November 2017 - Syria Special Weapons News

US-led Coalition Says Its Airstrikes Have Killed 801 in Syria, Iraq VOA 30 Nov 2017 -- The U.S.-led coalition targeting the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq said Thursday its airstrikes have killed 801 civilians since late 2014.
More Than 400 US Marines Leaving Syria VOA 30 Nov 2017 -- More than 400 U.S. Marines who helped recapture the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State are leaving the country, according to the U.S.-led coalition that is fighting the militant group.
Tensions Rise in Turkey Over Syrian Refugees VOA 30 Nov 2017 -- Turkey hosts the largest number of refugees in the world, and three million of them are Syrians. Most live in towns and cities across the country. But this year, a series of clashes between Turks and Syrians could be a sign that for some Turks, patience is running out.
Russia preparing for military pullout from Syria: Security chief Press TV 30 Nov 2017 -- The head of Russia's Security Council says Moscow is already preparing to withdraw its military contingent from Syria as the counter-terrorism fight nears end in the Arab country.
Russian Envoy Accuses U.S.-Led Coalition Of Trying To Partition Syria RFE/RL 30 Nov 2017 -- Russia's ambassador to the United Nations has accused the U.S.-led coalition in Syria of trying to partition the country by setting up local governing bodies in areas seized from the Islamic State extremist group, Russian news agencies reported.
Syrian negotiators arrive in Geneva for new round of peace talks Press TV 29 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian government's negotiation team has arrived in Geneva to join United Nations-backed peace talks with the Saudi-backed opposition's representatives to end the years-long conflict in the Arab country.
UN aid chief spotlights challenges delivering relief inside war-torn Syria, urges continued support UN News 29 Nov 2017 -- The conflict in Syria - now into its seventh year, longer than World War II - continues to ratchet up misery on its people, with millions living in besieged and hard-to-reach areas, a third of the country's children out of school, and over half of its health facilities rendered inoperable, the United Nations top relief official said today.
Syrian Government to Join Geneva Peace Talks VOA 29 Nov 2017 -- Syrian government negotiators have arrived in Geneva to join United Nations-led peace talks aimed at ending nearly seven years of fighting.
US troops in Syria, Iraq far more than Pentagon's claims: Govt. data Press TV 28 Nov 2017 -- The real number of American troops deployed to Iraq and Syria exceeds the Pentagon's official figures by thousands, according to the US government's own data.
Syrian government agrees to ceasefire in Eastern Ghouta: UN envoy Press TV 28 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian government has agreed to a ceasefire in the militant-held Eastern Ghouta region following days of heavy conflict, UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura says.
Russia censures OPCW for 'politically-biased' probe into Syria chemical attack Press TV 28 Nov 2017 -- Russia has slammed the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) for its biased probe into an April incident in Syria where civilians died of the use of chemical weapons.
White House Ready to Stop Providing Military Support to Certain Groups in Syria Sputnik 28 Nov 2017 -- The White House press secretary noted that the readiness doesn't mean it would necessary stop all support of Syrian opposition groups.
Russian Military Denies Claims of Airstrikes on Village in Syria Sputnik 28 Nov 2017 -- The UK-based Human Rights Observatory has reported that airstrikes, allegedly by Russia, hit residential buildings in the village of Al-Shafah in Syria's Deir ez-Zor province.
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 27 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 11 strikes consisting of 36 engagements Nov. 24 and 25, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Turkey Demands Trump Honor Purported Pledge to Cut Off Weapons to Kurdish Militia VOA 27 Nov 2017 -- Turkish officials say they are watching to see whether the United States will honor a promise, which they claim was made by U.S. President Donald Trump to his Turkish counterpart last week, to cut off the supply of arms to Kurdish militias that played a key role in defeating Islamic State militants in Syria.
UN Says Syria Hasn't Confirmed Will Attend Geneva Peace Talks RFE/RL 27 Nov 2017 -- The United Nations special envoy for Syria, Steffan de Mistura, says the Syrian government has not yet confirmed its participation in the next round of peace talks in Geneva this week.
'No preconditions' accepted from Syrian parties, UN envoy says ahead of Geneva talks UN News 27 Nov 2017 -- Ahead of fresh intra-Syrian talks on Tuesday in Geneva, the United Nations mediator said Monday that the crisis now has the potential to move towards "a genuine political process."
UN Envoy: No Signs Damascus Will Participate in Latest Geneva Talks VOA 27 Nov 2017 -- President Bashar al-Assad's government has not confirmed its participation in peace talks with the Syrian opposition scheduled for this week in Geneva, the U.N. special envoy for Syria said Monday.
Russian bombers hit IS targets in eastern Syria People's Daily 27 Nov 2017 -- Six long-range TU-22M3 bombers on Sunday launched airstrikes on targets of Islamic State (IS) terrorist group in the province of Deir ez-Zor in eastern Syria, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Russia dismisses allegation about bombing village in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr province Press TV 27 Nov 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has strongly rejected an allegation by the anti-Damascus Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) that Russian long-range bombers, in their counter-terrorism operations, have bombed a village in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
Russian bombers pound Daesh positions in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr again Press TV 26 Nov 2017 -- The Russian military says six of its Tupolev Tu-22M3 long-range bombers have once again successfully launched airstrikes against positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr as government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups, are fighting to totally retake the region from the terrorists.
Rohani Tells Assad 'National Congress' A Step Toward Stability RFE/RL 26 Nov 2017 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani has told Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in a phone call that a proposed "national congress" involving opposing forces could help bring stability and security to the war-ravaged country.
Official Thanks Iran-Trained Afghan 'Warriors' for Syrian 'Victory' VOA 26 Nov 2017 -- A top official in Afghanistan has come under fire for seeming to confirm for the first time that neighboring Iran has recruited thousands of Shi'ite Afghans and "warriors" from other regional countries to fight in Syria.
Russian strategic bombers strike Takfiri targets in northeastern Syria Press TV 25 Nov 2017 -- Russian long-range bombers have delivered a stinging blow to the remnants of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group on the western bank of the Euphrates River, destroying the extremists' command posts and killing scores of them in an airstrike.
Turkey confident US will stop arming Kurdish fighters in Syria Press TV 25 Nov 2017 -- The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering making a series of "adjustments" to its strategy in Syria, which Turkish officials say might include an end to arming Kurdish fighters in the Arab country.
Russian Strategic Bombers Strike Daesh Targets in Northeastern Syria Sputnik 25 Nov 2017 -- After the last major Daesh stronghold in Syria, the town of Abu Kamal, was liberated, Russian Aerospace Forces continue to support the offensive in the Euphrates River Valley conducted by the Syrian army.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 24 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 10 strikes consisting of 14 engagements Nov. 10-23, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Pentagon likely to admit 2,000 US troops in Syria: US officials Press TV 24 Nov 2017 -- The US Defense Department is likely to announce publicly that there are over 2,000 American troops in Syria, despite earlier reports that put that number at around 500.
Erdogan does not rule out contact with Assad Press TV 24 Nov 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has not ruled out possible contact with Bashar Assad, signaling a break with his long-held opposition to the Syrian president's role in the Arab country's future.
China says to help with reconstruction of Syria Press TV 24 Nov 2017 -- China says it will help with reconstruction efforts in Syria, which has seen massive destruction as a result of over six and a half years of armed conflict.
Russia to reduce forces in Syria by year-end: Military chief Press TV 24 Nov 2017 -- Russia is set to reduce its troops in Syria by the end of the year after finishing up the remaining "few" missions there, says Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov.
Syrian Kurds 'Determined to Retaliate Against Turkish Invasion of Afrin' Sputnik 24 Nov 2017 -- Amid the military buildup on the Syrian-Turkish border near Kurdish-controlled Afrin, Foza Yusuf, executive council co-chair of the self-proclaimed Democratic Federation of Northern Syria (DFNS) and Nuri Mahmud of the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) signaled that the Kurds will defend the city against "the Turkish invasion."
Turkish Official: Trump Has Agreed to Stop Arming Syrian Kurdish Fighters VOA 24 Nov 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has told his Turkish counterpart that the U.S. will no longer supply weapons to Kurdish YPG fighters in Syria, according to a Turkish official's summation of the call on Friday between the two world leaders.
US military presence in Syria resembles occupation: Russia Press TV 23 Nov 2017 -- Russia says the US military presence in Syria looks like an occupation as it runs afoul of international law and lacks authorization from the Damascus government.
Nearly 3,000 Syrian civilians killed in US-led airstrikes in 38 months: Group Press TV 23 Nov 2017 -- A monitoring group says nearly 3,000 civilians have lost their lives in more than three years as the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group continues its aerial assaults against residential areas across Syria.
Syria opposition should disarm, engage in dialog: Assad aide Press TV 23 Nov 2017 -- The political and media adviser to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has called on opposition groups to disarm in order for a proposed National Dialogue Congress involving warring sides to be fruitful.
Russia Declares UN Inquiry In Syria 'Dead' As West Searches For Alternatives RFE/RL 23 Nov 2017 -- The UN's investigation into who is behind chemical weapons attacks in Syria "is dead," but Russia is open to efforts by Western powers to establish "a new mechanism," Moscow's UN ambassador has said.
Never-Ending Supply: US Continues Arms, Heavy Vehicle Shipments to SDF Sputnik 23 Nov 2017 -- An SDF spokesman, on condition of anonymity, told Sputnik Turkey that they had received a large batch of armored vehicles and weapons from the United States on the eve of Deir ez-Zor operation.
Russia to 'Significantly' Reduce Military Presence in Syria - General Staff Sputnik 23 Nov 2017 -- The statement comes in the wake of the liberation of over 90 percent of the Syrian territory from terrorists.
Syrian Gov't Troops Completing Daesh Defeat in Euphrates Valley - Russian MoD Sputnik 23 Nov 2017 -- After the liberation of the last major Daesh stronghold in Syria by government forces, the town of Abu Kamal, a swath of territory along the west bank of the Euphrates River remains the only area where Daesh units are currently still operating.
Russia, Turkey, Iran Statement Lays Ground for Political Settlement in Syria Sputnik 23 Nov 2017 -- The trilateral Russian-Iranian-Turkish statement urged the Syrian government and opposition groups, which are committed to sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria, to constructively participate in the National Dialogue Congress.
Syria welcomes results of Sochi summit between Iran, Russia, Turkey Press TV 22 Nov 2017 -- Syria has welcomed the closing statement of a trilateral summit of Iran, Russia, and Turkey which called for a political settlement of the conflict in the war-torn country.
Sochi Talks Roundup: Russia, Iran, Turkey Reach Important Breakthroughs on Syria Sputnik 22 Nov 2017 -- Speaking to the press after his meeting with his Iranian and Turkish counterparts in Sochi on Wednesday, President Putin said the peace talks in Astana and the establishment of de-escalation zones in Syria have made possible a fundamentally "new stage" in the Syrian settlement, and helped secure a "breakthrough" opportunity to crush the terrorists.
Adopt a 'common line,' UN negotiator appeals to Syrian opposition UN News 22 Nov 2017 -- Syrian opposition groups meeting in Saudi Arabia should do all they can to unify ahead of a fresh round of United Nations-facilitated talks in Geneva, UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura said on Wednesday.
UN agency gravely concerned by lack of medical services in Syria's eastern Ghouta UN News 22 Nov 2017 -- Despite escalating violence and increasing humanitarian needs, life-saving medicines, medical equipment, and surgical supplies are being prevented from entering eastern Ghouta in Syria and the plan to transfer critically ill patients to hospitals elsewhere has not been approved, the United Nations health agency has warned.
Syrian Opposition Seeks More Unity Ahead of Peace Talks VOA 22 Nov 2017 -- With a new round of U.N.-led peace talks set to begin next week, Syrian opposition figures are meeting Wednesday in Saudi Arabia in an attempt to form a more unified front, while several outside nations with heavy influence on the conflict are holding their own consultations in Russia.
Iranian foreign ministry's statement on defeat of ISIS in Iraq, Syria ISNA 22 Nov 2017 -- Iranian foreign ministry has issued a statement on the complete defeat of ISIS terrorist group in Iraq and Syria.
Internal Security Forces Assume Responsibility for Raqqa Neighborhoods AFPS 21 Nov 2017 -- The Raqqa Internal Security Forces assumed security responsibility yesterday for three neighborhoods in the Syrian city of Raqqa, which the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria had claimed as its capital before being driven out, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said in a statement released today.
More than 13 million Syrians in need of aid: UN Press TV 21 Nov 2017 -- The United Nations says more than 13 million Syrians are in need of aid despite a relative drop in fighting between the government troops and foreign-backed militant outfits in the war-torn Arab country in recent months.
Putin Calls For Political Deal In Assad Meeting In Sochi RFE/RL 21 Nov 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeated his call for a negotiated political settlement to end the Syrian conflict during a surprise visit by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in the Russian city of Sochi.
Assad Tells Putin at Meeting: Syria Was Saved as a State Thanks to Russia Sputnik 21 Nov 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Syrian President Bashar Assad, who flew to Russain city of Sochi for a working visit. The two leaders discussed the situation in Syria.
Trump, Putin Agree to Support UN in Syrian Peace Process VOA 21 Nov 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed Tuesday to support the U.N. effort to "peacefully resolve" the nearly seven-year-long Syrian civil war.
Arab League works as tool against Muslim nations: Syria Press TV 21 Nov 2017 -- Syria has strongly denounced the closing statement of the latest Arab League foreign ministers' meeting in Cairo, saying the so-called league, backed by petrodollars of "sheikhdoms", has been turned into a "tool" against Muslim nations.
Israeli tank targets Syrian military post in Golan Heights Press TV 20 Nov 2017 -- An Israeli tank has targeted a Syrian military post in the Golan Heights, the second of such incidents to occur in just 24 hours.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 20 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 16 strikes consisting of 29 engagements Nov. 17-19, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Syrian army, allies make new advances against terrorists across country Press TV 20 Nov 2017 -- Syrian government forces, backed by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have made fresh territorial gains against foreign-sponsored Takfiri terrorists across the conflict-plagued Arab country.
Coalition Partner Forces Kill 9 ISIS Members in Southern Syria AFPS 19 Nov 2017 -- On Nov. 16, coalition partner forces near At Tanf Garrison, Syria, killed nine Islamic State of Iraq and Syria fighters and destroyed several ISIS vehicles, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Syrian forces fully recapture Daesh's last stronghold on border with Iraq Press TV 19 Nov 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers, backed by pro-government fighters from popular defense groups, have fully liberated a strategic city in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr and on the border with Iraq from the clutches of Daesh Takfiri terrorist group.
Iranian IRGC Commander Killed In Syria RFE/RL 19 Nov 2017 -- Iranian media have reported that a commander in the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has been killed in fighting against Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria.
Foreign Ministers Of Iran, Russia, Turkey Discuss Syria War Ahead Of Sochi Summit RFE/RL 19 Nov 2017 -- The Iranian, Russian, and Turkish foreign ministers have met in southern Turkey to discuss the years-long civil war in Syria ahead of a summit between the three countries' presidents in Russia.
Russia Says Sweden, Uruguay Have Plan To Extend UN Syria Chemical Weapons Inquiry RFE/RL 19 Nov 2017 -- A senior Russian official says Sweden and Uruguay have written a draft resolution that could lead to another vote to keep alive a United Nations investigation into who is responsible for chemical weapons attacks in Syria.
Around 20,000 Residents Returned to Syria's Homs After Militants Left - Governor Sputnik 19 Nov 2017 -- Syrian residents continue to return back to their homes amid the reconciliation agreement coming into force, the governor of Homs city and province said in an interview to Sputnik.
Daesh suicide attack on eastern Syria leaves 20 dead, injures 30 IRNA 18 Nov 2017 -- The suicide strike by terrorist group Daesh on Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria resulted in killing 20 people and injured 30 others, Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported.
Russia vetos Japan-drafted UN resolution on chemical attacks probe in Syria People's Daily 18 Nov 2017 -- Russia on Friday vetoed a Japanese-drafted UN securiy council resolution on renewing a joint mechanism to investigate who is behind chemical weapons attacks in Syria.
US won't be constrained by UN Security Council in Syria: Haley Press TV 18 Nov 2017 -- The United States does not consider itself constrained by the UN Security Council and may seek "justice" in Syria on its own terms, says the US representative to the UN, Nikki Haley.
Russia vetoes Japan-drafted resolution on chemical attacks in Syria Press TV 18 Nov 2017 -- Russia has cast a second veto in the United Nations Security Council to block a resolution that sought the renewal of an international inquiry into chemical weapons attacks in Syria.
Russia Again Vetoes Chemical Weapons Resolutions on Syria VOA 18 Nov 2017 -- Russia has again vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution that would have extended an international probe into chemical weapons use in Syria, one day after it rejected a similar resolution.
Security Council fails at fresh attempt to renew panel investigating chemical weapons use in Syria UN News 17 Nov 2017 -- For the third time in two days, the United Nations Security Council on Friday failed to adopt a resolution on the mandate of an international panel investigating use of chemical weapons in Syria due to a negative vote by permanent member, Russia.
Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 17 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 34 strikes consisting of 56 engagements Nov. 13-16, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Daesh car bombing leaves 26 Syrians dead in northern Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 17 Nov 2017 -- A so-called monitoring group says more than two dozen people have been killed and scores of others injured when a powerful explosion targeted a group of internally displaced persons in the northern countryside of Syria's eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr.
Russian bombers pound Daesh positions near Syria's Bukamal again Press TV 17 Nov 2017 -- Russian Tupolev Tu-22M3 long-range bombers have conducted a string of new aerial attacks against the positions of Daesh Takfiri terrorist group near the town of Bukamal in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr as government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups, are fighting to fully recapture the territory from the extremists.
UN Security Council To Vote Again On Syrian Chemical Weapons Inquiry RFE/RL 17 Nov 2017 -- The UN Security Council says it will vote on November 17 on a one-month extension of a mandate to allow experts to determine who was responsibile for chemical-weapons attacks in Syria, one day after Russia vetoed a similar proposal.
Turkish President Slams US Policy in Syria VOA 17 Nov 2017 -- Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan used an address to party officials Friday in Ankara as an opportunity to launch a blistering attack on the U.S. policy in Syria.
Security Council again fails to extend panel investigating use of chemical weapons in Syria UN News 16 Nov 2017 -- Two draft resolutions – one sponsored by the United States and another led by Bolivia – were defeated in the United Nations Security Council Thursday, blocking renewal of the international inquiry into chemical weapons attacks in Syria.
Russia, US Reject Rival Chemical Weapons Resolutions on Syria VOA 16 Nov 2017 -- Russia on Thursday vetoed a U.S.-sponsored Security Council resolution that would have extended the international probe into chemical weapons use in Syria.
Daesh has lost 95% of territory in Iraq, Syria: US-led coalition Press TV 16 Nov 2017 -- The US-led military coalition, which is purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria and Iraq, says the terror outfit has already lost 95 percent of the cross-border "caliphate" it declared three years ago in the two Middle Eastern countries.
Russian foreign minister says US intervention in Syria illegal Press TV 16 Nov 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has slammed a US claim that Washington is conducting military operations in Syria under a UN mandate, saying the American intervention is illegal.
Syria sends reinforcements to Bukamal in last anti-Daesh push Press TV 16 Nov 2017 -- Syrian government forces have dispatched reinforcements to the eastern town of Bukamal in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr province to fully purge the city of Daesh terrorists.
Kurdish militants aim to capture Syrian region, not fighting Daesh: Turkish FM Press TV 16 Nov 2017 -- The Turkish foreign minister says a US-backed Kurdish militant group fighting in northern Syria aims to conquer the region under the cover of battling the Daesh Takfiri terror group.
Russia Vetoes U.S.-Led Move To Extend UN Chemical-Weapons Probe In Syria RFE/RL 16 Nov 2017 -- Russia has vetoed a U.S.-written resolution in the United Nation Security Council to extend the mandate of an investigation program to determine who is behind chemical-weapons attacks in Syria.
Pentagon Rebuffs Russia's Proposal of Joint Actions Against Daesh in Syria Sputnik 16 Nov 2017 -- Pentagon rejected Russia's proposal to conduct joint actions against Daesh in Syria saying that the targeting process of the US-led coalition against the terrorist group is independent of third party input.
Russian bombers strike Daesh-held Bukamal in eastern Syria Press TV 15 Nov 2017 -- Russian Tupolev Tu-22M3 long-range bombers have launched fresh airstrikes against the positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group near the town of Bukamal in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, days after the extremists recaptured the territory from government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups.
Russia-Based Bombers Hit Islamic State Sites In Syria, Military Says RFE/RL 15 Nov 2017 -- Six long-range bombers taking off from home bases in Russia overflew Iran and Iraq to strike sites held by Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria's Deir al-Zor Province, the Russian military says.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 14 Nov 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Major Adrian Rankine-Galloway, Pentagon Spokesman
Coalition Airstrikes Kill 4 Senior ISIS Leaders AFPS 14 Nov 2017 -- Coalition airstrikes killed four senior Islamic State of Iraq and Syria leaders in the past three weeks, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials announced today.
Defeat-ISIS Campaign Deprives Enemy of Safe Havens, OIR Official Says AFPS 14 Nov 2017 -- The U.S.-led coalition to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria continues to support Syrian Democratic Forces as they pressure ISIS by advancing toward the confluence of the Kabul and Euphrates River valleys, Army Col. Ryan S. Dillon, spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve, told reporters today.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 14 Nov 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
Presence of Iranian military advisors in Syria legitimate: Lavrov Press TV 14 Nov 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stressed that the presence of Iranian military advisors in Syria is "legitimate."
Damascus slams US military presence in Syria as aggression Press TV 14 Nov 2017 -- Syria has strongly condemned the US military presence in the country, describing such a deployment as an act of aggression since it does not have any authorization from the Damascus government or a UN mandate.
Russia accuses US of providing air cover for Daesh in Syria Press TV 14 Nov 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has accused the US of only pretending to fight terrorism in the Middle East, saying it has "conclusive evidence" that Washington provides air cover for Daesh in Syria.
Russia Shows Video-Game Footage As Evidence Of U.S. 'Cover' For IS RFE/RL 14 Nov 2017 -- The Russian military has released what it called "irrefutable evidence" that the United States is providing cover for Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria in order to "promote American interests."
Damascus: Uninvited US Presence in Syria Constitutes Act of Aggression Sputnik 14 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian Foreign Ministry has commented on the remarks by the Pentagon chief who said that the presence of the United States in Syria had been approved by the United Nations as Washington is fighting Daesh terrorists.
Kremlin opposes double interpretation of Putin-Trump statement on Syria People's Daily 13 Nov 2017 -- Any double interpretation of the latest joint statement on Syriaby Russian President Vladimir Putinand his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump would be inappropriate, the Kremlin said Sunday.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 13 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 39 strikes consisting of 67 engagements Nov. 12 through yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Increased Fighting in Syria's Aleppo Interrupts Humanitarian Activities Sputnik 14 Nov 2017 -- Fighting between various non-state actors in rural Aleppo, Syria has interrupted humanitarian activities, UN Secretary-General's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Monday.
Israel to Continue to Operate in Syria to Protect Its Security - Netanyahu Sputnik 13 Nov 2017 -- Israel has made it clear to Russia and the United States that it will continue to operate in Syria to protect its security interests, the state radio station Kan reports citing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Russian MoD Official: 'Combing of Abu Kemal Is Now Almost Completed' Sputnik 13 Nov 2017 -- Several media outlets earlier claimed that Daesh had seized major areas of the Syrian city of Abu Kemal, forcing the Syrian Army to leave the captured zone. A representative of the Russian forces in Syria has refuted the reports, observing that the suppression of the remaining terrorists in the city was almost completed.
Trump, Putin say military communications improving in Syria People's Daily 12 Nov 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin said on Saturday they are satisfied with the communication between their militaries, which has "dramatically" accelerated the losses of the Islamic State (IS) on the battlefield in recent months.
Syria: UN health agency calls for immediate and unimpeded access to save lives in Ghouta UN News 12 Nov 2017 -- Amid worsening humanitarian, health and security situation in Syria's besieged eastern Ghouta, the United Nations health agency has demanded that all parties to the conflict stop attacks on civilians, facilitate immediate medical evacuations, and allow safe passage of medical supplies.
Israeli army says shot down Syrian drone over occupied Golan Heights Press TV 11 Nov 2017 -- The Israeli military says it has intercepted and shot down an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) purportedly operated by the Syrian Air Force in Syria's occupied Golan Heights.
Israeli Forces Shoot Down Drone on Syrian Border - IDF Sputnik 11 Nov 2017 -- According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was intercepted with Patriot missiles while on a reconnaissance mission over the demilitarized areas of the Golan Heights, claimed by7 both Israel and Syria.
Israel: Military Shot Down Syrian Spy Drone VOA 11 Nov 2017 -- Israel shot down a Syrian military spy drone near the border on Saturday, the Israeli military said.
Trump, Putin Say U.S.-Russia Agreement On Syria Will Save Many Lives, 'Extraordinarily Important' RFE/RL 11 Nov 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump said on November 11 that an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Syria would save many lives after the two met at a summit of Asia-Pacific leaders, while the Russian leader called the statement "extraordinarily important."
Trump Says Joint Statement About Syria Issued With Putin Will Save Lives VOA 11 Nov 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday said that during the APEC summit in Vietnam he had "two or three very short conversations" with Russian
Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 10 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 23 strikes consisting of 28 engagements Nov. 6-9, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Turkey Expects US to Stop Arming Syrian Kurds After Daesh's Defeat Sputnik 10 Nov 2017 -- Ankara believes that the Syrian Kurds' YPG movement that is fighting Daesh in the country is linked to the PKK, banned in Turkey.
Report: Daesh leader may be in eastern Syrian border city of Boukamal Press TV 10 Nov 2017 -- The media bureau of Syria's Operations Command Center says Daesh Takfiri terrorist group's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi may be holed up at a militant-held pocket in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
RAF continue to strike a retreating Daesh UK MOD 09 Nov 2017 -- Daesh terrorists are in rapid retreat as the RAF continues to strike them in both Iraq and Syria.
West calls for extending probes of using chemical weapons in Syria IRNA 09 Nov 2017 -- The four countries of France, the US, Britain and Germany called on the United Nations Security Council to extend the international probings into the use of chemical weapons in Syria.
Western Powers Set Up Showdown With Russia Over Syrian Chemical Attacks RFE/RL 09 Nov 2017 -- Major Western powers have set up a showdown with Russia before the UN Security Council by demanding the renewal of a UN mission charged with determining who staged chemical-weapons attacks in Syria.
Gov't Forces Destroy Last Daesh Stronghold in Syria, Army Command Confirms Sputnik 09 Nov 2017 -- The town of Abu Kemal in the Deir ez-Zor province has been considered the last Daesh terrorist group's stronghold after the liberation of al-Mayadin by the Syrian government forces.
Syrian conflict has now lasted longer than World War II - UN humanitarian envoy UN News 09 Nov 2017 -- While there had been a period of de-escalation in many areas of war-riven Syria – reducing human suffering to some extent – the fighting now seems to be returning to some of the "bleakest days" of the conflict, a senior United Nations official warned Thursday.
Syrian Government Forces Recapture Key Border Crossing VOA 09 Nov 2017 -- Syrian government forces say they have recaptured the border town of Albu Kamal, the last major Islamic State stronghold in eastern Syria. Iraqi government forces recaptured the town of al Qaim, their side of the border crossing with Syria, several days ago.
Russian Opposition Throws Doubt On Renewal Of UN Inquiry Into Syrian Gas Attacks RFE/RL 08 Nov 2017 -- Russia has rejected a UN investigative report blaming the Syrian government for a deadly sarin-gas attack, casting doubt on whether it will agree to extend the investigation's mandate before it expires next week.
Scrambling to Track Islamic State Terrorists, Coalition Turns to Biometrics VOA 08 Nov 2017 -- As U.S.-backed forces made their final push into the city of Raqqa to liberate what had once been the Syrian capital of the Islamic State's self-declared caliphate, they faced a problem.
Syrian forces along with Lebanon's Hezbollah capture Daesh's last stronghold Press TV 08 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian forces along with allied fighters from Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement have liberated Bukamal, the last major Daesh-held town in Syria.
Syrian army, allies enter Daesh's last stronghold on border with Iraq Press TV 08 Nov 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers, backed by pro-government fighters from popular defense groups, have entered the last major Syrian city controlled by the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
Russia, Syria question validity of OPCW report on Idlib sarin attack Press TV 08 Nov 2017 -- Russia and Syria have censured the findings of a UN-led investigation blaming the Syrian government for a chemical attack on the town of Khan Shaykhun, with Moscow casting doubt on the extension of the probe's mandate before its expiry next week.
Syrian Army Reportedly Enters Abu Kemal, Daesh's Last Largest Hotbed in Syria Sputnik 08 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian government forces have been conducting a massive operation in the Deir ez-Zor province aiming to completely wipe Daesh terrorists out as over 90 percent of the war-torn state's territory has already been liberated.
Tillerson Joins Other Diplomats, Signs Onto Statement Condemning Syrian Chemical Weapons VOA 08 Nov 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and several other diplomats signed onto a statement Wednesday condemning the Syrian government's use of chemical weapons against its citizens.
Both ISIL and Syrian Government responsible for use of chemical weapons, UN Security Council told UN News 07 Nov 2017 -- The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh) was responsible for using sulfur mustard in a September 2016 attack in Umm Hawsh and the Syrian Government was accountable for the release of sarin in an April 2017 attack in Khan Shaykhun, the head of a Security Council-mandated investigation said Tuesday.
Assad's aide: US, Turkish troops presence on Syrian soil illegal Press TV 07 Nov 2017 -- President Bashar al-Assad's top aide has stressed that the presence of US and Turkish troops on Syrian soil is illegal and that will be dealt with invaders.
Russian FM denies postponing Syrian peace congress Press TV 07 Nov 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has denied postponing an upcoming "Syrian Congress" which would bring together Syria's warring sides in the Russian city of Sochi.
Syria war not to end after recapture of Dayr al-Zawr: Assad Press TV 07 Nov 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers and allied fighters will keep fighting terrorist groups in the country after the end of the battle in the eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr, President Bashar al-Assad says.
OPCW Verifies 25 of 27 Chemical Weapons Facilities Destroyed in Syria Sputnik 07 Nov 2017 -- The Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Ahmet Uzumcu said in a note in his forty-ninth monthly progress report on Monday that OPCW had verified the elimination of 25 out of 27 chemical weapons production facilities in Syria.
Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 06 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 14 strikes consisting of 33 engagements Nov. 4-5, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Russia May Keep Its Bases in Syria After Terrorists Defeated - Foreign Ministry Sputnik 06 Nov 2017 -- The Russian military has said its military operation in Syria is coming to a conclusion as more than 90 percent of the territory of the war-torn country had been freed from terrorists.
US Sends 120 Trucks With Arms to SDF for Deir ez-Zor Operation Sputnik 06 Nov 2017 -- A high-ranking Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) official has told Sputnik Turkiye that the US continues to supply them with arms and has recently delivered 120 trucks loaded with heavy armament and armored vehicles for the Deir ez-Zor operation.
Turkey says Russia has postponed Syria peace conference Press TV 05 Nov 2017 -- Turkey says the Kremlin has decided to postpone a planned peace conference on Syria that was scheduled to be held in Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi on November 18.
Iran will stand by post-war Syria: Defense minister Press TV 05 Nov 2017 -- Iran's Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami has expressed the Islamic Republic's determination to continue its support for Syria after the end of the foreign-backed war in the Arab country.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 04 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting six strikes consisting of 15 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Russian Tu-22M3 long-range bombers strike Daesh targets in eastern Syria Press TV 04 Nov 2017 -- Russian Tupolev Tu-22M3 long-range bombers have launched fresh airstrikes against the positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, a day after government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups, fully liberated Dayr al-Zawr city from the clutches of the extremists.
Israel threatens to launch incursion into Syria Press TV 04 Nov 2017 -- The Israeli military has threatened to launch an incursion into Syria "to protect" the people of a village populated by the Arab country's Druze minority, who are themselves supportive of the Syrian government.
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 03 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 13 strikes consisting of 15 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Turkey Deploys More Forces in Northern Syria VOA 03 Nov 2017 -- Turkey is reinforcing the armored columns it started deploying last month in the northern Syrian province of Idlib, the stronghold of an increasingly fractious al-Qaida-linked group, in what analysts describe as a phased incursion.
Bombing under Israeli watch as Syria liberates Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 03 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian army and allied fighters have managed to retake full control over the eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr in their latest push against Takfiri Daesh terrorists.
Russia, US craft rival UN resolutions on extending chemical probe in Syria Press TV 03 Nov 2017 -- Russia and the United States have drawn up rival UN Security Council resolutions on extending the mission of a body of international experts probing chemical attacks in Syria.
Russia's Long-Range Bombers, Sub Launch Massive Attack on Daesh in Syria Sputnik 03 Nov 2017 -- Six strikes by the Kalibr cruise missiles were conducted against Daesh terrorists in the Abu Kemal area in Syria by the Russian military forces.
Syrian Army Fully Liberates City of Deir ez-Zor From Daesh Sputnik 03 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian servicemen have confirmed to Sputnik, that the city of Deir ez-Zor, the biggest in the country's east and the last stronghold of the Daesh terrorist group, has been completely liberated.
U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 02 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 11 strikes consisting of 11 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Syrian forces liberate more districts in Dayr al-Zawr city Press TV 02 Nov 2017 -- Syrian army soldiers and allied fighters have managed to wrest control over three more neighborhoods in the eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr in their latest push against Daesh terrorists.
Russian long-range bombers strike Daesh positions in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr province Press TV 02 Nov 2017 -- The Russian military says six of its Tupolev Tu-22M3 long-range bombers have successfully pounded the positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr for the second day in a row.
Syria urges UN action after fresh Israeli airstrikes Press TV 02 Nov 2017 -- Syria has written two letters to the United Nations, calling on the world body to take swift action against Israel's attacks on the Arab country.
France unhappy about Russia's forum on Syria, stresses Geneva process Press TV 02 Nov 2017 -- France has expressed its objection to a Russian initiative to bring about a political solution to the crisis in Syria, saying Moscow should pursue efforts aligned with those of the United Nations.
Russia censures 'unprofessional' UN report on Syria's gas attack Press TV 02 Nov 2017 -- Russia has strongly criticized as "superficial and unprofessional" a recent United Nations report blaming the Damascus government for a gas attack in a militant-held town in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib back in April.
HNC opposition group opposes Russia-proposed conference on Syria Press TV 02 Nov 2017 -- Syria's Saudi-affiliated opposition group, the High Negotiations Committee (HNC), has bulked at a peace conference agreed at the Astana talks with the aim of bringing Syria's warring sides to the negotiating table in Sochi, Russia, later this month.
White House Calls On Russia To Stop Blocking UN Gas Attack Inquiry In Syria RFE/RL 02 Nov 2017 -- The White House late on November 1 called on Russia to stop blocking efforts to renew the authority of a UN investigative body charged with determining who is behind chemical weapons attacks in Syria.
Six Russian Long-Range Bombers Strike Daesh Command Posts in Deir-ez-Zor Sputnik 02 Nov 2017 -- Russian long-range aviation has targeted Daesh targets in the town of Abu Kemal in the province of Deir ez-Zor for the second day in a row.
Russia Debunks UN-OPCW Report Blaming Damascus for Idlib Chemical Attack Sputnik 02 Nov 2017 -- The Russian Defense Ministry, Foreign Ministry and Ministry of Industry and Trade have presented their own report on chemical attacks in Syria in the wake of a UN-OPCW document, which accuses Damascus of using chemical weapons in Khan Sheikhoun on April 4.
White House Accuses Russia of Undermining UN Panel Amid Chemical Weapons Probe Sputnik 02 Nov 2017 -- White House claims that "Russia's attempts to undermine and eliminate" the OPCW investigative mechanism demonstrates an "utter lack of respect" for international norms.
Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 01 Nov 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 13 strikes consisting of 18 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Syrian army targets Israeli jet over Homs Press TV 01 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian army has targeted an Israel jet with a surface-to-air missile over the country's Homs province.
Opposition rejects Russian initiative to hold congress on Syria crisis Press TV 01 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian opposition has rejected an initiative put forward by Russia during the latest negotiations in the Kazakh capital, Astana, to hold a congress, which would bring together Syria's warring sides in Sochi later this month.
Russia slams 'amateurish' UN report on Syria's Khan Shaykhun incident Press TV 01 Nov 2017 -- Russia has criticized a recent United Nations report blaming the Syrian government for a chemical attack on the town of Khan Shaykhun, saying it is an "amateurish" document and based on selective data.
Syrian Opposition Won't Participate In Russian-Sponsored Congress RFE/RL 01 Nov 2017 -- The Syrian National Coalition (SNC), the main Western-backed political opposition group fighting the Syrian government, says it opposes a Russian-sponsored congress of Syrian groups, calling it an attempt to circumvent the UN-backed Geneva peace talks that aim for a political transition for the war-torn country.
Iran, Russia, Turkey emphasize on Syria's unity, territorial integrity ISNA 01 Nov 2017 -- Iran, Russia and Turkey as guarantors of the observance of the ceasefire regime in the Syrian issued a joint statement at the end of the seventh round of Syria peace talks in Astana.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

November 2017 - Syria Special Weapons News