Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Further Reading

• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 30 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 34 strikes consisting of 43 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian army repels attack on Deir ez-Zor IRNA 30 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Army managed to repel the terrorists' attack on its strongholds in Deir ez-Zor, a Syrian source said on Staurday.
• Syrian army thwarts Daesh attacks on military posts in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 30 Sep 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers, supported by allied fighters, have managed to repel attacks by Daesh Takfiri terrorists on a number of military positions in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
• Syrian Army Clearing Areas Near Highway Between Palmyra, Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 30 Sep 2017 -- A source told Sputnik that the Syrian army supported by allied forces were clearing areas near the roadway connecting the cities of Palmyra and Deir ez-Zor.
• 28 Civilians Killed in Rebel-Held Village in Syria VOA 30 Sep 2017 -- A human rights monitoring group says at least 28 civilians, including four children, have been killed in airstrikes in a rebel-held village in northwestern Syria.
• Military Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 29 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 39 strikes consisting of 50 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Strikes Kill ISIS Drone Experts AFPS 29 Sep 2017 -- Coalition airstrikes killed three senior and highly skilled Islamic State of Iraq and Syria officials near Mayadin, Syria, Sept. 12-14, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syria denies reports of Daesh military gains near Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 29 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian military dismisses claims that the Daesh terrorist group has cut off a strategic road connecting Dayr al-Zawr in the east and Palmyra in the central part of the country.
• Russian Sappers to Remove Mines from Up to 1,500 Hectares of Land in East Syria Sputnik 29 Sep 2017 -- According to Russian Ministry of Defense, demining of access routes for humanitarian convoys is a current priority for Russian sappers in the Deir ez-Zor operation.
• US Officials Doubt IS Leader's Latest Message Will Spark New Attacks on West VOA 29 Sep 2017 -- U.S. intelligence officials examining the latest audio statement claiming to be from Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi say, so far, they have no reason to doubt its authenticity.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 28 Sep 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Major Adrian Rankine-Galloway, Pentagon Spokesman
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 28 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 44 strikes consisting of 66 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• ISIS 'Losing on All Fronts,' OIR Spokesman Says AFPS 28 Sep 2017 -- Coalition and partner forces are making significant progress in defeating the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve said today in Baghdad.
• False Caliphate faces collapse as UK marks three year tackling Daesh UK MOD 28 Sep 2017 -- Royal Air Force strikes 1,340 times in Iraq and 262 times in Syria since 2014 as terror cult cowers in Raqqa
• US: Coalition Strikes Kill 3 Islamic State Drone Experts in Syria VOA 28 Sep 2017 -- The U.S.-led coalition fighting Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria said Thursday that three of the terror group's drone experts were killed in Syria this month.
• Syria writes to UN again to urge end to US 'war crimes' Press TV 28 Sep 2017 -- Syria has written to the UN again, urging the world body to take immediate action against a US-led bombing campaign, which is taking a heavy toll on civilians and devastating the country's infrastructure.
• Putin, Erdogan Pledge To Closely Cooperate On Syria RFE/RL 28 Sep 2017 -- Following talks in Ankara, the Turkish and Russian presidents said they agreed to closely cooperate on ending Syria's civil war.
• US-Led Coalition Continues to Assess if Daesh Leader al-Baghdadi Alive Sputnik 28 Sep 2017 -- The anti-Daesh coalition continues to assume Daesh leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is alive given no verifiable evidence of his death.
• Syria's Armed Opposition Not Interested in New Astana Peace Talks Sputnik 28 Sep 2017 -- Syria's armed opposition accuses Russia of making the rebels participate in peace talks.
• Rights Groups, Rebels Warn Syria's Idlib Province Now a 'Kill Box' VOA 28 Sep 2017 -- With his hair and face caked in dust, the little boy appears ghostly. Syrian emergency workers known as White Helmets say the toddler, appearing in a tweeted photo, had just been rescued from the rubble of a building hit in an airstrike in the northern Syria province of Idlib.
• Turkey and Russia Agree on Need for De-escalation Zone in Syria VOA 28 Sep 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday agreed to push for the creation of a "de-escalation" zone in Syria's key northern province of Idlib to help end the civil war.
• Syrian parties should join next round of Geneva talks 'without preconditions' - UN envoy UN News 27 Sep 2017 -- The United Nations is set to convene the next round of the intra-Syrian talks in Geneva by the end of October or in early November, the UN mediator told the Security Council today.
• Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 27 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 48 strikes consisting of 54 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Russia says killed 5 senior Nusra commanders in air raid in Idlib Press TV 27 Sep 2017 -- Russia says it has killed five prominent field commanders of the al-Nusra Front terrorist group, who organized an attack against Russian forces in Syria's western Hama Province earlier this month.
• Military Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 26 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 40 strikes consisting of 52 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• US airlifts Daesh terrorists to use them elsewhere: Syrian foreign minister Press TV 26 Sep 2017 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem says American airplanes in Syria are transporting Daesh Takfiri terrorists to other places presumably to be later used in those areas.
• Russian aircraft fire cruise missiles at Daesh positions in Syria Press TV 26 Sep 2017 -- Russian Defense Ministry Spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov said on Tuesday that the warplanes took off from Engels airbase, located 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) east of Russia's major port city of Saratov, flew over territory of Iran and Iraq and launched Kh-101 air-to-surface cruise missiles at designated targets.
• Russia rejects claim of targeting civilians in Syria Press TV 26 Sep 2017 -- Russia has rejected a recent allegation by a shadowy monitoring group that Moscow has conducted air raids on civilian-populated areas in Syria.
• US hypocritical policies to blame for Russian general's death in Syria: Moscow Press TV 26 Sep 2017 -- Moscow has said that the death of Russian Lieutenant-General Valery Asapov in Syria is the result of the US' hypocritical policies.
• Russia, U.S. Allies Exchange Blame Over Deaths In Syria RFE/RL 26 Sep 2017 -- Russia and U.S.-allied forces in Syria exchanged accusations that deaths within their ranks were caused by fire from the other side, adding to tensions as they wage separate campaigns within close proximity of one another.
• Russian Bombers Strike Daesh, al-Nusra Positions in Syria - MoD Sputnik 26 Sep 2017 -- Russian Tu-95MS strategic bombers have carried out strikes on the most important Daesh and Al Nusra Front facilities in several Syrian provinces, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.
• Russian MoD Builds Euphrates Bridge in Syria for Transportation Services Sputnik 26 Sep 2017 -- Russian service specialists have built a bridge across the Euphrates river in Deir ez-Zor in order to transport military hardware.
• Iranian drones destroy Daesh bases in Syria's Deir ez-Zor ISNA 25 Sep 2017 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) drones have destroyed several Daesh bases on the Syrian border with Iraq.
• Russian Foreign Ministry Official Blames U.S. For Death Of Russian General RFE/RL 25 Sep 2017 -- A top Russian Foreign Ministry official has asserted the United States is to blame for the death of a Russian general killed in eastern Syria over the weekend.
• Russian general killed in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr by Daesh Press TV 24 Sep 2017 -- A Russian general has been killed by Daesh terrorists close to Syria's eastern Dayr al-Zawr province.
• Iranian drones destroy Daesh bases in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 24 Sep 2017 -- According to an IRINN TV report on Sunday, during the IRGC operations carried out in Syria's eastern Dayr al-Zawr province, many terrorists were killed in the attacks, which also destroyed large amounts of terrorists' equipment and weapons.
• Over 2,800 Syrian civilians killed in US-led airstrikes in 3 years: SOHR Press TV 24 Sep 2017 -- A monitoring group says more than 2,800 civilians have lost their lives in three years as the US-led coalition purportedly fighting Daesh Takfiri terrorist group continues its aerial assaults against residential areas across Syria.
• 'US violating Syria sovereignty in name of fighting terror' Press TV 24 Sep 2017 -- The coalition led by the United States has killed many more civilians than terrorists did over the past three years in Syria. This is according to Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem. Addressing the UN General Assembly on Saturday, Muallem also slammed the "international community's silence" over the crimes committed by the US-led coalition in Syria, arguing that any foreign military presence without the approval of the government in Damascus constitutes an act of occupation and a flagrant violation of international law.
• Russian General Killed In Syria Fighting, Defense Ministry Says RFE/RL 24 Sep 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says one of its generals, who was serving as an adviser to Syrian government troops, has been killed in the country's east, according to state news agency TASS.
• Russian Lieutenant-General Killed in Daesh Shelling in Syria - MoD Sputnik 24 Sep 2017 -- Russia's Lt. Gen. Asapov, who helped Syrian forces during the operation to lift the blockade of Deir ez-Zor, died as a result of Daesh shelling, the Russian Defense Ministry said Sunday.
• Turkey's Parliament Extends Mandate to Use Troops in Syria, Iraq for One Year Sputnik 23 Sep 2017 -- The Turkish parliament on Saturday approved a motion to extend a mandate, authorizing military operations in Syria and Iraq for one year, in the light of a scheduled referendum on the independence of Iraqi Kurdistan, which Ankara strongly opposes, according to the voting results.
• Syria Reserves Right to Respond Any Violation to Territorial Unity of Country Sputnik 23 Sep 2017 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moualem stated in his address to UN General Assembly that the country reserves the right to respond to any violation of its territorial unity.
• Strikes Continue in Effort to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 23 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 51 strikes consisting of 68 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Victory against US-, Israeli-backed terrorists at hand, Syrian FM tells UN General Assembly Press TV 23 Sep 2017 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem says Damascus is close to victory in its fight against foreign-sponsored terrorism which has wreaked havoc on the nation over the past six years.
• Syrian army, allies make new advances against Daesh in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 23 Sep 2017 -- Syrian government forces, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have made fresh territorial gains against Daesh Takfiri terrorists in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
• Syrian Government has spared no effort to end bloodshed, Deputy Prime Minister tells UN UN News 23 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Government has spared no effort to put an end to the war that has besieged the country for the past six years, but the bloodshed continues owing to the "aggressive policies" by some States, Deputy Prime Minister Walid Al-Moualem told the United Nations General Assembly today.
• Military Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 22 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 21 strikes consisting of 58 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Turkey to deploy troops inside Idlib as part of Astana deal: Erdogan Press TV 22 Sep 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan claims his country will deploy troops to Syria's Idlib region as part of the Astana agreement with Iran and Russia on "de-escalation zones."
• China reaffirms willingness to participate in rebuilding Syria People's Daily 22 Sep 2017 -- China is willing to work with the international community to play an active role in the reconstruction of Syria, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said Friday.
• Israeli rockets hit near airport in Syria capital: Report Press TV 22 Sep 2017 -- Israeli warplanes have reportedly targeted the airport in Syria's capital, Damascus, with two rockets, in a new act of aggression against the Arab country.
• Russian Submarine Attacks al-Nusra Front With Kalibr Missiles in Syria's Idlib Sputnik 22 Sep 2017 -- On Friday the Russian Black Sea fleet's submarine, 'Veliky Novgorod' launched Kalibr cruise missiles against terrorist targets in Syria, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
• Sustained engagement vital to address immense humanitarian needs in Syria - UN official UN News 21 Sep 2017 -- Sustained international attention and engagement is vital as the Syrian conflict moves into its seventh year and the suffering of civilians shows no signs of waning, a top United Nations official said today.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 21 Sep 2017
• U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 21 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 23 strikes consisting of 41 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian fighter jets strike militant positions north of Hama Press TV 21 Sep 2017 -- Syrian fighter jets have reportedly carried out a string of airstrikes against the positions of foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants in the country's west-central province of Hama.
• Russia to hit US-backed militants if Syrian troops targeted Press TV 21 Sep 2017 -- Russia has warned that it will strike back if the positions of Syrian government forces in the Arab country come under attack by US-backed militants.
• Russia Warns Of Retaliation If Syrian Government Forces Are Attacked RFE/RL 21 Sep 2017 -- Russia has warned the United States that it will retaliate immediately if Syrian government forces come under fire from positions held by a U.S.-backed Kurdish-led militia in eastern Syria.
• US-Led Coalition, Russian Officials Discuss Deir Ez-Zor Operations Sputnik 21 Sep 2017 -- US-led anti-Daesh coalition and Russian military officials met in an unknown location in the region 'nearby' Deir ez-Zor to discuss expanding deconfliction efforts as military operations move south into the Middle Euphrates River Valley in Syria.
• Syrian Troops Shelled From Areas Controlled by SDF, US Military - Russian MoD Sputnik 21 Sep 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry spokesman said that the Syrian troops have been shelled from the areas controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces and the US military, adding that a US representative had been informed on the issue.
• US, Russian Generals Meet to Discuss Deir El-Zour Tensions VOA 21 Sep 2017 -- American and Russia military leaders held an unprecedented, face-to-face meeting in recent days to discuss the increasing tensions around the Islamic State stronghold of Deir el-Zour, Syria, a coalition spokesman said Thursday.
• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 20 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 44 strikes consisting of 50 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Russia says 850 Takfiri militants killed in Syria's Idlib Press TV 20 Sep 2017 -- Russia's General Staff says about 850 Takfiri militants have been killed as the Syrian forces, backed by Russian warplanes, repelled an attack by militants in a "de-escalation zone" in the Syrian province of Idlib.
• US-backed SDF controlling 90% of Syria's Raqqah: Monitor Press TV 20 Sep 2017 -- The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed group of Kurdish and Arab forces, has reportedly wrested control over 90 percent of the northern Syrian city of Raqqah, which used to serve as the main Daesh stronghold in the country.
• French president stresses Iran's influential role in Syria peace efforts Press TV 20 Sep 2017 -- The French president has emphasized the influential role of Iran in the Syria peace process, saying no "efficient" solution could be found to the six-year-old crisis in the Arab state without the Islamic Republic.
• Russia-Backed Syrian Army Counterattacks al-Nusra Front in Idlib Zone Sputnik 20 Sep 2017 -- Al-Nusra Front terrorists used artillery, tanks and infantry fighting vehicles during their offensive in the Idlib de-escalation zone, the Russian General Staff said on Wednesday.
• Daesh Shelling Iranian Humanitarian Convoy in Syrian Deir Ez-Zor Sputnik 20 Sep 2017 -- The Daesh terrorist group shelled a humanitarian convoy in one of the central streets of Deir ez-Zor. The attack resulted in one of the drivers and at least four civilians were injured.
• Syrian Democratic Forces, Coalition Forces Liberate 80% of Raqqa Sputnik 20 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), along with the anti-Daesh coalition have liberated 80 percent of the city and continue to clear mines and the remaining militants from the city's squares where fighting persists.
• Israeli Leader Vows To Keep Iran From Establishing Military Bases In Syria RFE/RL 20 Sep 2017 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he will prevent Iran from establishing military bases in Syria and demanded changes to the Iran nuclear deal in an address before the United Nations General Assembly.
• US Confirms Syrian Army Crossed Deconfliction Zone in Deir el-Zour VOA 19 Sep 2017 -- U.S.-led coalition forces say the Russian-backed Syrian army has crossed the Euphrates River in Deir el-Zour in its bid to regain control of the Syrian city, a move that could result in a faceoff with U.S.-backed fighters in the city's east.
• Israeli fighter jet bombs positions in occupied Golan Heights Press TV 19 Sep 2017 -- An Israeli fighter jet has targeted positions in Syria's occupied Golan Heights after a Patriot missile allegedly intercepted and shot down an unmanned aerial vehicle purportedly operated by the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement.
• Strikes Continue in Effort to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 19 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 13 strikes consisting of 21 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Crushing ISIS: Air power operations in a complex battle space AFNS 19 Sep 2017 -- Lt. Gen. Jeffrey L. Harrigian, commander of U.S. Air Forces Central Command, discussed the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria during the 2017 Air Force Association Air, Space and Cyber Conference, Sept. 18, 2017.
• Syria repels massive attack led by Nusra Front Press TV 19 Sep 2017 -- Syria's army and its allies have repelled a large-scale attack spearheaded by the notorious al-Nusra Front terrorist group on the western Syrian city of Hama.
• As Damascus cements victories, anti-Assad countries say will not help rebuild Syria Press TV 19 Sep 2017 -- British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson says the United States, Britain, and other backers of the militants fighting to topple the Damascus government will not be supporting the reconstruction of Syria as long as President Bashar al-Assad is in power.
• Western Countries Say No Syria Reconstruction Without Political Transition RFE/RL 19 Sep 2017 -- Countries opposed to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad say they will not support the reconstruction of the war-torn Middle Eastern country until there is a political transition there.
• The Noose Closes Round Daesh in Deir ez-Zor: Syrian Army Crosses the Euphrates Sputnik 19 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has crossed the Euphrates River and is trying to restore full control over its west bank. RIA Novosti correspondent Mikhail Alaeddin was on the ground to witness a unique operation that could lead to the complete encirclement of the terrorists in Deir ez-Zor.
• Syrian Army Attacked From Area Where US Special Task Units, SDF Operate - Moscow Sputnik 19 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Army, fighting terrorists in the Deir ez-Zor province, has been subjected to strong counterattacks from the north where Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and US special task units are operating, the Russian Defense Ministry's spokesman Mj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said on Tuesday.
• Syrian Army Secures Resumption of Flights in Deir Ez-Zor Airfield Sputnik 19 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian army managed to ensure the resumption of flights from and to the Deir ez-Zor airfield, a source familiar with the situation said.
• Briefing on Syria US Dept. of State 18 Sep 2017 -- Special Briefing by David M. Satterfield, Acting Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 18 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 94 strikes consisting of 126 engagements in Iraq and Syria over the last two days, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian forces inch closer to besieging Daesh terrorists in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 18 Sep 2017 -- Syrian government forces, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have come closer to encircling Daesh Takfiri terrorists in a pocket of the strategic eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr after crossing over the Euphrates River.
• SDF to Join in Syrian Liberation of Deir ez-Zor From Daesh 'at Any Moment' Sputnik 18 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Army, backed by Russian warplanes, broke through the Daesh terrorist encirclement of Deir ez-Zor earlier this month; now the Kurdish-led, American-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are poised and ready to enter this eastern Syrian city, a SDF spokesman told Sputnik Turkey.
• Syrian Army Crosses Euphrates River East of Deir Ez-Zor as Part of Anti-Daesh Op Sputnik 18 Sep 2017 -- Syrian troops forced a crossing over the Euphrates river east of Deir ez-Zor on Monday as a part of an operation to clear the city's outskirts from Daesh terrorists, a Sputnik correspondent and Russian military reported.
• UN Investigators: Perpetrators of Crimes in Syria Must Face Justice VOA 18 Sep 2017 -- U.N. investigators are calling for perpetrators of crimes against civilians in Syria's long-running civil war to be prosecuted and brought to justice. The latest report submitted to the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva by the International Commission of Inquiry on Syria documents multiple atrocities and gross violations committed by all warring parties.
• Certain Western states still back terror groups in Syria: Assad Press TV 17 Sep 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says "certain Western countries" still support, directly or indirectly, terrorist organizations and groups in Syria despite the fact that this wrong policy has already backfired on their governments and people.
• Syria Army, allies cut Daesh's main supply line in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 17 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Army and its allies have cut Daesh's main supply line in the northeastern city of Dayr al-Zawr.
• Russia Rejects Allegation It Bombed U.S.-Backed Militia In Syria RFE/RL 17 Sep 2017 -- Russia has dismissed allegations that its military struck U.S.-backed forces in war-torn Syria, injuring several allied fighters.
• Russian MoD Denies Pentagon Allegations It Hit US-Backed Rebels in Syria Sputnik 17 Sep 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry denied on Sunday the Pentagon's allegations that Russian jets had attacked the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near the Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor.
• Syrian Forces Cut Main Daesh Supply Route Into Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 17 Sep 2017 -- According to a Syrian army operations staffer, government forces have cut off the main supply route to the Daesh-held areas of Deir ez-Zor in the east of the country.
• Syrian Army Defeats Daesh in Southeast Deir Ez-Zor Districts, Reaches Euphrates Sputnik 17 Sep 2017 -- Syrian government forces continue to press forward with Russian air cover in the offensive against Daesh jihadists: two districts in the southeast of Deir ez-Zor have been liberated from terrorists.
• Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 16 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 28 strikes consisting of 33 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Russian Strike Wounds Syrian Democratic Forces Troops AFPS 16 Sep 2017 -- At approximately 12:30 a.m. Greenwich Mean Time today, Russian forces struck a target east of the Euphrates River in Syria near Dayr Az Zawr, causing injuries to coalition partner forces, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials announced.
• Russia denies bombing positions of US-backed SDF forces in eastern Syria Press TV 16 Sep 2017 -- The Russian military has flatly rejected a claim that its warplanes have bombed the positions of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Syria's flashpoint province of Dayr al-Zawr.
• De-escalation zones don't mean Turkish troops presence: Syria official Press TV 16 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian government has welcomed an agreement on implementing lasting ceasefire in a de-escalation zone in the conflict-plagued Arab country, stressing such a consensus does not grant Turkish military forces authorization to stay in Syria.
• US won't be satisfied unless Syria's Assad leaves power: US official Press TV 16 Sep 2017 -- US Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Nikki Haley has repeated Washington's opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, saying that the US will not be "satisfied" as long as the Syrian leader is in power.
• Syria forces ignore US-backed militants, advance past Euphrates Press TV 16 Sep 2017 -- Russia says Syrian government forces have crossed the Euphrates River in their push to liberate the Dayr al-Zawr Province from Daesh, ignoring a warning by a ragtag group of militants that receives US backing.
• Syrian troops will fight US-backed militia to free Arab country: Assad aide Press TV 16 Sep 2017 -- The political and media adviser to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says government troops, backed by fighters from allied popular defense groups, will fight any force, including the US-backed militia, to fully liberate the Arab country plagued with terrorism for over six years.
• U.S. Coalition Says Allies Hit By Russian Strike In Syria RFE/RL 16 Sep 2017 -- The U.S.-led coalition battling Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria says the Russian military has struck forces backed by Washington in the war-torn country, injuring several allied fighters.
• US-Led Coalition Accuses Russia of Striking US-Backed Forces Near Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 16 Sep 2017 -- Following the reports of six SDF fighters injured in an air strike in Syria Pentagon blames Russian air forces.
• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 15 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 19 strikes consisting of 30 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• DoD Detains U.S. Citizen who Surrendered in Syria AFPS 15 Sep 2017 -- The Defense Department is legally detaining as a known enemy combatant an American citizen who turned himself over to the Syrian Democratic Forces this week, Pentagon spokesman Army Col. Rob Manning said here today.
• Syria army engages Daesh terrorists in Hama amid gains Press TV 15 Sep 2017 -- Syrian government forces have engaged in intense fighting with Daesh terrorists in the central province of Hama as the army continues to make more gains in the fight against the Takfiri group.
• Russia, Iran, Turkey agree on Idlib 'safe zones' Press TV 15 Sep 2017 -- Russia, Iran, and Turkey, which together act as guarantor states in peace talks for Syria, have agreed on the details of a "de-escalation zone" in the Arab country's western Idlib province during resolution talks in the Kazakh capital of Astana.
• Russia, Turkey, Iran Agree On Borders Of Syrian 'De-Escalation Zones' RFE/RL 15 Sep 2017 -- Russia, Iran, and Turkey have agreed at peace talks in Kazakhstan to place observers on the border of a de-escalation zone in Syria for at least six months.
• Russia, Turkey, Iran Finally Agree on Idlib Safe Zone in Syria Sputnik 15 Sep 2017 -- The guarantor-states of the Syrian ceasefire regime have finally agreed on the creation of a safe zone in Idlib, an issue that had been on the agenda for a long time as the region is mostly controlled by terrorists and rebels.
• Syria: Turkey, Russia, Iran Agree to Safe Zone Deal VOA 15 Sep 2017 -- Turkey, Russia and Iran agreed Friday to a deal that will see the countries work together to police a de-escalation zone in Syria's Idlib province for the next six months, according to a joint statement issued by the three countries following talks in Kazakhstan.
• Pentagon: American Fighting for ISIS in Syria Now in US Custody VOA 14 Sep 2017 -- An American citizen fighting for Islamic State in Syria is in U.S. custody after surrendering to coalition-backed Syrian fighters.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 14 Sep 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Eric J. Pahon, Defense Department Spokesman
• Counter-ISIS Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq AFPS 14 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 43 strikes consisting of 45 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Fresh Syria peace talks begins in Astana IRNA 14 Sep 2017 -- The sixth round of talks on Syria peace, which is being led by Iran, Russia and Turkey, kicked off in the Kazakh capital on Thursday.
• Iran a partner in Syrian victory: Assad's letter to Ayatollah Khamenei Press TV 14 Sep 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad has sent a letter to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, thanking him and congratulating the Iranian nation on recent advances in Dayr al-Zawr.
• Daesh convoy reaches Syria's Dayr al-Zawr, Hezbollah fighter back in Lebanon Press TV 14 Sep 2017 -- A convoy of hundreds of Daesh Takfiri terrorists evacuated from the Syria-Lebanon border has reached the Syrian province of Dayr al-Zawr as reports say the Hezbollah resistance movement manages to secure the release of one of its fighters from the captivity of Daesh.
• Russian submarines attack Daesh targets in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 14 Sep 2017 -- Russia says it has launched a missile attack against positions held by Daesh in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr from the submarines stationed in the Mediterranean Sea.
• Sixth round of Syrian peace negotiations kicks off in Astana Press TV 14 Sep 2017 -- Representatives from the Syrian government and foreign-sponsored armed opposition have started the sixth round of negotiations in the Kazakh city of Astana to resolve the Syrian conflict.
• Russia Says Deal 'Close' On Fourth Safe Zone In Syria RFE/RL 14 Sep 2017 -- Russia's chief negotiator at a sixth round of Syria peace talks in Astana says that an agreement to establish a fourth safe zone in the war-torn Middle East country is "very close."
• America 'Sends Us Heavy Weaponry' to Liberate Deir ez-Zor - SDF Sputnik 14 Sep 2017 -- The US continues to supply heavy arms and armored vehicles to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as part of the military operations to liberate Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor, an SDF representative said in an interview with Sputnik on condition of anonymity.
• Seven Warlords, 1,000 Militants Agree to Side With Syrian Army – Russian MoD Sputnik 14 Sep 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry said that militants who used to fight against Damascus have agreed to side with the Syrian government troops.
• Russia Hopes Fight Against Daesh in Syria to End 'in Coming Months' Sputnik 14 Sep 2017 -- Russia's presidential envoy for Syria has commented on the Syrian peace talks currently underway in Astana. He said he believes that Daesh terrorists in the country would be defeated soon due to the Syrian army's successful operation to free Deir ez-Zor, which resulted in the lifting of the three-year blockade of the city.
• Russian Submarines Destroy Daesh Targets in Syria With Kalibr Cruise Missiles Sputnik 14 Sep 2017 -- Two Russian submarines, the Veliky Novgorod and Kolpino, attacked Daesh terrorists in the vicinity of the Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor with Kalibr cruise missiles from a submerged position on Thursday.
• Syrian Army Gains Control Over Strategic Heights Near Deir ez-Zor Airbase Sputnik 14 Sep 2017 -- Th Syrian Army continues to battle its way on the road connecting the main supply route of Daesh terrorists.
• In Deir ez-Zor Trenches: Syrian Army Attacks Daesh Positions Sputnik 14 Sep 2017 -- A RIA Novosti correspondent tells about the launch of the Syrian army's offensive against Daesh controlled territories of Deir ez-Zor he witnessed.
• Coalition Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 13 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 65 strikes consisting of 76 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syria moving steadily towards victory: President Assad Press TV 13 Sep 2017 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says despite suffering from foreign-sponsored terrorism for the past seven years, his country is moving steadily towards victory, a day after the Russian military announced that government troops were in control of 85 percent of the whole Syrian territory.
• Syrian forces recapture five towns from Daesh in Homs province Press TV 13 Sep 2017 -- Syrian government troops, backed by fighters from allied popular defense groups, have taken back more areas from Daesh terrorists in the country's central province of Homs, a day after the Russian military announced that government troops were in control of 85 percent of the whole Syrian territory.
• Iran signs deals to repair Syrian power grid Press TV 13 Sep 2017 -- Tehran has signed deals worth "several hundred million euros" with Damascus to repair Syria's power grid in the Aleppo city and the provinces of Latakia and Dayr al-Zawr.
• Deir ez-Zor Victory 'Important', But Not Enough to Eliminate Terror - UN Chief Sputnik 13 Sep 2017 -- The United Nations chief has commented on the liberation of Deir ez-Zor by the Syrian army with Russia's aerial assistance.
• Strikes Continue in Syria, Iraq Against ISIS Terrorists AFPS 12 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 41 strikes consisting of 50 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syria has liberated 85% of its territory from terrorists: Russian military Press TV 12 Sep 2017 -- The Russian military says the Syrian government has managed to liberate 85 percent of the country from the grips of terrorist groups, some two years after Moscow began a counterterrorism campaign in Syria at the official request of Damascus.
• Russia's Shoigu Meets Assad In Damascus To Discuss Syria War RFE/RL 12 Sep 2017 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus, as Russia-backed government troops press their assault against the extremist group Islamic State (IS) in the country's east.
• Iran Signs Deals To Repair Syria's Power Grid, Infrastructure RFE/RL 12 Sep 2017 -- Iran has signed a series of deals and memorandums of understanding with Damascus to repair Syria's electrical-power infrastructure, state media report, giving the Islamic republic a potential foothold in war-torn Syria's eventual rebuilding process.
• Daesh Resorts to Suicide Attack Tactics in Syria's Raqqa - SDF Sputnik 12 Sep 2017 -- An SDF spokesman told Sputnik that Daesh used suicide attackers in Syria's Raqqa.
• Syrian Army Begins Offensive on Daesh Positions in Deir Ez-Zor Sputnik 12 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian armed forces launched an offensive against the remaining Daesh positions in Deir Ez-Zor, who responded with mortar fire and suicide attackers.
• Syrian Army Completing Operation to Defeat Daesh in Deir ez-Zor - Russian MoD Sputnik 12 Sep 2017 -- The operation to fully liberate Deir ez-Zor is still underway with the Syrian army fighting Daesh terrorists in the southern part of the city, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
• About 15% of Syrian Territory Remains to be Liberated From Terrorists Sputnik 12 Sep 2017 -- About 15 percent of the Syrian territory remains to be liberated from terrorists, according to the Russian Armed Forces Group in the country.
• Russian Jets Destroy 180 Daesh Infrastructure Facilities Near Akerbat Sputnik 12 Sep 2017 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces made 50 sorties and destroyed 180 Daesh infrastructure facilities in the area of Akerbat, Syria.
• Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 11 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria on Sept. 9-10, conducting 78 strikes consisting of 91 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian forces preparing to fully retake Dayr al-Zawr from Daesh Press TV 11 Sep 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers and allied forces are getting ready to fully liberate the eastern part of city of Dayr al-Zawr from the clutches of Daesh Takfiri terrorists.
• US asks Syria militant groups to retreat to Jordan amid army advances: Sources Press TV 11 Sep 2017 -- The US and its allies have urged two militant groups fighting the government in southeastern Syria to retreat into Jordan in the face of army advances, Reuters has quoted militant sources as saying.
• Syria's Deir ez-Zor Forerunner of Victory Over Daesh Sputnik 11 Sep 2017 -- For the second consecutive day, red lights emanating from tracer ammunition sparkle in the sky over Deir ez-Zor in celebration of the Syrian government forces' significant breakthrough in the fight against terrorists.
• Syrian Democratic Forces Vow to Avoid Conflict With Gov't Troops in Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 11 Sep 2017 -- Units of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) opposition alliance, manned mainly by Kurdish militias, promise not to attack the Syrian government forces in Deir ez-Zor, SDF spokesman Talal Silo told Sputnik on Monday.
• Syrian army, allies retake control over Dayr al-Zawr power station Press TV 10 Sep 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have managed to regain full control over a power station in Dayr al-Zawr as they push to drive the Daesh Takfiri terrorists out of the strategic eastern city.
• Deir Ez-Zor Residents Celebrate Third Major Victory Within Week Sputnik 10 Sep 2017 -- The residents of Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor are greeting the 5th corps of the Syrian army with flags and portraits of the country's President Bashar Assad after they overran the positions of Daesh at the main southern entrance to the city, a Sputnik correspondent reported Sunday, adding that it is a third major victory within a week.
• Syrian Army Breaks Through Daesh Lines at Southern Entrance to Deir Ez-Zor Sputnik 10 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Armed Forces have managed to overrun the positions of the Daesh terrorist group at the main southern entrance to the city of Deir Ez-Zor and joined the troops that were inside the besieged city, a Sputnik correspondent reported.
• Syrian Armed Forces Clearing Area Around Deir Ez-Zor Airfield From Daesh Sputnik 10 Sep 2017 -- According to reports, Syria's Armed Forces and the Republican Guard began clearing the area around the airfield in the east of the Syrian city of Deir Ez-Zor from Daesh terrorists.
• Coalition Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 09 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 43 strikes consisting of 47 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Coalition Partner Force Mounts ISIS Clearing Operation in Eastern Syria AFPS 09 Sep 2017 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve welcomes today's announcement by the Syrian Arab Coalition of the commencement of their offensive to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria in the Khabur River Valley, dubbed "Operation Jazeera Storm," north of Dayr Az Zawr in eastern Syria.
• Syrian army, allies break Daesh siege on Dayr al-Zawr air base Press TV 09 Sep 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have managed to break a nearly three-year siege imposed by Daesh Takfiri terrorists on a strategic airbase in the eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr as they continue to make substantial gains against the extremists.
• US-backed militants eye Syria city amid govt. advances Press TV 09 Sep 2017 -- A coalition of US-backed Kurdish and Arab militants has launched an offensive against Daesh-held areas in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr Province amid decisive government victories in the area, raising the prospect of a confrontation with Syrian army forces.
• Syrian forces flush Daesh terrorists from town near Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 09 Sep 2017 -- Syrian army forces, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have established control over al-Shoula town near the eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr, whose nearly three-year-long siege, imposed by Daesh Takfiri terrorists, has recently been broken by government forces.
• U.S.-Backed Fighters, Syrian Army Advance Against IS In Eastern Syria RFE/RL 09 Sep 2017 -- U.S.-backed fighters and the Syrian government forces have advanced in separate offensives against the extremist Islamic State (IS) group in the province of Deir al-Zour in eastern Syria, piling pressure on shrinking territory IS still holds in oil-rich areas near the Iraqi border.
• US Warplanes Stop Shadowing Daesh Convoy at Russia's Request Sputnik 09 Sep 2017 -- Following a request by the Kremlin, US military assets have stopped shadowing a Daesh convoy stuck behind lines of advancing Syrian army troops.
• Syrian Army Breaks Daesh Blockade of Airbase in Deir ez-Zor Sputnik 09 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian armed forces broke the siege of an airbase in the city of Deir ez-Zor, a Sputnik correspondent reported on Saturday, saying that the clashes continue.
• Deir Ez-Zor, Syria to Be Liberated From Terrorists in Coming Days – Army General Sputnik 09 Sep 2017 -- The commander of the operation in the region said that the Syrian city of Deir Ez-Zor will be liberated from Daesh terror group militants in the coming days.
• Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 08 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 19 strikes consisting of 23 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Syrian Regime Forces Pass Stranded ISIS Convoy AFPS 08 Sep 2017 -- At approximately 7 a.m. Greenwich Mean Time today, the front line of Syrian pro-regime forces advanced past the convoy carrying Islamic State of Iraq and Syria terrorists and noncombatants in the eastern Syrian desert.
• Syria strongly denies alleged role in Khan Shaykhun chemical attack Press TV 08 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian government has categorically dismissed a United Nations report accusing it of being involved in a suspected chemical attack in the country's northwestern province of Idlib, which killed dozens of people in early April.
• Russia Says Air Strike Kills Four Senior IS Commanders In Syria RFE/RL 08 Sep 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says it has killed four Islamic State (IS) commanders in an air strike targeting the extremist group outside Syria's eastern city of Deir al-Zour, including a former senior security official from Tajikistan.
• Syrian Army Retakes Strategic Hill Near Deir ez-Zor, Lifting Blockade of Airbase Sputnik 08 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Army has begun an operation to lift the blockade of the Deir ez-Zor airbase, having captured a strategic hill between it and the city, a Sputnik correspondent reported from the scene.
• Deir ez-Zor Got No Humanitarian Aid From Western States After Liberation - MoD Sputnik 08 Sep 2017 -- European countries and the international humanitarian organizations have not offered any aid to the residents of the Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor after the siege was lifted, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said Friday.
• Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 07 Sep 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Eric J. Pahon, Defense Department Spokesman
• Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 07 Sep 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 16 strikes consisting of 30 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
• Command Changes in Fight Against ISIS, Mission Does Not, Official Says AFPS 07 Sep 2017 -- While leadership changed hands in Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve operations this week, the U.S. led-coalition's mission to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria has not, said Army Col. Ryan Dillon, the task force's spokesman.
• 40-truck aid convoy enters Syria's troubled Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 07 Sep 2017 -- Dozens of trucks carrying humanitarian aid have arrived in Dayr al-Zawr only two days after Syrian army forces, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, reached the eastern city and breached a nearly three-year siege imposed by the Daesh Takfiri terrorists on pro-government areas there.
• Israeli jets hit Syria army position in Hama Province, kill 2 soldiers Press TV 07 Sep 2017 -- At least two Syrian soldiers have been killed after Israeli fighter jets targeted an army position in the west-central province of Hama, in yet another act of aggression against the Arab country
• Syrian Army Says Israeli Jets Hit Military Site RFE/RL 07 Sep 2017 -- The Syrian Army says Israeli jets have hit one of its facilities in the country's west.
• Coalition Confirms Syrian Military Gains in Deir el-Zour VOA 07 Sep 2017 -- The U.S.-led coalition to defeat Islamic State in Iraq and Syria has confirmed that Syrian military forces have made it to the Islamic State-held city of Deir el-Zour.
• US Monitors Russia-backed Syrian Army's Advances in Deir Ez-Zor VOA 07 Sep 2017 -- As the Syrian government forces, backed by allied militias and Russian airstrikes, continue to advance against the Islamic State group in Deir ez-Zor, Syria, the U.S.-led coalition says it is monitoring the army to ensure it does not cross a deconfliction zone established across the city.
• Israeli Warplanes Strike Alleged Syrian Chemical Weapons Facility VOA 07 Sep 2017 -- Syria says two people were killed when Israeli warplanes struck a military facility near Hama that Western nations allege is linked to Damascus' chemical weapons program. Syria claims to have handed over all of its chemical weapons, as part of an internationally-brokered deal in 2013, but the U.N. accuses Damascus of using chemical weapons on a number of times since.
• Syrian Army, Allies Face Arduous Test in Eastern Syria VOA 07 Sep 2017 -- The lifting of a vicious 32-month Islamic State siege of a Syrian regime enclave in Deir el-Zour city earlier this week marks a significant battlefield success for government forces. But the fight for eastern Syria is just beginning and analysts warn the toll in civilian casualties will be high.