On November 20, 2024, an Israeli airstrike targeted a weapons depot near the industrial zone of Palmyra, Syria, resulting in at least 36 fatalities and over 50 injuries, according to the Syrian state news agency SANA.
The attack occurred around 1:30 PM local time (10:30 GMT) and reportedly destroyed several buildings in the Homs province. A military source indicated that the airstrike was aimed at a location housing families of Iraqi and other foreign militias supported by Iran.
The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which has a network of local contacts, reported that the bombing specifically targeted a weapons storage facility. They also noted that there were two additional strikes in the same area, identified as Al Jamiya, with the death toll varying; the Observatory listed 11 fatalities, including four foreign militants and seven Syrian fighters.
In recent weeks, Israel has significantly intensified its military operations in Syria, particularly around the capital, Damascus, and near Al Quseir, a border area with Lebanon. The Israeli military claims these strikes aim to disrupt Hezbollah's weapon transfers and target high-ranking officials of Palestinian groups, although many attacks have reportedly hit residential areas, resulting in civilian casualties.
Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980, is known for its monumental ruins, which reflect the cultural influences of various ancient civilizations, including Greek, Roman, and Persian.