February 2017 - Syria Special Weapons News

Why No Geneva Breakthrough in Syrian Peace Talks VOA 28 Feb 2017 -- Suicide bombings by militants in the town of Homs and airstrikes by government warplanes in recent days in northwest Syria have rattled United Nations-led peace talks aimed at finding a resolution to the six-year-long conflict in Syria.
Russia Vetoes UN Syria Resolution for 7th Time VOA 28 Feb 2017 -- Russia and China exercised a double veto Tuesday to block action in the United Nations Security Council aimed at sanctioning the Syrian regime for using chemical weapons against its own population.
U.S., Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 28 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 28 Feb 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
Russia, China Veto UN Sanctions Resolution on Syria VOA 28 Feb 2017 -- Russia and China have vetoed a United Nations resolution that would have placed sanctions on Syria in response to alleged chemical weapons attacks.
Russia, China block Security Council action on use of chemical weapons in Syria UN News 28 Feb 2017 -- With 'no' votes from permanent members Russia and China, the United Nations Security Council today failed to adopt a resolution that would, according to press reports, have imposed sanctions against parties using chemical weapons in war-torn Syria.
Russia, China block anti-Syria UNSC resolution Press TV 28 Feb 2017 -- Russia and China have vetoed a Western-proposed draft United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution against the Syrian government over its alleged use of chemical weapons.
Russia, China Veto Draft UN Security Council Resolution on Syria Sanctions Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- Moscow and Beijing saved Syria from new sanctions on the pretext of the alleged use of chemical weapons by Damascus.
Syria opposition likely to meet Russian officials as Geneva talks continue Press TV 28 Feb 2017 -- As talks on a political resolution of the conflict in Syria continue in Geneva, the Syrian opposition seeks to meet with Russian officials in an attempt to affect Moscow's pro-Damascus stance.
Too Early to Reach Conclusions on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria - Beijing Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- The investigation into the use of chemical weapons in Syria should be completed to enable a discussion about possible imposition of sanction on Damascus, Chinese Ambassador to the United Nations Liu Jieyi said in explanation of the veto vote on Tuesday.
Turkey Establishes Temporary Base in Freshly Captured Syrian Al Bab Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- The Turkish army established a temporary military base in the Syrian town of Al Bab, the base is used as depot to repair armored vehicles taking part in the Euphrates Shield operation, according to local media.
Erdogan: Kurdish PYD/YPG Militia Forces Must Leave Syrian Manbij Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Syria's city of Manbij is not a place for Syria's Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) and Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), city belongs to Arabs.
Road to Nowhere: Syrian Army Blocks Turkey's Assault on Raqqa Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian army, which continues its advance on the northern city of al-Bab, approached Manbij, another city in northern Syria where the Syrian Democratic Forces have positions in a move designed to block Turkey's offensive on Raqqa, unnamed sources told Sputnik Turkey.
Turkey's Move Against Kurds in Manbij to Impact Coalition Campaign - Commander Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- Turkish military move against the Kurdish forces in the Syrian city of Manbij could interfere with the US-led coalition campaign against the Daesh terror group (banned in Russia), US Central Command head Gen. Joseph Votel said on Tuesday.
Turkey Opposes Creation of Safe Zones in Kurdish Areas of Syria Because of PKK Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- Turkey is against the creation of a safe zone in Syria's Kurdish areas because it may help PKK fighters, the country's chief presidential adviser said.
UNSC Draft Resolution on Syria Sanctions Based on Biased Data - Russian Diplomat Sputnik 28 Feb 2017 -- A UN Security Council draft resolution on Syria sanctions was centered on insufficient and biased evidence provided by the Joint Investigation Mechanism that cannot serve as basis for accusations, Russian Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations Vladimir Safronkov said on Tuesday.
Putin Says Moscow Will Not Support New Sanctions Against Syria RFE/RL 28 Feb 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow will not support new sanctions against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government, warning that imposing new punishments would hurt efforts to end Syria's six-year-old civil war.
Russia won't support Western-backed UN motion on Syria: Putin Press TV 28 Feb 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced a draft United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution that would impose sanctions on the Syrian government over its alleged use of chemical weapons, stressing that Moscow will not support fresh restrictive measures against Damascus.
US Drone in Syria Takes Out al-Qaida's Deputy Leader VOA 27 Feb 2017 -- A drone attack in northern Syria, part of a series of recent strikes by the United States in and around the province of Idlib, killed a top al-Qaida leader who had participated in the planning for the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes in Syria, Iraq AFPS 27 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Pentagon Spokesman Discusses ISIS Preliminary Plan, Budget Amendment AFPS 27 Feb 2017 -- Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will present a preliminary version of the Pentagon's new plan to rapidly defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria during a meeting of the White House Principals Committee today, Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said here this morning.
Pentagon Sends Trump Plan to Defeat Islamic State, Other Extremist Groups VOA 27 Feb 2017 -- The Pentagon says it has sent the White House a preliminary plan to defeat Islamic State extremists in Iraq and Syria, and says Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will brief senior administration officials on the draft later Monday.
Turkey Sends Troops, Armored Personnel Carriers to Syrian Border - Reports Sputnik 27 Feb 2017 -- A train carrying military vehicles of the Turkish Armed Forces on Monday arrived to the southeastern Turkish province of Gaziantep near the border with Syria, Anadolu news agency reported citing an anonymous military source.
More rounds of Syria peace talks required before any deal: UN Press TV 27 Feb 2017 -- UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura has told all parties present at the Syria peace talks being held in Geneva that several more rounds of negotiations would be needed before any manner of accord is reached.
Syrian Arab Coalition Makes Major Gains Toward Raqqa, Pentagon Says Sputnik 27 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian Arab Coalition has made significant gains in operation to retake Raqqa while meeting minimal resistance from Daesh (the terror group outlawed in Russia), US Department of Defense spokesperson Capt. Jeff Davis said in a briefing on Monday.
Syrian Opposition Group Says Rapproachment With Damascus 'Should Be Written' Sputnik 27 Feb 2017 -- The Cairo platform of Syrian opposition has suggested to UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura and to Russian diplomats exchange of texts with commonalities on key issues between the sides as a format for the intra-Syrian talks, the group's leader, Jihad Makdissi, told Sputnik Monday.
Syrian Army Advances in Damascus After Qabun Operation Launched Sputnik 27 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian military has advanced 700 meters (2,300 feet) into the Barzeh neighborhood in northeastern Damascus following the launch of an operation to liberate neighboring Qabun from militants, an informed source on the ground told Sputnik on Monday.
U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 26 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Homs terror attacks aim to disrupt Syria peace talks: Iran Press TV 26 Feb 2017 -- Iran has censured the recent terrorist attacks in the western Syrian city of Homs, saying such blasts were aimed at derailing the ongoing intra-Syrian peace talks in the Swiss city of Geneva.
Syrian forces make fresh gains against Daesh near Aleppo: Monitor Press TV 26 Feb 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers and their allied fighters have reportedly managed to advance over the weekend into areas controlled by Daesh terrorists in the country's northwest adjacent to the city of Aleppo.
Syrian Opposition Hands de Mistura Proposals to Relieve Humanitarian Situation Sputnik 26 Feb 2017 -- The Moscow platform of Syrian opposition, which participates in the Geneva intra-Syrian reconciliation talks, has submitted to UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura a paper with proposals on how to relieve the humanitarian situation in Syria, platform's head Hamza Munther said Sunday.
Only New Syrian Gov't Eligible to Decide on Constitution – Opposition Group Sputnik 26 Feb 2017 -- Only a new government in Syria will be eligible to decide on the new constitution of the country, leader of the Cairo opposition platform Jihad Makdissi said on Sunday.
Kurds at Geneva Talks to Insist on Participation in Drafting Syrian Constitution Sputnik 26 Feb 2017 -- The Kurdish representatives at the ongoing intra-Syrian talks will insist on the Kurdish participation in drafting a constitution for Syria if a special working group is created, a Kurdish source told Sputnik.
Member of HNC Negotiating Team Hopes Russia to Fulfill Promises Given in Astana Sputnik 26 Feb 2017 -- Leader of the Jaysh al-Islam militant group Mohammed Alloush hopes Russia would fulfill the promises it gave in Astana as ceasefire guarantor, he told Sputnik.
Saudi Arabia Reveals Number of Airstrikes Against Daesh in Syria Sputnik 26 Feb 2017 -- Saudi Arabia conducted over 340 airstrikes against the targets of Daesh terrorist group in Syria since the establishment of the US-led international coalition, Brig. Gen. Ahmad Asiri, a military adviser to Saudi Arabia's Defense Ministry, said Sunday.
Counter-ISIS Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 25 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
US needs more talks with Russia to avoid conflicts in Syria: Air Force general Press TV 25 Feb 2017 -- A top US Air Force general says the United States and Russia need to enhance communication to avoid accidents in the skies over Syria because the country's airspace is shrinking as the Daesh (ISIL) terrorist group loses more territory.
Top US general secretly visits Syria amid push to dispatch more troops Press TV 25 Feb 2017 -- US General Joseph Votel, the commander of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), has secretly headed to Northern Syria to meet US-backed militant groups, two days after announcing that Washington was mulling more US boots on the ground in the Arab country.
Homs attacks aim to spoil Syria peace talks: UN envoy Press TV 25 Feb 2017 -- The UN special envoy for Syria has warned that the latest deadly attacks in Homs are aimed at sabotaging the ongoing Geneva peace talks between the Syrian government and the opposition.
Syria Government Demands Opposition Condemns Homs Attack RFE/RL 25 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian government's chief negotiator, Bashar Jaafari, demanded on February 25 that opposition representatives at peace talks in Geneva condemn a suicide attack on security forces in Homs which left dozens dead, saying that otherwise Damascus would consider them terrorists.
Damascus Shuns Away From Power Transition Issues at Syrian Talks - HNC Head Sputnik 25 Feb 2017 -- Nasr Hariri, the head of the Syrian opposition High Negotiations Committee claims that the Syrian government delegation's fixation on anti-terrorism issues at the ongoing Geneva settlement talks means shunning away from political transition for the war-torn country.
Syrian Army Repels Nusra Front Militants Attack on Daraa City Sputnik 25 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian army units repelled an attack of the Jabhat Fatah al Sham terrorist group, formerly known as al-Nusra Front and outlawed in Russia, on the southern city of Daraa, local media reported on Saturday, citing a military source.
Al-Qaida Affiliate Claims Deadly Suicide Bombings in Homs, Syria VOA 25 Feb 2017 -- Twin suicide attacks Saturday in the western Syrian city of Homs killed at least 42 people, including a senior intelligence officer.
Russia to veto US resolution on chemicals in Syria Press TV 25 Feb 2017 -- Russia says it will veto a UN Security Council resolution drafted by the US, Britain and France to impose sanctions on Syria over allegations of chemical weapons use.
Israel won't return Golan Heights to Syria, Netanyahu says Press TV 24 Feb 2017 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the Tel Aviv regime will never end its decades-long occupation of Syria's Golan Heights.
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 24 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
'Encouraging Initial Successes' for Western Mosul, DoD Official Says AFPS 24 Feb 2017 -- Iraqi forces, backed by coalition strikes, are making gains in efforts to liberate western Mosul from Islamic State of Iraq and Syria terrorists, Defense Department spokesman Navy Capt. Jeff Davis told reporters at the Pentagon today.
Parties to Syria war ready for direct talks: UN Press TV 24 Feb 2017 -- The United Nations says it has seen signs that the Syrian government's delegation and representatives of the armed opposition groups are ready to hold face-to-face negotiations for the first time in the fresh round of the Geneva peace talks.
Iraqi jets strike Daesh positions in Syria: Premier Abadi Press TV 24 Feb 2017 -- Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi says Iraqi fighter jets have pounded the positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria.
Bomb attack kills 70, mostly civilains, near al-Bab Press TV 24 Feb 2017 -- About 70 people have been killed and dozens more injured in bomb attacks near the Syrian border city of al-Bab, which was recently taken by Turkish forces and allied militants from Daesh terrorists.
Russia Vows To Veto Sanctions On Syria Over Chemical Weapons RFE/RL 24 Feb 2017 -- Russia says it is ready to veto a draft UN resolution calling for sanctions against Syria over the use of chemical weapons on civilians.
Iraqi Air Force Airstrike in Syria 'in Full Coordination' With Damascus Sputnik 24 Feb 2017 -- A strike conducted earlier in the day by the Iraqi Air Force against Daesh terrorist group in Syrian Deir Ez-Zor province has been fully coordinated with the Syrian government, Al-Watan reported, citing a source, close to the Syrian Foreign Ministry.
Iraqi PM Orders Launch of Airstrikes on Daesh in Syria - Reports Sputnik 24 Feb 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered launch of airstrikes against Daesh in Syria.
Turkey Ramps Up Pressure on Washington to Abandon Syrian Kurds VOA 24 Feb 2017 -- Top Turkish officials are increasing pressure on the United States to dissolve the American military partnership with Syrian Kurds in the battle against Islamic State.
Russia Expected to Veto UN Resolution Blaming Syria for Chemical Attacks VOA 24 Feb 2017 -- Russia says it will veto a draft U.N. resolution blaming the Syrian government for some chemical weapons attacks in Syria if it is brought to a vote.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 23 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 23 Feb 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
Turkey says nearly in full control of Syria's al-Bab Press TV 23 Feb 2017 -- Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik says his country's armed forces and allied militants are almost in full control of the Syrian city of al-Bab taking the city from the Daesh Takfiri terrorists.
Putin: Russia aims to stabilize legitimate authority in Syria Press TV 23 Feb 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country has no plans to interfere in Syria's internal affairs and its aim is to stabilize the legitimate government in the Arab country which is battling terrorists.
Syria peace talks start in Geneva amid low expectations Press TV 23 Feb 2017 -- A fresh round of peace negotiations has started between representatives of the Damascus government and the foreign-backed opposition in the Swiss city of Geneva under the auspices of the United Nations.
Senator McCain secretly visited Syria last weekend Press TV 23 Feb 2017 -- US Republican Senator John McCain secretly visited war-ravaged Syria last weekend.
Russia Open To U.S. Plan To Create Safe Zones, If Syria Is Involved RFE/RL 23 Feb 2017 -- Russia is open to dialogue with the United States on creating safe zones in Syria, but believes that any such plan needs to be coordinated with the Syrian government, Moscow's top diplomat said.
Daesh Announces Withdrawal From Syria's Al Bab Sputnik 23 Feb 2017 -- The Daesh has announced the start of its withdrawal from northern Syrian town of Al Bab, which is currently under siege by Turkish and Syrian forces, according to local media.
De Mistura Calls on Parties to Geneva Talks to Work Toward Peaceful Syria Sputnik 23 Feb 2017 -- UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura urged all parties at the intra-Syrian talks "to end horrible conflict and lay foundation for country peaceful and unified."
Syrian Army May Launch Offensive in Damascus Suburb Unless Militants Surrender Sputnik 23 Feb 2017 -- Syria's minister for reconciliation said Damascus hopes for a peaceful settlement in the neighbourhood of Qaboun but does not rule out a military action.
Damascus Hopes to Resolve Issue of Turkish Troops' Presence in Syria Politically Sputnik 23 Feb 2017 -- Syria's Minister for National Reconciliation Ali Haidar told Sputnik that Damascus has not changed its stance on the presence of Turkish troops and considers it to be occupation of the country.
'We need to start now' on road to peace, UN envoy says as Syria negotiations open in Geneva UN News 23 Feb 2017 -- Welcoming the representatives of the Syrian Government and its opposition to the United Nations-facilitated negotiations that opened today in Geneva, Staffan de Mistura reiterated the need to work together for a political solution.
No Breakthrough Expected as Syrian Peace Talks Resume VOA 23 Feb 2017 -- The U.N.'s special envoy for Syria met Thursday with a Syrian government delegation and envoys for the opposition in Geneva, as he launched the latest effort to find an end to the country's nearly six-year civil war.
Syrian opposition calls for direct talks with government Press TV 22 Feb 2017 -- Syria's main opposition group, the so-called High Negotiations Committee (HNC), has announced that it wants face-to-face negotiations with the Syrian government.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Col. Dorrian via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 22 Feb 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel John Dorrian, Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 22 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
OIR Official: 'Conditions Have Been Set' for ISIS Defeat in Western Mosul AFPS 22 Feb 2017 -- Iraqi forces are advancing into western Mosul and making steady gains in efforts to liberate the area from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve said today.
Russia hails successful anti-terror operation in Syria Press TV 22 Feb 2017 -- Russia's Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has praised Moscow's counter-terrorism military campaign in Syria, citing its success in testing new weapons and eliminating terrorists wreaking havoc in the Arab country.
US may deploy more troops to Syria: Commander Press TV 22 Feb 2017 -- The top US commander for the Middle East says more American troops may be needed in Syria to step up the so-called campaign against the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group in the war-torn country.
Israeli warplanes bombard military positions outside Damascus: Reports Press TV 22 Feb 2017 -- Israeli military aircraft have reportedly carried out an overnight airstrike against Syrian army positions in the strategic and mountainous Qalamoun region, which lies north of the capital Damascus along the border with neighboring Lebanon.
De Mistura: Intra-Syria Talks in Geneva Impossible Without Ceasefire Holding Sputnik 22 Feb 2017 -- UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura stated that the intra-Syria talks in Geneva would be impossible without holding the ceasefire in Syria
Russian Aerospace Forces Have Eliminated Over 3,000 Militants in Syria in 2017 Sputnik 22 Feb 2017 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces have eliminated more than 3,000 militants, including 26 warlords, in Syria, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Wednesday. The aircraft have made 1,760 sorties in 2017. The minister underscored the key role of special task forces in the fight against terrorists.
Syria negotiations may not yield breakthrough, but momentum needs to be maintained - UN envoy UN News 22 Feb 2017 -- A day before negotiations on the crisis in Syria kick off in Geneva, the United Nations Special Envoy for the war-torn country acknowledged that while he is "not expecting a breakthrough," the proactive momentum needs to be sustained, and the top United Nations relief official told the Security Council that the country's humanitarian needs would remain critical for a long time.
No Breakthrough Expected in Upcoming Syrian Peace Talks VOA 22 Feb 2017 -- The U.N.'s chief mediator for the intra-Syrian talks says he does not see any imminent breakthrough on the horizon.
Iran Sends Military Students to Syrian Front VOA 22 Feb 2017 -- Iran is increasingly using Syrian battlefields as a proving ground for fresh military officers in training, according to Iranian media reports and Syrian opposition figures.
Russian Defense Chief Says New Weapons Tested In Syria Campaign RFE/RL 22 Feb 2017 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has expressed satisfaction with Moscow's military campaign in Syria and says it has been a good test of new weapons and special-forces units.
DoD to Deliver Counter-ISIS Review to White House AFPS 21 Feb 2017 -- Defense Secretary Jim Mattis yesterday completed his first trip to the Middle East, where he gained valuable insight as he prepares to make key policy decisions, including submitting the results of a review of the department's strategy to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria to the White House, Pentagon press operations director Navy Capt. Jeff Davis told reporters this morning.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes in Syria, Iraq AFPS 21 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
U.S. Central Command continues to work with partner nations to conduct targeted airstrikes in Iraq and Syria as part of the comprehensive strategy to degrade and defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS.
Syrian troops, allies inflict heavy losses on Takfiri militants Press TV 21 Feb 2017 -- Syrian government forces, backed by fighters from allied popular defense groups, have carried out fresh operations against foreign-backed Takfiri militants across the country, inflicting substantial losses on them.
CIA Freezes Aid To Free Syrian Army Sputnik 21 Feb 2017 -- As Syrian President Bashar al Assad's hold on western parts of Syria solidifies, the CIA is lessening its support of the Free Syrian Army (FSA).
Syrian Army Takes Control Over Road Junction Three Miles Away From Palmyra Sputnik 21 Feb 2017 -- Despite the successes of the Syrian army, it was premature to talk about the liberation of Palmyra in the coming days, according to a well-informed source on the ground.
Syrian Air Force Kills al-Nusra Front Field Commander in Hama Province Sputnik 21 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian Air Force on Tuesday killed one of Jabhat Fatah al Sham terrorist group (formerly known as the Nusra Front, banned in Russia) field commanders in the country's northern province of Hama.
Armed Opposition in Syria Receives Weapons From Abroad - Moscow Sputnik 21 Feb 2017 -- Armed groups in Syria have been receiving weapons from abroad, the Russian defense minister said.
Al-Nusra Front Attacks UN Aid Convoy With Mortars, Machine-Guns in Syria Sputnik 21 Feb 2017 -- Al-Nusra Front terrorists attacked a UN humanitarian aid convoy in Syria on February 20, a diplomatic source told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Riyadh may send forces to Syria to back US campaign against Daesh: Saudi FM Press TV 21 Feb 2017 -- Saudi Arabia says it is ready to support the United States in its so-called war against the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria by sending ground troops and special forces to the war-torn Arab country.
Counter-ISIS Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 20 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Four Russian military killed in Syria bomb attack last week: Moscow Press TV 20 Feb 2017 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says four Russian military personnel were killed and two others sustained injuries in a bombing attack in central Syria last week.
Coalition Continues Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 19 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
US reports exodus of Daesh terrorists from Syria's Raqqah after airstrikes Press TV 19 Feb 2017 -- The US Defense Department claims that its bombing campaign in the Daesh-held Syrian city of Raqqah is leading to an exodus of the terrorist group's top leaders.
Syrian forces foil Daesh infiltration attempt in Dayr al-Zawr: Report Press TV 19 Feb 2017 -- Syrian government soldiers have reportedly thwarted an attempt by Takfiri Daesh militants to establish a foothold in the Arab country's beleaguered eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr, killing a large number of the terrorists in the process.
UN envoy to Syria questions US role in resolving Syria crisis Press TV 19 Feb 2017 -- United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura has questioned the role of the United States and its so-called military engagement against terrorist groups in the Middle Eastern country, saying Washington's new administration is still working on its conflicting priorities in tackling the six-year-long crisis.
Syria troops push against terrorists near Damascus Press TV 19 Feb 2017 -- Syrian government forces have fired rockets at a district held by foreign-backed militants on the outskirts of the capital, Damascus, in a fresh counter-terrorism push.
Turkey presents Raqqah occupation plan to US Press TV 19 Feb 2017 -- Turkey has presented the United States with two plans for an alleged potential operation to "liberate" the northern Syrian city of Raqqah from Daesh.
Syrian Army Freed 53 Towns From Islamists Over 7 Weeks - Russian MoD Sputnik 19 Feb 2017 -- Syrian government troops have freed 53 residential areas from Islamist militants since the start of this year, the Russian Defense Ministry announced on Sunday.
Trump Wants to Build 'Safe Zones' in Syria, Make Gulf States Pay for It Sputnik 19 Feb 2017 -- Speaking before a rally in Florida on Saturday, US President Donald Trump claimed that only safe zones in Syria and other war-plagued countries can stop the migrant crisis, stressing that the Gulf states should pay for those zones.
UN Syria Envoy Optimistic on Upcoming Geneva Talks VOA 19 Feb 2017 -- The U.N. Syria envoy says he hopes to take advantage of a new momentum during the upcoming round of U.N.-led talks involving the al-Assad government and rebel representatives this week in Geneva.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 18 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Coalition Forces Strike Five-Story Facility in Mosul AFPS 18 Feb 2017 -- With the approval of the government of Iraq, Coalition forces struck an ISIS command and control headquarters and propaganda facility yesterday in western Mosul, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported.
Russia fighter jets pound Daesh positions in Syria's Raqqah Press TV 18 Feb 2017 -- Russia says its warplanes have successfully hit positions held by the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group in Syria's northern province of Raqqah, the stronghold of the militant outfit in the war-torn Arab country.
Syrian Army Drives Daesh From Strategic Areas Near Airbase in Aleppo Province Sputnik 18 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian army has liberated eight settlements located near the Kweires airbase in northern Syria, which have been previously occupied by Daesh terrorists, local media reported Saturday.
ICRC Concerned About Refugee Push-Backs on Syrian Border With Jordan - President Sputnik 18 Feb 2017 -- The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is concerned about the disrespect of non-refoulement principle toward Syrian refugees on the border with Jordan, ICRC President Peter Maurer told Sputnik on the sidelines of the 53rd Munich Security Conference.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Counter-ISIS Strikes in Syria, Iraq AFPS 17 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Pentagon Says Used Depleted-Uranium Rounds Against IS Oil Tankers RFE/RL 17 Feb 2017 -- The United States used depleted-uranium antitank rounds twice during 2015 in air strikes against convoys of Islamic State (IS) tanker trucks, the Pentagon has said.
Turkey close to capturing Syria's al-Bab from Daesh: Army Press TV 17 Feb 2017 -- The Turkish military has claimed that it is close to capturing the northern Syrian city of al-Bab in Raqqah Province from the Daesh Takfiri terrorists.
UN backtracks on 'political transition' in Syria peace talks Press TV 17 Feb 2017 -- The United Nations has reversed its position on the issue of "political transition" in the upcoming round of peace talks on Syria.
US-led coalition airstrikes kill 11 civilians near Syria's Raqqah: SOHR Press TV 17 Feb 2017 -- A monitoring group says nearly a dozen civilians have lost their lives when the US-led coalition purportedly fighting Daesh in Syria carried out airstrikes near the country's Daesh-held northern city of al-Raqqah.
France directly liable for killings in Syria: President Assad Press TV 17 Feb 2017 -- President Bashar al-Assad says France's support for terrorist groups operating against the Syrian government and people is a direct cause of bloodshed in the Arab country.
Syrian Army Reportedly Eliminates Nusra Front Commander in Daraa Sputnik 17 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian government forces have eliminated one of the leaders of the terrorist group Jabhat Fatah al Sham, formerly known as Nusra Front (banned in Russia), in the southwest of the country, Lebanon's Aljadeed TV channel reported on Friday.
Senior Daesh Leaders Leave Raqqa, Move Operations to Deir Ez-Zor - Pentagon Sputnik 17 Feb 2017 -- Senior leaders of Daesh terror group are leaving the Syrian city of Raqqa and moving operations to Deir ez-Zor, US Department of Defense spokesperson Jeff Davis said in a briefing on Friday
Russian Long-Range Bombers Launch Cruise Missile Strikes on Daesh in Raqqa Sputnik 17 Feb 2017 -- Russian Tu-95MS long-range bombers have launched cruise missile strikes on Daesh targets near the Syrian city of Raqqa, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Second Round of Astana Talks Yields Pact on Syria Ceasefire Monitoring Sputnik 17 Feb 2017 -- A second round of Syria talks in Astana ended Thursday in a deal by the three peace guarantors – Russia, Turkey and Iran – to uphold Syrian truce and set the stage for more in-depth negotiations in Geneva next week.
US Allies Optimistic About Political Solution to Syrian Conflict VOA 17 Feb 2017 -- U.S. allies said after a meeting Friday with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson they were encouraged the United States would support a political solution to the Syrian conflict.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 16 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 16 Feb 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
Two dozen Syrian civilians, including children, killed in Turkish bombardment of al-Bab: Group Press TV 16 Feb 2017 -- At least two dozen civilians, including children, have been killed in airstrikes and shelling by the Turkish military in Syria's northern border city of al-Bab over the past 24 hours, a monitoring group says.
Turkish Forces 'Could Stay' in Syria's al-Bab After Its Liberation Sputnik 16 Feb 2017 -- On Thursday morning, Turkish media released reports about the full liberation of the Syrian city of al-Bab from Daesh, citing the head of the Turkish General Staff Hulusi Akar. Capturing the city is of strategic importance to Turkey in order to prevent the Syrian Kurds taking it and unifying their own territories.
Over 20 Civilians Dead in Turkish Strikes on Syria's Al-Bab - Kurdish Politician Sputnik 16 Feb 2017 -- At least 24 civilians have died as a result of the Turkish offensive on northern Syria's Al Bab, Rezan Hedo, a member of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Council, told Sputnik on Thursday.
Syrian president vows to liberate 'every inch' of country Press TV 16 Feb 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has underlined his government's determination to liberate "every inch" of Syria held by foreign-backed militants.
Syrian Armed Opposition Agrees With Creation of Syria Ceasefire Monitoring Group Sputnik 16 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian opposition delegation has agreed with the creation of a group on ceasefire in the country with participation of Russia, Turkey and an "Arab group," but is against participation of Iran, the head of delegation to Astana talks, Mohammed Alloush, said Thursday.
'Waste of Time': Syrian Opposition Doubts 3rd Round of Astana Talks to Be Held Sputnik 16 Feb 2017 -- Osama Abu Zeid, a representative of the Syrian armed opposition delegation, said Thursday he assessed the results of the Astana talks pessimistically and did not expect that a third round would take place in this format.
Aid obstacles are 'matter of life and death' for besieged Syrians, says senior UN adviser UN News 16 Feb 2017 -- Assurances have been given to humanitarians by the Syrian Government that obstacles to aid deliveries will be removed across the war-torn country, a senior United Nations adviser said today.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Maj. Gen. Jones via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 15 Feb 2017 -- Presenter: Major General Rupert Jones, UK, deputy commander, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes in Syria, Iraq AFPS 15 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and Syria terrorists yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
ISIS Losing Fighters, Leaders, Resources, Inherent Resolve Spokesman Says AFPS 15 Feb 2017 -- The deputy commander of Operation Inherent Resolve briefed the media here via videoconference from Baghdad this morning, discussing progress in Syria and Iraq and updating stabilization efforts that set conditions for normality to return once the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria is defeated.
HNC says seeks direct talks with Damascus in Geneva Press TV 15 Feb 2017 -- Syria's main foreign-backed opposition group says it seeks face-to-face negotiations with Damascus in the upcoming round of peace talks due to be held in Geneva on February 23.
US strikes, Daesh sabotage on key dam threaten floods in Syria: UN Press TV 15 Feb 2017 -- The United Nations has warned of a humanitarian catastrophe in Syria due to deliberate acts of sabotage by Daesh terrorists targeting a key dam and US-led coalition air raids on the facility.
Syria peace talks in Astana delayed by one day: Kazakhstan Press TV 15 Feb 2017 -- Kazakhstan says a new round of Syria peace negotiations, which was slated to open in Astana on Wednesday, has been delayed until tomorrow.
Syrian Airstrike Kills Daesh Warlord Near Syria's Deir Ez-Zor Sputnik 15 Feb 2017 -- One of warlords of Daesh terror group was eliminated on Wednesday by the Syrian airstrike south of the northern Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor, media reported.
Any Syria Settlement Meetings Excluding Kurds Doomed to Fail – Turkish HDP Party Sputnik 15 Feb 2017 -- Any negotiations on the Syrian crisis settlement without the involvement and participation of the Kurds are doomed to failure and will not give any progress, Turkish parliament member from the pro-Kurdish opposition Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) Osman Baydemir told Sputnik on Wednesday.
IS Propaganda Switches from Utopian Caliphate to Battlefield Reality VOA 15 Feb 2017 -- As the terror group Islamic State loses more and more territory in Iraq and Syria, its propaganda has undergone a significant change, according to analysts. Many of the recent videos produced by the group have focused on the battle for the Iraqi city of Mosul – with a decreasing emphasis on calls for foreign fighters to join the group.
Iran dismisses Erdogan's allegations of Tehran's interference in Iraq, Syria Press TV 15 Feb 2017 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi has dismissed recent anti-Tehran remarks by the Turkish president, stressing that promoting security in the region has been among the Islamic Republic's main foreign policies.
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 14 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Infighting between two terrorist groups leaves dozens dead in Syria Press TV 14 Feb 2017 -- Nearly 70 foreign-backed militants have been killed during a fresh wave of infighting that erupted between two rival Takfiri terrorist groups over influence in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, says a UK-based monitoring group.
60 Syrian civilians killed in Turkish shelling of Syrian city: Group Press TV 14 Feb 2017 -- A monitoring group says at least 60 civilians been killed in shelling by the Turkish military in Syria's northern border town of al-Bab over the past few days.
Kurds Determined to Fully Liberate Syria's Raqqa From Daesh Sputnik 14 Feb 2017 -- Anwar Muslim, the chairman of the Kobani provincial government, said that a goal of Syrian Kurds is to liberate not only Raqqa, but all territories seized by the Daesh.
Syrian Army, Militias Liberate Gas Field Close to Palmyra Sputnik 14 Feb 2017 -- Syrian government troops and allied militias have liberated a gas field near the Daesh-held city of Palmyra.
Thousands of People in Aleppo Now Have Access to Safe Water VOA 14 Feb 2017 -- The U.N. Children's Fund reports repairs to a vital water source in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo are under way. UNICEF says safe water is slowly returning to the battle-scarred city, where almost two million people have been deprived of water for nearly one month.
Civilians in Syria's 'Four Towns' need support as humanitarian catastrophe looms - UN relief official UN News 13 Feb 2017 -- A senior United Nations relief official has today called on all parties to come to an agreement and allow immediate and unfettered humanitarian access to more than 60,000 civilians trapped in four Syrian towns of Al-Zabadani, Al-Fu'ah, Kafraya and Madaya.
Rights Report: Syria Dropped Banned Chlorine Bombs on Aleppo VOA 13 Feb 2017 -- A leading international human rights organization is accusing Syrian government forces of dropping banned chlorine bombs on residential areas of a key northern city at least eight times late last year.
Military Strikes Target ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 13 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Turkey renews call for establishment of safe zone in northern Syria Press TV 13 Feb 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has renewed his call for the establishment of a "safe zone" in northern Syria, an area he says should be free from terrorists and should include a "no-fly zone."
Syria signals readiness for prisoner swap deals with militants Press TV 13 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian government has expressed its readiness for prisoner swaps with militant groups ahead of a new round of peace talks in the capital of Kazakhstan, Astana.
Syrian Kurds Want Turkish 'Occupants' to Stay Away From Liberating Raqqa Sputnik 13 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian Kurds are capable of liberating the city of Raqqa, a stronghold of the Daesh terrorist group, on their own without participation of Turkey, Representative to Russia of Northern Syria's Rojava Kurdish region Rodi Osman told Sputnik.
Russia Sends Military Police Battalion to Syria to Boost Security of Personnel Sputnik 13 Feb 2017 -- Russia has sent a military police battalion to protect its personnel in Syria.
Counter-ISIL Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 12 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Raqqah final goal of Turkey's incursion into Syria: Erdogan Press TV 12 Feb 2017 -- Turkey's president has claimed that the ultimate goal of the country's incursion into Syria is to "cleanse" a border region, including the cities of al-Bab and Raqqah, of the Daesh Takfiri terrorists.
Turkish forces, allied militants enter Syria's northern city of al-Bab Press TV 12 Feb 2017 -- Turkish forces along with allied militants have entered the Daesh-held Syrian city of al-Bab, says a UK-based monitoring group.
Erdogan Says Turkish Forces Advanced Into Center of Syrian Town of al-Bab Sputnik 12 Feb 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Turkish forces together with Free Syrian Army entered the center of the northern Syrian town of al-Bab.
Syria opposition forms new delegation, scraps Saudi-backed groups Press TV 12 Feb 2017 -- Syria's armed opposition groups have announced their new delegation for an upcoming round of peace talks brokered by the United Nations and set to be held in the Swiss city of Geneva, scrapping Saudi-backed terrorist groups.
Hezbollah, Iran support Syria ceasefire as agreed in Astana: Nasrallah Press TV 12 Feb 2017 -- Secretary general of the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement says the movement and Iran support Syria ceasefire as agreed through negotiations in Kazakhstan's capital city of Astana, slamming some media reports to the contrary.
Syria Opposition Delegation Head Says Not Received Invite to New Round Yet Sputnik 12 Feb 2017 -- Mohammed Alloush, the head of armed Syrian opposition at the Astana settlement talks, stated that his group had not yet received an invitation to participate in the new Syria settlement meeting in the Kazakh capital.
Mohammed Sabra to Be Syrian Opposition Delegation's Chief Negotiator in Geneva Sputnik 12 Feb 2017 -- Syrian lawyer Mohammed Sabra was named as the chief negotiator of the Syrian opposition delegation for the forthcoming Syrian peace talks in Geneva, the High Negotiations Committee (HNC) said in a statement obtained by Sputnik on Sunday.
Jaysh al-Islam, Ahrar al-Sham Militants to Skip Geneva Talks on Syria Sputnik 12 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian opposition High Negotiations Committee (HNC) on Sunday announced the final composition of the delegation to go to the February 20 settlement talks in Geneva.
Islamic State Ouster From Key Northern Syrian Town 'Imminent' VOA 12 Feb 2017 -- Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed Sunday that Turkish troops and allied Syrian rebel militias have entered the center of the Syrian town of al-Bab, saying the ouster of Islamic State forces is just a "matter of time."
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 11 Feb 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
Larijani: National unity only solution to Syrian, Yemeni crises IRNA 11 Feb 2017 -- Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani in a meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven in Tehran on Saturday underlined that the Syrian crisis does not have a military solution, but national unity is the best way for putting an end to the hostilities in that country.
Shamkhani: Russian planes' flight over Iran to Syria needs joint decision IRNA 11 Feb 2017 -- Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Shamkhani said on Saturday that the use of Iran's airspace by the Russian planes dispatched for fighting terrorism in Syria needs preparation including precise assessment and pre-scheduled planning.
Iran could allow Russian bombers to use its airspace ISNA 11 Feb 2017 -- Cooperation between Iran and Russia in fighting against terrorism was absolutely strategic, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council emphasized on Saturday.
Daesh executes 40 civilians in northern Syrian town: Report Press TV 11 Feb 2017 -- The Daesh Takfiri terrorist group has reportedly executed more than three dozen civilians in Syria's strategic northern province of Aleppo as they continue to lose ground in battles against government forces.
Syria-bound Russian planes using Iran airspace for anti-terror operations: Shamkhani Press TV 11 Feb 2017 -- A senior Iranian official says Russian warplanes are using the Islamic Republic's airspace for anti-terror operations in Syria.
Syrian forces foil Daesh infiltration attempts in Latakia: Report Press TV 11 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian army has reportedly thwarted an attempt by Daesh to establish a foothold in the northwestern province of Latakia, killing a large number of the terrorists in the process.
Syrian Army Supported by Russian Warplanes Destroy Daesh Stronghold Near Al-Bab Sputnik 11 Feb 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday that the Syrian army supported by Russian aviation have destroyed a Daesh stronghold near the city of al-Bab in the Aleppo province.
Daesh Executes Civilians in al-Bab as Syrian Army, Turkish-Led Forces Advancing Sputnik 11 Feb 2017 -- Daesh terrorists have executed at least 40 civilians in the Syrian northern town of al-Bab, Al Mayadeen broadcaster reported.
Iran Could Allow Russia Use its Airspace to Support Operation in Syria Sputnik 11 Feb 2017 -- Tehran and Moscow have been cooperating on a number of issues related to the Syrian conflict and it is possible that Iran will allow Russia use its airspace to support the anti-terrorist operation in Syria, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council said Saturday.
Syrian Army, Rebel Forces Converge on Northern City of al-Bab VOA 11 Feb 2017 -- Turkish-backed Syrian rebels on Saturday pushed into the Islamic State stronghold town of al-Bab in northern Syria, as nearby Syrian government forces backed by Russia halted their advance at a contact line drawn to keep the rival forces apart.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Counter-ISIL Strikes in Syria, Iraq AFPS 10 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Counter-ISIL Forces Prepare to Drive Terrorists From Raqqa, DoD Spokesman Says AFPS 10 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian Democratic Forces' isolation of Raqqa, Syria, to drive out Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant extremists is well under way, Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt Jeff Davis said today.
Mechanism on Flights in Syria 'Prevented' Incidents Like in al-Bab - Pentagon Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- The US-Russian mechanism for safety of flights over Syria has been effective in preventing incidents similar to friendly fire by Russian military on Turkish army near al-Bab, US Department of Defense spokesman Jeff Davis told reporters on Friday.
Turkey gave coordinates for al-Bab airstrikes: Kremlin Press TV 10 Feb 2017 -- Moscow says the Russian air force conducted recent airstrikes that accidentally killed three Turkish soldiers in Syria based on coordinates provided by Turkey.
Assad dismisses Trump's plan to create 'safe zones' inside Syria Press TV 10 Feb 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has rejected his American counterpart's plan to create "safe zones" in Syria allegedly to protect refugees fleeing violence in the war-torn country and to stem the flow of displaced people into other countries.
Government soldiers, Turkish forces clash in Syria: Group Press TV 10 Feb 2017 -- A monitoring group says Syrian government soldiers and Turkish forces have clashed near Syria's border with Turkey, in a first such confrontation since Turkish forces entered Syrian territory without permission from Damascus.
Turkish Airstrikes, Artillery Target 150 Daesh Positions During Al-Bab Operation Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- Turkish airstrikes and shelling targeting over 150 Daesh positions and strongholds in Syria's al-Bab have killed a total of 23 IS militants, local media reported Friday, citing a Turkish military statement.
Pentagon Not Providing US MANPADS to 'Any Group in Syria' After Obama's Waiver Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- The Department of Defense (DoD) has not supplied Syrian rebels with US man-portable air-defense systems, or MANPADS, the department's spokesperson Adrian Rankine-Galloway told Sputnik on Friday.
Turkish MoD Claims Russia Knew Turkish Army's Coordinates in Al-Bab Strike Area Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- The Turkish General Staff claimed that Russian military had been warned in advance of the presence of Turkish servicemen in the area targeted by the Russian jets in Syria's al-Bab.
Assad: I Will Step Down if Syrians Want Me to Do So Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad told the Yahoo News online outlet in an interview released Friday he would step aside as soon as Syrians wanted him to do so.
Assad Reveals How US Can Defeat Terrorism in Syria Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- The United States will be able to defeat terrorism in Syria only in cooperation with the Syrian authorities, President Bashar Assad said in an interview with the Yahoo News portal.
Assad Says Amnesty International's Report on Alleged Mass Killings 'a Shame' Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- Amnesty International's report on mass extrajudicial killings in Syria is false, Syrian President Bashar Assad said.
Assad Dismisses 'Cosmetic' US Anti-Daesh Campaign, Praises Russian Involvement Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- The United States conducts a "cosmetic" military campaign against the outlawed Daesh jihadist group, which suffered losses in the wake of Russia's involvement, Syrian President Bashar Assad said.
Syrian army forces recapture villages on southern edge of al-Bab Press TV 09 Feb 2017 -- Syrian army forces have managed to establish control over several villages in the strategic northern province of Aleppo following intense clashes with Takfiri Daesh militants.
Putin condoles with Erdogan after mistaken airstrikes kill 3 Turkish troops Press TV 09 Feb 2017 -- Moscow has "expressed condolences" to Ankara over the accidental death of three Turkish soldiers in Russian counter-terrorism air raids in Syria.
Turkey Satisfied With Russia's Response After Airstrike Incident - Source Sputnik 10 Feb 2017 -- A high-ranking Turkish military source in Ankara told Sputnik that Turkey has positively assessed Russia's constructive position in connection with the airstrike incident in northern Syria.
Counter-ISIL Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 09 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Kremlin Confirms Accidental Russian Airstrike Kills Turkish Soldiers in Syria Sputnik 09 Feb 2017 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed to Sputnik that Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed condolences to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over an accidental Russian airstrike that had killed Turkish soldiers in Syria.
Putin, Erdogan Agree to Expand Russia-Turkey Military Coordination in Syria Sputnik 09 Feb 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan discussed in a phone call on Thursday the situation in Syria and steps aimed at expanding joint efforts in the fight against Daesh and other terrorist groups in the war-torn country, the Kremlin press service said.
Russian MoD Denies Reports of Alleged Strikes in Syria by Tochka-U Systems Sputnik 09 Feb 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry denied reports of alleged strikes in Syria carried out by Russia's Tochka-U ballistic missile systems.
Kremlin Comments on Alleged Russian Supply of Tochka Ballistic Missiles to Syria Sputnik 09 Feb 2017 -- Kremlin has no information on US media reports of alleged Russia's supplies of Tochka tactical ballistic missiles (NATO reporting name SS-21 Scarab) to Syria, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday.
Under Siege in al-Bab, IS Faces Retreat to Raqqa VOA 09 Feb 2017 -- As Islamic State fighters make a last stand against Turkish-backed troops in a key strategic city in northern Syria, IS appears to have few options as to where it can retreat.
Israel hits Syrian government position in Golan Heights Press TV 08 Feb 2017 -- Israel says that it has struck a Syrian military position after a tank shell landed in an open area in the occupied Golan Heights.
Statement by Pentagon Spokesman Capt. Jeff Davis on Airstrikes Against al-Qaida near Idlib, Syria DoD 08 Feb 2017 -- On Feb. 3, one U.S. strike killed 10 terrorists in a building being used as an al-Qaida meeting place.
Statement by Pentagon Spokesman Captain Jeff Davis on U.S.-Russia Video Conference DoD 08 Feb 2017 -- The Department of Defense today held a video conference co-chaired by Ken Handelman, performing the duties of assistant secretary of defense for International Security Affairs and Rear Adm. Michael J. Dumont, deputy director for strategic initiatives, Joint Staff J5, with Russian Ministry of Defense counterparts.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Col. Dorrian via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 08 Feb 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel John Dorrian, Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 08 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Turkey 'Has Own Specific Tasks in Syria' - Russian Diplomat Sputnik 08 Feb 2017 -- Moscow believes that it would be wrong to say that Turkey does not have its own specific tasks in Syria, a senior Russian diplomat told Sputnik Wednesday.
Turkey Coordinates Al-Bab Campaign With Russia to Avoid Clashes With Damascus Sputnik 08 Feb 2017 -- Turkey coordinates its military campaign in the northeastern Syrian city of al-Bab with Russia to prevent clashes with the government forces, Turkish presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Wednesday.
Tide of Syria conflict turning in favor of Damascus, Moscow: Assad Press TV 08 Feb 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says the tide of events in the Arab country is changing in favor of Damascus and Moscow, which are both engaged in a battle against foreign-backed terrorists.
Syria rejects Amnesty 'false' report of mass jail hangings Press TV 08 Feb 2017 -- Damascus has slammed as "inaccurate and politically-motivated" an Amnesty International report claiming that Syrian military police hanged as many as 13,000 people over the course of five years.
Moscow Believes Turkey Not Creating Buffer Zone in North Syria Amid Al-Bab Op Sputnik 08 Feb 2017 -- Moscow believes Turkey is not currently creating a buffer zone in northern Syria, a senior Russian diplomat told Sputnik.
Syrian Army Annihilates Senior Daesh Commanders in Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 08 Feb 2017 -- In an interview with Sputnik Arabic, field commander of the Syrian Arab Army in Deir ez-Zor Brigade General Issam Zaheralden confirmed that two senior Daesh commanders, including Abu Muhammed al-Adnani who was in charge of the group's drone attacks, were killed in an airstrike near the city of Deir ez-Zor.
Syrian Army's Strike in Deir ez-Zor Reportedly Kills Daesh Commanders Sputnik 08 Feb 2017 -- At least 15 Daesh terrorists, including two field commanders, were killed during a Syrian airstrike in Deir ez-Zor on Wednesday, Fars news agency reported, citing Syrian Brig. Gen. Osam Zahralddeen.
War on Daesh Rages On: Syrian Army, Turkish Troops Enter Outskirts of al-Bab Sputnik 08 Feb 2017 -- According to information from sources in the Syrian Arab Army, Turkish troops together with the Syrian army have launched an offensive on the outskirts of the Syrian town of al-Bab. Sputnik Turkey spoke with Syrian commander Ahmed Osman about this operation.
Assad Voices Support for Syria Talks Brokered by Russia, Iran, Turkey Sputnik 08 Feb 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad supports the format of Syrian talks in Astana and considers them to be effective, Russian lawmaker Dmitry Sablin said Wednesday.
Turkish, Rebel Fighters Seize Area Around Key Syrian Town VOA 08 Feb 2017 -- Turkey's military said Wednesday that Syrian rebel forces with Turkish support have taken control of strategic hills surrounding the Islamic State-held town of al-Bab.
Russia, Turkey, Iran and UN hash out details of monitoring regime for Syria ceasefire UN News 07 Feb 2017 -- The delegations of Russia, Turkey and Iran as well as United Nations representatives held their first meeting yesterday to discuss the establishment of a ceasefire implementation regime in Syria that was decided at the 23-24 January talks held in the Kazakh capital of Astana, a UN spokesperson in Geneva said today.
U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 07 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Turkish Forces Kill 21 Daesh Terrorists in Northern Syria in 24 Hours Sputnik 07 Feb 2017 -- The Turkish army announced that it had killed 21 Daesh terrorists in Syria over the course of 24 hours.
Russia rejects accusations of airstrikes on Syria's Idlib Press TV 07 Feb 2017 -- Russia has refuted reports about its alleged role in air raids on Syrian city of Idlib, saying its jets have not targeted the militant-held northwestern city since the start of 2017.
In Syria, The Rebels Turn On Each Other RFE/RL 07 Feb 2017 -- 2017, it seems, will be no less chaotic than its predecessor -- an aphorism made plain by a mere glance at the state of international politics extending from Paris to Washington. But nowhere is this trend clearer than in that most tumultuous of countries, Syria. The end of 2016 saw the fall of the city of Aleppo, the primary stronghold of the rebels battling Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Now, it appears, the rebels are beginning to turn on one another.
Amnesty: Thousands Killed In Mass Hangings At Syrian Military Jail RFE/RL 07 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian government has executed as many as 13,000 people, many of them civilian opposition supporters, in mass hangings at a military jail near Damascus, Amnesty International says.
Russian Tu-22M3 Bombers Demoralize and Strike Fear Into Daesh in Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 07 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian troops in Daesh-besieged Deir ez-Zor have significantly improved their positions thanks to Russian airstrikes, the Russian General Staff said.
'Deliberate Lie': Russian MoD Denies Reports of Airstrikes on Syria's Idlib Sputnik 07 Feb 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry denied Tuesday media reports alleging that the Russian Aerospace Forces carried out an airstrike on the Syrian city of Idlib.
Rights Organization Accuses Syrian Government of Mass Hangings VOA 06 Feb 2017 -- They don't know they are to be hanged, not until the noose is placed around their necks. As they are moved in groups of up to 50 people, they are told they are being transferred to another prison. Some in the "execution room" may still harbor hopes they are to be released and freed from weeks of vicious beatings, sexual violence, starvation and humiliation.
Military Strikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 06 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Syrian army besieges Daesh-held town of Bab Press TV 06 Feb 2017 -- Syrian government troops and their allied forces have laid siege to the town of al-Bab, the largest stronghold of Daesh terrorists in the northeastern countryside of Aleppo, according to a pro-opposition monitoring group.
Russia, Turkey, Iran Discuss Syria Cease-Fire In Kazakhstan Talks RFE/RL 06 Feb 2017 -- Russia, Turkey, and Iran on February 6 discussed the implementation of the cease-fire they brokered in Syria and reportedly agreed to meet again later this month.
Jordan Says Southern Syria Opposition Ready for Cease Fire at Astana Talks Sputnik 06 Feb 2017 -- Representatives of Jordan at the Astana, Kazakhstan talks on the resolution of the Syrian conflict said that the opposition in southern Syria was ready to take part in the ceasefire regime and fight the al-Nusra Front and Daesh militants, Maj. Gen. Stanislav Gadzhimagomedov, the head of the Russian delegation at the Astana meeting, said Monday.
Free Syrian Army Should Expand Battle Against al-Nusra Front - Russian Military Sputnik 06 Feb 2017 -- According to the head of the Russian delegation at Astana talks, the Free Syrian Army should expand its battle against al-Nusra Front.
Syria: UN provides emergency water around Aleppo, as 1.8 million cut off from water supply UN News 06 Feb 2017 -- The United Nations today voiced grave concern about nearly two million Syrians in the area of Aleppo who have been without water for almost a month, as UN agencies are helping to provide emergency access to some of the people in need.
Syrian Army Liberated 32 Daesh-Occupied Settlements in 2017 Sputnik 05 Feb 2017 -- The number of settlements liberated since January 1, 2017 by the Syrian government forces from the Daesh international terrorist organization has increased up to 32, according to the statement of the Russian Defense Ministry.
Assad Extends Amnesty Decree for Surrendering Militants Until End of June Sputnik 05 Feb 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad extended a decree on amnesty for militants who surrender and hand over their weapons until the end of June.
Coalition Strikes Target ISIL in Syria, Iraq AFPS 05 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Syrian forces retake control of strategic town near Aleppo Press TV 05 Feb 2017 -- Syrian forces have managed to retake control of a strategic town near the city of Aleppo in the northern part of the Arab country.
Syrian army pushes to retake control of oil, gas wells Press TV 05 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian military has launched an operation to win back control of oil and gas wells in a push to choke off the sources of funding for foreign-backed terrorist groups.
Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 04 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Syria militants start new operation against Daesh in Raqqah Press TV 04 Feb 2017 -- A US-backed militant group in Syria has started the third phase of an operation against Daesh Takfiri terrorists to advance towards the northern city of Raqqah.
UN Refugee Chief Doubtful About Trump Plan For 'Safe Zones' In Syria RFE/RL 04 Feb 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has said he wants to establish safe zones for refugees in Syria to discourage them from fleeing to other countries, but a top United Nations official says that won't work.
Around 30,000 Syrians Flee Al Bab Amid Massive Anti-Daesh Operation - UN Sputnik 03 Feb 2017 -- Amid anti-Daesh military operation in Aleppo province, the United Nations has registered a mass exodus of civilians from the town of al Bab, who fled to other districts of the province.
SDF Hopeful to Receive More US Weapons as 'Promised by Trump' Sputnik 03 Feb 2017 -- Lately, the press has been actively discussing the new US administration's will to possibly increase the military aid to Kurdish forces in order to accelerate the fight against Daesh in Syria. A spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which forms the backbone of the Kurdish self-defense units, Talal Sulo spoke with Sputnik about this.
Russian Long-Range Bombers Strike Terrorist Targets in Syria's Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 03 Feb 2017 -- Russian long-range Tu-22M3 bombers have continued striking terrorist targets in Syria's province of Deir ez-Zor.
Counter-ISIL Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 03 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Lebanon's president urges 'safe zones' for refugees in coordination with Syria Press TV 03 Feb 2017 -- Lebanon's President Michel Aoun has urged the international community to facilitate the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland by setting up a series of "safe zones" in coordination with the government in Damascus.
Syrian army forces make advances in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 03 Feb 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers and allied popular defense groups have gained more grounds in Dayr al-Zawr as they are trying to flush Daesh Takfiri terrorists and other foreign-sponsored militants out of the strategic eastern city.
Military Strikes Target ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 02 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Scores killed in Turkish airstrikes in north Syria Press TV 02 Feb 2017 -- At least 51 people have been killed in Turkish airstrikes in northern Syria where Ankara has deployed forces and occupied land with the help of militants.
Syria writes to UN condemns Turkey's attacks near al-Bab Press TV 02 Feb 2017 -- Syria has strongly denounced Turkey's recent attacks near the flashpoint town of al-Bab, calling on the United Nations to assume its responsibilities and put an end to the violation of the Arab country's sovereignty.
Trump Proposal for Safe Zones in Syria Should Be Coordinated With Syrian Gov't Sputnik 02 Feb 2017 -- US President Donald Trump's recent proposal on creating safe zones for civilians in Syria should be coordinated with the Syrian government directly or through Moscow, which coordinates its actions on the Syrian territory with Damascus, member of the Syrian parliament Mohammed Kheir Jasim Nadir told Sputnik.
Syrian Army Conducts 'Lightning Military Operation' Against Daesh Near Palmyra Sputnik 02 Feb 2017 -- The field commander of the Syrian Army announced on Wednesday that the army has liberated new territories in the eastern part of Homs province.
US Supplies First Armored Vehicles to Syrian Fighters VOA 01 Feb 2017 -- The United States has provided Syrian fighters battling the Islamic State group with armored vehicles for the first time, a spokesman for U.S. Central Command told VOA.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Col. Dorrian via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 01 Feb 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel John Dorrian, Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman
Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 01 Feb 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Hundreds of militants hand over weapons to Syrian government forces Press TV 01 Feb 2017 -- Hundreds of foreign-backed militants have handed over their weapons to Syrian government forces in a strategic area northwest of Damascus.
Syrian Armed Opposition to Attend Peace Talks on Condition of Power Transfer Sputnik 01 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian armed opposition announced on Wednesday it would not accept an invitation for intra-Syrian peace talks unless they would result in a full transfer of power to a transitional governing body in the war-torn country.
US Armored Vehicles Delivery to Syrian Arab Coalition Approved by Obama Sputnik 01 Feb 2017 -- The United States has supplied the Syrian Arab Coalition with up-armored vehicles under an authorization from the administration of President Barack Obama, Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman John Dorrian said in a briefing on Wednesday.
SDF Commander: Coalition Forces Supply Weapons, Fight With Us Against Daesh Sputnik 01 Feb 2017 -- The US has transferred weapons to Kurdish fighters as part of aid in an operation to liberate Raqqa, Syria from Daesh, according to some media reports.
Kurdish YPG Militia Refutes Reports of Receiving Arms From US-Led Coalition Sputnik 01 Feb 2017 -- The Syrian Kurdish Popular Defense Units (YPG) militia denies reports that the US-led coalition had supplied them with weapons to help in the anti-Daesh offensive, the group's spokesman, Redur Khalil, said in a statement obtained by Sputnik on Wednesday.
Think of those fleeing Syria and elsewhere not with fear but with open arms and open heart - UN agency chief UN News 01 Feb 2017 -- Expressing shock at the scale of the devastation in war-ravaged city of Aleppo, the top United Nations refugee official today made an impassioned plea for the world to stand in solidarity with those suffering from the effects of conflict there in Syria, as well as in other places such as Iraq, Somalia and Yemen.
Syria: UN, Security Council welcome Astana talks and look forward to intra-Syrian negotiations UN News 01 Feb 2017 -- The United Nations and the Security Council have welcomed the international talks on Syria held in the Kazakh capital of Astana, and, in separate accounts to the press, said they look forward to the resumption of the intra-Syrian negotiations.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

February 2017 - Syria Special Weapons News