February 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News

Turkish PM Confirms Cutting Off Kurdish YPG Militia From Border With Syria Sputnik 28 Feb 2018 -- Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has confirmed that Ankara's military operation in the northern Syrian district of Afrin has resulted in the partial surrounding of the city controlled by the Kurds and Kurdish militias being cut off from the Syrian-Turkish border.
Turkey Resists International Calls to Abide by UN Syria Cease-Fire VOA 28 Feb 2018 -- Turkey is pushing back against international calls for it to abide by a U.N.-backed cease-fire in Syria. The U.N. call for a truce comes as Ankara continues to escalate its offensive in the Syrian enclave of Afrin against the YPG Kurdish militia.
UN Aid Chief: Syria Cease-Fire Yet to Be Implemented VOA 28 Feb 2018 -- The U.N. humanitarian chief said Wednesday that a 30-day cease-fire across Syria had not been implemented, and he asked the Security Council when it would be put into effect.
Russia Accuses Syrian Rebels of Blocking Humanitarian Plan While Fighting Continues VOA 28 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday rebels in the eastern Ghouta area of Syria are blocking aid deliveries and preventing people from leaving during what Russia has called a daily "humanitarian pause" in its military operations.
Airstrikes, shelling continue in Syria despite Security Council's ceasefire call – top UN officials UN News 28 Feb 2018 -- Despite the Security Council's demand for a ceasefire throughout Syria, violence continues to plague the war-ravaged country, worsening the humanitarian situation and the suffering of its people, top United Nations political and relief officials said Wednesday, calling on all parties to the conflict to "fulfil their obligations to end the fighting."
Russia's patience with Ghouta militants not indefinite: Putin Press TV 28 Feb 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that his patience with militant attacks in Syria's Ghouta region is not indefinite, as terrorist groups positioned in the Damascus suburb continue to shell the capital indiscriminately.
Syria denies possession of chemical weapons Press TV 28 Feb 2018 -- Syria has denied allegations of possessing chemical weapons, stressing that the foreign-backed Takfiri terrorist groups operating in the country, including al-Nusra and Daesh, have obtained some stocks.
Militants, sponsors must act to make Syria truce work: Russia FM Press TV 28 Feb 2018 -- Russia says it has done its part to usher in calm in the militant-besieged Damascus suburb of Eastern Ghouta, where it has announced a humanitarian pause, saying the ball is now in the court of militants and their supporters to make the truce in Syria work.
Amid Outcry Over Ghouta, Russia Vows To Back Assad Against 'Terror Threat' RFE/RL 28 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said that Moscow will continue to help Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government to defeat what he called the "terrorist threat."
U.S.: Russia 'On Wrong Side Of History' On Syrian Chemical Weapons RFE/RL 28 Feb 2018 -- A senior U.S. disarmament official says Russia has violated its commitments as guarantor of the destruction of Syria's chemical-weapons stockpile and failed to prevent President Bashar al-Assad's government from using them.
Terrorists Continue Offensive in Aleppo, Latakia, Daraa Provinces - Russian MoD Sputnik 28 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Center for the Syrian Reconciliation reported Wednesday that militants from illegal armed groups controlling the Eastern Ghouta suburb of Damascus fired 13 mortar rounds at residential areas of the Syrian capital over the past 24 hours.
After 40 Days Under Turkish Fire, Kurds in Syria's Afrin Still Refuse to Give Up Sputnik 28 Feb 2018 -- As Olive Branch operation in Syria's Afrin has entered its 40th day, the spirit of resistance is now recalling Kobane town, which stood up to terrorists in 2014, Garib Huso, co-chair of the public relations committee of the so-called Democratic Federation of Northern Syria, or Rojava (a de facto autonomous region) told Sputnik.
Turkey Slams US for Distorting UN Resolution on Syria Sputnik 28 Feb 2018 -- The US State Department's recent statement accusing Turkey of violating the UNSC resolution on the Syrian truce by continuing its operation in Afrin undermines the essence of this resolution, the Turkish Foreign Ministry's spokesman Hami Aksoy said on Wednesday.
Syria Cannot Use Chemical Weapons Because It Has None - Syrian Envoy to UN Sputnik 28 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian Envoy to the United Nations Hussam Edin Aala has addressed the participants of the conference on disarmament, commenting on the accusations against Damascus on the use of chemical weapons.
Satellite Images Reveal Iran Establishing Missile Base Near Damascus - Reports Sputnik 28 Feb 2018 -- Recent satellite imagery taken outside Syria's capital Damascus show that Iran has constructed a likely missile base that can strike anywhere in Israel, according to media reports.
US Calls Out Russia for Playing 'Arsonist and Firefighter' in Syria VOA 27 Feb 2018 -- A top U.S. general is accusing Russia of sowing the seeds of instability in Syria and across the greater Middle East, part of an ongoing attempt to expand its influence at the expense of the United States and the international community.
US to Stay in Syria After Daesh Defeat - CENTCOM Sputnik 27 Feb 2018 -- US forces deployed in Syria will remain in the country after Daesh defeat (outlawed in Russia) to ensure the terror group does not reemerge and proceed with a political resolution of the conflict, Central Command (CENTCOM) commander Gen. Joseph Votel said in a congressional testimony on Tuesday.
Russia's 'Humanitarian Pause' Has No Effect on Syria Fighting VOA 27 Feb 2018 -- Russia started its "humanitarian pause" in Syria's eastern region of Ghouta on Tuesday, but new fighting erupted and there were no signs of civilians leaving the besieged area or aid deliveries arriving.
Terrorists renew attacks on corridor for evacuation of civilians from Ghouta IRNA 27 Feb 2018 -- Terrorists from Jabhat al-Nusra and other affiliated terrorist organizations continued targeting with shells the safe corridor set up for the evacuation of civilians from Ghouta at al-Wafideeen Camp in Damascus Countryside.
Syria urges Security Council to stop US-led coalition's war crimes Press TV 27 Feb 2018 -- Damascus has called on the United Nations Security Council to act against the insistence of the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group on perpetrating massacres against the Syrian nation, and supporting the remnants of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group.
Terrorists shelling blocks civilian evacuations in Syria's Eastern Ghouta: Russia Press TV 27 Feb 2018 -- Russia's military says terrorists are blocking civilian evacuations from Syria's Damascus suburb of Eastern Ghouta by shelling the route out of the area hours after a humanitarian pause went into effect to help the residents flee the militant-held area.
UK may join US strikes on Syria if gas attack claims proven: Johnson Press TV 27 Feb 2018 -- Amid a renewed Western push to blame Syria for "chemical attacks" against civilians, the UK says it will start "seriously" considering joining US military strikes against the Arab country if such claims are ever established.
Shelling Reported As 'Humanitarian Pause' Begins In Syria's Ghouta RFE/RL 27 Feb 2018 -- There were reports of air strikes, rocket fire, and mortar shelling in Syria's rebel-held eastern Ghouta region, after a five-hour truce called by Russia took effect there.
U.S. Says Fighting Continues In Ghouta As Russia's 'Humanitarian Pause' Looms RFE/RL 27 Feb 2018 -- The United States said fighting and killing has continued in a war-battered suburb of Damascus as the hour nears for a humanitarian cease-fire Russia said it would enforce in eastern Ghouta.
Militants Started New Offensive Against Syrian Forces in E Ghouta - Russian MoD Sputnik 27 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry assured that its Reconciliation Center in Syria guaranteed the security of civilians leaving Eastern Ghouta.
UK Threatens Damascus With Airstrikes if There's Proof of Chemical Weapons' Use Sputnik 27 Feb 2018 -- Despite being repeatedly accused of using chemical weapons, Damascus has strongly denied having them; it destroyed its arsenal several years ago, and their complete destruction was subsequently confirmed by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
Militants Shell Eastern Ghouta, Syrian Army Doesn't Respond - Russian MoD Sputnik 27 Feb 2018 -- The humanitarian pause in the besieged rebel-held Eastern Ghouta area of Damascus has entered into force, according to a Sputnik correspondent.
Turkey gains control of border strip inside Syria's Afrin, sends special forces for new fight Press TV 26 Feb 2018 -- The Turkish army has taken control of the outer edge of Syria's northwestern region of Afrin during its ongoing cross-border offensive against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
Turkey formally requests extradition of former PYD leader Press TV 26 Feb 2018 -- Turkey has formally asked Czech authorities to extradite Salih Muslim, a former leader of major Kurdish group the Democratic Union Party (PYD), who has been held in custody.
Turkey to Deploy Special Forces to Syria's Afrin - Deputy PM Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- On Saturday, the UN Security Council adopted the resolution stipulating a 30-day ceasefire in Syria. However, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag has said that the truce won't affect Ankara's ongoing operation against terrorists in Afrin.
Pro-Turkish Kurds to Join Military Operation in Syrian Afrin - Reports Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- Ankara stated that the Turkish military operation in Afrin won't be affected by the 30-day nationwide truce in Syria.
Turkish Army Reportedly Cuts Off Kurdish Troops From Border With Syria Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- The Turkish troops in cooperation with the Free Syrian Army (FSA) forces have cut off the troops of the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) from the borders between Turkey and Syria in the course of Ankara's ongoing military operation, local media reported Monday.
Iran hopes to witness durable implementation of 30-day ceasefire in Syria ISNA 26 Feb 2018 -- Iranian foreign ministry spokesman referred to the 30-day ceasefire in Syria approved by the UN Security Council, expressing hope that the ceasefire would be implemented and led to reduction in violence and beginning of delivering humanitarian aid to the Syrian people.
Russia dismisses 'bogus' reports of chemical attack in Syria's Eastern Ghouta Press TV 26 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has dismissed as "bogus stories" the recent reports of an alleged chemical attack in the militant-held enclave of Eastern Ghouta near Syrian capital city of Damascus, stressing that government forces have attacked foreign-sponsored Takfiri terrorists there.
France says Turkey must observe Syria ceasefire in Afrin Press TV 26 Feb 2018 -- French President Emmanuel Macron says Turkey must observe a United Nations Security Council resolution on a month-long ceasefire in Syria including its northwestern region of Afrin where Ankara is waging an offensive against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
Chlorine attack reported in Syria after Russian warning Press TV 26 Feb 2018 -- A suspected new chemical attack has reportedly hit the Damascus suburb of Eastern Ghouta just after Russia warned that militants were planning a gas attack there to pin it on the Syrian government.
Putin orders daily five-hour ceasefire in Syria's Eastern Ghouta Press TV 26 Feb 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the implementation of a daily ceasefire in Syria's Damascus suburb of Eastern Ghouta from Tuesday and the creation of a "humanitarian corridor" through which civilians can leave the militant-held area.
Putin Orders 'Humanitarian Pause' In Syria's Ghouta RFE/RL 26 Feb 2018 -- Russia says a daily "humanitarian pause" will be introduced in the Syrian rebel-held enclave of eastern Ghouta starting on February 27.
Russia Proposes Creation of Int'l Commission on Syria's Raqqa - Minister Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu commented on the situation in Syria after the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution on Syria that stipulates introduction of a 30-day halt in fighting in the country.
Macron to Erdogan: Syrian Ceasefire Must Apply to Afrin Operation Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has discussed the new UN Security Council resolution on the Syrian ceasefire as well as Ankara's operation in Afrin in a phone conversation with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Monday.
Militants Preparing Poisonous Agents Provocation in Eastern Ghouta - Moscow Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- The leaders of the militant groups are preparing provocation with the use of poisonous substances in the Eastern Ghouta enclave in order to accuse Damascus of using the chemical weapons, the Russian Defense Ministry said late on Sunday.
Lavrov Calls on US-Led Coalition to Take Steps to Implement UN Syria Resolution Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in phone talks with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel on Monday called on members of the US-led coalition to take urgent steps aimed at implementing the recent UN Security Council resolution on Syria, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
EU Adds 2 Syrian Ministers to Sanctions List, Total of 257 People Now Targeted Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- The Council of the European Union on Monday added the Syrian minister of industry and the minister of information to the anti-Syria sanctions list, bringing the total number of targeted persons to 257, the Council said in a statement.
US Sees No Evidence of Chemical Weapons Being Used Now in Syria - Pentagon Sputnik 26 Feb 2018 -- The United States is following reports about possible disinformation campaigns on the use of chemical weapons in Syria, but possesses no evidence of such use at present, US Department of Defense Press Operations Director Col. Rob Manning said in a briefing on Monday.
'Hell on earth' in Syria's eastern Ghouta must end - UN chief Guterres UN News 26 Feb 2018 -- Syria's war-battered east Ghouta, the troubled Kasais region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Northern Rakhine state in Myanmar, where violence has sparked a major exodus of Muslim Rohingyas, were all in the spotlight as the Geneva-based Human Rights Council opened its session today, with UN officials warning that these situations spiraled into crisis "because not enough was done, early and collectively, to prevent the rising horrors."
Syrian refugee children in Jordan deprived of the most basic needs - UNICEF UN News 26 Feb 2018 -- Eighty five per cent of Syrian refugee children in Jordan are living below the poverty line and a staggering 94 per cent of those under five in "multidimensional" poverty, meaning that they are deprived of some of the most basic needs such as education, health or protection, an assessment by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has revealed.
Putin Orders 'Daily Humanitarian Pause' in Airstrikes on Syrian Rebels VOA 26 Feb 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday ordered a "daily humanitarian pause" in Moscow's airstrikes on Syrian rebels, a five-hour window to let civilians escape from clashes near Damascus.
UN Chief Guterres Calls for End to Fighting in Syria VOA 26 Feb 2018 -- U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is criticizing the failure of governments to implement a Security Council resolution for a 30-day cease-fire in war-torn Syria. Addressing the opening of the U.N. Human Rights Council's four-week session, Guterres called for an immediate end to the fighting.
Syria ceasefire not to affect offensive in Afrin: Turkey Press TV 25 Feb 2018 -- Turkey welcomes a United Nations Security Council resolution on a month-long ceasefire in Syria, but says it will have no effect on Ankara's ongoing cross-border offensive in Syria's northwestern region of Afrin against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
In warning to US, Erdogan vows to 'break arms and wings' of militants Press TV 25 Feb 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has issued one of his strongest warnings meant for the US, pledging to "break the arms and wings" of Washington-backed militants in Syria.
UN Security Council Resolution on Syria Won't Affect Operation in Afrin - Ankara Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- The UN Security Council adopted on Saturday the resolution stipulating a 30-day ceasefire in Syria amid Turkish military operation Olive Branch that has been ongoing in the Syrian region of Afrin since January 20.
Pro-Turkish Forces Seize Part of Syrian Territories in Afrin - Source Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- Pro-Turkish forces have seized a major part of the Kurdish town of Jindires in Afrin amid Turkey's ongoing military operation in Syria's northern region, a source in Syrian pro-government militias told Sputnik Sunday.
New Fighting Erupts Near Damascus Despite UN Cease-fire Demand VOA 25 Feb 2018 -- New fighting erupted Sunday near Damascus in spite of the United Nations' demand for a 30-day cease-fire to allow rescue and medical workers to enter the region.
UN Security Council unanimously votes in favor of Syria ceasefire resolution Press TV 24 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations Security Council unanimously votes in favor of a resolution demanding a 30-day truce in Syria 'without delay' to allow aid access and medical evacuations.
Terrorists should be wiped off Syria: Iranian General IRNA 25 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian territory, within next months, should be cleansed of terrorists, Chief of Staff for the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran said on Sunday.
UNICEF says 85 percent of Syrian refugee children in Jordan live in poverty Press TV 25 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has warned that 85 percent of Syrian refugee children in Jordan live in poverty, having a difficult time in satisfying their most "basic needs."
Russia, France, Germany leaders urge 'information exchange' on Syria Press TV 25 Feb 2018 -- The Russian, French and German leaders have agreed to speed up their "exchange of information" on Syria, the Kremlin says.
Syrian army retakes Eastren Ghouta areas in counter-terrorism campaign Press TV 25 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian army has launched a ground operation against the al-Nusra Front and other terrorist groups in the Eastren Ghouta region, wresting control over some areas.
Syria to be cleared of terrorists in a few months: Iran general Press TV 25 Feb 2018 -- Iran's top military commander says both Tehran and Damascus will comply with a month-long Syria ceasefire declared by the UN Security Council, but that attacks will continue in the Damascus suburbs held by terrorists.
Iran Says Attacks On 'Terrorists' In Syria To Continue Amid Cease-Fire RFE/RL 25 Feb 2018 -- Iran said that attacks on "terrorists" outside Damascus would continue but that Tehran and the Syrian government would respect a 30-day United Nations cease-fire elsewhere in Syria.
Militants Shell Damascus-East Ghouta Humanitarian Corridor Near Wafedeen Camp Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- Militants have been shelling the only humanitarian corridor between Damascus and East Ghouta near the refugee camp of Wafedeen, a Sputnik correspondent reported Sunday.
Arab League Calls on All Sides of Syrian Conflict to Observe Ceasefire in Syria Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit called on all warring parties in the Syrian conflict on Sunday to observe the ceasefire in line with the new UN Security Council resolution.
Kurdish Militia in Syria Says Ready to Observe Ceasefire in Afrin Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) said Sunday that they were ready to comply with UN Security Council resolution on the ceasefire in Syria, but retain the right to respond to aggression.
Moscow Vows to Thwart Attempts to Derail Syrian Settlement After UN Resolution Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has commented on the unanimous adoption of the UN Security Council resolution on Syria that stipulates introduction of a 30-day halt in fighting in the country that will boost the medical evacuation and provide access for humanitarian convoys in some of the country's regions.
Turkish Foreign Ministry Welcomes UN Sec. Council Resolution on Syrian Ceasefire Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- Turkey welcomes the resolution on a ceasefire regime in Syria adopted by the UN Security Council and will further its efforts to reach peace in the war-torn country, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said Sunday.
US Envoy Expresses Doubt Damascus to Comply With New UNSC Ceasefire Resolution Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has said that Washington is "deeply skeptical" that Damascus will comply with the new UN Security Council's resolution that introduces a 30-day truce on the Syrian territory.
Kurdish SDF Forces to Pass Control Over Manbij to Syrian Army – Source Sputnik 25 Feb 2018 -- Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic forces (SDF) have agreed on the transfer of control over the northeast city of Manbij in the Aleppo province to the Syrian army that will enter the city in the coming days, a Kurdish security source told Sputnik on Saturday.
UN Security Council agrees 30-day ceasefire in Syria UN News 24 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations Security Council voted unanimously on Saturday in favor of a 30-day cease-fire in Syria, and demanded immediate lifting of sieges on war-ravaged enclaves like eastern Ghouta, where, Secretary-General António Guterres warned earlier this week, some 400,000 people are living “in hell on earth.”
UN Security Council Demands 30-Day Syria Truce RFE/RL 24 Feb 2018 -- The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution demanding a 30-day cease-fire across Syria to allow aid deliveries and medical evacuations in conflict areas.
UN Security Council Unanimously Adopts Resolution on 30-Day Ceasefire in Syria Sputnik 24 Feb 2018 -- The UN Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution introducing a 30-day truce on Syrian territory to allow the medical evacuation of those injured and provide access to number of regions for humanitarian convoys.
Russia sends most advanced jets to Syria after US F-22 deployment: Reports Press TV 24 Feb 2018 -- Russia has reportedly sent two of its most advanced and sophisticated fighter jets to Syria, where its air force has been backing up the national army's ground operation against terrorist groups.
Another Two Russian Fifth Gen. Su-57 Jets Reportedly Land in Syria's Hmeymim Sputnik 24 Feb 2018 -- Russia's Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet is specifically designed for air superiority and attack roles. Two such planes were reportedly spotted in the skies above Syria earlier this week.
EU calls for truce in Syria's eastern Ghouta IRNA 24 Feb 2018 -- The wars should stop and the international community should unite to stop the pain people are suffering, said the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini in a statement.
Eastern Ghouta militants kill civilian in mortar attack on Damascus: TV Press TV 24 Feb 2018 -- At least one Syrian civilian has been killed and nearly a dozen others sustained injuries in a fresh wave of attacks launched by militants holed up in the Eastern Ghouta against the capital Damascus.
Syrian army forces, allies foil Fateh al-Sham attack on military posts in Quneitra Press TV 24 Feb 2018 -- Syrian government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have repelled a surprise attack by members of the Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Takfiri terrorist group, formerly known as al-Nusra Front, on military posts in the country's strategic southwestern region of Quneitra near the border with Israeli-controlled Palestinian territories.
US not acting against al-Nusra terrorists in Syria's Eastern Ghouta: Lavrov Press TV 24 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned against the threat of the Takfiri Jabhat Fateh al-Sham militant group, formerly known as al-Nusra Front, as the main source of violence in Syria's Eastern Ghouta region, censuring the US for not taking any serious action against the terror group.
Two civilians killed, four injured in Turkish shelling on Syria's Afrin Press TV 24 Feb 2018 -- At least two civilians have been killed and four others injured in Turkish shelling on Syria's northwestern region of Afrin, where Ankara is leading an operation against US-backed Kurdish militants.
IOM Appeals for $194M to Help Syrians Displaced by War VOA 24 Feb 2018 -- The U.N. migration agency is appealing for nearly $194 million to provide essential aid to three million Syrian war victims displaced internally or as refugees in neighboring countries. The money also would support the communities hosting them.
24 Killed in New Syrian Government Airstrikes East of Damascus VOA 24 Feb 2018 -- Another wave of airstrikes pounded the Syrian rebel enclave of eastern Ghouta Saturday, killing at least 24 people and increasing the civilian death toll over the past week to more than 500, including more than 120 children, a Britain-based monitoring group said.
U.S. Diplomat: Work With Russia On Syria 'More Challenging' RFE/RL 23 Feb 2018 -- A senior U.S. diplomat says it has become "more challenging" for Washington to work with Moscow in Syria amid Russia's resistance to a call by Western powers for a 30-day cease-fire in the war-torn country.
Military Strikes Hit ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 23 Feb 2018 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria between Feb. 16 and yesterday, conducting 41 strikes consisting of 76 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Trump admin. says US forces can stay in Syria without Congress authorization Press TV 23 Feb 2018 -- The administration of US President Donald Trump says it needs no legal authorization from Congress to indefinitely keep American military forces deployed in Syria and Iraq, even in territories that have been cleared of terrorist fighters, according to two newly published letters written by the Pentagon and State Department.
Turkish military not avoiding civilians in strikes against Syria's Afrin: HRW Press TV 23 Feb 2018 -- Human Rights Watch has criticized the Ankara government's ongoing cross-border offensive in Syria's northwestern region of Afrin against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), stating that the Turkish military has failed to adopt necessary measures to avoid civilian casualties.
Top UN officials urge stronger support for Syrians and host communities amid escalating violence UN News 23 Feb 2018 -- Senior United Nations officials on Friday called for greater support for Syrian refugees as well as the communities hosting them amid escalating violence in the war-torn country.
UN Security Council Works to Hammer Out Syria Cease-Fire VOA 23 Feb 2018 -- United Nations diplomats carried out last-minute negotiations Friday in an effort to avoid a Russian veto and adopt a resolution implementing a 30-day cease-fire across Syria and lift sieges on towns, including in the rebel-held eastern Ghouta district.
UN Envoy Calls for Immediate Cease-Fire in Syria VOA 23 Feb 2018 -- The U.N. special envoy for Syria, Staffan de Mistura, is calling for an immediate cease-fire in Syria to stop the relentless bombing by the Syrian government, with support by its Russian ally, of civilians trapped in the besieged city of eastern Ghouta.
UN special envoy for Syria calls for immediate truce IRNA 23 Feb 2018 -- The UN special envoy for Syria on Friday reiterated his call for immediate cease-fire amid 'horrific' bombings in besieged Eastern Ghouta, a suburb of Damascus.
1 killed, 15 injured due to shelling attacks on Damascus IRNA 23 Feb 2018 -- One civilian was killed and at least 15 others were injured when armed groups fired a shell on Salaheddin area in Rukn Eddin neighborhood in Damascus, a source at Damascus Police Command said.
Pentagon Says U.S. Was Told No Russians Involved In Syria Attack RFE/RL 23 Feb 2018 -- The Pentagon says U.S. military commanders were told by their Russian counterparts that there were no Russians in a paramilitary force whose attack on a base in eastern Syria earlier this month led to a massive counterstrike by U.S. forces.
EU, Turkey Join Call For Russia, Iran To 'Stop' Syrian Offensive RFE/RL 23 Feb 2018 -- Turkey and the European Union have joined international calls for Russia and Iran to "stop" Syrian government forces from carrying out a military offensive on the rebel-held enclave of eastern Ghouta, a suburb of Damascus where more than 400 civilians have reportedly been killed since February 18.
Militants Fire Mortar Shells from East Ghouta at Residential Areas of Damascus Sputnik 23 Feb 2018 -- The militants fired 83 mortar rounds from East Ghouta suburb at the residential areas of the Syrian capital Damascus in the past 24 hours, the Russian Center for Syrian reconciliation said Thursday.
'You can still save lives'; UN aid chief urges Security Council action to halt violence in Syria's war-battered east Ghouta UN News 22 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations humanitarian chief on Thursday called for action by the Security Council to halt the appalling destruction of Syria's eastern Ghouta, where nearly 300 people have reportedly been killed in just the past few days, as "bombs and mortars have rained down on bakeries and medical facilities."
Daesh stashed millions of dollars during reign of terror in region: Economist Press TV 23 Feb 2018 -- A report says Daesh rose to become the "richest terrorist group in history" by stashing millions of dollars across the region before losing its territorial rule in Iraq and Syria late last year.
Trump's Office: US Troops Can Stay in Syria Indefinitely Without Congress' OK Sputnik 22 Feb 2018 -- President Donald Trump's administration has decided that US troops fighting the Daesh terror group (banned in Russia) can remain in Syria indefinitely without new legal authorization from Congress, two newly published letters written by senior Pentagon and State Department officials informed.
Cossack Fighter Laments Russian 'Utilization' Of Mercenaries In Syria RFE/RL 22 Feb 2018 -- Russia is abuzz with media reports that dozens -- perhaps hundreds, by some accounts -- of Russian mercenaries were killed or wounded in the eastern Syrian city of Deir al-Zor on February 7-8 in fighting with the U.S. military and its Syrian-rebel allies.
UN Security Council fails to agree on ceasefire across Syria: Russia Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- Russia says no agreement was reached at the United Nations Security Council on a month-long ceasefire across Syria as the conflict deepens in the Arab country due to a sharp rise in terrorist attacks.
Russia to support UN-proposed truce in Syria but not for Daesh, Nusra: Lavrov Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow will consider supporting a UN-proposed ceasefire, providing it does not cover the Takfiri terrorist groups of Daesh and Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, formerly known as al-Nusra Front, as well as other militant outfits that are shelling civilians in Syria's militant-held Eastern Ghouta.
Terror sponsors responsible for East Ghouta situation: Russia Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- The Kremlin has blamed the current situation in the Eastern Ghouta region on the countries that are supporting terrorists in Syria, vehemently rejecting claims linking Russia and its allies to the violence.
Afrin residents celebrate arrival of pro-government forces Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- Hundreds of Syrians have held a demonstration in Afrin to celebrate the arrival of pro-government fighters in the northwestern city that has been the target of Turkish attacks.
Strikes Hit Syria's Ghouta For Fifth Day As UN Pleads For Cease-Fire RFE/RL 22 Feb 2018 -- Warplanes and artillery bombarded eastern Ghouta - a rebel enclave near Syria's capital, Damascus - for a fifth straight day on February 22, as the United Nations pleaded for a halt to one of the fiercest air assaults of the seven-year civil war.
Kurdish YPG Agrees to Hand Control Over Tell Rifaat to Syrian Army - Source Sputnik 22 Feb 2018 -- The Kurdish Self-Defense Forces (YPG) confirmed to the Reuters news agency that the Syrian Armed Forces has taken under control the Kurdish-held territory of Aleppo.
Moscow Worried UN Resolution on Syrian Ceasefire Aimed at Accusing Damascus Sputnik 22 Feb 2018 -- Russia suspects that western countries want to shift focus away from the necessity of starting the Geneva talks to launching plan "B" in Syria, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated.
Has Russia Deployed Latest-Generation Stealth Warplanes in Syria? VOA 22 Feb 2018 -- Moscow may have deployed two of its latest generation stealth warplanes to Syria, according to video footage of a pair of Su-57s landing at a Russian airbase in the war-torn country.
UN Officials Appeal for Syria Truce, Eastern Ghouta Assistance VOA 22 Feb 2018 -- Russia expressed its objections Thursday to a draft U.N. resolution intended to implement a 30-day pause in fighting across Syria and lift the siege on the town of eastern Ghouta.
UN Security Council fails to agree on ceasefire across Syria: Russia Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- Russia says no agreement was reached at the United Nations Security Council on a month-long ceasefire across Syria as the conflict deepens in the Arab country due to a sharp rise in terrorist attacks.
Russia to support UN-proposed truce in Syria but not for Daesh, Nusra: Lavrov Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow will consider supporting a UN-proposed ceasefire, providing it does not cover the Takfiri terrorist groups of Daesh and Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, formerly known as al-Nusra Front, as well as other militant outfits that are shelling civilians in Syria's militant-held Eastern Ghouta.
Terror sponsors responsible for East Ghouta situation: Russia Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- The Kremlin has blamed the current situation in the Eastern Ghouta region on the countries that are supporting terrorists in Syria, vehemently rejecting claims linking Russia and its allies to the violence.
Afrin residents celebrate arrival of pro-government forces Press TV 22 Feb 2018 -- Hundreds of Syrians have held a demonstration in Afrin to celebrate the arrival of pro-government fighters in the northwestern city that has been the target of Turkish attacks.
Strikes Hit Syria's Ghouta For Fifth Day As UN Pleads For Cease-Fire RFE/RL 22 Feb 2018 -- Warplanes and artillery bombarded eastern Ghouta - a rebel enclave near Syria's capital, Damascus - for a fifth straight day on February 22, as the United Nations pleaded for a halt to one of the fiercest air assaults of the seven-year civil war.
Kurdish YPG Agrees to Hand Control Over Tell Rifaat to Syrian Army - Source Sputnik 22 Feb 2018 -- The Kurdish Self-Defense Forces (YPG) confirmed to the Reuters news agency that the Syrian Armed Forces has taken under control the Kurdish-held territory of Aleppo.
Moscow Worried UN Resolution on Syrian Ceasefire Aimed at Accusing Damascus Sputnik 22 Feb 2018 -- Russia suspects that western countries want to shift focus away from the necessity of starting the Geneva talks to launching plan "B" in Syria, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated.
Has Russia Deployed Latest-Generation Stealth Warplanes in Syria? VOA 22 Feb 2018 -- Moscow may have deployed two of its latest generation stealth warplanes to Syria, according to video footage of a pair of Su-57s landing at a Russian airbase in the war-torn country.
UN Officials Appeal for Syria Truce, Eastern Ghouta Assistance VOA 22 Feb 2018 -- Russia expressed its objections Thursday to a draft U.N. resolution intended to implement a 30-day pause in fighting across Syria and lift the siege on the town of eastern Ghouta.
Statement by the Press Secretary on the Syrian Regime Attacks on Eastern Ghouta The White House 21 Feb 2018
East Ghouta: Action needed now to save hundreds of thousands 'living in hell on earth,' stresses UN UN News 21 Feb 2018 -- Deeply alarmed by the escalating violence in Syria's east Ghouta, the United Nations has reiterated a call for an end to hostilities so that the sick and wounded can be immediately evacuated and humanitarian aid deliveries can reach those in need.
East Ghouta: Action needed now to save hundreds of thousands 'living in hell on earth,' stresses UN UN News 21 Feb 2018 -- Deeply alarmed by the escalating violence in Syria's east Ghouta, the United Nations has reiterated a call for an end to hostilities so that the sick and wounded can be immediately evacuated and humanitarian aid deliveries can reach those in need.
Kremlin rejects US report blaming Russia for civilian deaths in Syria's East Ghouta Press TV 21 Feb 2018 -- Moscow has denied a US claim that Russian fighter jets carried out airstrikes in Syria's militant-held Eastern Ghouta and reportedly killed scores of civilians since the start of the week.
Western officials complicit in terrorist crimes against civilians: Syria Press TV 21 Feb 2018 -- In a letter of complaint to the United Nations, Syria has drawn attention to a sharp rise in deadly terror attacks against civilians in Damascus and its suburbs, calling on the world body to take proper measures against countries that support and fund the armed groups.
Over Dozen civilians killed in new US-led strikes in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 21 Feb 2018 -- More than a dozen civilians have lost their lives when the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group carried out a series of aerial assaults in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
Russia, Iran Urged To Press Syria To End 'Massacre' In Ghouta RFE/RL 21 Feb 2018 -- Germany has urged Russia and Iran to pressure the Syrian government to end the "massacre" in a rebel-held Damascus suburb that an independent monitor says has killed at least 250 civilians in two days.
Kremlin: US Accusations Against Russia on Eastern Ghouta Groundless Sputnik 21 Feb 2018 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has commented on US accusations against Russia regarding deaths of civilians in Syria's eastern Ghouta bombardments.
Syrian Popular Forces Join Kurdish Fighters in Afrin - YPG Representative Sputnik 21 Feb 2018 -- YPG representative in Afrin Brusk Haseke has confirmed to Sputnik that Syrian forces have arrived to Afrin despite Turkish Air Forces' shelling on February 20, adding that a new group of Syrian military entered the city today.
UN chief 'deeply alarmed' by escalating hostilities in Syria's east Ghouta UN News 21 Feb 2018 -- Deeply alarmed by the escalating violence in Syria's east Ghouta, the United Nations has reiterated a call for an end to hostilities so that the sick and wounded can be immediately evacuated and humanitarian aid deliveries can reach those in need.
Concern Over Syria Grows as Death Toll Rises VOA 21 Feb 2018 -- A Syrian war monitor says pro-government strikes Tuesday in the rebel-held Damascus suburb of eastern Ghouta have killed more than 100 people.
Rebels in Syria Prepare for Final Assad Assault on Ghouta VOA 21 Feb 2018 -- The shattered Damascus suburb of eastern Ghouta has become the focus of some of the most vicious Russian and Syrian government airstrikes of Syria's civil war.
New Deadly Strikes Hit Damascus Suburb VOA 21 Feb 2018 -- Syrian activists reported deadly pro-government airstrikes Wednesday in the besieged Damascus suburb of eastern Ghouta, which this week has seen its deadliest string of daily violence in years.
UN Chief Appeals for Truce for Syria's Besieged E. Ghouta VOA 21 Feb 2018 -- U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is appealing to the Security Council to approve an urgent 30-day cease-fire across Syria and to help the 400,000 besieged residents of eastern Ghouta, who he said, "live in hell on Earth."
Those helping Syria Kurds in Afrin 'legitimate target': Turkey Press TV 21 Feb 2018 -- Turkey has repeated its warnings about an escalation of tension in Syria's northern region of Afrin, where it has been attacking the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), saying any group coming to the help of the Kurds in the region would be considered a "legitimate target" for the Turkish military.
Turkish army shells pro-Syrian government forces as they enter Afrin Press TV 20 Feb 2018 -- The Turkish army has attacked pro-Syrian government forces that had earlier arrived in the Kurdish-held Afrin region in northwestern Syria to defend the Syrian Kurds against Turkey's offensive.
Turkey frees top pro-Kurdish politician detained over Afrin offensive opposition Press TV 20 Feb 2018 -- Turkish officials have released the former co-leader of the country's main pro-Kurdish party, whom they had arrested a week ago over her opposition to Ankara's ongoing cross-border offensive in Syria's northwestern region of Afrin against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
Turkish authorities issue detention warrant for 346 over links to failed coup Press TV 20 Feb 2018 -- Turkish prosecutors have issued detention warrants for 346 individuals over suspected links to the so-called Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), which is accused by Ankara of orchestrating a failed military coup in mid-2016 in the Anatolian country.
Turkey will lay siege to Syria's Afrin in coming days: Erdogan Press TV 20 Feb 2018 -- President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey is set to "lay siege" to the northwestern Syrian region of Afrin, where the Turkish military has been fighting Kurdish militants over the past month.
Top Israeli General Warns of 'Increased Chances of War' in Golan Heights Sputnik 20 Feb 2018 -- Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East over Iran's role in Syria, an Israeli Defense Forces senior general assumed that the chances of war breaking out on the northern border in 2018 are greater than ever.
US-Led Coalition Airstrikes Near Deir Ez-Zor Kill at Least 16 - Reports Sputnik 20 Feb 2018 -- The US-led coalition is reportedly continuing airstrikes in Syria, which, however, have not been authorized by the government of President Bashar al-Assad or the United Nations.
Erdogan: Syrian Forces Tried to Enter Afrin, Retreated After Turkey's Shelling Sputnik 20 Feb 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that a convoy of pro-Syrian government forces, which tried to enter the besieged Syrian city of Afrin, retreated under the Turkish warning fire in the area. The Syrian armed forces have confirmed neither entering Afrin, not the retreat.
Erdogan: Turkish Army Will Encirle Afrin, Speed Up Operation Sputnik 20 Feb 2018 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu warned Damascus against supporting the Kurds, while the country's Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said that if Syrian forces entered Afrin, this would lead to a catastrophe.
Turkish Forces Shell Syrian Militias in Contested Kurdish Enclave VOA 20 Feb 2018 -- Pro-Syrian government forces reportedly have crossed into the Kurdish-held enclave of Afrin. The deployment is in response to an ongoing military offensive by Turkish-led forces against the YPG Syrian Kurdish militia.
Syrian Pro-Government Forces Enter Kurdish Enclave RFE/RL 20 Feb 2018 -- Pro-government fighters have entered the Kurdish-held enclave of Afrin in northern Syria, triggering an immediate response from Turkish forces.
Russia Says 'Several Dozen' Wounded In Clash With U.S.-Led Forces In Syria RFE/RL 20 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry says that "several dozen" citizens of Russia and other former Soviet republics who are not members of the military were wounded in a recent battle with U.S.-led forces in Syria.
Turkey-Syria Team-Work is Most Welcome in Afrin Crisis - Iraq Kurdistan Official Sputnik 20 Feb 2018 -- The ongoing crisis in Syria's Afrin, the subject of the Turkish military operation Olive Branch, cannot be resolved without an understanding between Turkey and Syria, Hemin Hawrami, a member of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Leadership Council, told Sputnik.
Tens of Russian and CIS Citizens Killed in Syria Were Not Military - Moscow Sputnik 20 Feb 2018 -- According to preliminary information shared by the Russian Foreign Ministry last week, at least 5 Russian volunteers were killed in US-led coalition's airstrike on pro-Damascus forces in Syria.
Civilian situation in Syria's east Ghouta 'spiraling out of control,' warns UN aid official UN News 20 Feb 2018 -- The humanitarian situation of civilians in Syria's east Ghouta is spiraling out of control, a senior United Nation aid official has warned in the wake of escalating conflict which resulted in more than 40 civilian deaths on Monday alone.
Syrian Troops Retreat After Turkish Artillery Fires Warning Strikes VOA 20 Feb 2018 -- Pro-Syrian government troops enroute to Syria's Afrin region, a Kurdish area where Turkish troops have mounted a month-long offensive, retreated Tuesday after Turkish artillery fired warning shots, according to Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency.
Turkey will confront Syrian forces if they enter Afrin to help YPG: FM Cavusoglu Press TV 19 Feb 2018 -- Turkish foreign minister says it will confront any Syrian pro-government forces entering in the Kurdish-controlled enclave of Afrin to protect the US-backed People's Protection Units (YPG), as Damascus reportedly intends to send pro-government forces to the flashpoint region to join forces with the Kurds against Turkish troops.
No One Can Stop Turkish Forces if Syrian Army Enters Afrin - FM Sputnik 19 Feb 2018 -- The Turkish foreign minister has commented on recent reports made by Syrian state TV that pro-Syrian government forces would enter Syria's Afrin "within hours."
Turkish Foreign Minister Warns Syria About Military Intervention VOA 19 Feb 2018 -- With Turkish-led forces stepping up their military operations against the Syrian Kurdish militia, the YPG, in Syria's Kurdish-controlled Afrin enclave, Ankara has reacted cautiously to reports that Damascus is set to intervene militarily.
During addressing Valdai conference in Moscow; Zarif says Iran has no military bases in Syria ISNA 19 Feb 2018 -- Iranian foreign minister announced that the Islamic Republic of Iran has no military bases in Syria, stressing that US presence in Syria is too dangerous.
Russia says Nusra terrorists 'recovering strength' in US-controlled zone in S Syria Press TV 19 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has strongly urged the US to immediately shut down its so-called zone of control in southern Syria, saying Washington has practically made the area a safe haven for terrorists of the Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Takfiri terrorist group, formerly known as al-Nusra Front.
Syria facing 'new wave' of US intervention, Iran's Zarif says Press TV 19 Feb 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says Syria is facing a "new wave" of US intervention, where Washington is still pursuing geoeconomic interests in the Arab country.
Syria sends forces to Afrin amid Turkish siege: TV Press TV 19 Feb 2018 -- Syria's state television says government-backed forces will soon enter the northern region of Afrin, which has been under Turkish attacks for a month now.
At least five killed, seven injured as bomb rocks Syria's Hasakah Press TV 19 Feb 2018 -- At least five people have been killed by a car bomb in Syria's northeastern Hasakah province.
If Syrian Forces Enter Afrin, It Will Lead to Catastrophe - Turkish Deputy PM Sputnik 19 Feb 2018 -- Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag has commented on reports about the possible deployment of Syrian government forces to Afrin during a news conference following a cabinet meeting.
'Don't Play With Fire': Lavrov Slams US Attempts to Break Up Syria Sputnik 19 Feb 2018 -- Lavrov called on the US not to "play with fire" in Syria and emphasized that the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be preserved.
Iran Has No Military Bases in Syria - FM Zarif Sputnik 19 Feb 2018 -- Iran has no military bases or military presence in Syria, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Monday.
Turkish foreign minister denies allegation of chemical attack in northwestern Syria Press TV 18 Feb 2018 -- Turkish foreign minister says Turkey never used internationally-banned chemical weapons in its operations in Syria after Kurdish forces and a monitoring group accused Ankara of carrying out a gas attack in its ongoing offensive in the Arab country's northwestern region of Afrin.
White House Doubts Turkey's Alleged Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria Sputnik 18 Feb 2018 -- The US government has expressed skepticism over reports that Turkey used chemical weapons in Syrian northern region of Afrin in its ongoing offensive operation, US White House official Michael Anton said.
US-backed SDF militants claim cross-border attack on Turkish soldiers for first time Press TV 18 Feb 2018 -- The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed anti-Damascus militant group, has claimed that in a cross-border attack it targeted military positions in neighboring Turkey, which is leading a month-long war against a Kurdish-controlled enclave in war-torn Syria.
US vows to probe Syria attack involving Russians Press TV 18 Feb 2018 -- US Defense Secretary James Mattis has pledged to investigate an alleged attack involving a group of Russian private military contractors on US-backed opposition forces in Syria but stopped short of accusing Moscow of orchestrating the assault.
YPG Official Rep: Syria Should Close Airspace for Turkish Jets Sputnik 18 Feb 2018 -- In an interview to Sputnik, Kurdish YPG representative Nuri Mahmud detailed the disposition around the Syrian city of Afrin, where Turkey's Operation Olive Branch is still underway.
Turkish Foreign Minister Calls for Respect of Syrian Territorial Integrity Sputnik 18 Feb 2018 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Sunday held a speech at the 2018 Munich Security Conference, in which he elaborated on the issue of Syria's territorial integrity and on the progress made at Astana peace talks.
Afrin's Kurds Agree With Syrian Gov't for Army to Help Fight Turks - Official Sputnik 18 Feb 2018 -- Amid reports of Turkey allegedly launching a gas attack in Syria, Kurdish YPG groups in Afrin are calling on the Syrian army to meddle in to protect their borders from Turkish combat men, a YPG representative Nuri Mahmud told RIA Novosti.
SDF Claims Syrian Kurds Attacked Military Camp on Turkish Territory Sputnik 18 Feb 2018 -- The Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) attacked a military camp on Turkish territory used by troops for preparing Operation Olive Branch in Syria's Kurdish-held Afrin, the SDF media center said on Saturday.
Turkey denies reports of using chemical weapons in Syria's Afrin Press TV 17 Feb 2018 -- Despite reports that the Turkish military has made use of internationally-banned chemical weapons in its ongoing offensive in Syria’s northwestern region of Afrin, Ankara denies having carried out a gas attack, arguing it takes the “utmost care” of civilians.
Turkey Fighting Terrorism, Not Waging War in Syria – Prime Minister Sputnik 17 Feb 2018 -- Ankara is not fighting a war in Syria but is fighting against terrorism, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Sunday.
Kurdish Fighter Claims Turkey Using Napalm, Chlorine in Afrin Operation Sputnik 17 Feb 2018 -- The Turkish troops have failed to advance in Syria's Afrin district, where they prefer to use the hit-and-run tactics, according to Reizan Hedu, a representative of the Kurdish self-defense forces in Afrin.
OIR Officials Report Details of Defeat-ISIS Strikes in Syria, Iraq AFPS 16 Feb 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners continued to strike Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targets in designated parts of Syria and Iraq between Feb. 9-15, conducting 43 strikes consisting of 63 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
34 Turkish troops, 177 pro-Turkey militants killed in Syria IRNA 16 Feb 2018 -- Thirty four Turkish troops and 177 pro-Turkey militants have been killed in Syria since the start of Turkey's military operation 'Olive Branch' in Afrin region, according to an entity called Syrian Human Rights Watchdog affiliated to dissident groups.
Turkey, US to work together in Syria occupation: Cavusoglu, Tillerson Press TV 16 Feb 2018 -- Ankara and Washington have reached an agreement to work together in their occupation of Syria, where the two NATO allies have been on a collision course over the US's support for the Kurdish militants operating at Turkish doorstep.
Syria to deploy troops to Afrin under deal with Kurdish militants: Reports Press TV 16 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian government is reportedly set to deploy troops to the northern district of Afrin, which has been the target of a month-long Turkish offensive, as part of an agreement with the Kurdish militants operating there.
Syria's downing of Israeli warplane 'very big' achievement, Hezbollah chief says Press TV 16 Feb 2018 -- The secretary general of the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement has praised the recent downing of an Israeli F-16 fighter jet by the Syrian air defense systems as a "very big military achievement."
US Aims to Separate Part of Syria to Create Kurdish-Dominated Autonomy - Lavrov Sputnik 16 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has commented on the situation in the war-plagued Syria, including the issue of US military presence in the country and its support of Kurdish factions.
Syrian Kurdish YPG Denies Damascus' Joining Battle in Afrin Against Turkey Sputnik 16 Feb 2018 -- As Turkish forces continue to pound the Kurdish militias entrenched in Syria's Afrin, the latter refute claims about making arrangements with the Syrian government in order to solve their current predicament.
Israel Believes Destroyed Up to 50% of Syrian Air Defenses in Strike - Source Sputnik 16 Feb 2018 -- The Israeli military believes that it had managed to destroy up to a half of the Syrian Air Defense Forces during Saturday's airstrike, an army source told Sputnik.
UN development agency remains committed to support Lebanon, says agency head UN News 16 Feb 2018 -- Reverberations of the Syrian conflict – which has now lasted longer than World War II – are being felt throughout the region, including in Lebanon, which shares most of its land border with the war-torn country, and hosts hundreds of thousands of its refugees, the head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) warned on Friday.
After Syria Deaths, Creeping Anger - And Kremlin Silence - Over Mercenaries RFE/RL 16 Feb 2018 -- Combat was not Ruslan Gavrilov's primary motivation in signing up to go to Syria with a shadowy private military company. But the 34-year-old Russian also wasn't "going to Syria to build houses," he told relatives.
Turkey urges US to remove YPG from Washington's military coalition in Syria Press TV 15 Feb 2018 -- The Turkish defense minister says he has urged his American counterpart to stop supporting the People's Protection Units (YPG) militant group and to remove the so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) from the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria.
Turkey sets up new observation outpost in northwestern Syria Press TV 15 Feb 2018 -- Turkey has set up a new observation point in the Syrian northwestern province of Idlib as part of an agreement with the other two guarantors of the Syria ceasefire, Iran and Russia.
Pentagon chief urges Turkey to stay focused on fighting Daesh Press TV 15 Feb 2018 -- US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has called on Turkey to remain focused on fighting Daesh terrorists in Syria, following Ankara's military action in Syria.
Turkey Urges US to Remove Leading Force From SDF Amid Afrin Operation Sputnik 15 Feb 2018 -- Turkey is currently conducting the operation in the northern Syrian enclave of Afrin, targeting Kurdish groups, which Ankara considers to be terrorists, with the US pledging its support in the fight against terrorist threats.
Russia says five of its citizens may have been killed by US warplanes in Syria Press TV 15 Feb 2018 -- Moscow says five Russian citizens may have been killed in recent attacks by US warplanes on pro-government forces in the eastern Syrian province of Dayr al-Zawr.
Moscow: Five Russian Fighters May Have Been Killed In U.S. Strikes In Syria RFE/RL 15 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry says that five Russians who were not military personnel may have been killed in a clash with U.S.-led forces in Syria last week and claims that reports putting the Russian death toll in the dozens or hundreds were "disinformation."
Tillerson: US Never Gave Heavy Arms to Kurd-Led Militia YPG Sputnik 15 Feb 2018 -- Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim on Tuesday accused the United States of increasing military support for the YPG operating in Syria. The official added that the YPG should not rely on external support.
Moscow Preliminarily Confirms Death of 5 Russians in Coalition's Strike in Syria Sputnik 15 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has confirmed the death of five Russian nationals in the US-led coalition's strike in Syria, but their citizenship has yet to be verified.
US Continues to Supply Kurds With Arms, Provoking Turkey - Moscow Sputnik 15 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has commented on the developments in Syria, including the issue of arms supplies to Kurds from the US and the American military presence in al-Tanf.
Syria Air Defenses Intercept Israeli Spy Planes - Reports Sputnik 15 Feb 2018 -- Just a few days after the downing of an Israeli fighter jet on Syrian territory, Tel Aviv has reportedly made another attempt to enter Syrian airspace using reconnaissance planes.
First UN aid convoy reaches Syria's Eastern Ghouta Press TV 14 Feb 2018 -- An aid convoy has for the first time this year reached the Eastern Ghouta region near Syrian capital of Damascus.
Syrian air defenses prepared to fight off any aggressive move: Mekdad Press TV 14 Feb 2018 -- Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad says the country's air defense systems are fully prepared to give a firm response to any possible act of aggression, stressing that the decision to confront any aggressive move is long-standing.
Nothing To See Here: Moscow Tight-Lipped On Russian Deaths In Syria RFE/RL 14 Feb 2018 -- As details continue to emerge about multiple Russian fighters killed in U.S. air and artillery strikes in Syria last week, the Kremlin and senior Russian officials are choosing their words carefully.
Kremlin Distances Itself From Reports Of Mercenary Deaths In Syria RFE/RL 14 Feb 2018 -- The chief Kremlin spokesman has suggested that if any Russians were killed by U.S. air strikes in Syria last week, they were not regular soldiers, continuing to distance President Vladimir Putin's government from reports that several Russian mercenaries -- and possibly dozens -- died after staging an attack on U.S. forces and their allies in the Middle Eastern country on February 7.
Russia Plans To Help Syria Rebuild Devastated Oil, Power Industries RFE/RL 14 Feb 2018 -- Russia plans to help Syria rebuild energy facilities that have been devastated by years of war, Russian Energy Minister Aleksandr Novak has said.
Tillerson: Iran Should Withdraw 'Destabilizing' Forces From Syria RFE/RL 14 Feb 2018 -- Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has reiterated a U.S. call for Iran to withdraw from Syria, saying its military presence there is destabilizing the region.
Over 1,400 Families in Eastern Ghouta, Syria, Will Receive Aid - SARC Sputnik 14 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) and the United Nations have delivered humanitarian assistance to Eastern Ghouta near Damascus for over 1,400 local families, the SARC said Wednesday.
UN Can't Verify Claims of Chemical Attacks in Syria 'Independently' - De Mistura Sputnik 14 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations is unable to independently confirm allegations of recent chemical attacks in several locations in Syria, UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura told the Security Council.
Syrian Army Will Down Any Jet That Launches an Assault – Damascus Sputnik 14 Feb 2018 -- During a press conference, Fayssal Mikdad, Syria's Deputy Foreign and Expatriates Minister, asserted that the USA aimed to prolong the war in the country.
French President Macron Threatens to Strike Syria if Chemical Attacks Proven Sputnik 14 Feb 2018 -- Despite being repeatedly accused of using chemical weapons, Damascus has strongly denied having them; it destroyed its arsenal several years ago, and their complete destruction was subsequently confirmed by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
Syria: Civilians killed on 'horrific scale' as conflict begins spilling across borders UN News 14 Feb 2018 -- The conflict in Syria is now spilling over the country's borders amid increased military intervention from multiple sources, a senior United Nations mediator said on Wednesday, warning that civilians are being killed on a horrific scale and the crisis is at one of the most "dangerous and worrying moments" in over four years.
Kremlin Not Ruling Out Presence of Russian Citizens Apart From Military in Syria Sputnik 14 Feb 2018 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that he didn't rule out that Russian nationals, who do not belong to the Russian Armed Forces, could be in Syria.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 13 Feb 2018 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Syria.
U.S. Air Strikes Reportedly Kill 'Dozens' Of Russian Fighters In Syria RFE/RL 13 Feb 2018 -- U.S. air strikes killed multiple Russia mercenary soldiers serving in Syria, according to news reports and open-source researchers, with some reports saying dozens may have died.
Department Of Defense Press Briefing by Lieutenant General Harrigian via teleconference from Al Udeid Airbase, Qatar DoD 13 Feb 2018 -- Presenter: Lieutenant General Jeffrey Harrigian, commander, U.S. Air Forces Central Command
As Emphasis Shifts to Sustaining Military Gains, Progress To Defeat ISIS Continues AFPS 13 Feb 2018 -- Significant progress in the fight to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria has resulted in a shift in focus to sustaining military gains in Iraq to ensure a lasting defeat of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria terrorists, The commander of U.S. Air Forces Central Command told Pentagon reporters today.
Syrian forces shoot down Turkish UAV in Afrin IRNA 13 Feb 2018 -- Syrian Democratic Forces downed Turkish unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in Afrin city, northern Syria.
Russia warns of chemical attack by militants, White Helmets in Syria's Idlib Press TV 13 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Center for the Reconciliation of Opposing Sides in Syria says it has received a phone call warning about a possible chemical weapons attack in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib by militants and White Helmets.
US may seek longer stay in Syria to create quasi-state: Russia Press TV 13 Feb 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned of a possible plan by the United States to continue its military presence in Syria for a long term in an attempt to create a "quasi-state" in the eastern areas of the country.
'Russians killed in US airstrikes in eastern Syria' Press TV 13 Feb 2018 -- A group of Russian private military contractors have been killed in recent attacks by US warplanes in eastern Syria.
Damascus warns Israeli military of 'more surprises' on Syrian soil Press TV 13 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian government has warned the Israeli military of "more surprises" should Tel Aviv commit any further acts of aggression against the Arab country plagued by foreign-sponsored militancy.
US funding of Kurdish militants in Syria to impact Turkey's decisions: Erdogan Press TV 13 Feb 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned that Washington's refusal to stop funding the Kurdish militants in Syria will affect Ankara's decisions, ahead of a visit by US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson this week.
Syrian YPG militants target Turkish reconnaissance drone over Afrin Press TV 12 Feb 2018 -- Militants from the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) have tracked and shot down a Turkish unmanned aerial vehicle in the skies over Syria's northwestern region of Afrin as Ankara government pushes ahead with its cross-border offensive against the US-backed forces.
UN Demands Halt to Turkey Military Targeting Water Supplies in Syria - Spokesman Sputnik 12 Feb 2018 -- Reports of weekend attacks by Turkey's military on water supplies in an offensive against Kurdish units in the Afrin region prompted fresh condemnation from the United Nations, spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters on Monday.
Turkey Issues Ultimatum to Washington Ahead of Tillerson Visit VOA 12 Feb 2018 -- Turkey is calling on the Unites States to take concrete steps to address its concerns about American support for a Kurdish militia in Syria or face a breakdown in relations. The stepped up pressure comes ahead of U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's visit to Turkey next week.
Russian Contingent in Syria Has Potential to Deter Terrorism - Kremlin Sputnik 12 Feb 2018 -- Russia's remaining contingent in Syria has the necessary potential needed to deter terrorist activity, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday.
Moscow Unaware of Iran's Military Base Near Syrian Palmyra - Deputy FM Sputnik 12 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has no information about Iran having a military base near the Syrian city of Palmyra, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said Monday.
Mattis: Syria Foreign Fighters Should Face Justice at Home VOA 12 Feb 2018 -- The United States wants detained foreign fighters being held by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces to be turned over to face justice in their home countries. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis is expected to raise the issue during a meeting in Italy with other members of the coalition fighting IS in Iraq and Syria.
New Wave of International Conflict Complicates Syria War VOA 12 Feb 2018 -- "We are always afraid of being bombed," says 12-year-old Habib, perching on the edge of a park bench bearing the Turkish border town's name, Reyhanli. "But our parents are even more scared."
US General McMaster in Istanbul amid US-Turkey tensions over Syria Press TV 11 Feb 2018 -- US National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster has met with Turkish presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalın in Istanbul amid tensions between the two countries in the wake of Ankara's offensive in Syria.
Kurdish forces kill another Turkish soldier in northern Syria: Turkey's military Press TV 11 Feb 2018 -- Turkey's military says yet another Turkish trooper has been killed in fighting against Kurdish forces from the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Afrin region in northwest Syria.
160 Syrian citizens killed in Turkish attacks on Afrin IRNA 11 Feb 2018 -- Some 160 Syrian citizens have been killed since the beginning of Turkish military attacks on Afrin, according to executive council of self-proclaimed Democratic Federation of Northern Syria (DFNS).
Netanyahu: Israeli Strikes Dealt 'Severe Blows' To Iran, Syria RFE/RL 11 Feb 2018 -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Israeli military has dealt "severe blows" to Iranian and Syrian forces with a series of air strikes in Syria.
Statement by the Press Secretary on the Situation in Syria and Israel The White House 10 Feb 2018
Turkish military helicopter shot down near Syria: President Erdogan Press TV 10 Feb 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says one of the country's military helicopters has been shot down near the border with Syria.
Afrin Op: Turkish Military Helicopter Shot Down Near Syrian Border, Two Dead Sputnik 10 Feb 2018 -- A Turkish military helicopter was shot down during Ankara's military offensive against Kurdish troops in northern Syria, Anadolu state news agency reported.
Turkish General Staff Reports Seven Soldiers Killed During Afrin Operation Sputnik 11 Feb 2018 -- At least seven Turkish servicemen were killed on Saturday during the operation in Syria's northern district of Afrin, the Turkish General Staff said.
US Steps Up Effort to Avert Confrontation With Turkey Over Syrian Kurdish Militia VOA 09 Feb 2018 -- U.S. National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster is due in Turkey this weekend, as a potential military confrontation looms between the two countries over Syria. The NATO allies disagree over Turkey's military intervention in Syria against a Kurdish militia which is a key U.S. ally in the war against Islamic State.
US, Israel Say Israel Has Right to Defend Itself VOA 10 Feb 2018 -- The U.S. Defense Department said Saturday that Israel was entitled to protect itself against acts of aggression. The statement was made after Israel attacked a dozen Iranian and Syrian targets in Syria earlier in the day.
New De-Escalation Zone in Syria to be discussed in Astana talks IRNA 10 Feb 2018 -- The establishment of a fifth de-escalation zone in Syria will be discussed in the next round of the Astana peace talks, Russian President's envoy Mikhail Bogdanov told Sputnik on Saturday.
Syria shoots down Israel's jetfighter IRNA 10 Feb 2018 -- Syrian air defense forces shot down one Zionist regime's F16 fighter on Saturday.
Syrian army advances to eastern Ghouta IRNA 10 Feb 2018 -- Syrian army has recaptured eastern Ghouta, Damascus from Al-Nusra Front terrorists.
Syrian army drives Daesh terrorists out of Hama, Aleppo provinces IRNA 10 Feb 2018 -- With liberation of scores of townships, villages and farms the presence of Daesh terrorists in Hama and Aleppo has come to an end, the Syrian army announced in a statement Friday.
Russia says endangering forces unacceptable after Israeli military aggression in Syria Press TV 10 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry has called on all the parties involved in the ongoing military conflict in Syria to respect the territorial integrity of the country after Israel attacked positions inside the Arab country, saying that the creation of threats in Syria, where Russia is militarily present, is unacceptable.
US blocking UNSC resolution for independent Syria chemical attacks probe: Russia Press TV 10 Feb 2018 -- Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vasily Nebenzia says he does not see chances the UN Security Council could adopt any time soon a Russian-drafted resolution on a probe into the use of chemical weapons in Syria, blaming the US for hindering the progress over the issue.
Syria shoots down Israeli F-16 jet, pilots eject Press TV 10 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian military has hit at least one intruding Israeli F-16 warplane that attacked positions inside Syrian territory, sending it down in flames and smoke.
UN 'Considering New Resolution' For 30-Day Syria Cease-Fire RFE/RL 10 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations Security Council is considering a draft resolution to demand a 30-day cease-fire in Syria, according to the French AFP news agency, which says it has seen a text of the resolution.
Iran-Backed Militias 'Used U.S.-Made Tanks' Fighting IS In Syria RFE/RL 10 Feb 2018 -- The Pentagon says Iranian-backed militias fighting Islamic State (IS) extremists in Syria used Abrams tanks that the U.S. military had originally provided to the Iraqi Army.
Tillerson Expecting 'Difficult' Talks With Turkey Over Syria RFE/RL 10 Feb 2018 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson expects "difficult" talks during his Middle East trip, especially in Turkey, where he will urge the NATO ally to show "restraint" in its military offensive in northern Syria, U.S. officials say.
Pentagon Backs Israeli Right to Defend Itself Against Threats to Its Territory Sputnik 10 Feb 2018 -- Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria, which were provoked, according to the Israeli army, by an "act of Iran's aggression," when an Iranian drone flew into the disputed Israel-occupied Golan Heights last night.
Tehran Slams Israel's Claim of Downing Iranian Drone as 'Ridiculous' - Reports Sputnik 10 Feb 2018 -- Earlier, the Israeli army press service reported that the Israeli military had intercepted an Iranian unmanned aerial vehicle which had invaded the airspace of the country from Syria and in response, Israel attacked "Iranian targets" in neighboring Syria.
Israeli Airstrikes in Syria Have Defensive Nature - Army Sputnik 10 Feb 2018 -- Israeli airstrikes in Syria were provoked by an "act of Iran's aggression," when an Iranian drone flew into the Israel-occupied Golan Heights last night, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
Syrian Air Defense Systems Repel Yet Another Israeli Attack - Reports Sputnik 10 Feb 2018 -- Syrian anti-aircraft defense systems have repelled yet another Israeli aerial attack, local media reported Saturday.
Turkey bombs US-backed militants in northern Syria Press TV 09 Feb 2018 -- Turkey has bombed US-backed Kurdish fighters in Afrin with impunity, just after Washington cited an alleged attack on the militants to target pro-government forces in Syria.
US, France considering new military strikes against Syrian government: Report Press TV 09 Feb 2018 -- The US is considering new military strikes against Syrian government positions, while France is keen to support such an operation, diplomatic sources say.
UN Rejects Appeal For Monthlong Syria Cease-Fire Opposed By Russia RFE/RL 09 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations Security Council has rejected an appeal from UN aid officials for a monthlong humanitarian cease-fire in Syria amid separate calls by the United States for Syria and its ally Russia to end their attacks against rebel-held areas.
Syrian Army Announces Full Liberation of Hama, Aleppo Provinces From Daesh Sputnik 09 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian army has completely cleared Hama and Aleppo provinces of Daesh terrorists, the Syrian army said in a statement on Friday.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 09 Feb 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners continue to strike Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targets in designated parts of Syria and Iraq.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Pentagon Chief Spokesperson Dana W. White in the Pentagon Briefing Room DoD 08 Feb 2018 -- Presenter: Pentagon Chief Spokesperson Dana W. White
Pentagon Official Describes Response to Attack by Pro-Regime Syrian Forces AFPS 08 Feb 2018 -- When Syrian pro-regime forces attacked Syrian Democratic Forces yesterday, they moved in a battalion-sized unit formation supported by artillery, tanks, multiple-launch rocket systems and mortars, chief Pentagon spokesperson Dana W. White told reporters today.
US-led coalition attacks pro-Syrian government forces in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 08 Feb 2018 -- The US-led coalition in Syria has attacked pro-Damascus forces in what it claims to be defensive strikes in the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
U.S. Says It Notified Russia Before Massive Attack On Pro-Syria Forces RFE/RL 08 Feb 2018 -- The Pentagon says U.S. commanders notified Russian counterparts of an air and ground assault on pro-Syrian fighters in response to an attack on U.S. allied militias in eastern Syria.
Mattis: 'Self-Defense' Attack Doesn't Mean US Getting into Syrian Civil War VOA 08 Feb 2018 -- Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis said the U.S. is not trying to get involved in the yearslong Syrian civil war, after U.S.-led coalition airstrikes killed about 100 pro-government forces who had attacked coalition-backed Syrian Democratic Forces.
Syrian army takes full control of two villages Hama province IRNA 08 Feb 2018 -- Units of Syrian Arab Army, in cooperation with the popular defense groups, on Thursday tightened control over Qaser Ibn Wardan and al-Museitbeh in northeastern countryside of Hama.
Syria urges UN to condemn US 'massacre' in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 08 Feb 2018 -- Damascus has strongly denounced as a "war crime" a deadly strike carried out by the US-led military coalition against pro-government forces in Syria's eastern Dayr al-Zawr province, saying US presence in the country is "illegitimate."
Putin, Erdogan agree to boost military coordination in Syria: Kremlin Press TV 08 Feb 2018 -- The Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayip Erdogan have agreed to strengthen Ankara-Moscow military and security coordination in Syria.
Syrian state TV confirms US attack against government forces fighting Daesh Press TV 08 Feb 2018 -- Syrian state media have slammed as an act of aggression the recent US-led aerial assault against the pro-government forces operating in the eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, saying the strike was aimed at promoting terrorists.
Turkish, Russian Leaders Speak as Syria Strains Grow VOA 08 Feb 2018 -- Turkey and Russia's presidents have reportedly agreed to meet with their Iranian counterpart in Istanbul in the near future.
Pentagon Says Conducted 'Defensive' Airstrikes Against Pro-Syrian Gov't Forces Sputnik 08 Feb 2018 -- The US-led coalition conducted defensive airstrikes against pro-government forces in Syria that attacked Syrian Democratic Forces headquarters near the Euphrates River, US Central Command said in a press release Wednesday.
Syrian Pro-Regime Forces Attack Prompts Coalition Defensive Strikes AFPS 07 Feb 2018 -- Syrian pro-regime forces initiated an unprovoked attack against well-established Syrian Democratic Forces headquarters today, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said.
Turkey not at odds with Russia over Afrin operation: Cavusoglu Press TV 07 Feb 2018 -- Turkey says it has no disagreements with Russia over its military operation underway against US-backed Kurdish militants in the northern Syrian region of Afrin.
Erdogan: Trump, Just Like Obama, Lies to Turkey About Kurdish Forces in Manbij Sputnik 07 Feb 2018 -- Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan accused US President Donald Trump and his predecessor Barrack Obama of not fulfilling the promise they'd made to Ankara to compel the Kurdish Self-Defense Forces (YPG) to leave Manbij in Syria's Aleppo Governorate.
Tehran Steps Up Pressure on Ankara Over Syrian Operation VOA 07 Feb 2018 -- Iran is the latest country to add its voice to growing calls for Turkey to curtail its military operation in Syria against a Syrian Kurdish militia. Turkey-Iran relations have recently improved, but Tehran is seen to be increasingly concerned about the lack of clarity on the scope and duration of the Turkish military operation and Ankara's goals.
Syrian Army regains control over many villages, towns in Hama, Aleppo IRNA 07 Feb 2018 -- Syrian Arab Army units advanced in the pocket they had encircled on January 20, which extends from southeast of Khanasser in Aleppo countryside to west of Sinjar in the countryside of Idleb and to al-Sa'an area in Hama countryside.
Syria air defenses respond to new Israeli aggression near Damascus: Army Press TV 07 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian army says its air defenses intercepted several missiles fired by Israeli warplanes towards a military position near the capital, Damascus.
Syria Says Israeli Strikes Target Military Outpost Near Damascus RFE/RL 07 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian Army says Israeli warplanes have fired rockets from Lebanese airspace targeting an army position in a rural area near Damascus.
SDF Say Liberated Settlement Near Afrin From Pro-Turkey Militants Sputnik 07 Feb 2018 -- The Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), which are part of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), on Wednesday said that the village of Sheikh Khoruz in the Syrian district of Afrin has been cleared of pro-Turkey groups.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 06 Feb 2018 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Syria.
Turkish troops attacked while setting up outpost in Syria Press TV 06 Feb 2018 -- Turkey's military says a soldier has been killed and five others have been injured in an attack by unidentified militants as the troops were setting up a military post in Syria's northwestern Province of Idlib.
Erdogan: US Presence in Syria's Manbij Aimed Against Turkey, Russia, Iran Sputnik 06 Feb 2018 -- In January, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Ankara would not limit its precautionary measures against Kurdish fighters to Syria's Afrin but could move to Manbij, where the US has some 2,000 of its military personnel deployed.
One Turkish Soldier Killed, Five Injured as Result of Syria's Idlib Attack Sputnik 06 Feb 2018 -- Turkey, the guarantor of the Syrian ceasefire alongside Russia and Iran, has been conducting a military operation in Afrin and nearby territory against the Kurdish fighters it considers to be linked to the PKK, which is considered to be a terrorist group by Ankara.
Syria dismisses US, UK gas attack allegations at UNSC Press TV 06 Feb 2018 -- Syria has dismissed fresh accusations by the US and the UK about Damascus using of chemical weapons against militants and civilians in the country.
Syrian government forces, allies inflict heavy losses on Daesh terrorists Press TV 06 Feb 2018 -- Syrian government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups, have carried out fresh operations against the remnants of Daesh Takfiri terrorists across the violence-plagued Arab country, inflicting substantial losses on them.
UN urges one-month humanitarian truce in Syria Press TV 06 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations has called for a one-month ceasefire in Syria to facilitate the delivery humanitarian aid to hundreds of thousands of civilians in dire need of help.
Syria deploys anti-aircraft missiles, air defenses in Aleppo, Idlib Press TV 06 Feb 2018 -- Syria has deployed anti-aircraft missiles and new air defense systems in the country's Aleppo and Idlib provinces.
UN Probes Reports Of Fresh Chemical Attacks On Rebel-Held Syrian Towns RFE/RL 06 Feb 2018 -- United Nations war crimes experts say they are investigating numerous reports of alleged chemical attacks against civilians in rebel-held towns of Syria.
UN Calls for Cease-Fire in Syria to Deliver Life-Saving Aid VOA 06 Feb 2018 -- The United Nations is calling for an immediate cease-fire in Syria to allow for the delivery of life-saving aid to millions of civilians who are without food, medicine and other essential needs.
Turkish forces set up military post southwest of Syria's Aleppo Press TV 05 Feb 2018 -- Turkish forces have set up a military post southwest of the Syrian city of Aleppo as part of the Astana agreement with Iran and Russia on "de-escalation zones."
Pentagon Sees No Indication of Turkey's Plans to Expand Olive Branch to Manbij Sputnik 05 Feb 2018 -- The Pentagon has seen no indication of Turkey planning to move to the Syrian city of Manbij, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Stability and Humanitarian Affairs Mark Swayne said at a Washington, DC think tank on Monday.
Turkey Constructs the Fourth Observation Point in Syria's Idlib - General Staff Sputnik 05 Feb 2018 -- Turkish servicemen started to construct the fourth observation point in the northern Syrian province of Idlib, the Turkish General Staff said in a statement.
Syrian army recaptures Al-Jdayde village IRNA 05 Feb 2018 -- Syrian army has liberated Al-Jdayde village in Hama Province, western Syria.
US accuses Russia of obstructing UN condemnation of gas attacks in Syria Press TV 05 Feb 2018 -- US Ambassador Nikki Haley to the United Nations has accused Russia of obstructing the adoption of a UN Security Council condemnation of alleged chlorine gas attacks in Syria.
Proof of chemical weapons use in Syria should be met with 'meaningful response,' UN disarmament chief UN News 05 Feb 2018 -- Evidence of the use, or likely use, of banned chemical weapons in Syria should be met with a "meaningful response" within the Security Council, the United Nations disarmament affairs chief said on Monday.
Haley: Evidence Shows Syrian Military Used Chlorine in Idlib VOA 05 Feb 2018 -- The U.N. Security Council met to discuss Syria Monday, amid new reports of possible chemical weapons use in that country.
Russia hits back after jet downed People's Daily 05 Feb 2018 -- Massive Russian air strikes have killed at least 30 militants in northwest Syria, where a Russian fighter jet was shot down, Russia's Defense Ministry said in a statement on Saturday.
Turkey cautions US troops against being targeted in Syria Press TV 04 Feb 2018 -- Turkey has warned that American soldiers risk being targeted in northwestern Syria as the Turkish military pushes ahead with its offensive against Kurdish militants supported by the United States in the Arab country.
Erdogan Says Syria Operation Not Designed To Capture Territory RFE/RL 04 Feb 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has told France's Emmanuel Macron that Turkey's military operation inside Syria is aimed at purging "terror elements" and not designed to permanently take Syrian territory.
7 Turkish Soldiers Killed in Deadliest Day of Syrian Offensive VOA 04 Feb 2018 -- Turkey's military says it has suffered its single deadliest day in its offensive against Syrian militias in northern Syria.
Russian MPs vow to investigate origin of MANPAD used in downing jet in Syria Press TV 04 Feb 2018 -- Senior Russian lawmakers have urged the country to probe the origin of the man-portable air-defense system (MANPAD), which was reportedly used by Takfiri terrorists to down a Russian jet over Syria.
Turkish Opposition Calls for Contacts With Damascus to Ensure Peace in Syria Sputnik 04 Feb 2018 -- Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the Turkish main opposition Republican People's Party on Sunday called on the country's authorities to re-establish contacts with Damascus for ensuring peace and stabilization of the situation in Syria amid the ongoing Turkish military operation in Afrin.
France Plans to Work With Turkey on Syria 'Road Map' Sputnik 04 Feb 2018 -- Emmanuel Macron's office announced its decision after the French president discussed Turkey's operation against Kurdish People's Protection Units in Syria with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a phone conversation.
Al-Qaida-linked Group Claims Responsibility for Shooting Down Russian Warplane VOA 04 Feb 2018 -- A Syrian rebel group linked to al-Qaida is claiming responsibility for shooting down a Russian jet near the rebel-held town of Saraqeb, Syria.
Kurdish forces kill five Turkish soldiers in Afrin: Military Press TV 03 Feb 2018 -- Turkey's military says five Turkish soldiers have been killed by Kurdish forces from the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Afrin region in northwest Syria.
Turkish 'Olive Branch': General Staff on Results of Offensive in Afrin Sputnik 03 Feb 2018 -- The Turkish Armed Forces have killed 74 more militants of the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), and the Daesh terrorist group (banned in Russia) during the military operation in Syria's northern district of Afrin.
Pentagon: US Has Not Equipped Allies in Syria With Surface-to-Air Weapons Sputnik 04 Feb 2018 -- Terrorist group Tahrir al-Sham, linked to former terrorist Al Qaeda branch in Syria, claims responsibility for shooting down Russian combat jet SU-25 with shoulder-launched anti-aircraft Projectile.
Syria dismisses US 'lies' on chemical weapons use Press TV 03 Feb 2018 -- Syria has dismissed as "lies" the United States' allegations about the Syrian army's use of chemical weapons against a group of militants.
Syrian army, allies make new advances against terrorists across country Press TV 03 Feb 2018 -- 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.
Tahrir Al-Sham Claims Responsibility for Shooting Down Russian SU-25 - Reports Sputnik 03 Feb 2018 -- Terrorist group Tahrir al-Sham, linked to former terrorist Al Qaeda branch in Syria, claims responsibility for shooting down Russian combat jet SU-25 with shoulder-launched anti-aircraft Projectile.
Syria Refutes US Allegations on Chemical Weapons Use Against Rebel-Held E Ghouta Sputnik 03 Feb 2018 -- The Syrian Foreign Ministry has responded to the United States' claims of chemical weapons use by the government forces in the clashes with militants in Eatern Ghouta.
Russian Su-25 aircraft shot down in Syria, pilot shot dead: Defense ministry Press TV 03 Feb 2018 -- Russia has confirmed that its Su-25 fighter jet has been shot down in a militant-held area in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, with its pilot killed in fighting after the incident.
Russia Confirms Warplane Downed Over Syria, Pilot Dead RFE/RL 03 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has confirmed that an Su-25 close-support military aircraft was shot down over Syria on February 3 and the pilot was killed.
Terrorists Shot Down Russian Su-25 in Idlib, Russia Airstrikes Attack Zone - MoD Sputnik 03 Feb 2018 -- The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that the country's air forces conducted a high-precision group strike in the area controlled by Jabhat Fatah al-Sham militants in Idlib, from where a missile that downed Russian Su-25 aircraft was launched.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 02 Feb 2018 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria between Jan. 25 and Feb. 1, conducting 41 strikes consisting of 78 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Coalition Operations Continue to Remove ISIS Leaders AFPS 02 Feb 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners continue to remove Islamic State of Iraq and Syria leaders from the battlefield and prevent the terrorist group's ability to regroup and resume its capacity to threaten citizens of all nations, CJTF-OIR officials reported today.
Two killed as volley of rockets strike Turkish border towns Press TV 02 Feb 2018 -- At least two people have been killed and several other injured after a barrage of rockets from Syria's Kurdish-controlled northwestern region of Afrin struck two Turkish border towns, officials say.
Humanitarian diplomacy 'getting nowhere' in Syria warns UN special adviser UN News 01 Feb 2018 -- Civilians in Syria's besieged areas have not seen a single convoy of humanitarian aid arrive for a full two months, a senior United Nations adviser said on Thursday, lamenting that diplomatic efforts appear "totally impotent," and that hundreds of lives are being lost as a result.
US has no evidence of sarin gas used in Syria: Pentagon chief Press TV 02 Feb 2018 -- Defense Secretary James Mattis says the United States has no evidence to confirm reports that the Syrian government used the chemical nerve agent of sarin against its civilians.
Trump prepared for military action in Syria to deter chemical attacks: Officials Press TV 02 Feb 2018 -- Senior US officials have claimed President Donald Trump is prepared to launch a military action if necessary against the Syrian government which they say is possibly developing new types of chemical weapons.
Pentagon Chief: US Has No Evidence Damascus Used Sarin Gas in Chemical Attacks Sputnik 02 Feb 2018 -- US Secretary of Defense James Mattis says investigators are looking into reports that the Syrian government used sarin gas in recent chemical attacks, but there is no evidence of the gas usage so far, US media reported on Friday.
Pentagon Chief: No Evidence of Recent Sarin Gas Use by Syria VOA 02 Feb 2018 -- The U.S. has no evidence that the Syrian government recently has used deadly sarin nerve gas on its citizens but is looking into reports of its alleged use from people on the ground, U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis said Friday.
Militant shelling kills 7 civilians in Damascus district Press TV 01 Feb 2018 -- At least seven civilians have been killed and 13 others wounded in militant shelling on a neighborhood of the Syrian capital, Damascus.
Syria complains to UN about Turkey's 'assault, occupation' Press TV 01 Feb 2018 -- Damascus has complained to the UN about Turkey's military campaign in northern Syria, denouncing the operation as "an assault and occupation" of the Syrian territory.
Aid Crisis In Besieged Syrian Areas 'Worst Since 2015' RFE/RL 01 Feb 2018 -- UN humanitarian adviser Jan Egeland has said that aid deliveries to hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped inside "besieged areas" in Syria have fallen to their lowest level since 2015, with not a single humanitarian convoy reaching these spots since November.
Syria Facing Worst Humanitarian Crisis Since 2015 VOA 01 Feb 2018 -- U.N. humanitarian adviser Jan Egeland warns Syria is facing the worst humanitarian crisis since 2015. He is calling for a humanitarian pause to allow the delivery of life-saving aid to hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped in besieged areas.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

February 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News