Syria: Suspected Iran-backed militia fighters fire rockets at two US-led coalition bases in Deir Ez-Zur Governorate Aug. 24

Event

Heightened security is likely at US-led coalition bases in eastern Syria over the coming days after suspected Iran-backed militia fighters fired rockets at two coalition bases in Deir Ez-Zur Governorate Aug. 24. Two projectiles reportedly landed in the vicinity of the coalition base at the Tabieh (Conoco) gas field; rockets also targeted the coalition base in the Al-Omar oil field/Green Village area. No casualties were immediately confirmed in connection with the attacks. In response, the US-led coalition has launched strikes on suspected Iran-backed militia positions in the Hawija Sakr area of Deir Ez-Zur city as well as the Al-Mayadin area.

Iran-backed militia fighters may launch additional projectile attacks targeting US-led coalition bases in eastern Syria over the coming days. Any such attacks may prompt further retaliatory strikes from US-led coalition forces.

Context

The Aug. 24 Iran-backed militia attacks on US-led coalition bases notably come after US forces carried out airstrikes on infrastructure facilities affiliated with Iran-backed militia fighters in Deir Ez-Zur Governorate Aug. 23. US Central Command has asserted that the Aug. 23 strikes were carried out to protect US personnel from attacks, such as the Aug. 15 Iran-backed militia assault targeting US forces at the Al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian border.

Advice

Refrain from all nonessential travel to Syria. If operating in eastern Syria, exercise caution and avoid all military sites. 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.