October 2014 - Syria Special Weapons News

Syria: 'Outraged' Security Council condemns ongoing violence targeting civilians UN News Centre 31 Oct 2014 -- Outraged by the violence directed against civilians in Syria, including the reported dropping of barrel bombs on a displaced persons camp in the war-torn country's northern region, which killed dozens of people, the Security Council this evening strongly condemned such acts, and reminded all the parties of their international legal obligations to protect civilians.
Syria Increases Airstrikes on Rebels VOA 31 Oct 2014 -- Syrian government forces have increased the tempo of air raids on rebel-held territory, striking combatants and civilians in what analysts and U.S. officials say is an apparent attempt to gain ground while the U.S.-led coalition strikes Islamic State group targets in Syria.
Iraqi Kurds Join Syrian Kurds in Fight for Kobani VOA 31 Oct 2014 -- A convoy of 150 Iraqi Kurdish fighters have crossed from Turkey into Syria to bolster Syrian Kurds defending the city of Kobani from Islamic State militants.
Peshmerga fighters poised to enter Kobani to join anti-ISIL fight Iran Press TV 31 Oct 2014 -- Fighters from Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government forces, known as Peshmerga, are set to enter the Syrian town of Kobani to join the fight against the ISIL militants.
18 suspected ISIL militants indicted in Lebanon Iran Press TV 31 Oct 2014 -- Lebanon has indicted 18 suspected members of the ISIL Takfiri militant group on charges of planning to set up an emirate in the north of the Arab country.
Foreign Fighters Stream to Syria Despite US Campaign Against Islamic State RIA Novosti 31 Oct 2014 -- Over 1,000 foreign fighters have come to Syria every month despite US-led efforts to destroy the Islamic State (IS), the Washington Post reports, citing US intelligence and counterterrorism officials.
Relief efforts in Syria hampered by lack of access – senior UN humanitarian official UN News Centre 30 Oct 2014 -- Escalating fighting, insecurity and a lack of access to deliver critical assistance continue to hamper United Nations efforts to respond to the worsening humanitarian situation in Syria, a top UN relief official said today.
More Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Target ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 30 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using fighter and bomber aircraft to conduct 12 airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
First Peshmerga fighters enter Syria's Kobani Iran Press TV 30 Oct 2014 -- The first group of Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government forces, known as Peshmerga, has reportedly entered Syria's northern city of Kobani to join the fight against the ISIL militants.
Syria-bound Kurdish fighters reach Turkey town Iran Press TV 30 Oct 2014 -- Two groups of Iraqi Kurdish fighters have arrived in the Turkish border town of Suruj on their way to join their fellow fighters defending the Syrian Kurdish city of Kobani.
Iraqi Kurd Peshmerga Enter Kobani to Aid in Fight Against Islamic State Militants VOA 30 Oct 2014 -- Syrian activists said the first of 150 Iraqi Kurdish fighters have arrived in Kobani to help Syrian Kurds in their fight against Islamic State militants.
Massive scale-up of assistance needed for countries impacted by ongoing Syria crisis - UN relief official UN News Centre 29 Oct 2014 -- The ongoing civil war in Syria and its spillover effects continue to inflict a devastating human and humanitarian toll on neighbouring Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan, a senior United Nations relief official said today, warning that rising numbers of displaced persons, increasing pressure on refugee hosting countries and dwindling international support left the UN "racing against the clock" to meet the needs on the ground.
'Free Syrian Army' militants in Kobani to fight ISIL Iran Press TV 29 Oct 2014 -- Foreign-backed militants from the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) have crossed from Turkey into the Syrian border city of Kobani to join Kurdish forces in their battle against ISIL Takfiri militants.
Dozens killed in ISIL clashes in Syria's Homs: Report Iran Press TV 29 Oct 2014 -- Violent clashes between ISIL Takfiri terrorists and pro-government forces in central Syria have left dozens of people dead, says a UK-based group.
Syrian Rebels Said To Enter Kobani From Turkey RFE/RL 29 Oct 2014 -- Officials and activists say a group of fighters from the rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA) have entered the embattled Syrian town of Kobani from Turkey to help Kurdish fighters battling Islamic State (IS) militants.
Free Syrian Army Rebels Arrive in Kobani to Fight Against IS: Syrian Kurdish Party RIA Novosti 29 Oct 2014 -- About 40 Free Syrian Army (FSA) rebels arrived in Kobani to join the independence defense forces in fighting the Islamic State (IS) militants, a source from Syrian Kurdish Democratic Union told RIA Novosti on Wednesday.
Rebels, Iraqi Kurds Help Syrian Kurds Fight IS in Kobani VOA 29 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters in northern Syria are getting reinforcements in their month-long battle with Islamic State militants in the border city of Kobani.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Rear Admiral Kirby in the Pentagon Briefing Room DoD 28 Oct 2014 -- Presenters: Rear Admiral John Kirby, Press Secretary
UN chief urges continued global support for Lebanon amid ongoing regional crises UN News Centre 28 Oct 2014 -- Lebanon remains "a beacon of tolerance and co-existence" in an otherwise combustible region, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today, adding that in the face of growing challenges along its borders, the Middle Eastern country will need to continue its close collaboration with the United Nations and other international stakeholders.
Syrian crisis not resolved due to Turkish 'ambitious tendencies' ISNA 28 Oct 2014 -- An Iranian senior official said Syrian issue would have been settled, if Turkish President had not made obstacles due to its ambitious tendencies.
Turkey says FSA must be equipped and trained to rule in Kobani Iran Press TV 28 Oct 2014 -- Turkey has called for the equipment of the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) to rule the Syrian border city of Kobani if ISIL Takfiri militants are flushed out of the Kurdish city.
Syrian army repels al-Qaeda-linked militants in Idlib Iran Press TV 28 Oct 2014 -- Syrian military forces have repelled an offensive by al-Qaeda-linked militants against the northwestern city of Idlib, a UK-based Syrian opposition group says.
Iraq Peshmerga Fighters Head to Kobani VOA 28 Oct 2014 -- Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga fighters are headed to Kobani to help Syrian Kurds who have been fighting Islamic State militants since September for control of the town just south of the Turkish border.
Kobani Kurdish forces repel ISIL attack Iran Press TV 27 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish forces in the Syrian city of Kobani have repelled an attack by the Takfiri ISIL militants, officials say.
Death toll from Kobani ground battles 'over 800' Iran Press TV 26 Oct 2014 -- The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says more than 800 people have been killed during ongoing clashes between Kurdish fighters and Takfiri ISIL militants in the Syrian border town of Kobani.
Rights Group: More Than 800 Killed in Kobani Ground Fight VOA 26 Oct 2014 -- Syrian activists said more than 800 people have been killed in ground fighting in Kobani in the six-week battle between Islamic State militants and Kurdish fighters for control of the Syrian town just south of the T
ISIL, Kurds continue fierce fighting in Syria's Kobani Iran Press TV 25 Oct 2014 -- Fierce clashes have resumed between ISIL Takfiri militants and Kurdish fighters in Syria's northern town of Kobani, which has been under siege by ISIL for over a month.
Jordan's Battle With Islamic State Militants Carries Domestic Risks VOA 23 Oct 2014 -- Gains by Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria and Iraq are heightening concerns in neighboring Jordan, which is struggling to shelter 600,000 refugees from Syria's civil strife and dealing with a backlash from Islamist groups within its own borders.
Airstrikes Against ISIL Forces Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 24 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack terrorists from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant in Syria yesterday and today, using bomber aircraft to conduct six airstrikes, according to U.S. Central Command officials.
Kurds deny deal with Turkey to let 'FSA' in Kobani Iran Press TV 24 Oct 2014 -- Syrian Kurdish fighters in the northern town of Kobani have denied any agreement with Turkey to allow in the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) militants to fight ISIL terrorists.
Erdogan: FSA to Help Kurds Defend Kobani VOA 24 Oct 2014 -- Turkey's president says Syrian Kurds and Free Syrian Army fighters are joining forces to defend the city of Kobani from Islamic State militants.
Airstrikes Against ISIL Continue in Iraq, Syria AFPS 23 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack terrorists from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant in Syria yesterday and today, using fighter and bomber aircraft to conduct six airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Four US-led airstrikes target oil field in east Syria Iran Press TV 23 Oct 2014 -- The US-led coalition has reportedly launched four airstrikes on an oil field in eastern Syria.
Activists: US-led Airstrikes Killed 553 in Syria VOA 23 Oct 2014 -- Syrian activists said a month of U.S.-led airstrikes in Syria has killed 553 people, mostly militants from the Islamic State group and al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front.
ISIL launches chemical attack in eastern Kobani: Kurds Iran Press TV 23 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters defending the Syrian city of Kobani against the ISIL say the Takfiri militants have used chemical weapons.
Turkey To Allow 200 Peshmerga Fighters Passage To Kobani RFE/RL 23 Oct 2014 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says some 200 Iraqi Kurd Peshmerga forces will be allowed to transit Turkey to help Syrian Kurds fight against Islamic State (IS) militants in the besieged town of Kobani.
Islamic State Obtaining US Weapons Due to Lack of US-Syria Cooperation: Moscow RIA Novosti 23 Oct 2014 -- Islamic State (IS) fighters are seizing US-made weapons destined for the Kurdish forces because Washington is refusing to cooperate with Damascus in its anti-terror operation, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexander Lukashevich said Thursday.
Iraqi Kurdistan Parliament Approves Sending Forces to Kobani: Kurdish Political Party RIA Novosti 23 Oct 2014 -- The Iraqi Kurdistan Parliament has approved sending Kurdish Peshmerga forces to the Syrian town of Kobani, besieged by Islamic State (IS) militants, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) said on its official website Thursday.
Airstrikes Continue in Support of Operation Inherent Resolve AFPS 22 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today using fighter and bomber aircraft to conduct six airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
One Airdrop to Kurds Fighting in Kobani Intercepted AFPS 22 Oct 2014 -- One bundle of weapons and medical supplies airdropped by U.S. forces to Kurdish fighters in Syria most likely fell into enemy hands, a Pentagon spokesman said today.
Iraq's Peshmerga to Send Fighters to Kobani VOA 22 Oct 2014 -- Lawmakers in Iraq's Kurdistan region said on Wednesday they voted in favor of sending Kurdish forces to the besieged Syrian town of Kobani via Turkey.
Iraqi Kurdistan authorizes sending Peshmerga to Kobani Iran Press TV 22 Oct 2014 -- The parliament of Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has agreed to send its Peshmerga fighters to the strategic Syrian town of Kobani to join the fight against ISIL Takfiri militants.
U.S. Says Kurds Hold Majority Of Kobani RFE/RL 21 Oct 2014 -- The U.S. military says Kurdish fighters remain in control of most of the Syrian border town of Kobani and Islamic State militants have failed to advance in the past several days.
Syrian Activists: US Arms Airdrop Near Kobani Lands in ISIL Hands VOA 21 Oct 2014 -- Syrian activists say that one of the U.S. airdrops with weapons and ammunition meant for Kurdish fighters near the town of Kobani has instead landed in the hands of Islamic State militants.
Syrian Kurds Push Back on Turkish Plan VOA 21 Oct 2014 -- Syrian Kurdish leaders are pushing back on Turkey's plan to allow Kurdish Peshmerga forces from northern Iraq to transit Turkish territory and to enter the besieged Syrian border town of Kobani to help in its defense.
Britain set to deploy drones to Syria for anti-ISIL operations: Report Iran Press TV 21 Oct 2014 -- Media reports suggest the British military is set to deploy its armed unmanned aircraft to Syria, despite opposition by members of the parliament.
Britain to Conduct Surveillance Flights Over Syria VOA 21 Oct 2014 -- Britain said it will soon conduct military surveillance flights over Syria to collect intelligence on Islamic State militants.
Surveillance missions over Syria confirmed UK MOD 21 Oct 2014 -- The Defence Secretary has announced that UK Reaper and Rivet Joint aircraft will fly surveillance missions over Syria.
Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL Targets in Syria, Iraq AFPS 21 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using fighter and bomber aircraft to conduct four airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Turkey mulls assistance as battle for Kobani rages on Iran Press TV 21 Oct 2014 -- Turkey is still hesitant over assistance to the Kurdish fighters as urban warfare rages on between Kurds and ISIL Takfiri terrorists in Syrian town of Kobani.
New report further exposes Turkey links to ISIL militants Iran Press TV 21 Oct 2014 -- A newly-released report has shed further light on the Turkish government's links to the ISIL militants, showing that Ankara is helping the Takfiri terrorist recruits cross the border into Syria.
Syria: UN convoy crosses lines to reach children fleeing fighting in besieged Kobane UN News Centre 21 Oct 2014 -- Trucks carrying lifesaving supplies for Syrian children have managed to cross over the battle line in Aleppo for the first time in months, a spokesperson for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said today in what was described as a "small but significant breakthrough" in the UN agency's efforts to help children displaced by the fighting in Kobane.
Background Conference Call on Aerial Resupply of Forces Fighting ISIL Near Kobani, Syria The White House 20 Oct 2014
UN humanitarian chief urges ongoing assistance, political solution for war-torn Syria UN News Centre 20 Oct 2014 -- Spotlighting the plight of Syrian refugees in Turkey, as well as the Turkish Government's efforts to meet the needs of an influx of an estimated 1.6 million people, United Nations humanitarian chief Valerie Amos today urged the world to "remember the suffering of the Syrian people" and the urgent need for a political end to the three year conflict.
US, Iran Face Similar Challenges in Syrian Fight Against IS VOA 20 Oct 2014 -- The United States and Iran are both helping fight Sunni militants in the Islamic State group. But one of the biggest battlefields is Syria, where Washington and Tehran back opposing sides in the civil war.
Kurds Welcome Turkish Approval of Reinforcements for Kobani VOA 20 Oct 2014 -- Kurds are welcoming the Turkish government's decision to allow Iraqi Kurdish fighters to transit Turkey to reinforce the defenders of the Syrian border town of Kobani. The United States and some European nations pushed Turkey to help the town besieged by the Islamic State militants.
U.S. Welcomes Turkey's About-Turn On Kobani As Fighting Resumes RFE/RL 20 Oct 2014 -- The United States has praised Turkey's decision to permit the transit of Iraqi Kurdish fighters into Syria to help defend Kobani, as fightging continued in the besieged city.
U.S. Resupplies Kurdish Forces Fighting ISIL Near Kobani AFPS 20 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces conducted multiple airdrops near Kobani, Syria, last night to resupply Kurdish forces on the ground defending the city against Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
US airdrops arms to Kurds fighting against ISIL in Kobani Iran Press TV 20 Oct 2014 -- The US military says its cargo aircraft successfully airdropped arms and ammunition to Kurds fighting against ISIL terrorists in the northern Syrian city of Kobani.
Turkey to Allow Iraqi Kurds to Reinforce Kobani VOA 20 Oct 2014 -- Turkey said on Monday it is helping Iraqi Kurds cross into Syria to aid Kurdish fighters in Kobani as they battle to hold off an advance by Islamic State militants.
Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 20 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
US arms airdrops not enough to defeat ISIL in Kobani: Kurds Iran Press TV 20 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish forces fighting the ISIL in the Syrian border town of Kobani say munitions airdropped by the US are not enough to help them in its battle against the terrorists.
Turkey Now Helping Iraqi Kurd Fighters Reach Kobani RFE/RL 20 Oct 2014 -- The Turkish government is facilitating the transfer of Iraqi Kurdish fighters to the Syrian town of Kobani to help the beleaguered city in its fight with jihadists from the Islamic State (IS) militant group.
Number of Syrian Refugees in Turkey Reaches 1.6 Million: Turkish Emergencies Ministry RIA Novosti 20 Oct 2014 -- The number of Syrian refugees in Turkey has reached 1.6 million, Fuat Oktay, director general of the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency, said Monday.
Turkish Border With Syria Open for Iraqi Kurdistan Forces: Ankara RIA Novosti 20 Oct 2014 -- Turkey is keeping its border open for Kurdish armed forces crossing from Iraq into Syria to fight the Islamic State (IS) jihadist group, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Monday.
Iran's General Suleimani: US invasion, ISIL measures in region doomed to fail ISNA 20 Oct 2014 -- Commander of Iran's Quds Force General Qassem Suleimani said the US invasion of the region and the approaches of the terrorist group known as the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) fail to succeed.
US, Turkish Presidents Agree To Strengthen Cooperation Against IS: White House RIA Novosti 19 Oct 2014 -- US President Barack Obama and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a telephone conversation agreed to strengthen cooperation against the Islamic State (IS) militant group.
Turkey Says No to Arming Kobani Kurds VOA 19 Oct 2014 -- Turkey said on Sunday that it will not arm or agree to arms transfers to Kurdish fighters battling Islamic State militants for control of Kobani.
Air Strikes Hit IS Militants In Syria And Iraq, Cause Heavy Losses RFE/RL 19 Oct 2014 -- The U.S. Central Command says American-led warplanes launched 11 air strikes near the besieged Syrian city of Kobani on October 18-19, helping Kurdish defenders repulse a new attempt by Islamic State fighters to cut their supply lines from Turkey.
US, Arab states train Syria militants: Top opposition cmdr. Iran Press TV 19 Oct 2014 -- A senior Syrian opposition leader has revealed yet another chapter of the role of the United States and Arab states in fueling flames of armed violence in Syria.
Turkey-ISIL tie no longer hidden: Syria deputy FM Iran Press TV 19 Oct 2014 -- Syria's deputy foreign minister says Turkey is responsible for the acts of terror that the ISIL Takfiri militants commit in Iraq and Syria.
Heavy fighting underway in Syria's Kobani Iran Press TV 19 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters are still engaged in heavy clashes with the ISIL Takfiri militants in the strategic Syrian town of Kobani after more than a month.
Kobani Kurds foil ISIL attempt to cut off border with Turkey Iran Press TV 18 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters battling the Takfiri ISIL militants in the Syrian town of Kobani have managed to thwart a new attempt by the terrorists to cut off the border with neighboring Turkey.
Lebanon blocks Syrian refugees from entering: UNHCR Iran Press TV 18 Oct 2014 -- The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) says Lebanon has sharply cut the influx of Syrian refugees fleeing foreign-sponsored militancy in their homeland by refusing to let them in.
'ISIL must be defeated', declares Security Council, urging 'common effort' to halt militants' offensive UN News Centre 18 Oct 2014 -- The Security Council has urged the world to step up measures to defeat the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) after the terrorist group carried out a spate of brutal attacks in Baghdad and Anbar over the past few days, calling for "a common effort" among governments and institutions to "stamp out" the violence and intolerance ISIL espouses.
Turkey-PKK Peace Deal Shaky but Not Broken VOA 17 Oct 2014 -- The peace process between the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and Turkey is continuing despite warnings by rebels that negotiations are facing collapse over two primary concerns: Ankara's inaction in stopping the advance of Islamic State militants in Kobani, and the Turkish military's recent airstrikes on PKK bases.
ISIL's Actions Have Enabled More Airstrikes, DoD Spokesman Says AFPS 16 Oct 2014 -- A concentration of fighters from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant around the town of Kobani along Syria's border with Turkey has led to more airstrikes against the terrorist group, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said today.
Germany Leaving Options Open for Arming PKK VOA 16 Oct 2014 -- The U.S. isn't the only Western country sparing with Ankara over Turkey's refusal to assist the Kurds fighting off Islamic militants in neighboring Syria. A senior ally of Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel says the West shouldn't rule out arming Turkey's outlawed Kurdish separatists to help in the fight against jihadists.
Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue in Syria AFPS 16 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using bomber and fighter aircraft deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of operations to conduct 14 airstrikes, Centcom officials reported.
Britain to Continue Supporting Syrian Opposition to Defeat IS: Foreign Secretary RIA Novosti 16 Oct 2014 -- Britain is planning to contribute substantially to the US-led effort training the Syrian moderate armed opposition to fight the Islamic State (IS), the UK Foreign Secretary announced Thursday.
US to Simultaneously Train Iraqi Forces, Free Syrian Elements RIA Novosti 16 Oct 2014 -- The United States will simultaneously be training the Iraqi forces and the free Syrian opposition, the US Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter Islamic State said.
Kurdish side 'loses 268' in Kobani war Iran Press TV 16 Oct 2014 -- A UK-based group says 268 people have been killed while fighting on the Kurdish side ever since the Takfiri ISIL terrorist group started attacking the Syrian Kurdish city of Kobani.
Syria army locates infiltration tunnels near Damascus Iran Press TV 16 Oct 2014 -- Soldiers of the Syrian army have located tunnels through which militants infiltrated into a region near the capital Damascus, Press TV reports.
Islamic State Adapting to Airstrikes, Coalition Needs Ground Force: Kurdish Official RIA Novosti 16 Oct 2014 -- Islamic State (IS) fighters are adapting to US-led airstrikes in Iraq and Syria and will not be defeated without a more substantial ground force, Karwan Zebari, a director at the Kurdistan Regional Government office in Washington, told RIA Novosti Thursday.
Turkey Suggests Training, Equipping Syrian Opposition on Its Territory to Defeat IS RIA Novosti 16 Oct 2014 -- Turkey has suggested training and equipping Syrian opposition forces together with its partner states on Turkish soil to help them fight the Islamic State (IS), Turkish Minister for EU Affairs Volkan Bozkir said Thursday.
Rights Group: More Than 600 Killed in Fight for Kobani VOA 16 Oct 2014 -- A human rights monitoring group said more than 660 people have been killed in the month-long battle for the town of Kobani, along Syria's border with Turkey.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Rear Adm. Kirby in the Pentagon Briefing Room DoD 15 Oct 2014 -- Presenter: Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby
ISIL Forces Concentrating Around Kobani, Official Says AFPS 15 Oct 2014 -- While the Syrian border town of Kobani is itself not a strategic location, the number of airstrikes in the area has increased due to the concentration of terrorists there from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, the Pentagon press secretary said today.
Remarks to the Press on Countering ISIL - Special Briefing by John Allen, Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL US Dept. of State 15 Oct 2014
US Bombs Targets in Northern Syria, Warns of Ongoing IS Threat VOA 15 Oct 2014 -- The Pentagon says U.S. warplanes are bombing targets in the Syrian border town of Kobani in support of the town's Kurdish defenders, while warning that Islamic State extremists could seize the embattled enclave.
US Envoy Discusses Strategy for Building Syrian Opposition VOA 15 Oct 2014 -- U.S. special envoy General John Allen says it will take time to train and equip Syria's moderate opposition to fight Islamic State (IS) militants because several factors have to be considered. He commented following a trip to the Middle East, where he held talks with U.S. allies on building the U.S.-led coalition that is fighting the militants.
Centcom Designates Ops Against ISIL as 'Inherent Resolve' AFPS 15 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military operations in Iraq and Syria against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists have been designated as Operation Inherent Resolve, U.S. Central Command officials announced today.
Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL Targets in Iraq, Syria AFPS 15 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists yesterday and today, conducting five airstrikes in Iraq and 18 airstrikes in Syria, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
UK mulls training 'moderate' Syria militants Iran Press TV 15 Oct 2014 -- UK Defense Secretary Michael Fallon says British ministers are considering plans to train "moderate" militants operating in Syria to fight the ISIL terrorist group.
Syria rejects buffer zones, pledges to maintain sovereignty Iran Press TV 15 Oct 2014 -- Syria has categorically rejected calls for the creation of buffer zones on its territory, saying it would treat any such bid as an act of aggression.
Syria army retakes village near Aleppo Iran Press TV 15 Oct 2014 -- The Syrian army has captured a village in the countryside of Aleppo, marking the latest gain in a push to control the key city.
Kerry puzzled by Turkish stance on ISIL at Paris presser Iran Press TV 15 Oct 2014 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry says Turkey will take part in the US-led coalition against ISIL on its own timetable, befogging the two countries' stance on the fight against terrorists even further.
In Kobani, Kurd Fighters Help Coordinate Airstrikes on IS Targets VOA 15 Oct 2014 -- U.S.-led airstrikes killed at least 32 Islamic State fighters in direct hits in Kobani this week because of closer coordination with Kurdish forces on the ground, a monitoring group said, after bombing of the Syrian town intensified.
Obama: Fight Against ISIL 'Long-term Campaign' AFPS 14 Oct 2014 -- The fight against Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists will be a "long-term campaign," President Barack Obama said today.
Remarks by the President After Meeting with Chiefs of Defense The White House 14 Oct 2014
Obama: No 'Quick Fixes' Battling IS Militants VOA 14 Oct 2014 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says he is 'deeply concerned' about Kobani, the key Syrian city that Kurdish fighters are struggling to keep from falling into Islamic State hands.
Turkish Airstrikes on PKK Threaten Peace Process VOA 14 Oct 2014 -- Turkish aircraft pounded Kurdish rebel bases in Turkey on Tuesday for the first time since a peace process began almost two years ago. The attacks follow major unrest across Turkey's predominantly Kurdish southeast over what Kurds see as Ankara's inaction while the Syrian Kurdish city of Kobani is under siege by the Islamic State militant group.
U.S., Partners Continue Airstrikes Against ISIL AFPS 14 Oct 2014 -- U.S. and partner-nation military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using bomber and fighter aircraft to conduct 22 airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Kurdish Fighters Hold Off IS Militant Assault On Kobani RFE/RL 13 Oct 2014 -- An Islamic State (IS) suicide bomber has detonated an explosives-laden truck in northern Syria's besieged town of Kobani, wounding two Kurdish fighters.
Iraqi Kurds Urge Turkey To Let Volunteers Through To Defend Kobani RFE/RL 13 Oct 2014 -- A top official of Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region is calling on Turkey to let volunteer fighters through to the besieged Syrian city of Kobani, where Syrian Kurds are waging a desperate battle against Islamic State (IS) militants.
IS Militants Overrun Iraqi Army Camp, Advance Into Syria Border Town RFE/RL 13 Oct 2014 -- Iraqi officials say Islamic State militants have seized a military camp in the western Anbar province and gained ground in the besieged Syrian town of Kobani on the border with Turkey.
U.S., Saudi Arabia Conduct Airstrikes Against ISIL in Syria AFPS 13 Oct 2014 -- U.S. and Saudi Arabian military forces conducted eight airstrikes on Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant targets in Syria yesterday and today, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
US says Turkey OKs use of bases, training Syria militants Iran Press TV 13 Oct 2014 -- American military officials say Turkey has agreed to let US-led coalition forces use Turkish military bases for operations against ISIL terrorists, as well as train "moderate" militants fighting the Syrian government.
Kurdish fighters holding line as ISIL pushes on Kobani Iran Press TV 13 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters have successfully held off ISIL Takfiri militants in Kobani, preventing the terrorists from advancing into the heart of the besieged Syrian Kurdish town.
Kurds Struggle to Hold Kobani as Turkey Remains on Sidelines VOA 13 Oct 2014 -- In Turkish villages along the border, local Kurds and refugees from the Syrian city of Kobani maintain a vigil observing the month-long battle over the besieged town with a mixture of hope and dread.
ISIL-Kurds urban warfare rages on in Kobani Iran Press TV 12 Oct 2014 -- The urban warfare between Kurdish fighters and the ISIL Takfiri militants rages on in Syria's border town of Ain al-Arab, also known as Kobani.
Cooperating with Syria key to ISIL defeat: Russia Iran Press TV 12 Oct 2014 -- A senior Russian official has reiterated that any triumph for the US-led coalition's airstrike campaign against the ISIL terrorists would be contingent upon its cooperation with the Syrian government.
Turkey continues blocking military equipment, reinforcement for Kobani Iran Press TV 12 Oct 2014 -- Turkey continues to block the supply of military equipment and reinforcements for Kurdish fighters defending the border city of Kobani in northern Syria against the ISIL militants.
ISIL bolsters forces to break Kobani resistance Iran Press TV 12 Oct 2014 -- The ISIL Takfiri terrorists have resorted to further reinforcements in an effort to break the resistance of Kurdish fighters defending the city of Kobane for nearly a month.
Heavy Fighting Reported Sunday in Kobani, Syria VOA 12 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters are holding off the advance of Islamic State militants in Kobani, Syria, but heavy fighting is continuing for control of the city near the Turkey border.
Kurdish Fighters Try to Repel Islamic State Advances on Kobani VOA 11 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters on Saturday continued waging a fierce attempt to defend the Syrian-Kurdish city of Kobani near the Turkish border, which is in danger of falling to Islamic State militants.
U.S. Continues Strikes on ISIL, Drops Supplies to Iraqi Troops AFPS 11 Oct 2014 -- U.S. forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Iraq and Syria yesterday and today and conducted several airdrops of supplies for Iraqi security forces at the request of the Iraqi government, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
In Kobani, Syrian Kurds' 'Self-Rule' Model Imperiled VOA 10 Oct 2014 -- Intense fighting is continuing between Islamic State and Kurdish forces around the Syrian town of Kobani on the Turkish border. The United States says it carried out at least nine airstrikes Friday against Islamic State [ISIS] positions. Meanwhile, the United Nations has warned that hundreds of civilians could be massacred if the town falls to the Islamic State. Kobani is a city with tremendously important strategic significance.
As ISIL advances on Syrian town, UN envoy urges international action to avoid 'massacre' UN News Centre 10 Oct 2014 -- The United Nations will adopt a minimalistic, concrete and realistic approach to addressing the crisis generated by Syria's ongoing conflict, a senior UN official said today as he warned about the growing dangers facing civilians amid the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant's (ISIL) latest offensive in the country.
Fighting Intensifies as IS Aims to Capture Syrian Border City VOA 10 Oct 2014 -- Fighting raged on Friday in the Syrian Kurdish city of Kobani near the Turkish border, with Syrian Kurdish leaders saying key government buildings have fallen to Islamic State forces.
Turkish Troops Fire on Kurdish Protesters VOA 10 Oct 2014 -- Turkish forces have fired on Syrian Kurdish protesters from the border town of Qamishli. The protesters said they were trying to show support for fellow Kurds in the beleaguered Syrian town of Kobani. Ankara says the demonstrators provoked the violence.
Airstrikes Target ISIL in Syria and Iraq AFPS 10 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today using attack, bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct nine airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Pentagon chief says US wants access to Turkey airbase Iran Press TV 10 Oct 2014 -- Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel urges Turkey to let the United States use a key Turkish airbase as a launching ground for airstrikes in neighboring Syria.
We oppose both ISIL, Syria: Turkey PM Iran Press TV 10 Oct 2014 -- Amid accusations of Turkey's support for ISIL militants, Turkish Prime Minister says Ankara is opposed to the Takfiri militants in the same way it opposes Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
ISIL gains more ground in Kobani despite US-led airstrikes Iran Press TV 10 Oct 2014 -- The ISIL Takfiri militants have made new advances in the Syrian border city of Kobani despite US-led airstrikes on ISIL targets.
Turkey to Train Syrian Opposition Fighters: US State Department RIA Novosti 10 Oct 2014 -- Turkey will train and equip the moderate Syrian opposition, a spokeswoman for the US State Department told reporters during a briefing Friday.
Syria army retakes control of areas in E Ghouta region Iran Press TV 09 Oct 2014 -- The Syrian army has retaken control of several areas in eastern Ghouta region as the battle against foreign-backed militants continues in the country.
'ISIL seizes one third of Syria's Kobani' Iran Press TV 09 Oct 2014 -- The ISIL terrorists have taken control of more than a third of the Syrian border city of Kobani, a monitoring group says.
Turkey Rules Out Unilateral Land Operation In Syria RFE/RL 09 Oct 2014 -- Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says his country will not get involved in a unilateral land operation against Islamic State militants in northern Syria because such a move 'is not a realistic approach.'
Turkey's Dilemma Against IS In Syria RFE/RL 08 Oct 2014 -- As Islamic State (IS) militants threaten to overrun the outgunned Syrian city of Kobani, Turkish forces stand a stone's throw away, poised to intervene at any moment.
Spokesman: Airstrikes Only Part of the Strategy Against ISIL AFPS 08 Oct 2014 -- Airstrikes against Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists will not be enough to end the siege of the embattled Syrian Kurdish town of Kobani, the Pentagon press secretary acknowledged today.
US Facing 'Real Possibility' of Kobani Falling to IS Group VOA 08 Oct 2014 -- Islamic State (IS) fighters are continuing their push into the mostly Kurdish Syrian border town of Kobani, and the U.S. military says it is facing the 'real possibility' that the twon soon could fall to the extremist group.
Pentagon Denies US Considering Syria-Turkey Buffer Zone RIA Novosti 08 Oct 2014 -- The United States is not weighing a proposal by Turkey to create a safe zone along its border with Syria, Pentagon spokesman Rear Admiral John Kirby told a news conference Wednesday.
Iran Ready to Help Damascus in Protecting Kobani Population: Foreign Ministry RIA Novosti 08 Oct 2014 -- Tehran is ready to help the Syrian government in protecting residents of Kobani, a border town with Kurdish population, if it receives an official request from Syria, Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Marzieh Afkham said at a press briefing Wednesday.
Hollande: France Supports Idea of Creating Buffer Zone Between Turkey, Syria RIA Novosti 08 Oct 2014 -- French President Francois Hollande has expressed support for the idea of creating a buffer zone between Turkey and Syria to ensure the safety of civilians, the president's office said in a statement Wednesday.
Syrian Kurds Oppose US Land Operation Against Islamic State in Syria: Party Leader RIA Novosti 08 Oct 2014 -- Syrian Kurds are against a US led land operation in Syria, but expect the international community to help them in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) militants, the leader of the Syrian Kurds said in an interview with Rossiya Segodnya on Wednesday.
Turkish Ambivalence Under Scrutiny as Kobani Teeters VOA 08 Oct 2014 -- Turkey has a front row view of the advance of Islamic State militants, with Turkish tanks within striking distance of IS fighters battling for the Syrian border town of Kobani. Yet even as the United States and other Western allies press Ankara to join the anti-IS coalition, and Turkish Kurds take to the streets demanding a defense of Kobani, Turkey is holding back.
Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria and Iraq AFPS 08 Oct 2014 -- U.S. and partner nation military forces continued to attack ISIL terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using bomber, fighter, and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct nine airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
US presses Turkey to play bigger role in ISIL fight Iran Press TV 08 Oct 2014 -- The United States is pressing the Turkish government to play a bigger role in the fight against ISIL by intervening to prevent the terrorists from overrunning the Syrian border town of Kobani.
Canada's parliament authorizes anti-ISIL strikes in Iraq and Syria Iran Press TV 08 Oct 2014 -- Canada's parliament has voted in favor of a motion for the country to join the so-called US-led coalition against the Takfiri ISIL militants operating in Iraq and Syria.
LATEST: RAF Tornados' air strikes in Iraq UK MOD 08 Oct 2014 -- Tornado GR4 aircraft have completed another round of air strikes in Iraq overnight.
Kerry: Anti-Islamic State Strategy Is 'Evolving' VOA 08 Oct 2014 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said Wednesday the strategy of the anti-Islamic State coalition is 'evolving,' with decisions about the role of Turkey and other countries coming within 'hours or days.'
Iran will take action on Kobani if asked: Afkham Iran Press TV 08 Oct 2014 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry says Tehran is ready to take practical measures in dealing with the ongoing chaotic situation in the northern Syrian city of Kobani if it receives an official request from Damascus.
Kurds getting upper hand in battle for Kobani Iran Press TV 08 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters in Syria's border town of Kobani are getting the upper hand as urban warfare rages on between them and the ISIL Takfiri terrorists.
ISIL-Kurds urban warfare rages on in Kobani Iran Press TV 08 Oct 2014 -- The urban warfare between Kurdish forces and the ISIL Takfiri terrorists rages on in Syria's border town of Kobani.
Army to cleanse areas of terrorists around Damascus Iran Press TV 08 Oct 2014 -- After regaining control of the Syrian town of Dukhaniyeh, the army plans larger scale attacks aimed at completely clearing the regions around the capital Damascus from militant groups, Press TV reports.
Fighting Rages In Kobani After U.S.-Led Air Strikes RFE/RL 08 Oct 2014 -- The U.S. military has confirmed that a U.S.-led coalition has intensified air strikes against Islamic State (IS) militants in northern Syria -- launching six attacks since October 7 near the city of Kobani on the border with Turkey.
US Calls Kobani Airstrikes 'Useful' as Kurds Seek More Support VOA 07 Oct 2014 -- The United States is calling an air campaign near the embattled Syrian border city of Kobani 'useful' against the Islamic State onslaught, while pro-Kurdish protesters pleaded with governments from Ankara to Paris for greater support.
US: Syrian Government Forces Will Not Be Part of Islamic State Fight VOA 07 Oct 2014 -- Syria and Russia say the international coalition against the Islamic State would be more effective if it included Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But, the Obama administration is determined to keep its fight against Damascus separate from the battle against the Islamic State.
Islamic State Said to Issue Rules for Reporters VOA 07 Oct 2014 -- Islamic State militants are said to have issued a detailed list of requirements for journalists in Deir al-Zour, Syria. The media group Syria Deeply quotes a reporter identified as 'Amer' as having attended a meeting between Islamic State media staff and the few local journalists who stayed after the IS advance into Deir al-Zour. The list could not be independently confirmed.
200 Syrian Kurds killed while defending Kobani against ISIL Iran Press TV 07 Oct 2014 -- Nearly 200 Syrian Kurds have lost their lives while defending the town of Kobani against the ISIL militants' attempts to capture the city.
Urban warfare in Kobani goes on between Kurds, ISIL Iran Press TV 07 Oct 2014 -- Urban warfare between the ISIL Takfiri terrorists and Kurdish forces in Syria's border town of Kobani has spread to new neighborhoods.
Clashes Resume Between IS Fighters, Kurdish Defenders in Kobani: Reports RIA Novosti 07 Oct 2014 -- Street battles have resumed on Tuesday in the Syrian Kurds' border town of Kobani, which is overrun by Islamic State militants, Al-Mayadeen television channel said.
Kobani Death Toll Exceeds 400: Syrian Observatory for Human Rights RIA Novosti 07 Oct 2014 -- More than 400 people have died during the 20 days of clashes between the Kurdish fighters and the Islamic State (IS) militants in the Syrian town of Kobani on the border with Turkey, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said on Tuesday.
Turkey's President Says Ground Operation Necessary to Counter Islamic State RIA Novosti 07 Oct 2014 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticized Western countries on Tuesday for their policy of non-interference in Syria and Iraq, stressing that airstrikes without a ground operation will not stop the advance of the Islamic State (IS) militants.
Turkish Police Dispersing Demonstrations in Support of Kurds Fighting IS in Syrian Kobani RIA Novosti 07 Oct 2014 -- Turkish police are dispersing demonstrations across the country in support of the Kurdish population of the besieged Syrian town of Kobani on the border with Turkey, currently facing the advance of the Islamic State (IS), Turkish newspaper Today's Zaman reported Tuesday.
UN concerned over safety of civilians as ISIL intensifies offensive in Syrian border town UN News Centre 07 Oct 2014 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the United Nations human rights office today voiced their grave concern for the safety of civilians caught up in the ongoing offensive by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) on the northern Syrian town of Ayn al-Arab, also known as Kobane.
Pro-Kurdish Protesters Clash with Turkish Police; 1 Dead VOA 07 Oct 2014 -- One person was killed in southeast Turkey on Tuesday as police clashed with hundreds of pro-Kurdish protesters demonstrating against the country's inaction toward Islamic State militants.
U.S., Partner Nations Strike ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 06 Oct 2014 -- U.S. and partner nations' military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using fighter and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct three airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
ISIL militants, Kurds continue fighting near Kobani Iran Press TV 06 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters battle the ISIL Takfiri militants near the Syrian Kurdish town of Kobani along the border with Turkey as terrorists are still unable to capture the town.
Syria army retakes control of Dukhaniyeh near Damascus Iran Press TV 06 Oct 2014 -- The Syrian army has managed to regain control of the strategic area of Dukhaniyeh in the southeastern part of the capital city of Damascus, reports say.
Kurdish fighters repel fresh ISIL attack on Kobani Iran Press TV 06 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters have repelled a fresh attack by ISIL Takfiri militants on the Syrian border town of Ain al-Arab, also known as Kobani to Kurds.
Turkey urges Syrian Kurds to fight Assad gov't Iran Press TV 06 Oct 2014 -- Turkish officials have reportedly called on the Syrian Kurdish fighters to join the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) fighting to topple the government of President Bashar al-Assad.
Kurdish Fighters Say Anti-IS Coalition Airstrikes Ineffective: Reports RIA Novosti 06 Oct 2014 -- Airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) targets conducted by the US-led international coalition have failed to stop the advance of IS militants on the Syrian town of Kobani, The Guardian reported Monday citing a senior speaker for the Kurdish fighters.
Kurd Fighters Hold Off IS Assault on Syrian Town VOA 06 Oct 2014 -- So-called Islamic State fighters appear to be getting close to capturing the mainly Kurdish town of Kobani along the Syrian-Turkish border after a three-week fight that has seen a desperate defense put up by lightly armed and outgunned Syrian Kurds.
U.S. Military Conducts Airstrikes Against ISIL in Syria and Iraq AFPS 05 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack ISIL terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using fighter aircraft to conduct three airstrikes.
ISIL militants closing in on Kobani Iran Press TV 05 Oct 2014 -- The ISIL Takfiri militants are zeroing in on the Syrian town of Ain al-Arab, known as Kobani by the Kurds, opposition sources say.
Syrian army regains full control of three towns in Hama Province Iran Press TV 05 Oct 2014 -- Syrian army troops have managed to retake full control of three towns in the western part of the country, Press TV reports.
Islamic State Attacks on Military Post of Hezbollah on Syrian-Lebanese Border RIA Novosti 05 Oct 2014 -- Islamic State militants have attacked on the military post of the Lebanese movement 'Hezbollah' in the mountainous region of Brital, which is on the Syrian-Lebanese border, the TV channel LBC reported Sunday.
Mortar Shell Wounds 5 in Turkish Home Near Kobani VOA 05 Oct 2014 -- Five people were wounded Sunday when a mortar shell crashed into a house in Turkey, kilometers from a fierce battle between Kurdish fighters and Islamic State militants in neighboring Syria.
Kurdish Anger Rising in Turkey VOA 05 Oct 2014 -- The anger of Turkish Kurds is mounting over the plight of the Syrian border town of Kobani, which has been besieged for weeks by jihadists. Turkish Kurds say Turkey should intervene to save the town and warn darkly of a renewed Kurdish insurgency inside Turkey if the town falls.
Air Strikes Hit IS Targets Near Syrian Border Town RFE/RL 04 Oct 2014 -- The U.S.-led coalition has carried out fresh air strikes against Islamic State (IS) militants near the Turkish border in northern Syria as IS fighters pressed their offensive against the Syrian border town of Kobani.
Syria Kurdish fighters call on Kurds to take up arms Iran Press TV 04 Oct 2014 -- Kurdish fighters in Syria have called on all Kurds across the region to take up arms as the ISIL militants are inching toward the Syrian town of Kobani on the border with Turkey.
More Fighting Near Syria-Turkish Border VOA 04 Oct 2014 -- Fighting continued to rage Saturday in northern Syria where Islamic State militants are closing in on a Kurdish town near the Turkish border.
Heavy clashes continue between Kurdish forces, ISIL near Kobani Iran Press TV 03 Oct 2014 -- Heavy clashes continue between Takfiri ISIL militants and Kurdish forces near the Syrian border town of Ain al-Arab, also known as Kobani to Kurds.
UN rights office condemns destruction of Syrian holy sites as ISIL terror continues UN News Centre 03 Oct 2014 -- The United Nations human rights office today expressed concern about the continuing wave of destruction unleashed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) amid reports that the terrorist group has targeted and destroyed a number of religious buildings in areas under its control.
Fighting Continues in Northern Syria VOA 03 Oct 2014 -- Islamic State militants are continuing their advance on the northern Syrian town of Kobani near the Turkish border, where Kurdish fighters have been struggling to repel them for weeks.
Syrian Rebel Commanders Say US Airstrikes Bolster Assad VOA 03 Oct 2014 -- Moderate Syrian rebel field commanders said the U.S.-led air offensive in Syria is helping President Bashar al-Assad.
U.S., Allied Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria and Iraq AFPS 02 Oct 2014 -- U.S. and partner-nation military forces continued to attack ISIL terrorists in Syria yesterday and today using a mix of fighter, attack, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct four airstrikes.
Syria to Get Data on Airstrikes Against Islamic State Through Intermediaries: Reports RIA Novosti 02 Oct 2014 -- Damascus will get information on airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) militants through intermediaries, the Al Bawaba online publication reported Thursday.
US Airstrikes Anger Syrian Civilians Fleeing Their Homes VOA 02 Oct 2014 -- Syrians fleeing their homes have suffered nearly four years of devastating civil war and now a U.S.-led coalition is launching airstrikes on jihadists in their country. But at least 20 non-combatants appear to have been killed in the early raids and civilians seeking sanctuary in Turkey are asking why.
Turkey's Parliament OKs Military Action in Syria, Iraq Against IS VOA 02 Oct 2014 -- The Turkish parliament approved a motion on Thursday enabling the government to authorize cross-border military incursions into Iraq and Syria to battle Islamic State militants.
ISIL set to attack Kobani amid US air raids Iran Press TV 02 Oct 2014 -- Takfiri ISIL terrorists are reportedly preparing to wage an offensive on the Syrian Kurdish city of Kobani, highlighting the ineffectiveness of US-led airstrikes against them.
Syria: Ban strongly condemns deadly bomb attacks in Homs UN News Centre 01 Oct 2014 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemns in the strongest terms today's bomb attacks in Homs, which reportedly killed dozens of schoolchildren, as "an act of the utmost depravity."
US Confirms Airstrikes Near Turkey-Syria Border VOA 01 Oct 2014 -- U.S.-led airstrikes hit near a key Syrian border town for a second day, as Kurdish fighters defend the area from Islamic State militants.
More Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria and Iraq AFPS 01 Oct 2014 -- U.S. military forces continued to attack ISIL terrorists in Syria yesterday and today using a mix of fighter and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct three airstrikes.
With its mandate completed, OPCW-UN mission draws down in Syria UN News Centre 01 Oct 2014 -- The joint United Nations mission to oversee the destruction of Syria's stockpiles and production facilities has completed its mission and been shut down.
ISIL fast reaching Turkey border despite US airstrikes Iran Press TV 01 Oct 2014 -- The terrorist ISIL group has made advances on areas near the Syrian border with Turkey, despite airstrikes against the Takfiri militants by a US-led coalition.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

October 2014 - Syria Special Weapons News