Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Further Reading

• Russian Actions Intensifying Syrian Civil War, Carter Says AFPS 30 Sep 2015 -- Russian actions are intensifying the instability in Syria and making the civil war there more vicious, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said here today.
• At UN, Turkish Prime Minister urges action to end Syrian crisis UN News 30 Sep 2015 -- Recalling the heart-rending story of the little boy whose lifeless body washed up on a beach in Turkey last month, Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu today urged the United Nations to take swift action to address the deepening crisis in Syria and to protect the millions of people "fleeing war and tyranny."
• US temporarily stops training militants from Syria: Pentagon Press TV 30 Sep 2015 -- The United States has stopped recruiting new militants from inside Syria for military training outside the country as the troubled "train-and-equip" program is reevaluated.
• Airstrikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 30 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US military should both target Assad and Daesh: Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman Press TV 30 Sep 2015 -- Republican Senator Bob Corker, the chairman of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, says the Pentagon should target both the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and the Daesh (ISIL) terrorist group.
• Kerry warns Lavrov over Russian airstrikes in Syria Press TV 30 Sep 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry has warned Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that Russian airstrikes in Syria could escalate the years-long conflict in the Arab country, a senior American official says.
• Russia launches first airstrikes in Syria: US Press TV 30 Sep 2015 -- Russia has carried out its first airstrikes in Syria after Washington reportedly refused to comply with Moscow's demand to take US warplanes out of the Arab country, a senior American official says.
• Damascus confirms President Assad asked for Russia's military aid in fighting terrorists Press TV 30 Sep 2015 -- The Syrian government has confirmed that President Bashar al-Assad requested military assistance from Russia, as Moscow gets the parliamentary approval for military presence in Syria.
• Saudi Arabia calls on Assad to leave or be removed by force Press TV 30 Sep 2015 -- Saudi Arabia says Syrian President Bashar al-Assad must leave office or face being removed via military intervention.
• Russia Launches Air Strikes In Syria As Western Officials Doubt Goals RFE/RL 30 Sep 2015 -- In a bold escalation of its involvement in Syria, Russia has launched air strikes in the war-torn country that it says targeted Islamic State (IS) militants, while Western officials suggested the offensive may be aimed at other opponents of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
• US-Russia Talks on Syria Remain Priority for Washington - White House Sputnik 30 Sep 2015 -- Talks with Russia on military activity in Syria have not begun, but are expected to take place soon, Josh Earnest said.
• France to Bomb ISIL Positions in Syria 'For as Long as Needed' Sputnik 30 Sep 2015 -- French Prime Minister Manuel Valls said that Paris will continue operation in Syria for as long as needed.
• Russia to Provide Only Air Operation in Support of Syrian Army Sputnik 30 Sep 2015 -- Konstantin Kosachev, the head of the Russian upper house of parliament's Foreign Affairs committee, said that Russian military operation in Syria will be exclusively an air operation, but in tight coordination with the ground operations that are being conducted by the Syrian Army.
• Carter: Russian Airstrikes 'Pouring Gas on Fire' in Syria VOA 30 Sep 2015 -- Russia's decision to begin airstrikes in Syria in support of President Bashar al-Assad's regime 'is tantamount to pouring gasoline on the fire' of the Middle East country's four-year civil war, U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said Wednesday.
• Russia's Buildup in Syria May Thwart Idea of Safe Haven VOA 30 Sep 2015 -- For weeks Ankara and Washington have been discussing establishing a safe haven in northern Syria to shield civilians and rebels alike from relentless Syrian government airstrikes.
• Russian Anti-ISIL Airstrikes in Syria to Boost Iraq's Chances of Success Sputnik 30 Sep 2015 -- Iraq's Defense Ministry spokesman Nasir Nouri Mohammed said that Iraq has been unable to drive ISIL out of areas on the border with Syria, and 'if Russia joins in airstrikes, this will also help us combat terrorists more effectively on the Iraqi territory.'
• Putin Says Russian Engagement in Syria 'Temporary' Sputnik 30 Sep 2015 -- Speaking at a meeting with cabinet members the Russian president said the only way to fight international terrorism in Syria was acting pre-emptively, destroying terrorists in the areas they have already occupied.
• Russia's upper house of parliament approves military presence in Syria Press TV 30 Sep 2015 -- Russia's upper house of parliament, the Federation Council, has voted unanimously to give President Vladimir Putin the right to use Russian armed forces in Syria.
• Russian Parliament Grants Putin Right To Use Military In Syria RFE/RL 30 Sep 2015 -- Russia's upper house of parliament has voted unanimously to grant President Vladimir Putin the right to use the country's armed forces in Syria, where Moscow has sent warplanes and military equipment in a buildup that has raised questions about its intentions.
• Russia Approves Use of Armed Forces in Syria Sputnik 30 Sep 2015 -- Russia's Federation Council unanimously approved the use of the country's armed forces abroad.
• Russian Nuclear Subs Will Get Advanced Reconaissance Equipment Sputnik 30 Sep 2015 -- New fifth-generation nuclear submarines Russia is currently developing will have increased speed, improved reconnaissance capability and advanced weaponry, Russian Navy's Commander-in-Chief Adm. Viktor Chirkov said Wednesday.
• Urging global assistance for Syrian refugees, European Union at UN says 'everyone can offer help' UN News 29 Sep 2015 -- With Europe confronting its worst refugee crisis since World War II, the continent's leaders mounted the podium of the United Nations General Assembly today to call for global action to end the conflict in war-torn Syria and elsewhere that has sent hundreds of thousands of people fleeing to their shores.
• US, Russian Militaries Communicating on Anti-IS Fight in Syria VOA 29 Sep 2015 -- Defense Secretary Ashton Carter has directed the Pentagon staff to communicate with Russia about coalition activity in Syria, in order to avoid any mistaken encounter between coalition and Russian forces there.
• Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 29 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Iran, Russia must be part of Syria solution: France ISNA 29 Sep 2015 -- French President Francois Hollande said Iran and Russia must be part of a resolution of the crisis in Syria while maintaining his stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
• U.S. says ready to work with Russia, Iran to resolve crisis in Syria People's Daily 29 Sep 2015 -- The United Statesis prepared to work with any nation, including Russiaand Iran, to resolve the conflict in Syria, U.S. President Barack Obamasaid Monday.
• Syrian soldiers kill 30 Nusra Front terrorists in, around Aleppo Press TV 29 Sep 2015 -- At least 30 al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Nusra Front militants have been killed in a series of mop-up operations by the Syrian army across the country's embattled northwestern province of Aleppo.
• Obama, Putin fail to agree on Assad's fate Press TV 29 Sep 2015 -- President Barack Obama and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have discussed the crisis in Syria, but failed to reach an agreement on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's fate.
• Putin Rules Out Russian Ground War Against IS; Air Strikes Possible RFE/RL 29 Sep 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says he has ruled out sending Russian ground troops into Syria to fight Islamic State (IS), but he is open to joining an air campaign against the militant group.
• Most Russians Oppose Sending Troops To Syria: Poll RFE/RL 29 Sep 2015 -- More than two-thirds of Russians oppose sending troops to Syria to prop up President Bashar al-Assad's government, while a majority approve of Moscow's use of diplomatic and political channels to help its embattled ally in the Middle East, according to a respected independent pollster.
• Russian Aid to Syria Aims to Counter Terrorism - Assad Adviser Sputnik 29 Sep 2015 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad's political adviser Bouthaina Shaaban said that airstrikes conducted by a US-led coalition against ISIL positions in Syria only increase bloodshed and expand terror threats from Syria to the region and the world.
• Obama, Putin Clash Over Syria, Ukraine In Dueling UN Speeches RFE/RL 28 Sep 2015 -- They may have clinked wine glasses, but the pleasantries were spare between U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
• Rohani: Iran Ready To Tackle Terrorism, Bring Democracy To Syria RFE/RL 28 Sep 2015 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani says Tehran is prepared to 'eradicate terrorism' in the Middle East and help bring democracy to war-torn Syria and Yemen.
• At UN, French President pledges to work with all parties towards political solution in Syria - except Syrian leader UN News 28 Sep 2015 -- France is ready to work with all countries that want to find a political solution to the four-year crisis in Syria except for President Bashar Al-Assad, who cannot be part of the solution, French President François Hollande told the UN General Assembly today at the annual general debate.
• Obama-Putin Meet with 'Shared Desire' to Solve Syrian Crisis VOA 28 Sep 2015 -- During a one-on-one meeting Monday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin shared their views on Syria, disagreeing about the role of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, but agreeing to stay out of each other's way militarily.
• Airstrikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 28 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• No Plan for Russian ground operation in Syria right now: Putin Press TV 28 Sep 2015 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin says Moscow does not plan ground operations in Syria right now, but will intensify its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
• Obama Says U.S. Willing To Work With Russia and Iran To Resolve Syrian War RFE/RL 28 Sep 2015 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says the United States is prepared to work with Russia and Iran to bring an end to the conflict in Syria but that a resolution to the war must include a "managed transition" away from Syrian President al-Bashar Assad.
• Putin: No Plans 'Right Now' To Send Troops To Syria RFE/RL 28 Sep 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin has said Russia had no plans 'right now' to put combat troops in Syria, but would continue backing the Syrian government.
• French Airstrikes in Syria Defy Russia-Syria-Iran-Iraq Coordination Center Sputnik 28 Sep 2015 -- Syrian member of the parliamentary foreign relations committee said that French anti-ISIL airstrikes over Syria are a response to the establishment of a joint coordination center between Russia, Syria, Iran and Iraq.
• Obama, Putin Clash Over Resolving Syrian Conflict VOA 28 Sep 2015 -- U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin clashed sharply Monday at the United Nations on how to end four years of fighting in Syria.
• Putin: Assad, Syrian Military 'Valiantly Fighting Terrorism' VOA 28 Sep 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin told the United Nations General Assembly Monday that the armed forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad are 'valiantly fighting terrorism face to face' and that refusing to cooperate with them is 'a huge mistake.'
• Syrian Rebels Angered By Mention Assad Could Stay VOA 28 Sep 2015 -- Syrian rebels are reacting with anger at the apparent shift in the policies of some Western governments over whether President Bashar al-Assad should remain in power for a transitional period in any political settlement of the country's brutal four-year-long civil war.
• Airstrikes Destroy ISIL Targets Near Hit, Kubaysah, Iraq AFPS 27 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, coalition airstrikes destroyed multiple Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant targets near Hit and Kubaysah, Iraq, in coordination with and in support of the government of Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said today.
• Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 27 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syria's Assad should remain in office: President Rouhani Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says there is widespread agreement among countries that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad should remain in office.
• At least three Israeli airstrikes hit Syrian army on Golan Heights Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- Israel has launched at least three airstrikes against positions of the Syrian army on the Golan Heights.
• Iran can help facilitate Syria solution: France Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- French President Francois Hollande has said Iran can be a 'facilitator' in a political solution to ongoing crisis in Syria, a French diplomat says.
• Cameron says Assad can stay for short term Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- British Prime Minister David Cameron says the Syrian President Bashar al-Assad could stay on as part of a transitional government but should not be part of Syria's future in the long run.
• Putin slams 'illegal' US support for militants in Syria Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced US support for militants in Syria as illegal and ineffective.
• Some 30,000 foreign militants joined terrorists in Syria, Iraq: Report Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- Some 30,000 militants from over 100 countries, including more than 250 Americans, have traveled to Syria and Iraq since 2011 to join the ranks of Takfiri terrorist groups operating in the two countries, a report says.
• Red Cross in contact with two sides of Syrian truce Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says the organization is in contact with the two sides involved in a newly agreed-upon six-month ceasefire in Syria as the "parties" are in the process of implementing it.
• France claims has conducted first strikes against 'Daesh' in Syria Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- France claims that it has carried out its first airstrikes against purported positions of Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria.
• France Announces First Strikes Against Islamic State Group In Syria RFE/RL 27 Sep 2015 -- France says it has launched air strikes against the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria.
• Iran Ready To Discuss 'Plan Of Action' On Post-War Syria RFE/RL 27 Sep 2015 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani says he is prepared to discuss a 'plan of action' for Syria's post-war future once the Islamic State (IS) group is defeated.
• France Ready to Discuss Syrian Conflict Settlement With US, Russia, Iran Sputnik 27 Sep 2015 -- Francois Hollande said that France is open for discussion of the Syrian conflict resolution with the conflicting sides, as well as with the United States, Russia and Iran.
• France Launches Airstrikes Against IS Targets in Syria VOA 27 Sep 2015 -- France says it has launched its first air strikes against Islamic State militants in Syria, on targets it identified after two weeks of surveillance flights.
• US Seeks Way Forward with Russia in Syria VOA 27 Sep 2015 -- Tensions over the conflict in Syria are expected to be high on the agenda Monday when U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian leader Vladimir Putin hold their first face-to-face talks in about a year.
• Iran, Iraq, Syria and Russia join hands in campaign against Daesh IRNA 27 Sep 2015 -- Spokesman of Iraqi government said on Sunday that the government has increased level of cooperation with Iran, Syria, and Russia in regional campaign against the Daesh terrorist group.
• Iraq, Russia, Iran, Syria forming joint center to fight Daesh Press TV 27 Sep 2015 -- Iraq says it is cooperating with Iran, Russia, and Syria to form an information center to fight against the Daesh terrorist group, which has been wreaking havoc on the Arab country since 2014.
• Iraq Cooperating With Russia, Iran, Syria On Security Issues RFE/RL 27 Sep 2015 -- Iraq has announced an agreement on 'security and intelligence cooperation' with Russia, Iran, and Syria to counter the threat from the Islamic State (IS) militant group.
• Russia, Syria, Iran, Iraq to Share Intelligence on Islamic State VOA 27 Sep 2015 -- Iraq says it will share military intelligence and security information with Syria, Iran and Russia to fight Islamic State.
• DoD Confirms US-Trained Fighters in Syria Gave Arms to Nusra Front Sputnik 26 Sep 2015 -- A spokesman for the Pentagon has confirmed that Syrian rebel fighters trained by the United States provided ammunition and equipment to an al-Qaeda-linked group.
• Airstrikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 26 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Kerry sees new opportunity to resolve Syria crisis Press TV 26 Sep 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry says he deems the 70th UN General Assembly an opportunity for progress towards ending Syria's years-long conflict.
• US intelligence: Russia to launch military strikes in Syria Press TV 26 Sep 2015 -- A secret US intelligence assessment predicts that Russia will launch military strikes in Syria to boost the government of President Bashar al-Assad and stop advances by Daesh (ISIL) terrorists.
• Evacuation of Two Shiite Towns Begins in Northwestern Syria Sputnik 26 Sep 2015 -- The first column with civilians has left the Shiite-majority Fua settlement in the Syrian Idlib province, a source from the Fua militia told RIA Novosti Saturday.
• Syrian Army, Rebels Agree on Six-Month Truce for Three Towns Sputnik 26 Sep 2015 -- It was confirmed on Friday that rebel fighters and government forces in Syria have agreed on a 6-month truce for the town of Zabadani and two Shiite villages, Fuaa and Kafraya.
• US-Trained Syrian Rebels Gave Equipment to al-Qaida Affiliate VOA 26 Sep 2015 -- A Syrian rebel commander who recently completed a U.S. training program has told the Pentagon that he surrendered six coalition-provided trucks and ammunition to militants from the al-Qaida affiliate in Syria, known as the al-Nusra Front.
• Syria: UN cites utter desperation behind 'tsunami' of refugees into Europe UN News 25 Sep 2015 -- Despair at appalling living conditions among the 4 million Syrians who have already fled to neighbouring countries is fuelling the current flood of refugees to Europe as they flee once more, this time from restrictions and under-funded aid programmes that have led to child labour and even 'survival sex,' the United Nations said today.
• Coalition Continues Anti-ISIL Airstrikes in Syria, Iraq AFPS 25 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syria army clears Damascus-Homs routes Press TV 25 Sep 2015 -- Army forces in Syria have flushed foreign-backed militants out of the routes linking the capital, Damascus, to the western city of Homs.
• Russia Not Establishing Military Base in Syria So Far, Situation May Change Sputnik 25 Sep 2015 -- As Russian troops are not engaged in combat in Syria, Russia is not setting up a military base in Latakia. Russian specialists are training the Syrian army to operate weapons. However, the situation may change.
• Monitor: Truce Takes Effect in Key Syrian Battle Zones VOA 25 Sep 2015 -- Syrian government forces and rebel fighters have agreed to a cease-fire in the western region of the country, set to go into effect Friday under U.N. auspices.
• Putin Heads to UN With Serious Syrian Agenda VOA 25 Sep 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin travels to New York on Monday for a highly touted speech at the United Nations General Assembly – his first appearance at the international body in nearly a decade.
• Russian Naval Flotilla Heading for Syria Sputnik 25 Sep 2015 -- A fleet of Russian warships is bound for the Eastern Mediterranean for drills off the coast of Syria, the Defense Ministry said in a statement Friday.
• Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 24 Sep 2015 -- Yesterday, U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Putin, Obama To Meet On Sidelines Of UN For Talks On Syria, Ukraine RFE/RL 24 Sep 2015 -- U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet on the sidelines of the United Nations next week - their first face-to-face meeting in nearly a year - amid festering relations between the two countries over Ukraine, Syria, and other issues.
• Fighting sides in Syria strike deal on fate of town, villages Press TV 24 Sep 2015 -- Syria's army and allied Lebanese resistance fighters of Hezbollah have come to an agreement with militants regarding the fate of a strategic southwestern town and two key villages, located in the country's northwest.
• Syria: UN health agency urges donors to assist countries 'doing the heavy lifting' UN News 24 Sep 2015 -- Crippling funding shortfalls are hindering the ability of emergency teams to meet the escalating health needs of the millions of Syrians displaced by civil war and donors need to step up support to countries in the region doing the "heavy lifting," warned the World Health Organization (WHO).
• Erdogan Blasts US on Support of Syrian Kurd Fighters VOA 24 Sep 2015 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticized Washington over its support of Syrian Kurdish fighters of the People's Protection Units - the YPG, in its fight against the Islamic State. The dispute comes as tensions are renewed between the two NATO allies over the battle against the Islamic State.
• Three new suspected cases of typhoid near Yarmouk camp in Syria UN News 23 Sep 2015 -- Following humanitarian operations in the southern Syrian town of Yalda, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said it has identified three new suspected cases of typhoid.
• DoD Spokesman: Reports About Syrian Defections False AFPS 23 Sep 2015 -- The Defense Department says there are false reports coming out of Syria about defections among personnel in the Syrian train-and-equip program.
• Syria intensifies air raids on militants in Palmyra Press TV 23 Sep 2015 -- The Syrian government has intensified its air raids against Daesh Takfiri terrorists in the ancient city of Palmyra in the central Homs Province.
• Report: Two More Syria Sites Could Host Russian Forces RFE/RL 23 Sep 2015 -- A specialist defense publication says satellite photos taken in mid-September show Russian forces developing two additional military facilities near Syria's Mediterranean coast.
• CENTCOM Denies US-Trained Syrian Rebels Defected to Al-Nusra Sputnik 23 Sep 2015 -- On Tuesday, media reports suggested that 'moderate' Syrian rebels, who had graduated from the US train-and-equip program, have taken the side of the al-Nusra Front.
• Reports: US-Trained Syrian Rebels Defected VOA 23 Sep 2015 -- The troubled U.S. train-and-equip program for Syrian rebels suffered another setback this week amid conflicting reports that members of the latest contingent sent into the war-torn country have gone rogue and may have defected to an al-Qaida affiliate.
• Kerry: Russian Actions in Syria Risk Confrontation with Anti-IS Coalition VOA 23 Sep 2015 -- The U.S. secretary of state has warned Russian actions in Syria risk a confrontation with the coalition opposing the Islamic State group, while his Russian counterpart claims Washington is becoming more receptive to Moscow's position on the conflict.
• Advanced military technology received from Russia: Syria Press TV 22 Sep 2015 -- Syria says it has received advanced military aircraft from Russia for its battle against the Daesh Takfiri terrorists who are wreaking havoc in the war-torn country.
• US-trained militants give up arms to Nusra right after entering Syria Press TV 22 Sep 2015 -- "Moderate" militants trained by the US military have handed over their weapons to terrorists upon entry into Syria.
• Ban praises progress of panel to investigate chemical weapons in Syria UN News 22 Sep 2015 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated the leadership of a panel that has been charged with establishing a mechanism to investigate the use of chemical weapons in Syria.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook in the Pentagon Briefing Room DoD 22 Sep 2015 -- Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook
• Statement on Airstrike in Syria that killed David Drugeon DoD 22 Sep 2015
• 'Syrian army jets bombard Daesh positions, kill 38' Press TV 22 Sep 2015 -- Syrian fighter jets have reportedly launched a series of aerial strikes against the positions of Takfiri Daesh (ISIL) militants in the country's embattled central province of Homs, killing over three dozen terrorists and injuring many more.
• Increased Level of Russian Aircraft in Syria Represents 'Force Protection' Sputnik 22 Sep 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry said that the level and type of Russian aircraft in Syria represents 'force protection.'
• UN envoy hopes intra-Syrian thematic discussions will 'set the stage' for end to conflict UN News 22 Sep 2015 -- Returning from consultations with Syrian interlocutors in Damascus and Istanbul, the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria announced today that he met with facilitators appointed by the Secretary-General to head working groups designed to find a political solution to the five-year conflict.
• Turkey Alarmed Over Russian Military Buildup in Syria VOA 22 Sep 2015 -- On the eve of a visit Wednesday by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to Moscow, Turkey has dubbed Russia's rapid military buildup in Syria as "very dangerous.'
• 'Time to overcome diplomatic failure' in Syria, says head of UN-mandated rights probe UN News 21 Sep 2015 -- It is time to overcome diplomatic failure and recognise that there is a global interest in returning Syria to peace, the head of a United Nations-mandated human rights inquiry said today, warning that if conflict continues, nations will be "fuelling a war to keep their influence over a country that will barely exist."
• Centcom Spokesman: Syrian Kurd Fighters Disrupt ISIL Movement AFPS 21 Sep 2015 -- Gains made by Syrian Kurd fighters against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant have also lent support to Iraq's fight against the extremist group by disrupting ISIL's freedom of movement between the two countries, a U.S. Central Command spokesman said yesterday.
• US-led coalition's airstrikes strengthen Daesh: Syrian diplomat Press TV 21 Sep 2015 -- The airstrikes carried out by the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh (ISIL) terrorist group in Syria and Iraq have not yielded any results but have instead strengthened the group, a top Syrian diplomat says.
• Russian Drones 'On Surveillance Missions In Syria' RFE/RL 21 Sep 2015 -- U.S. officials have been quoted as saying that Russia has started flying drone aircraft on surveillance missions in Syria.
• Denmark May Expand Anti-ISIL Operations in Middle East, Send Jets to Syria Sputnik 21 Sep 2015 -- Danish foreign minister Kristian Jensen said that Denmark is likely to send fighter jets to Syria.
• Netanyahu, Putin Agree to Coordinate Military Action in Syria Sputnik 21 Sep 2015 -- Putin and Netanyahu met on Monday in Moscow to discuss the Middle East peace process and the fight against global terrorism.
• US Official: Russia Military Build-Up in Syria 'Long Term' VOA 21 Sep 2015 -- Russia's military build-up in Syria is showing no signs of slowing down with Moscow adding significant air power to its growing array of assets along a stretch of coastline still controlled by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
• Netanyahu, Meets Putin In Moscow Over Military Buildup RFE/RL 21 Sep 2015 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel and Russia 'agreed on a mechanism" to prevent "misunderstandings" between the two countries' military forces in Syria.
• US concerned by Russian jets in Syria: Kerry Press TV 20 Sep 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry has said Russia's movement of tactical aircraft to Syria could pose a threat to American and allied military forces.
• Syrian govt., militants agree to truce near Damascus, Idlib Press TV 20 Sep 2015 -- The Syrian government forces along with allied fighters have agreed to a ceasefire with militants in some areas in the provinces of Idlib and Damascus.
• Senior Nusra Front militant commander slain in northwest Syria: Report Press TV 20 Sep 2015 -- A high-ranking commander of the al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Nusra Front militant group has been killed during fierce clashes with Syrian army troopers and allied forces in the country's northwestern province of Idlib, a report says.
• In Jordan, top UN relief official calls for greater support for Syrian refugees, hosts communities UN News 20 Sep 2015 -- The top United Nations humanitarian official wrapped up a visit to Jordan today with a call on the international community to urgently increase support to Syrian refugees and the local communities hosting them.
• Takfiri militants murder over 50 soldiers in northwest Syria Press TV 19 Sep 2015 -- Foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants have executed tens of Syrian government soldiers at an air base they captured from the army earlier this month in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib.
• Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 18 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• 4 Russian fighter jets arrive in Syria: Pentagon Press TV 18 Sep 2015 -- The Pentagon has confirmed that four Russian fighter jets had arrived in Syria and were stationed at an airfield near Latakia.
• Kremlin Says It Would Consider Sending Troops To Syria RFE/RL 18 Sep 2015 -- A Kremlin spokesman says Russia would consider sending troops to Syria if Damascus were to make such a request.
• Russian, U.S. Defense Chiefs Talk By Telephone About Fighting IS RFE/RL 18 Sep 2015 -- The defense chiefs of Russia and the United States spoke for the first time in more than a year on September 18 to discuss the conflict in Syria.
• U.S. Open to 'Tactical, Practical' Talks With Russia On Fighting IS RFE/RL 17 Sep 2015 -- The United States says it is open to 'tactical, practical' discussions with Russia about cooperating on military action against Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria, but continues to insist that Russia should not try to prop up the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
• Airstrikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Iraq, Syria AFPS 17 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Russia May Be Eyeing Payoff for Military Buildup in Syria VOA 17 Sep 2015 -- Russia's unrelenting military buildup in Syria is worrying U.S. defense and intelligence officials who say Russia's intentions are anything but clear and who remain suspicious of repeated calls by Moscow for direct military-to-military talks.
• Russian FM: Russia Will Not Join US-Led Coalition Against IS in Syria VOA 17 Sep 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Thursday that his country could not join the U.S.-led coalition battling Islamic State in Syria because it was illegal and was built on 'false foundations.'
• Unexpected humanitarians – the rise and potential fall of Syria's diaspora aid IRIN 16 Sep 2015 -- Just a few years ago, Hussein knew little about humanitarian aid. A mild-mannered Syrian car salesman in Doha, he lived a simple life between home and the office. Aside from the odd gift or remittances, he had never sent goods back to Syria.
• Syria army, Hezbollah fighters liberate more blocks in Zabadani Press TV 16 Sep 2015 -- The Syrian army, backed by fighters from the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah, has liberated more areas in the flashpoint border town of Zabadani.
• Over 170 Russians fighting for Daesh killed in Syria: CIS Press TV 16 Sep 2015 -- The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), an organization of former Soviet Republics, says more than 170 Russian nationals have been killed while fighting on the side of the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group in Syria.
• France says to strike alleged Daesh positions in Syria Press TV 16 Sep 2015 -- France's defense minister says the country is to start carrying out aerial attacks against what he called Daesh targets in Syria.
• US to Russia: Assad must step down to allow political settlement Press TV 16 Sep 2015 -- The United States tells Russia that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad must step down to allow a political settlement, as Moscow continues to support Damascus.
• Australian fighter jets bomb purported Daesh positions in eastern Syria Press TV 16 Sep 2015 -- Australian fighter jets have carried out their first airstrike against the positions of the Daesh extremist group inside Syria as part of the so-called US-led campaign against the Takfiri terrorists.
• U.S. Warns Russia Assad Has No Role In Fighting Islamic State RFE/RL 16 Sep 2015 -- Washington warned Russia that Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad has no role in the fight against the Islamic State after the Kremlin launched a new drive to rehabilitate the embattled Syrian leader.
• Russia Proposes Military-to-Military Talks With US on Syria - Kerry Sputnik 16 Sep 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry said Wednesday that Russia had proposed military-to-military contacts with the United States on the situation in Syria.
• US Army Chief 'Would Not Recommend' No-Fly, Buffer Zone in Syria Sputnik 16 Sep 2015 -- US Central Command head Lloyd Austin said on Wednesday he would not recommend setting up either a no-fly or buffer zone in Syria to protect civilians amid the civil war in the country.
• Bashar Assad: 'The West Wants to Get Rid of Me and Putin' Sputnik 16 Sep 2015 -- The West is trying to portray Vladimir Putin as an enemy and dictator who cracks down on domestic opposition, Syrian President Bashar Assad said in an interview on Tuesday.
• ISIL Gaining Ground, Assad Still Standing: France Justifies Syrian Strikes Sputnik 16 Sep 2015 -- France is the latest country to join the US-led coalition's bombing campaign of ISIL targets in Syria, with officials saying that the only way to solve the region's refugee crisis was by toppling the jihadist group along with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
• Assad Rules Out Dialogue Between Syria, Terrorist Groups Sputnik 16 Sep 2015 -- There can be no dialogue between the Syrian government and terrorist groups like ISIL and the Nusra Front, they have to be eradicated, Syrian President Bashar Assad said.
• UN official urges Security Council to find political solution to end nightmare for Syrian people UN News 16 Sep 2015 -- The United Nations humanitarian chief today urged the Security Council to find a political solution to end the conflict in Syria, warning its members that the fighting had created one of the largest refugee exoduses since the Second World War.
• Assad Blames Western Support of 'Terrorists' for Migrant Crisis VOA 16 Sep 2015 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad blamed Western nations for the surge of refugees who have left his country and made their way to Europe, saying the West has supported 'terrorism' since the beginning of the Syrian crisis.
• US General Nixes Idea of Buffer Zones in Syria for Refugees VOA 16 Sep 2015 -- A top-ranking U.S. general says he would not recommend buffer and no-fly zones in Syria where people fleeing their homes can be protected from air attacks by Syrian government forces.
• Syria: UN chief names panel to probe accountability for chemical weapons use UN News 15 Sep 2015 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has appointed Virginia Gamba of Argentina to head the independent three-member panel that will lead the Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM) tasked with identifying those responsible for the use of chemical weapons in Syria.
• Militant mortar attacks kill 12 civilians in Syria's Aleppo Press TV 15 Sep 2015 -- At least 13 civilians have been killed in mortar attacks by foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants against residential areas in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo.
• Russia to continue military aid to Syria: President Putin Press TV 15 Sep 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country will continue to supply the Syrian government with military assistance.
• Russia sending tanks to Syria: Pentagon Press TV 15 Sep 2015 -- Russia has dispatched about seven tanks into Syria and is increasing its military flights to the country as well, the Pentagon says.
• Putin: Russian Support of Syrian Gov't Averts Deterioration of Situation Sputnik 15 Sep 2015 -- Without Russia's support, the crisis in Syria would be even worse, Vladimir Putin said.
• Putin Defends Russian Military Aid to Syria VOA 15 Sep 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin defended his country's military support for Syria, saying Tuesday that Russia will continue to aid President Bashar al-Assad's forces in their 'fight against terrorist aggression.'
• Syria Battles Rebels Along Strategic Damascus Corridor VOA 15 Sep 2015 -- Syrian government forces have been locked in a bitter struggle to control strategic ground outside the capital, Damascus, and a highway along the Lebanese border leading to the northern coastline. Attempts by government forces to chase rebels out of the corridor leading north appear to have stalled
• UN: War Keeping 2M Syrian Children Out of School VOA 15 Sep 2015 -- The U.N. children's fund reports more than two million children are unable to attend school in Syria because of war and violence. UNICEF says another 400,000 children are at risk of dropping out of school this year because of escalating fighting and displacement.
• Coalition Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 14 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Pentagon: Russia Apparently Building Forward Operations Base In Syria RFE/RL 14 Sep 2015 -- The United States says Russia's latest movements at an airfield in Syria suggest it is planning to establish a forward air-operating base in Syria.
• Hollande: Airstrikes in Syria 'Necessary' VOA 14 Sep 2015 -- A week after expanding its reconnaissance operations of terrorist groups from Iraq to Syria, France's president says strikes against Islamic State militants there are necessary.
• How can Turkey protect itself and save Syrians? IRIN 14 Sep 2015 -- For four years Turkey appeared to be inoculated against the Syrian crisis. The violence that ravaged its southern neighbour was largely contained on the other side of the border.
• Russia constructs runway, deploys military advisors in Syria, : Report Press TV 13 Sep 2015 -- Russia is establishing a runway in Syria's western province of Latakia and has brought hundreds of its military advisers, experts, and technicians to the war-torn country, a report says.
• Dempsey: 'Terrible Human Suffering' in Syrian Conflict AFPS 14 Sep 2015 -- The Syrian refugee crisis and the 'terrible human suffering' could cause Europe to become 'more involved in the Syrian conflict,' according to the top U.S. military officer.
• Twin blasts kill 26, injures 70 others in northwest Syria Press TV 14 Sep 2015 -- At least 26 civilians have been killed and 70 others injured in twin terrorist bombings in Syria's northwestern Hasaka City.
• Syria, Hezbollah make fresh advances in Zabadani Press TV 14 Sep 2015 -- Syrian army forces backed by fighters from the Lebanese resistance movement of Hezbollah have tightened their siege on the terrorists holed up in the key southwestern Syrian city of Zabadani.
• Pentagon: Russia Apparently Setting Up Air Base in Syria VOA 14 Sep 2015 -- The U.S. Defense Department has confirmed reports that Russia appears to be setting up an air base in Syria.
• No End in Sight for Syria War VOA 14 Sep 2015 -- In the immediate wake of the Iran nuclear deal there was a flurry of diplomacy involving Washington, Moscow and Tehran with talk that the time might be right to hammer out an agreement to end Syria's four-year-long civil war. But with renewed commitments from Iran and Russia to shore up President Bashar al-Assad there seems no end in sight for the ruinous war of attrition that has left an estimated 240,000 people dead.
• Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL Targets in Syria, Iraq AFPS 13 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian army repels Takfiris' attacks near Damascus Press TV 13 Sep 2015 -- Syrian armed forces have managed to repel attacks by Takfiri terrorists on Harasta, a northeastern suburb of the capital, Damascus, as they continue to make more gains in their anti-terror battles, Press TV reports.
• Syrian Army Repels ISIL Insurgents From Deir Ez-Zor Military Airfield Sputnik 13 Sep 2015 -- The Islamic State (ISIL) militants were forced to withdraw several kilometers away from a military airfield in the Deir ez-Zor province in Syria, according to a source in Syrian army.
• West Admits ISIL, Not Assad's Gov't Main Threat to Middle East - Lavrov Sputnik 13 Sep 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that West realizes that the main threat for the Middle East security is the Islamic State (ISIL) militant group, not Syrian President Bashar Assad's government.
• Russia Hands Over Humanitarian Aid to Syrian Government Sputnik 13 Sep 2015 -- Military-transport planes of the Russian Defense Ministry brought to Syria more than 80 metric tons of essentials, food, mattresses, blankets, water cisterns and other equipment for setting up a tent camp for refugees, according to a Russia's Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov.
• Top US General: Refugee Crisis Likely to Galvanize Europe in Syrian Conflict VOA 13 Sep 2015 -- The top U.S. general says the Syrian refugee crisis likely will galvanize more European action to help end that nation's bloody struggle.
• US Lawmakers Scrutinize Obama Plan to Admit Syrian Refugees VOA 13 Sep 2015 -- U.S. lawmakers are scrutinizing the Obama administration's plan to admit 10,000 Syrian refugees to the United States, where the possibility of terrorist infiltrators is a top concern.
• Coalition Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 12 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Australia warplanes conduct 1st Syria operation Press TV 12 Sep 2015 -- Australian warplanes have conducted their first aerial operation in Syria after Canberra joined the so-called US-led coalition targeting purported Daesh positions in the conflict-wrecked country.
• Russia Says Steps Needed To Avoid Superpower Clash In Syria RFE/RL 12 Sep 2015 -- Russia called on the United States to reopen channels of communications between the two military superpowers to avoid 'unintended incidents' as Russia steps up military assistance to the Syrian government.
• Centcom Spokesman: Progress Continues In Coalition Efforts Against ISIL AFPS 11 Sep 2015 -- Coalition-backed ground forces in Iraq and Syria continue to make progress in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, U.S. Central Command spokesman Air Force Col. Patrick Ryder told reporters here today.
• Infighting Among IS Extremists on the Rise VOA 11 Sep 2015 -- Incidents of violent infighting between Islamic State (IS) extremists in Syria and Iraq are on the rise with rifts developing between elements within the terrorist group and arguments erupting over the distribution of spoils, sex slaves and cash, say local political activists opposed to the militants.
• Pushing The Envelope: Russia Seeks Gold In Syria Quagmire RFE/RL 11 Sep 2015 -- From overflight requests and grainy photos of fighter jets to social-media posts showing Russian marines in Syria, there are mounting signs that Moscow may be ramping up its military presence in the war-torn Middle East nation.
• Made in Russia: Syria Continues to Develop Its Air Defense Forces Sputnik 11 Sep 2015 -- The Russian defense news website defendingrussia.ru has given insight into the air defense systems that are currently being used by the Syrian army.
• Syria: UN chief promises 'speedy' establishment of chemical weapons accountability probe UN News 10 Sep 2015 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the United Nations Security Council's authorization to set up an investigative mechanism to identify who is responsible for the use of chemical weapons in Syria, promising its "speedy establishment" and urging full cooperation by all parties in Syria.
• U.S. Intelligence Chiefs Say Iraq, Syria May Not Survive As States RFE/RL 11 Sep 2015 -- U.S. intelligence chiefs have repeated their assessment that Iraq and Syria may have been permanently fractured by war and sectarian strife and may not survive as nation-states.
• Pentagon Intel Chief Predicts Breakup of Iraq and Syria Sputnik 11 Sep 2015 -- Vincent Stewart, director of the US Defense Intelligence Agency, told a conference that he found it difficult to envisage the countries emerging intact from the wars they endure.
• US Wary, Not Surprised, by Russia's Syria Efforts VOA 10 Sep 2015 -- Top U.S. intelligence and security officials say Russia's ramped up presence in Syria should come as little surprise though they remain concerned about Moscow's increasingly aggressive posture.
• Kremlin: Only Syrians Should Decide on the Future of Assad Sputnik 10 Sep 2015 -- Only the Syrian people can decide on the future of the country's President Bashar Assad, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday denying the existence of any plan to force Assad to resign.
• Russian Arms Supplies to Damascus Do Not Violate Int'l Law Sputnik 10 Sep 2015 -- Russia carries out weapons deliveries to Syria under legal contracts that do not violate the international law, Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
• Israel Conducts Airstrikes at Syrian Artillery Near Damascus - Source Sputnik 10 Sep 2015 -- Israel attacked a position of the Syrian Army that helped repel militants' offensive, according to a military source. After that, the militants launched another attack.
• Lavrov Confirms Russian Military Present in Syria to Deliver Arms to Army Sputnik 10 Sep 2015 -- Presence of Russian servicemen in Syria is tied to the deliveries of weapons to the Syrian government army, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Thursday.
• Arab Press Blasts Gulf Rulers on Syrian Refugee Crisis VOA 10 Sep 2015 -- Gulf rulers are coming under unusually sharp criticism from the region's media for not doing more to help with the Middle East refugee crisis and for not formally admitting Syrians fleeing their war-shattered country.
• US to Accept 10,000 Syrian Refugees VOA 10 Sep 2015 -- The United States said Thursday it will accept at least 10,000 Syrian refugees in the coming year and increase its humanitarian assistance for those fleeing the violence in Syria.
• Russia Confirms Syria Military Presence, Denies Combat Role VOA 10 Sep 2015 -- The Kremlin said Thursday that Russian military advisers are in Syria to help that country's armed forces maintain equipment sent from Russia, but are not involved in combat.
• Top US General: Islamic State Fight 'Stalemated' VOA 09 Sep 2015 -- The fight against the Islamic State terror group has become 'tactically stalemated,' according to the United States' top general.
• Airstrikes Destroy ISIL Operating Base, Staging Area in Iraq AFPS 09 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Russia military cooperation with Syria no secret: Foreign Ministry Press TV 09 Sep 2015 -- Russia says it has never kept its military cooperation with Syria a secret, saying Moscow has openly sent "military specialists" to the Arab state, which is engaged in heavy battles with foreign-backed Takfiri terrorists.
• Syrian army forces kill 13 senior militants near capital Press TV 09 Sep 2015 -- Syrian army forces have killed more than a dozen senior foreign-sponsored militants during a full-scale operation in an area on the outskirts of the capital, Damascus.
• Pentagon Promises to 'Fix' US Program to Train Rebel Forces in Syria Sputnik 09 Sep 2015 -- Following a beleaguered and embarrassing start, and fresh reports that military officials had lost track of US-trained Syrian rebels, the Pentagon on Tuesday said it is looking to fix the $500 million program aimed at training and equipping 'moderate' forces in the fight against the Islamic State.
• Syrian Army Loses Control Over Last Airbase in Idlib Province - Watchdog Sputnik 09 Sep 2015 -- Syria lost control on Wednesday of the last military airbase under government control in the northwestern province of Idlib, the Syrian Observatory For Human Rights (SOHR) reported.
• Moscow Confirms Russian 'Military Experts' Are in Syria VOA 09 Sep 2015 -- Russia has confirmed that members of its military are present in Syria, amid growing concerns in the West that the Russian military is becoming more deeply involved in supporting the embattled government of President Bashar al-Assad.
• Airstrikes Target ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 08 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
• Syrian Train-and-Equip Effort Will Continue, Pentagon Spokesman Says AFPS 08 Sep 2015 -- DoD will continue to support moderate Syrian forces in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.
• Pentagon Reportedly Preparing to Overhaul Syrian Rebel Force VOA 08 Sep 2015 -- The New York Times says U.S. defense officials are drawing up plans to revise the training of moderate Syrian rebels.
• British Defense Chief: More Syria Strikes Possible VOA 08 Sep 2015 -- Britain's defense minister said the military would consider more airstrikes against militants in Syria if they meant stopping likely terror attacks against British interests.
• "UK would not hesitate to conduct more drone strikes in Syria" Press TV 08 Sep 2015 -- UK Defense Secretary Michael Fallon says London would not hesitate to carry out more secret drone attacks on British militants in Syria.
• First France surveillance flights completed over Syria Press TV 08 Sep 2015 -- France says that two French fighter jets have successfully completed the country’s first reconnaissance flights over Syria.
• UN envoy says it is now time to have ‘a real discussion’ to end Syrian conflict UN News 08 Sep 2015 -- The United Nations Special Envoy on Syria tsaid the images of the drowned Syrian toddler wearing a red shirt and blue shorts lying face down on a Turkish beach should be a wake-up call to the world.
• Russia, Iran May Create New Way to Deliver Humanitarian Aid to Syria Sputnik 08 Sep 2015 -- Iran and Turkey could assist Russia if Greece fulfills the US’ request to close its airspace to Russian aircraft carrying humanitarian aid to war-torn Syria.
• Bulgaria Denies Airspace to Russian Aid Flights to Syria Sputnik 08 Sep 2015 -- Bulgaria has denied its airspace to Russian aid flights to Syria, Reuters reports on Tuesday citing the Bulgarian foreign ministry's spokeswoman.
• EU Chief to Push Migrant Quotas VOA 08 Sep 2015 -- European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker is calling for an expanded country-by-country migrant quota plan throughout much of Europe, to accept thousands of asylum-seekers from the Mideast over the next two years.
• Refugees have to be dealt with as human beings, stresses senior UN official UN News 08 Sep 2015 -- Refugees have to be dealt with as human beings, and the broader migrant community, including economic migrants, cannot be dismissed “with a wave of the hand,” the top United Nations official dealing with migration said.
• France, UN Condemn Favoritism for Christian Refugees in Europe VOA 08 Sep 2015 -- French and U.N. leaders on Tuesday condemned officials who say that Europe's acceptance of refugees from the Mideast ought to be limited to migrants who are Christians.
• Paris Conference Rallies Support for Mideast’s Persecuted Minorities VOA 08 Sep 2015 -- France announced Tuesday that it would earmark nearly $28 million in aid for persecuted minorities in the Middle East, as Europe grapples with a mounting refugee crisis on its doorstep.
• Cameron Reveals Deadly Syria Drone Strike VOA 07 Sep 2015 -- The British air force killed three Islamic State militants in Syria, including two Britons, in the first such attack last month, Prime Minister David Cameron said.
• U.K. Says Drone Strike Killed Three IS Fighters In Syria RFE/RL 07 Sep 2015 -- U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron says the Royal Air Force has carried out a drone strike in Syria that killed at least one British citizen planning "barbaric" attacks against Britain.
• US revamping militant training strategy in Syria: Report Press TV 07 Sep 2015 -- The Pentagon is revamping its strategy of training so-called moderate militants in Syria ostensibly to battle the Daesh terrorist group, according to a report.
• Hollande says French spy drones to fly over Syria Press TV 07 Sep 2015 -- French President Francois Hollande has announced that his country is going to send drones over Syria allegedly to spy on Daesh Takfiris, claiming that the terrorist group plans to attack the country.
• Arab Media Report: Syria, Russia Reviving 1980 'Friendship' Treaty VOA 07 Sep 2015 -- Arab media are reporting that the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has reactivated a 1980 “friendship” treaty between Damascus and Mosco
• Russia sends arms to Syria to fight terror: Official Press TV 07 Sep 2015 -- Russia has confirmed its arms deliveries to Syria, noting that the move aims to assist the Arab country in its fight against terrorism.
• Plan B: Russia May Use New Aid Flight Routes to Syria Bypassing Greece Sputnik 07 Sep 2015 -- Russia may use new flight aid routes to Syria if Greece closes its airspace to Russian aircraft.
• More Refugees Pour Into Europe VOA 07 Sep 2015 -- The stream of refugees into Europe continued Monday, as both France and Britain agreed to accept thousands of people from the war-torn Mideast.
• IRC Presses US to Accept More Syrian Refugees VOA 07 Sep 2015 -- The head of the International Rescue Committee is pressuring the United States to do more to ease the plight of Syrians refugees fleeing conflict and streaming into the European Union, whose overall response he criticized as "fumbling, feeble."
• Syria’s Near-Neighbors Paying Price for European Inaction VOA 07 Sep 2015 -- Europeans are struggling to cope with refugees and migrants landing on their shores or having to be rescued from overcrowded unseaworthy craft amid the swells and troughs of the Mediterranean.
• At governing body, UN atomic energy chief spotlights sustainable development, Iran nuclear deal UN News 07 Sep 2015 -- Director General Yukiya Amano provided an update on the application of nuclear safeguards in Iran, Democratic Republic of Korea and Syria.
• Military Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 06 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
• Kerry Tells Lavrov U.S. Concerned Over Reports Of Russian Military Move In Syria RFE/RL 06 Sep 2015 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has expressed concern over reports of "an imminent Russian military buildup" in Syria in a September 5 telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov.
• From Syria to Europe, Refugees Say There’s 'No Choice' VOA 06 Sep 2015 -- All of Syria's neighbors have closed their borders hoping to contain the war, but they cannot stop the tide of refugees coming out, draining their economies.
• Europe Braces for New Wave of Refugees VOA 06 Sep 2015 -- Europe is preparing for a new wave of refugees as word filters back to others that the passage through Hungary is now easier.
• Kerry Expresses US Concerns About Russian Moves in Syria VOA 05 Sep 2015 -- Secretary of State John Kerry expressed U.S. concern about reports of Russia's enhanced military buildup in Syria in a telephone call with his Russian counterpart.
• US warns Russia over ‘imminent enhanced military buildup’ in Syria Press TV 05 Sep 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry has told his Russian counterpart that Washington is deeply concerned of reports of "an imminent enhanced Russian military buildup" in Syria.
• France Considering Expanding Anti-ISIL Airstrikes to Syria Sputnik 05 Sep 2015 -- French President Francois Hollande discussed the issue of expanding France’s operations as part of the US-led coalition against the Islamic State militants on Friday with a defense council.
• Protests Continue in Southern Syrian City VOA 05 Sep 2015 -- Anti-Syrian government violence spread on Saturday in the heartland of the country's Druze minority.
• Refugees Desperate on Both Sides of Turkey’s Border With Syria VOA 05 Sep 2015 -- Near the border crossing to Syria, refugees loiter near trucks lined up to deliver food into their country.
• Remarks by President Obama and His Majesty King Salman bin Abd alAziz of Saudi Arabia Before Bilateral Meeting The White House 04 Sep 2015
• Obama: US Shares Saudi Concerns About Yemen, Syria VOA 04 Sep 2015 -- President Barack Obama said Friday that the United States and Saudi Arabia continue to cooperate closely in countering terrorist activity in the Middle East and around the world, including the battle against Islamic State militants.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing with Brigadier General Kevin J. Killea, chief of staff, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve via DVIDS from Southwest Asia on Operation Inherent Resolve DoD 04 Sep 2015
• General: Turkey’s Help Extends Inherent Resolve’s Reach AFPS 04 Sep 2015 -- Turkey’s help in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant has broadened the reach of the coalition.
• Airstrikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 04 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
• White House 'Monitoring' Reports Of Russian Military In Syria RFE/RL 04 Sep 2015 -- The White House said it is closely monitoring reports that Russia is carrying out military operations in Syria and warned such operations could be "destabilizing and counter-productive."
• IS Militants Destroy 3 Ancient Tombs in Palmyra VOA 04 Sep 2015 -- Syria's antiquities chief says Islamic State militants have destroyed three ancient tower tombs in the central city of Palmyra, continuing efforts to demolish a World Heritage Site.
• Why Don't Rich Arab Gulf States Welcome Syrian Refugees? RFE/RL 04 Sep 2015 -- It's hard not to notice how almost all Syrian refugees flee westward rather than seek a safe haven in the rich Arab Persian Gulf states.
• Coalition Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 03 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
• IS Extremists Again Accused of Using Poison Gas VOA 03 Sep 2015 -- Kurdish commanders in eastern Syria say Islamic State militants used poison gas Wednesday to attack Kurdish fighters.
• Russia Negotiating UN Measure On Chemical Weapons Use In Iraq RFE/RL 03 Sep 2015 -- Russia is seeking to extend a United Nations measure on chemical weapons in Syria to cover suspected incidents of chemical weapons use in Iraq by the Islamic State group, Russia's UN ambassador said on September 2.
• Why An Uzbek Militant Commander Got His Son Killed Fighting In Syria RFE/RL 03 Sep 2015 -- The Islamic State (IS) militant group is notorious for recruiting, training, and exploiting children and teenagers on the battlefield.
• Civilians in Syria suffering ‘a living tragedy’ with no end in sight, UN human rights expert warns UN News 03 Sep 2015 -- The head of a United Nations-mandated human rights inquiry warned that while the world watches, civilians, Syrians of all backgrounds, are being subjected to war crimes.
• Military Airstrikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 02 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
• US launches secret drone campaign in Syria Press TV 02 Sep 2015 -- The CIA and US Special Forces have launched a secret drone campaign in Syria to target senior operatives of the Daesh (ISIL) terrorist group.
• Kremlin: No Russian Jets Participating in Anti-ISIL Airstrikes in Syria Sputnik 02 Sep 2015 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov urged Wednesday not to believe media claims about the alleged participation of Russian aircraft in airstrikes against the Islamic State jihadist group in Syria.
• New U.S. Sanctions Against Russian, Chinese Companies For Missile, Technology Transfers RFE/RL 02 Sep 2015 -- The United States has levied new sanctions against a host of major Russian, Chinese and other companies.
• Russia rejects report of aircraft, troops deployment to Syria Press TV 01 Sep 2015 -- Moscow has rejected reports by Israeli media that it aims to deploy fighter jets and military personnel to Syria to help the Arab country in its battle against the Daesh Takfiri group.
• Airstrikes Target ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 01 Sep 2015 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
• Daesh again uses mustard gas in Syria: Observatory Press TV 01 Sep 2015 -- Another suspected instance of mustard gas use in an attack by Takfiri Daesh group has been reported north of Syria.
• UN emergency relief coordinator appeals to donors as Syrian crisis enters fifth year UN News 01 Sep 2015 -- The needs of the 7.6 million people displaced by the war and the 4 million others who have sought refuge in neighbouring countries are “greater than ever.”