Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Further Reading

• Israeli aircraft bombs Syrian army positions in occupied Golan Press TV 30 Jun 2017 -- An Israeli unmanned aerial vehicle has reportedly targeted Syrian army positions in Golan Heights after a projectile allegedly fired from Syria landed in the occupied territory.
• Counter-ISIS Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 30 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 34 strikes consisting of 90 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 30 Jun 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
• Daesh terrorists pull out of Syria's Aleppo Province Press TV 30 Jun 2017 -- Members of the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group have withdrawn from Syria's northwestern province of Aleppo as government forces, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, are making territorial gain against the extremists and other foreign-sponsored militants in the region.
• UN Registers Over 440,000 Refugees Return to Syria Amid Ongoing Conflict Sputnik 30 Jun 2017 -- Aid agencies estimate that more than 440,000 internally displaced people have returned to their homes in Syria during the first six months of this year, according to the statement of the UN refugee agency (UNHCR).
• Challenges abound as 'significant' numbers of displaced return within Syria, warns UNHCR UN News 30 Jun 2017 -- Citing "significant" returns of displaced persons to and within Syria, the United Nations refugee agency said today that while it will be scaling up its response to assist those coming back, it can neither promote nor facilitate returns given the security and humanitarian situation in the war-torn country.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via Teleconference From Baghdad, Iraq DoD 29 Jun 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Captain Jeff Davis, Director, Defense Press Office
• OIR Spokesman: ISIS Cannot Stop Coalition's Progress AFPS 29 Jun 2017 -- The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria is on the run in Syria and Iraq and the terrorist group can't stop the progress that coalition-partnered Iraqi and Syrian forces have made over the past two years, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman Army Col. Ryan Dillon told Pentagon reporters today during a video conference from Baghdad.
• Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 29 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 24 strikes consisting of 49 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US-backed militants take last road into Syria's Raqqah Press TV 29 Jun 2017 -- The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed group of mostly Kurdish forces, has recaptured the last road into Syria's northern city of Raqqah, the de facto capital of the Daesh terrorist group in the Arab country.
• Daesh Leader Baghdadi Likely Dead After Russian Strike in May - Russian Lawmaker Sputnik 29 Jun 2017 -- Russian lawmaker Alexei Pushkov stated that according to the data of the Russian side the probability of Daesh leader al-Baghdadi's death after Russian airstrikes is about 100 percent.
• US-Backed Syrian Fighters Warn of Open Warfare with Turkish Forces Sputnik 29 Jun 2017 -- An official with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the coalition of US-backed militants with the stated goal of creating a secular, democratic, federalized Syria, said that the SDF sees a "big possibility of open, fierce confrontation" with Turkish forces in northwestern Syria. This comes after the two sides exchanged fire on Wednesday.
• Iranian Revolutionary Guard Confirms Daesh Chief Baghdadi is Dead Sputnik 29 Jun 2017 -- The elite Iranian Revolutionary Guard verified the death of Daesh mastermind Abu Bakr al-Bagdhadi "through multiple channels," a representative said Thursday.
• Delays in access in Syria 'will mean further death,' warns top UN relief official UN News 29 Jun 2017 -- Citing attacks against aid workers in Syria, the removal of live-saving supplies from convoys and bureaucratic impediments restricting access, the United Nations Emergency Relief Coordinator has called for ensuring immediate and safe humanitarian access to save lives that are dependent on assistance.
• Report: Raqqa Completely Encircled by US-backed Forces VOA 29 Jun 2017 -- The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have fully encircled Raqqa, which serves as the de-facto capital of the Islamic State group in Syria, cutting off the jihadist group's last route out of the city, according to a monitoring group.
• Kurds in Northern Syria Fear New Turkish Incursion VOA 28 Jun 2017 -- Kurdish officials say they have spotted increasing numbers of Turkish troops and military equipment gathering on the border after Turkey's president threatened to send his forces into northern Syria to pursue groups that Turkey sees as supporters of Kurdish militants.
• Military Strikes Hit ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 28 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 32 strikes consisting of 75 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Possible Sputnik 28 Jun 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Ankara is ready to launch a new military campaign similar to the Operation Euphrates Shield in northern Syria.
• Turkey: Military Returned Fire Against Syrian Kurds VOA 28 Jun 2017 -- Turkey's military said Wednesday its forces destroyed Syrian Kurdish targets overnight in retaliation for artillery fire against Turkish-backed forces in northern Syria.
• UN urges protection of 100k civilians trapped in Syria's Raqqah Press TV 28 Jun 2017 -- The United Nations human rights chief says as many as 100,000 civilians are trapped in Syria's Raqqah province, urging all sides fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, "including international forces", to spare their lives.
• Russia cautions US against unilateral action in Syria in wake of new claims Press TV 28 Jun 2017 -- Russia has cautioned the US against any unilateral action in Syria after Washington claimed Damascus may be preparing for a chemical attack.
• Turkey says returned fire on Kurdish YPG militants in Syria Press TV 28 Jun 2017 -- The Turkish military claims it has fired back at US-backed Kurdish militia after they targeted the anti-Damascus militants it supports in Syria.
• U.S. Defense Secretary Says Syria Appears To Have Heeded Warning On Chemical Attack RFE/RL 28 Jun 2017 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has said that Syria appears to have heeded a U.S. warning against launching a new chemical attack, as Russia accused the United States of "bellicose rhetoric."
• Civilians must not be sacrificed for military victories - UN rights chief, as thousands trapped in Raqqa UN News 28 Jun 2017 -- Voicing grave concern over the fate of as many as 100,000 civilians "effectively trapped" in Syria's Raqqa governorate amid the ongoing offensive against Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh) fighters, the top United Nations rights official urged all parties to the conflict to enact measures to allow civilians who wish to flee the fighting to do so in safety.
• Mattis: Assad Heeded US Warning Against Chemical Weapons VOA 28 Jun 2017 -- Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Wednesday that Syria appears to have heeded a U.S. warning to not to use chemical weapons.
• Shamkhani dismisses US' "vain" claims on Syria IRNA 28 Jun 2017 -- Secretary General of Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Shamkhani dismissed the US' "vain" claims that Damascus intended to use chemical weapons, noting that the allegations are in line with confronting decisive advancement of the Syrian army.
• US playing with fire in Syria, warns senior Iranian official Press TV 28 Jun 2017 -- A senior Iranian official has rejected US claims that Syria may be preparing for a chemical attack, warning that Washington is playing with fire in the Arab country.
• Battered by US Airstrikes, IS Tries New Strategy in Raqqa VOA 27 Jun 2017 -- With Islamic State in disarray in Raqqa, its fighters are switching to small-scale suicide attacks to fend off a rapid offensive by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and a stream of coalition airstrikes, SDF commanders say.
• UN envoy maps out 'ideal trajectory' to next round of intra-Syrian talks in Geneva UN News 27 Jun 2017 -- The United Nations mediator for the conflict in Syria today mapped out what needs to happen in the next two weeks before the next round of intra-Syrian peace talks begins on 10 July in Geneva, Switzerland.
• US Observes Activity at Syrian Air Base Used in Chemical Attack VOA 27 Jun 2017 -- The United States says it has detected potential preparations for a chemical attack at Syria's Shayrat airfield, which was used in April to launch a chemical attack that killed more than 80 people in Khan Sheikhoun.
• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 27 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 31 strikes consisting of 45 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian president visits Russian-run air base in Latakia Press TV 27 Jun 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has paid a visit to a Russian-run air base in the country's western coastal province of Latakia, from which Russian fighter jets conduct airstrikes against Daesh terrorists and foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants.
• US to keep arming Syria Kurds after Raqqah: Mattis Press TV 27 Jun 2017 -- Defense Secretary James Mattis says the United States will continue to provide weapons to Kurdish fighters in Syria after the campaign to dislodge Daesh (ISIL) terrorists from Raqqah is over, an announcement that would further infuriate Turkey.
• Russia dismisses US warning on chemical attack by Syrian government Press TV 27 Jun 2017 -- Russia has dismissed a warning by the White House that the Syrian government is making "preparations" for a new chemical attack, saying such allegations are unacceptable.
• US official threatens Syria over 'gas attack plan' Press TV 27 Jun 2017 -- The White House has accused Syria of preparing to stage a chemical attack in the Arab country, threatening that the US would make Damascus pay "a heavy price."
• Pentagon Says Syria May Be Preparing Chemical Attack RFE/RL 27 Jun 2017 -- The Pentagon says the United States has seen evidence of what appeared to be active preparations by Syrian government forces for a possible chemical-weapons attack.
• White House Says Relevant US Agencies Involved in Syria Chemical Weapons Claim Sputnik 27 Jun 2017 -- All relevant US government agencies participated in the assessment of the situation in Syria prior to White House's announcement that there may be potentially new chemical attacks in that country, a White House official said on Tuesday.
• US Hopes Russia, Iran to Take 'Second Look' at Potential Syrian Chemical Sputnik 27 Jun 2017 -- The US ambassador to the UN hopes that Russia and Iran will take a second look at the alleged use of chemical weapons by the Syrian government.
• Free Syrian Army Against Iranian Troops' Deployment to Safe Zones Sputnik 27 Jun 2017 -- The armed Syrian opposition has not received official information on possible deployment of troops from different countries to the de-escalation zones, while the Free Syrian Army is against the deployment of Iranian servicemen, a member of the armed opposition delegation told Sputnik.
• Syrian army forces seize areas in Homs, Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 26 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have continued to progress in the country's central provinces of Homs and Dayr al-Zawr, killing scores of foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants during their counter-terrorism operations.
• Statement from the Press Secretary The White House 26 Jun 2017
• Military Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 26 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 21 strikes consisting of 75 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syria warns of 'serious repercussions' after Israeli airstrikes Press TV 26 Jun 2017 -- Syria's army has warned Israel against "serious repercussions" of further attacks on the Arab country following airstrikes conducted against its territory.
• U.S.-Backed SDF Captures District In Campaign Against IS In Raqqa RFE/RL 26 Jun 2017 -- A U.S.-backed Arab-Kurd coalition fighting Islamic State (IS) militants near Raqqa has captured the district of Al-Qadisia outside of the extremists' self-declared capital in Syria, military officials say.
• US-backed Kurdish forces liberate key region in Syria's Raqqah Press TV 25 Jun 2017 -- US-backed Kurdish forces in Syria have liberated a key district in Raqqah from the Daesh terrorists.
• Israel airstrikes hit Syrian army positions in Golan Heights for 2nd day Press TV 25 Jun 2017 -- The Israeli military has carried out a string of aerial assaults against the positions of the Syrian government forces in Golan Heights for the second consecutive day after several projectiles allegedly fired from Syria landed in the occupied territory.
• Israeli Forces Target Syrian Army Again After Projectiles Fall in Golan Heights Sputnik 25 Jun 2017 -- The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) attacked the Syrian army positions for the second time this week after projectiles from Syrian territory again fell in the Israeli-controlled part of the Golan Heights.
• Counter-ISIS Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 25 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 37 strikes consisting of 79 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• IRGC missile hits Daesh gas tanker IRNA 25 Jun 2017 -- The commander of Aerospace Force of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution (IRGC) said on Sunday that one of the missiles hit the target and a gas tank that caused a huge fire.
• Turkey's Erdogan rejects pledges over weapons for Kurdish fighters in Syria Press TV 25 Jun 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says those countries that promised Ankara to get back weapons supplied to the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) once the militiamen accomplished their alleged counter-terror mission in Syria are actually trying to trick Turkey and would eventually realize their mistake.
• Israel, Nusra target Syria's Golan simultaneously: Army source Press TV 25 Jun 2017 -- A Syrian military source says Israel's airstrikes on the Golan Heights on Saturday coincided with a push by Nusra Front terrorists against army positions, which was aborted.
• Syrian Army Takes Israeli Fire After Repel of Al-Nusra Assault Near Quneitra Sputnik 25 Jun 2017 -- Israel conducted another attack on the positions of the Syrian Armed Forces in Golan Heights, the Syrian army said Sunday in a statement.
• Israel strikes Syrian tanks, post in occupied Golan Heights Press TV 24 Jun 2017 -- Israeli fighter jets have carried out a series of airstrikes against a number of Syrian army targets near the Golan Heights after several mortar shells exploded in an open area in the occupied territory.
• Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 24 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 34 strikes consisting of 85 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Turkey after 'joint mechanism' with US to collect arms from Syrian Kurds Press TV 24 Jun 2017 -- Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik says Ankara wants a "joint mechanism" with Washington to take back weapons supplied to the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) once the US-backed militiamen manage to drive Daesh Takfiri terrorists out of Syria's northern city of Raqqah.
• Syrian forces advance on Daesh-held Dayr al-Zawr province Press TV 24 Jun 2017 -- Syrian army forces, supported by allied fighters, have reportedly managed to advance on the Daesh-held eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr for the first time since 2014 days after an Iranian missile strike against terrorist positions there.
• Syrian Airstrike Eliminates 20 Daesh Terrorists in Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 24 Jun 2017 -- In a push to liberate the part of Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor held by radical Islamists from Daesh group, the government forces conducted an airstrike that killed 20 terrorists.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 23 Jun 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Captain Jeff Davis, Director, Defense Press Office
• Coalition Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 23 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 32 strikes consisting of 103 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Coalition Forces Kill ISIS Financial Facilitator AFPS 23 Jun 2017 -- Coalition forces killed a key Islamic State of Iraq and Syria financial facilitator with an airstrike in Abu Kamal, Syria, June 16, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials announced today.
• US strikes killed 500 civilians in Syria last month: Monitor Press TV 23 Jun 2017 -- A London-based monitor says US airstrikes on two Syrian provinces killed 472 civilians last month, more than double a previous 30-day toll.
• Russia fires cruise missiles at Daesh in Syria, doesn't inform US Press TV 23 Jun 2017 -- Russian vessels deployed to the Mediterranean have fired cruise missiles at Daesh targets inside Syria, the Russian Defense Ministry says.
• Kazakhstan Denies Talks On Sending Troops To Syria RFE/RL 23 Jun 2017 -- Kazakhstan has refuted reports of talks with Russia on the possibility of its troops taking part in a mechanism to monitor the so-called "de-escalation" agreement in Syria.
• Daesh Transferring Militants to Hama Province Via Various Routes - MoD Sputnik 23 Jun 2017 -- Russian troops in Syria are closely monitoring jihadists' movements in the area with the use of all means of intelligence.
• Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Denies Talks Underway to Send Troops to Syria Sputnik 23 Jun 2017 -- Astana is not negotiating with any political power over sending Kazakh troops to Syria, the country's foreign minister said on Friday.
• Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 22 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 20 strikes consisting of 112 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Ankara sends reinforcements for Turkey-backed militants in Syria Press TV 22 Jun 2017 -- Turkey has deployed military reinforcements, including soldiers, vehicles, and equipment to northern Syria, says a UK-based monitoring group.
• Daesh leader al-Baghdadi 'highly likely' eliminated: Russian Foreign Ministry Press TV 22 Jun 2017 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry says it is "highly likely" that the leader of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, Ibrahim al-Samarrai aka Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, has been killed in an airstrike carried out by the Russian Air Force in Syria last month.
• US to take back weapons from Syrian Kurds after Daesh routed, Mattis tells Turkey Press TV 22 Jun 2017 -- US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has told Turkey that the Pentagon will take back weapons supplied to the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) once the Washington-backed militiamen manage to drive Daesh Takfiri terrorists out of Syria's northern city of Raqqah.
• Australia resumes aerial missions over Syria Press TV 22 Jun 2017 -- Australia has resumed aerial missions over Syria two days after it suspended them amid rising tensions between a US-led coalition and the Russian military in the Arab country.
• Turkish, Russian Troops May Be Present in Idlib De-escalation Zone Sputnik 22 Jun 2017 -- Turkish presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said that the Russian side had put forward a proposal to send servicemen from Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan to de-escalation zones in Syria.
• Russia in Talks With Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan to Send Servicemen to Syria Sputnik 22 Jun 2017 -- The head of the defense committee of the State Duma, the lower house of Russia's parliament, Vladimir Shamanov, on Thursday confirmed to Sputnik that Russia was holding talks with Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to send their servicemen to Syria.
• Syrian Opposition, Lavrov Discussed Ceasefire, Geneva, Astana Talks Sputnik 22 Jun 2017 -- Members of the Syrian opposition have discussed the implementation of Syria's ceasefire, and continuation of negotiations in both the Geneva and Astana formats with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Syria's Tomorrow Movement leader Ahmad Jarba said Thursday.
• Iran Escalates Involvement in Syria With Anti-IS Missile Strike VOA 21 Jun 2017 -- Iran's missile strike this week against Islamic State targets in Syria is escalating its military involvement in Syria and likely will heighten tensions between the U.S.-led coalition and Russian and Iranian forces aligned with the Syrian regime, analysts say.
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 21 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 14 strikes consisting of 44 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• U.S. Shoots Down Armed, Iranian-Made Drone Over Syria Amid Russian Protests RFE/RL 21 Jun 2017 -- The U.S. military says it has shot down an armed, Iranian-made drone that was bearing down on its forces near a garrison in Syria's southeast.
• Syrian forces make fresh gains on Damascus outskirts Press TV 21 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government soldiers have made great achievements in their operations on the eastern outskirts of the capital, and managed to take back territory from foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants.
• Protection of civilians in Syria must be ensured, stresses UN chief Guterres UN News 21 Jun 2017 -- Expressing alarm over the suffering of people Syria, in particular those in Raqqa and in other locations where fighting continues, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on all those conducting military operations in the country to ensure the safety and protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
• UN Chief Calls for Protection of Civilians in Raqqa VOA 21 Jun 2017 -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday called for special consideration to be taken for civilians trapped in Raqqa, Syria, as U.S.-backed forces prepare to take action to remove Islamic State jihadists from the city.
• Officials Provide Details of Latest Counter-ISIS Strikes AFPS 20 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 15 strikes consisting of 69 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US working to restore 'deconfliction' line with Russia over Syria Press TV 20 Jun 2017 -- The top American general says the US is working to restore a communications line with Russia intended to avoid mid-air collisions over Syria, after Moscow cut it off following the US downing of a Syrian military jet on Sunday.
• Pentagon Seeks To Cool Tensions With Russia After Clash Over Jet Downing RFE/RL 20 Jun 2017 -- The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the top-ranking U.S. military officer, said on June 19 that the United States is working to reestablish communications with Russia's military that Moscow said it had severed after an American jet shot down a Syrian warplane.
• US F-15 Shoots Down Pro-Syrian Government Armed Drone Near al-Tanf Sputnik 20 Jun 2017 -- The United States continues attacking pro-government forces in Syria.
• US Downs Armed, Iranian-made Drone Over Southern Syria VOA 20 Jun 2017 -- A United States fighter jet shot down an armed, pro-Syrian regime drone early Tuesday, as the drone advanced on coalition forces in southern Syria, military officials said.
• Australia suspends operations in US-led coalition in Syria after Syrian jet hit Press TV 20 Jun 2017 -- Australia has suspended its cooperation with a United States-led coalition in Syria out of apparent concern that the US's recent downing of a Syrian fighter jet may escalate the situation in the Arab country to its disadvantage.
• Downing of Syrian jet proves US support for terrorism: Damascus Press TV 20 Jun 2017 -- Damascus has written to the United Nations, saying the recent US downing of a Syrian air force jet shows beyond any doubt Washington's backing for terrorism.
• Australia Suspends Airstrikes in Syria After US Downs Syrian Jet Sputnik 20 Jun 2017 -- According to media reports, Australian Defence Force strike operations into Syria have temporarily ceased.
• Australia Suspends Syria Airstrikes Amid US-Russia Tensions VOA 20 Jun 2017 -- Australia announced Tuesday it has temporarily suspended airstrikes by its forces in Syria.
• US Reacts Forcefully to Russian Threat to Treat US Planes in Syria as 'Targets' VOA 19 Jun 2017 -- The United States has responded forcefully to Russia’s threat to treat U.S.-led coalition planes in the skies over Syria as targets, as tensions escalate in the 6-year Syrian conflict.
• Counter-ISIS Strikes Continue; U.S. Super Hornet Downs Syrian Jet AFPS 19 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 22 strikes consisting of 89 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Russia to Treat US Planes in Syria as 'Targets' VOA 19 Jun 2017 -- Russia says it will now treat all U.S.-led coalition planes in the air over Syria, west of the Euphrates, as targets after an American fighter jet for the first time in the six-year conflict shot down a Syrian military plane.
• US-Led Coalition Refuses to Disclose Aircraft Re-Position Details in Syria Sputnik 19 Jun 2017 -- The US-led coalition will not specify details on re-positioning of its aircraft in Syria in the aftermath of incidents involving pro-Syrian government forces, Operation Inherent Resolve spokesperson told Sputnik on Monday.
• Russia blasts US shooting down of Syrian jet as violation of intl. law Press TV 19 Jun 2017 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov has strongly condemned the United States for shooting down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet in Syria's militant-held northern province of Raqqah as a "massive violation of international law and de facto military aggression."
• US Sends Armored Vehicles, Machine Guns to Syrian Rebels Sputnik 19 Jun 2017 -- According to information from sources in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) the United States has delivered a seventh round of heavy weapons and armored vehicles to the forces.
• Syrian Army Frees Ancient City of Sergiopolis Near Raqqa From Daesh Sputnik 19 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government troops have regained control over the historical complex of the ancient city of Sergiopolis, known as Resafa in Arabic, which is located just southwest of the city of Raqqa, an informed source on-the-spot told Sputnik on Monday.
• Lavrov Urges US to Respect Syrian Sovereignty After Attack on Syrian Army Jet Sputnik 19 Jun 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov commented on the US-led coalition's attack on a Syrian army's warplane in Raqqa.
• Russia Issues Blunt Warning After Coalition Downs Syrian Jet RFE/RL 18 Jun 2017 -- Russia has warned that it will consider U.S.-led coalition aircraft in Syria "aerial targets" after a U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian Air Force plane.
• Coalition Defends Partner Forces from Syrian Fighter Jet Attack NNS 18 Jun 2017 -- At approximately 4:30 p.m. Syria time, June 18, Pro-Syrian regime forces attacked the Syrian Democratic Forces-held town of Ja'Din, South of Tabqah, wounding a number of SDF fighters and driving the SDF from the town.
• US Fighter Jet Downs Syrian Warplane VOA 18 Jun 2017 -- A U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane Sunday after it reportedly bombed U.S.-backed fighters battling Islamic State.
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 18 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 25 strikes consisting of 46 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian, Iraqi army troops meet up at border for first time in years Press TV 18 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government soldiers, backed by volunteer fighters from popular defense groups, have linked up with Iraqi army troops for the first time in years after they took control of a vast territory in Syria's semi-arid southeastern region of al-Badiya.
• US-Led Coalition Shoots Down Syrian Army Aircraft - Reports Sputnik 18 Jun 2017 -- US-led anti-terrorist coalition has reportedly shot down a Syrian government forces' aircraft.
• Syrian Militants Supported by Turkish Army Conduct Offensive in Aleppo Province Sputnik 18 Jun 2017 -- A Kurdish source told Sputnik that Syrian militants conduct an offensive to the north of Afrin in the Aleppo province with the support of the Turkish army.
• Germany Reveals When Its Jets Will Resume Flights Over Syria Sputnik 18 Jun 2017 -- German Tornado fighter jets will resume their flights over Syria in October after the relocation of the Bundeswehr military detachment from Incirlik base in Turkey to Jordan, German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen said in an interview with German newspaper BILD am SONNTAG.
• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 17 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 43 strikes consisting of 83 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian army declares 48-hour combat cessation in southern city Press TV 17 Jun 2017 -- The Syrian military has announced the cessation of hostilities in the southern city of Dara'a for 48 hours in support of national reconciliation efforts meant to secure civilian lives and give an opportunity to foreign-sponsored militants to lay down their arms.
• Syria Declares 48-Hour Cease-Fire In Daraa RFE/RL 17 Jun 2017 -- The Syrian Army has declared a 48-hour cease-fire in its operations against antigovernment rebels around the southern city of Daraa.
• Russian Warplanes Foil Daesh Attack in Deir ez-Zor, Eliminate 180 Terrorists Sputnik 17 Jun 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry said Saturday that the Russian warplanes have foiled a massive Daesh attack on the Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor earlier in June.
• Syrian Army Suspends Combat Operations in City of Daraa for 48 Hours - Reports Sputnik 17 Jun 2017 -- The Syrian army has ceased combat operations against militants in country's southwestern city of Daraa for 48 hours in order to support ceasefire efforts, local media reported Saturday, citing the army command.
• US Cautious But Hopeful About New Syria Cease-fire VOA 17 Jun 2017 -- The United States supports a 48-hour cease-fire declared by the Syrian army in southern Syria but says it will wait to see what happens before judging its effectiveness.
• US-led Coalition Closely Monitoring Turkish Training of Syrian Militia VOA 16 Jun 2017 -- The U.S.-led coalition in Syria is closely monitoring Turkey's arming and training of a Syrian militia in northern Syria and asking Turkey instead to return the region to control of local residents, coalition sources told VOA.
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 16 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 35 strikes consisting of 84 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US-led strike kills 4 Syrian civilians in Daesh-held Raqqah Press TV 16 Jun 2017 -- A so-called monitoring group says at least four civilians have lost their lives when the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group carried out an aerial attack in Syria's militant-held northern province of Raqqah.
• Russian airstrike may have killed IS leader in Syria, says Defense Ministry People's Daily 16 Jun 2017 -- A Russian airstrike may have killed Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in northern Syria on May 28, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday.
• Russia: Airstrike may have killed Daesh leader Press TV 16 Jun 2017 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says its airstrike may have killed Daesh leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in the Syrian city of Raqqah.
• Russia Says It May Have Killed IS Leader Baghdadi In Air Strike RFE/RL 16 Jun 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says the leader of the extremist group Islamic State (IS), Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, may have been killed in a Russian air strike in Syria late last month.
• A Step Closer to Victory: Russian Airstrike Reportedly Decapitates Daesh Sputnik 16 Jun 2017 -- On Friday, the Russian Defense Ministry said that the Russian aerospace forces' strike conducted on May 28 allegedly killed Daesh leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi south of Raqqa. The report is yet to be confirmed.
• Raging Battle: Why 'Liberation of Raqqa Could Take Months' Sputnik 16 Jun 2017 -- The representative of the Kurdish self-defense units (YPG), Nuri Mahmoud in an interview with Sputnik Turkey revealed the details of ongoing operation in Raqqa.
• UNICEF-backed projects for millions of children in Syria on verge of being 'cut off' UN News 16 Jun 2017 -- Programmes supported by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) to assist more than nine million children in Syria and neighbouring countries are on the verge of being cut off due to a critical funding shortage.
• UN refugee agency urges sustained access as civilians flee Raqqa fighting UN News 16 Jun 2017 -- As fighting in and around the Syrian city of Raqqa continues to take a toll on civilians and displaces thousands every day, the United Nations refugee agency has called for greater and sustained access to that it can reach those in desperate need of humanitarian assistance.
• What We Know About Daesh Terrorist Group Leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi Sputnik 16 Jun 2017 -- The leader of the Daesh terrorist organization (outlawed in numerous countries) Ibrahim Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi may have been killed in an airstrike conducted by Russian Aerospace Forces on May 28, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday, adding that it was verifying the information.
• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 15 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 28 strikes consisting of 67 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US relocates long-range rocket system from Jordan to Syria Press TV 15 Jun 2017 -- The US army has relocated a new truck-mounted, long-range missile launcher from Jordan to a base in Syria's al-Tanf, says an intelligence source.
• US-Deployed HIMARS Artillery in Syria Could Strike Pro-Gov't Forces - Moscow Sputnik 15 Jun 2017 -- The United States has redeployed HIMARS rocket artillery from Jordan to Syria, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday.
• Putin announces plans to reinforce Syrian army Press TV 15 Jun 2017 -- President Vladimir Putin has announced Russia's "medium-term" plans to beef up the Syrian army that is battling foreign-backed terrorist groups.
• Russian Troops to Be Able to Return to Hmeymim, Tartus Syria Bases in 2018 Sputnik 15 Jun 2017 -- First Deputy Chairman of the Russian Federation Council's Committee on Defense and Security Frants Klintsevich said that Russian servicemen may limit their deployment locations to only Hmeymim and Tartus bases in Syria as early as next year.
• Fighting, Red Tape Prevent Humanitarian Aid Deliveries in Syria VOA 15 Jun 2017 -- A Senior United Nations official says intense fighting in Syria and bureaucratic red tape are impeding the delivery of desperately needed humanitarian assistance to hundreds of thousands of people trapped in besieged areas.
• Head of UN human rights inquiry decries 'disastrous' civilian death toll in Syria UN News 14 Jun 2017 -- Conflict in Syria continues to rage with "disastrous consequences" for civilians who continue to bear the brunt of the six-year war, the head of a United Nations-mandated human rights investigation said today.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Major General Joseph Martin via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 14 Jun 2017 -- Presenter: Major General Joseph Martin, Commanding General, Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command-Operation Inherent Resolve; Captain Jeff Davis, Director, Defense Press Office
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 14 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 31 strikes consisting of 50 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian delegation in Baghdad discusses border security Press TV 14 Jun 2017 -- A high-level delegation from the Syrian Defense Ministry has held talks in Baghdad with Iraqi officials on border security to coordinate the ongoing fight against the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group.
• 'Half of Raqqa Residents' Flee as Kurds Rush to Liberate Terrorist 'Capital' Sputnik 14 Jun 2017 -- Half of the residents of Raqqa have been forced to leave the city amid the operation to drive out Daesh, SDF commander Abdulaziz Yunus told Sputnik.
• 'Fragile Peace' in Syria's Aleppo is Threatened by Terrorist Clusters Sputnik 14 Jun 2017 -- Extremists are present to the west and the north of Aleppo, the Russian military said.
• Syria Safe Zones Lead to 'Discernible Reduction in Levels of Violence' - UN Sputnik 14 Jun 2017 -- The de-escalation zones established by Russia, Iran and Turkey in Syria have led to "a discernible reduction in levels of violence", a UN commission said.
• Why Islamic State Chose Raqqa as Its Syrian Capital VOA 14 Jun 2017 -- U.S.-backed forces are continuing their assault on the Islamic State's stronghold of Raqqa. Here's a look at Raqqa and how IS turned the city into its de facto capital in Syria.
• Syrian Civilians, Infrastructure Targeted by Warring Parties VOA 14 Jun 2017 -- The Commission of Inquiry on Syria finds civilians and civilian infrastructure continue to be deliberately targeted by the warring factions, with complete disregard for international law that calls for the protection of civilians in conflict.
• Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Iraq, Syria AFPS 13 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 37 strikes consisting of 65 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian army, allied forces capture key towns west of Raqqah Press TV 13 Jun 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers backed by fighters from the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah have managed to liberate several key towns in the desert area west of Raqqah from Daesh Takfiri terrorists as they continue to score more territorial gains in battles against extremists across the Arab country.
• HRW accuses US, allies of using child soldiers to recapture Raqqah Press TV 13 Jun 2017 -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the US-led coalition and its local allies of using child soldiers during their major offensive to recapture the northern Syrian city of Raqqah from the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group.
• Tillerson: Trump Has No Authorization to Target Assad, Iranian Proxies in Syria Sputnik 13 Jun 2017 -- President Trump has no Congressional authorization to order strikes against Damascus or Iran's proxies in Syria, according to Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.
• Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS in Iraq, Syria AFPS 12 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 36 strikes consisting of 64 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 12 Jun 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
• Qasemi: US measures in Syria suspicious IRNA 12 Jun 2017 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said on Monday that the US measures in Syria are suspicious to some extent and their sectional behaviors are not justifiable.
• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria and Iraq AFPS 11 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 34 strikes consisting of 70 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US-backed SDF forces enter Raqqah from western battle front Press TV 10 Jun 2017 -- The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have entered the western regions of Daesh's last stronghold in Syria, Raqqah, says a UK-based monitoring group.
• US-backed SDF militias seize 2nd Raqqah district from Daesh Press TV 11 Jun 2017 -- The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has retaken a second district of Syria's troubled and militant-held northern city of Raqqah from Takfiri Daesh terrorists, and launched a renewed assault on a base north of the city as they press ahead with an offensive against the extremists.
• Experts Skeptical About Reports of Death of al-Baghdadi VOA 11 Jun 2017 -- U.S. military officials say they have no information to confirm or deny a report Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghadi has been killed in an airstrike.
• U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 10 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 27 strikes consisting of 70 engagements], Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian govt. forces hold fifth of strategic desert, reach Iraqi border Press TV 10 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government forces have recaptured more than a fifth of the country's strategic Badiya desert from Daesh Takfiri terrorists, reaching the eastern border with Iraq for the first time since 2015.
• Syrian Army Announces Major Breakthrough Near al-Tanf After Coalition Strikes Sputnik 10 Jun 2017 -- The Syrian government forces have reached the border with Iraq after fighting against Daesh terrorists near al-Tanf in the country's south after Damascus' allies had been bombed by the US-led coalition for the third time in the area, the Syrian Army's command announced.
• Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 09 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 19 strikes consisting of 48 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian government soldiers make new advances against Daesh Press TV 09 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government forces have reportedly managed to establish complete control over dozens of areas across the war-ravaged Arab country following intense clashes with members of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group.
• Syrian Army Drives Daesh Out of Gas Field Near Palmyra Sputnik 09 Jun 2017 -- According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the Syrian army's advance near Palmyra has deprived Daesh terrorists of control over a gas field.
• Russian Forces in Syria Monitoring Situation in Raqqa As Militants Leaving City Sputnik 09 Jun 2017 -- The Russian military group in Syria is closely monitoring the situation in Raqqa, the group's Commander Col. Gen. Sergei Surovikin said Friday.
• Syrian Troops Gain Upper Hand in Aleppo Province Sputnik 09 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government forces have liberated 83 settlements in northeastern parts of the Aleppo province, over 3,000 Daesh terrorists had been eliminated, Commander of the Russian military group in Syria Col. Gen. Sergei Surovikin said on Friday.
• Syrian Democratic Forces Liberate First District of Raqqa From Daesh Sputnik 09 Jun 2017 -- According to information received by Sputnik from a source in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the forces have managed to liberate the 1st District on the outskirts of Raqqa from Daesh.
• Damascus Seizes Strategically Important As Suwayda Heights – Russian Military Sputnik 09 Jun 2017 -- The Syrian Armed Forces took control over the strategically important heights in As Suwayda, Commander of the Russian military group in Syria said on Friday at a press briefing.
• Russian MoD Announces Civil War in Syria Almost Stopped Sputnik 09 Jun 2017 -- The Russian General Staff said that the Syrian civil war has almost stopped.
• US Coalition Bombs Syrian Army, Enhances Terrorists in Palmyra - Russian MoD Sputnik 09 Jun 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry accused the US-led coalition of bombing the Syrian army, letting Daesh terrorists escape encirclement and enhancing terrorists in Palmyra and Deir ez-Zor.
• US Shoots Down Pro-regime Drone that Fired Upon Coalition Forces in Syria VOA 08 Jun 2017 -- A U.S. military aircraft shot down an armed, pro-Syrian government drone Thursday after it fired upon U.S.-led coalition members on patrol in southern Syria, a spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition said.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 08 Jun 2017-- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Captain Jeff Davis, Director, Defense Press Office
• Coalition Progresses in Mosul, Raqqa to Defeat ISIS, Spokesman Says AFPS 08 Jun 2017 -- The fight to defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria extremists is progressing in Mosul, Iraq, and Raqqa, Syria, Army Col. Ryan S. Dillon, spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, told Pentagon reporters today.
• U.S. Shoots Down Unmanned Aircraft That Fired on Coalition Troops in Syria AFPS 08 Jun 2017 -- A U.S. aircraft shot down an armed pro-Syria regime unmanned aerial vehicle today after it fired on coalition forces in southern Syria, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said in a statement.
• Coalition Strikes Target ISIS in Iraq, Syria AFPS 08 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 38 strikes consisting of 75 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Battle for Raqqa Pits US-backed Kurds Against Syrian Government-backed Militias VOA 07 Jun 2017 -- U.S.-backed Kurdish YPG militia forces chanted as they advanced toward the northern outskirts of the Islamic State-held town of Raqqa in northern Syria, attempting to set foot inside the city and dislodge the militant group from its so-called capital.
• Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Iraq, Syria AFPS 07 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 28 strikes consisting of 70 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian Army's Allies Threaten US With Retaliatory Strike After Tuesday Attack Sputnik 07 Jun 2017 -- An operational headquarters of the allied forces of the Syrian government army, which includes the forces of Lebanon's Hezbollah as well as Iran, has threatened the US-led coalition with a retaliatory strike following the latest coalition attack on Damascus positions.
• Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 06 Jun 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
• Coalition Strikes at Pro-Regime Forces in Syria Deconfliction Zone AFPS 06 Jun 2017 -- Coalition forces destroyed additional pro-Syrian regime forces that advanced inside the well-established deconfliction zone in southern Syria today.
• US-backed Syrian Forces Advance in IS Stronghold Raqqa VOA 06 Jun 2017 -- U.S.-backed Syrian forces stormed into Islamic State's de-facto capital of Raqqa on Tuesday, triggering intense combat and signaling the start of what the U.S.-led coalition says will ultimately be the end of IS control in the besieged city.
• Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS in Iraq, Syria AFPS 06 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 40 strikes consisting of 60 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• SDF Begins Raqqa Offensive, Progress Continues in Mosul AFPS 06 Jun 2017 -- The Syrian Democratic Forces and their Syrian Arab Coalition partners launched the offensive to unseat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria from its so-called "capital" of Raqqa in northern Syria today.
• US Apache Helicopters, Marines Provide Support to Raqqa Offensive - Pentagon Sputnik 06 Jun 2017 -- US Department of Defense spokesperson Capt. Jeff Davis said that US Apache helicopters and Marines will take part in the operation to retake Raqqa from the Daesh terrorists assisting the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
• Syrian Defense Commander: IS Struggling to Hold Raqqa VOA 06 Jun 2017 -- Islamic State jihadists struggled Tuesday to remain in control of land in and around Raqqa after holding the territory for more than two years, a leader of the Syrian army told VOA.
• Syrian army crosses into Raqqah province, captures two villages Press TV 06 Jun 2017 -- As the battle for the liberation of areas held by terrorists goes on, the Syrian army has crossed into the province of Raqqah and retaken two villages from the Daesh Takfiri terrorists.
• US-backed SDF announces start of Raqqah operation Press TV 06 Jun 2017 -- The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces, a US-backed alliance of mostly Kurdish and Arab militants, says it has launched an operation aimed at pushing Daesh out of Raqqah, the Takfiri terror group's main stronghold in northern Syria.
• U.S.-Backed Syrian Fighters Launch Offensive On Raqqa RFE/RL 06 Jun 2017 -- A U.S.-backed alliance of Syrian Kurds and Arab fighters says it has begun a battle to capture the Syrian city of Raqqa, the extremist group Islamic State's stronghold and self-declared capital in the country.
• Syrian Army Liberates Six Villages in Raqqa Province From Daesh Sputnik 06 Jun 2017 -- Syrian army took control over the villages of Khirbat Muhsin, Khirbat Hassan, Bir Saba, al-Tarqaui, al-Salihiyah and Anz Bukadi in the western part of Raqqa province, according to a local source.
• US-led Coalition Begins Offensive to Liberate Raqqa From Daesh Sputnik 06 Jun 2017 -- The US-led coalition started an offensive to liberate Raqqa from Daesh terrorists.
• Syria: As airstrikes hit Raqqa, UN sounds alarm over plight of civilians UN News 06 Jun 2017 -- The United Nations humanitarian wing today said it is deeply concerned for the safety and protection of more than 400,000 civilians in Syria's war-torn Raqqa Governorate, "who continue to be exposed to daily fighting and airstrikes."
• Strikes Continue Against ISIS Targets in Iraq, Syria AFPS 05 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 23 strikes consisting of 70 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Strikes Continue in Effort to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 04 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 32 strikes consisting of 65 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian army troops liberate Aleppo town from Daesh clutches Press TV 04 Jun 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers have managed to liberate a key town in the northern province of Aleppo from Daesh Takfiri terrorists as they continue to score more territorial gains in battles against extremists across the war-ravaged Arab country.
• U.S.-Backed Coalition Forces Say Final Assault On Raqqa To Start 'Very Soon' RFE/RL 04 Jun 2017 -- U.S.-backed Arab-Kurdish forces will "very soon" launch their campaign to liberate Raqqa, the Islamic State (IS) militant group's self-declared capital in Syria.
• US Informs Turkey About Start of Raqqa Campaign in Cooperation With Kurds - PM Sputnik 04 Jun 2017 -- The United States has informed the Turkish authorities about the start of an operation to liberate Syria's Raqqa from Daesh, in cooperation with Syrian Kurdish forces, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Sunday.
• Syrian Forces Destroy Major Daesh Stronghold in Aleppo Province - Army Source Sputnik 04 Jun 2017 -- Syrian Forces have destroyed a major Daesh stronghold in the town of Maskanah located in the Eastern part of Aleppo province, a Syrian Army source told Sputnik on Sunday.
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 03 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 17 strikes consisting of 30 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US-backed Kurdish forces: Raqqah liberation imminent Press TV 03 Jun 2017 -- US-backed Kurdish forces in Syria say that major operations to liberate Raqqah from Daesh will begin over the next few days.
• I'm sure worst of crisis is behind us, says Syria's Assad Press TV 03 Jun 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has hailed continued victories by the army forces and allies against militants across the country, saying his government has weathered the worst part of the conflict and is now moving in the right direction.
• Syrian government troops liberate 22 towns in eastern Aleppo Press TV 03 Jun 2017 -- Syrian government forces have retaken nearly two dozen villages in the northern province of Aleppo from Daesh Takfiri terrorists as they continue to score more territorial gains in battles against extremists across the country.
• Assad: Situation in Syria 'Dramatically' Improved as Terrorist Groups Retreating Sputnik 03 Jun 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad said that the situation in Syria has improved dramatically from the military point of view as the terrorist groups are retreating but the spread of their ideology remains one of the key challenges facing the country and the Middle East region in general.
• Syrian Democratic Forces and Kurdish YPG Surround Raqqa Sputnik 03 Jun 2017 -- A representative of the Syrian Democratic Forces, who wished to remain anonymous, told Sputnik that the forces have received a batch of heavy weapons and armored vehicles from the US.
• Fight for Raqqa 'Could Begin' In Coming Days, Syrian Kurdish Militia Confirms VOA 03 Jun 2017 -- U.S.-backed military forces in Syria are poised to launch in a "few days" an offensive to capture the Islamic State's (IS) defacto capital of Raqqa, according to a spokesman for the Syrian Kurdish militia group YPG.
• Strikes Continue Against ISIS Targets in Syria, Iraq AFPS 02 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 30 strikes consisting of 51 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Putin Says Russia Defends Syrian Statehood, Not Assad Sputnik 02 Jun 2017 -- Russia is not so much defending Syrian President Bashar Assad through its actions in Syria, but rather the Syrian statehood, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Col. Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 01 Jun 2017 -- Presenter: Army Colonel Ryan Dillon, spokesman of the Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve
• US Officials: Fight for Raqqa 'Could Begin in the Coming Days' VOA 01 Jun 2017 -- American military officials say U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have pushed within three kilometers of Islamic State's de facto capital in Syria, and that the major battle for control of Raqqa "could begin in the coming days."
• U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes to Defeat ISIS AFPS 01 Jun 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 30 strikes consisting of 51 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Spokesman Reports on Progress in Effort to Defeat ISIS AFPS 01 Jun 2017 -- Iraqi forces are closing in on the final terrorist-held areas in western Mosul, while partnered forces in Syria are just a few kilometers from the key city of Raqqa, the spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve said today.
• Founder of Daesh propaganda agency killed in eastern Syria: Report Press TV 01 Jun 2017 -- The founder of the Daesh group's propaganda agency and his daughter have been killed in a US aerial attack in eastern Syria, media reports say.
• Russian airstrikes hit Daesh convoy, killing 80 terrorists fleeing Raqqah Press TV 01 Jun 2017 -- Russian jets have destroyed three large convoys of Daesh Takfiri terrorists fleeing the Syrian city of Raqqah towards Palmyra, killing 80 militants.
• Turkey Reproaches US Over Arming Kurdish YPG in Syria Sputnik 01 Jun 2017 -- Supplies of weapons by the United States to the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) in Syria to fight jihadists do not befit the two countries' alliance, Turkey's National Security Council (MGK) said Thursday.
• Coalition Threatens to Curtail US Support if Syrian Kurds Misuse Supplied Arms Sputnik 01 Jun 2017 -- The United States can restrict its military assistance to the Kurdish elements within the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) if they misuse the provided equipment, Operation Inherent Resolve spokesperson Col. Ryan Dillon said in a briefing on Thursday.
• Daesh Militants Leave Raqqa, Cross Euphrates - Russian Military Sputnik 01 Jun 2017 -- Daesh (banned in numerous countries) militants continue to cross the Euphrates River in Syria from their stronghold of Raqqa despite being encircled by Kurdish and US-led coalition forces, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday.
• Syria Conflict Tilts Increasingly to East of War-ravaged Country VOA 01 Jun 2017 -- Syria's conflict is tilting to the east of the war-wracked country, where Syrian army forces and Shi'ite allies this week launched several offensives in the desert bordering Iraq and the U.S.-led coalition conducted a series of airstrikes. One strike Wednesday killed a senior Islamic State propagandist. U.S.-backed Sunni rebels also have been mounting raids along the Syria-Iraq border.