian government forces and Iran-backed fighters throughout Syria.

Military forces in northern Israel and Syria will almost certainly maintain a heightened level of readiness in the coming days. Further cross-border strikes, including retaliatory attacks, are possible over the short term.

Context

Tensions between Syria and Israel remain extremely high. Israel has repeatedly expressed concerns over the presence of Iranian proxies in Syria and aims to prevent a build-up of Iran-backed forces in the region. Since 2017, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has launched hundreds of preemptive strikes in Syria, targeting suspected Hizballah and Iran-led fighters, weapons caches, and supply convoys.

Advice

Exercise caution and avoid all military sites in Syria. 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.