June 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News

UN chief 'deeply alarmed' over military offensive in south-west Syria UN News 30 Jun 2018 -- Expressing "deep alarm" over increased hostilities in southwestern Syria and its "devastating" toll on civilians, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate cessation of the military operations.
Syrian govt. to decide on Russia's military presence after war: Diplomat Press TV 30 Jun 2018 -- A senior Russian diplomat says his country's military presence in Syria after the war is over will be contingent upon Damascus' decision.
Lavrov warns Russia might withdraw from OPCW Press TV 30 Jun 2018 -- Russia has warned that it could withdraw from the global chemical weapons watchdog after member states voted to allow the group to assign responsibility for chemical weapon use.
Lavrov rules out Russian pullout from Syria Press TV 30 Jun 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the West's interventions in the Middle East and North Africa benefit Takfiri terrorist groups operating in the region.
Syrian army advances against terrorists in Dara'a; Israel raises alert in Golan Press TV 30 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian army has managed to wrest control over several towns and villages in the strategic southern Dara'a Province, leading Israel to raise its alert level in the bordering Golan Heights.
OPCW's new power attempt to politicize its work: Syria Press TV 29 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian government has denounced a recent decision made by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the world's chemical watchdog, to empower itself to assign blame for alleged chemical attacks.
Foreign-backed Takfiri militants renounce violence in Syria's Dara'a Press TV 29 Jun 2018 -- Foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants in a number of areas in the northern sector of Syria's southern province of Dara'a have laid down their arms and renounced violence in the wake of territorial gains being made by government troops and allied fighters from popular defense groups.
France Warns RT Over Claims In Broadcast On Syrian Chemical Attack RFE/RL 29 Jun 2018 -- France's media regulator has issued a warning to RT France, the French outlet of Russia's state-run broadcaster, for allegedly misrepresenting facts in a program about a chemical weapons attack in Syria.
SDF, Iraqis Defend Syrian Border Town from IS VOA 29 Jun 2018 -- The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are working closely with the Iraqi army to prevent Islamic State (IS) militants from returning to a key Syrian town on the border with Iraq, an SDF commander told VOA.
UN Warns of Humanitarian Catastrophe if Fighting Escalates in Daraa, Syria VOA 29 Jun 2018 -- United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein warned of a humanitarian "catastrophe" Friday in the southwestern Syrian city of Daraa if the fighting continues to escalate between Russian-backed Syrian forces and armed rebels.
US-Led Coalition Admits Killing About 940 Civilians in Operations in Syria, Iraq Sputnik 28 Jun 2018 -- Strikes carried out by the US-led coalition fighting against the Daesh* terrorist group in Iraq and Syria have claimed the lives of more than 930 civilians since August 2014, Operation Inherent Resolve's Combined Joint Task Force said in a report on Thursday.
Syrian army takes key town amid new advances in southwest Press TV 28 Jun 2018 -- Syrian troops have regained control of al-Harak town in Dara'a Province from Takfiri terrorists as the government widens a major offensive against foreign-backed militants in the troubled southwest.
13 warplanes, 1,140 Russian troopers withdrawn from Syria over past few days: Putin Press TV 28 Jun 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country has pulled out 1,140 military personnel and 27 aircraft from war-ravaged Syria during the past few days.
Putin Says Russia Withdrew Many Troops, Aircraft From Syria RFE/RL 28 Jun 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says more than 1,000 military personnel and dozens of aircraft have been withdrawn from Syria over the past several days.
Syrian Army Liberates City of Al Hrak in Daraa Province - Source Sputnik 28 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian army liberated the city of Al Hrak as well as a number other settlements in the southwestern province of Daraa, a source in the Syrian army told Sputnik on Thursday.
French Firm Charged With Complicity in Crimes Against Humanity in Syria - Source Sputnik 28 Jun 2018 -- Lafarge is a French industrial company specializing in three major products: cement, construction aggregates, and concrete. Between 2013 and 2014, the company's Jalabiya plant operated on Daesh*-controlled territories in northern Syria.
Hostilities in Syria's southwest, mean cuts in vital aid across Jordanian border: Senior UN official UN News 28 Jun 2018 -- Escalating conflict in Syria's southwest has cut vital cross-border aid deliveries from neighbouring Jordan, a senior United Nations official said on Thursday, in an appeal to warring parties to halt the fighting immediately.
UN Calls for Immediate End to Fighting in SW Syria VOA 28 Jun 2018 -- A senior U.N. official is calling for an immediate end to the fighting in Daraa and Quneitra in southwest Syria as tens of thousands of civilians flee for their lives.
Over 15,000 Syrians held captive by terrorist groups IRNA 28 Jun 2018 -- Syrian Observatory for Human Rights announced on Wednesday that over 15,000 Syrians are currently being held captive by Daesh terrorist group.
ICRC voices concern over Syrian civilians in southern Syria IRNA 27 Jun 2018 -- The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is concerned about the safety of tens of thousands of civilians caught in the line of fire or are fleeing violence in the southern governorate of Daraa.
Syrian army declares complete retake of Dayr al-Zawr desert Press TV 27 Jun 2018 -- Syria's military has announced that it cleared the desert region of the country's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr close to the border with Iraq of the last elements of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group.
Russia sticking to Syria de-escalation agreements Press TV 27 Jun 2018 -- Russian authorities have rejected media reports about Moscow's alleged withdrawal from agreements to maintain de-escalation zones in Syria.
At least 10 killed in twin blasts in Syria's Afrin Press TV 27 Jun 2018 -- At least 10 people have been killed in double bombings that hit Syria's northwestern region of Afrin amid clashes between militant groups in the area.
We must stop a devastating 'battle to the end' in southwest Syria, declares UN envoy UN News 27 Jun 2018 -- A "full-scale" ground and aerial offensive in southwest Syria could inflict an even heavier toll on civilians than the suffering caused by previous devastating battles in the war-ravaged country, the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria has warned.
UN 'Gravely Concerned' About Fighting in Southern Syria VOA 27 Jun 2018 -- The United Nations' special envoy for Syria warned Wednesday that an escalation of fighting in the southwestern part of the country risks turning into another Aleppo or eastern Ghouta – two towns that were devastated by government bombings and siege.
Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS Targets in Syria, Iraq AFPS 26 Jun 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners have accelerated offensive activity against Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targets in designated parts of Syria and Iraq throughout May and June, officials reported today.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 26 Jun 2018 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Syria.
Over 45,000 civilians displaced following clashes in southwestern Syria: UN Press TV 26 Jun 2018 -- The UN says over 45,000 people have been displaced following the ongoing conflicts in Syria's southwestern province of Dara'a, warning that the number could double if clashes continue.
Syrian army enters strategic town near Jordanian border Press TV 26 Jun 2018 -- Syrian army forces have regained control of the Laja area in Dara'a Province from the Takfiri terrorists, the first major gain in its liberation operation in the southwestern areas near the Jordanian border.
Aid teams respond to escalating southwest Syria conflict: 750,000 civilians are at risk UN News 26 Jun 2018 -- Vital humanitarian relief continues to reach Dera'a in south-west Syria, where 750,000 people are at risk and at least 45,000 people have been displaced amid a government-led offensive to regain opposition-held areas, UN aid teams said on Tuesday.
UN: Battle for Syrian Enclave of E. Ghouta Marked by War Crimes VOA 26 Jun 2018 -- The U.N. Commission of Inquiry on Syria accuses all warring factions in that country of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in the battle for control of eastern Ghouta, a besieged enclave in the suburbs of the capital, Damascus.
Commander: Israel targeted drone over southern Syria Press TV 25 Jun 2018 -- A commander in the regional alliance fighting terrorists in Syria has said Israel targeted a drone engaged in ongoing operations by the Syrian army near the occupied Golan Heights.
US, UK Financing 54 Militia Groups in Syria Despite Trump Vow to 'Get Out' Sputnik 25 Jun 2018 -- Despite US President Donald Trump vowing "I want to get out" of Syria to "bring our troops back home" a few months ago, a new report indicates the US military and a cohort of allies including Israel, Britain, France, Jordan and "some Persian Gulf states" are still supporting some 54 militia groups in Syria.
Syrian Government Forces Intensify Offensive Against Rebel Forces Around Daraa VOA 25 Jun 2018 -- Thousands of civilians have fled rebel-held regions in and around Syria's southern city of Daraa, as government forces intensify their offensive to regain territory with heavy shelling and powerful airstrikes. Daraa is the city where Syria's bloody and protracted civil war began in March 2011.
Israel Fires Patriot Missile at Drone in Syria Sputnik 24 Jun 2018 -- The Israel Defense Forces reported that they had fired a Patriot missile into Syrian airspace, targeting a drone approaching from Syria.
Iraq says it killed 45 Daesh terrorists in Syria strike IRNA 24 Jun 2018 -- Iraq said Saturday it had killed 45 jihadists from the ISIS group, including senior members, in an air strike in eastern Syria, the second such operation in less than a month.
FSA militiamen join Syrian army units to fight Daesh, Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Press TV 24 Jun 2018 -- Militiamen from the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) have joined forces with Syrian government forces in the country's southern de-escalation zone to fight foreign-sponsored and Takfiri Daesh and Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, formerly known as al-Nusra Front, militant groups.
US using chemical weapons as pretext for intervention in Syria: President Assad Press TV 24 Jun 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says the United States is using the issue of chemical weapons as a pretext to carry out an attack against the Syrian army.
US-backed militants declare 'curfew' in Syria's Raqqah Press TV 24 Jun 2018 -- US-backed militants reportedly declare a curfew in the northern Syrian city of Raqqah, citing alleged Daesh movements.
Syrian forces make gains in Dara'a province's eastern countryside Press TV 24 Jun 2018 -- Syrian government forces have liberated two villages in the Dara'a province's eastern countryside as they warm-up for a major offensive against militants holed up in the region.
Monitoring Group Says Russian Jets Aid Syria In New Assault RFE/RL 24 Jun 2018 -- A monitoring group says Russian jets have struck rebel-held areas in southern Syria in the first such attacks since Moscow agreed to a cease-fire in July 2017, endangering one of the so-called "de-escalation" zones.
FSA Rebel Units Join Syrian Army to Fight Daesh, Nusra Terrorists - Russian MoD Sputnik 24 Jun 2018 -- The statement comes just a day after the Syrian army and the FSA jointly repelled an attack by over a thousand of al-Nusra Front terrorists in the Syrian southern de-escalation zone.
Russian Military Demines Syria's Al-Naseriyah, South Douma Sputnik 24 Jun 2018 -- Mine clearance operations have been successfully completed in Syria's settlement of al-Naseriyah in the southwestern Rif Dimashq province as well as in the southern districts of Douma, located in the Damascus suburbs, the Russian Defense Ministry's Syria reconciliation center said late on Saturday.
Senior Iranian Commander Killed in Syria - Reports Sputnik 24 Jun 2018 -- Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps announced Saturday that one of its commanders died earlier on Friday in a fight against Daesh gunmen in the northeastern part of Syria.
Iraqi airstrike kills 45 Daesh terrorists in eastern Syria Press TV 23 Jun 2018 -- The Iraqi military has conducted an airstrike against the Daesh Takfiri group in Syria's eastern Dayr al-Zawr province, killing 45 terrorists.
U.S. Warns Russia To Rein In Syrian Assault In Southwest Cease-Fire Zone RFE/RL 23 Jun 2018 -- The United States has warned Russia to rein in its ally Syria after reports that government forces have stepped up attacks on rebels in an area of southwest Syria that was designated as a "de-escalation zone" last year.
Iraqi Military Airstrikes Kill 45 Daesh Militants Sputnik 23 Jun 2018 -- Iraq has been carrying out strikes against Daesh in Syria since receiving intelligence involving security threats.
UN chief calls for 'immediate end' to escalation of fighting in southwestern Syria, as thousands are displaced UN News 22 Jun 2018 -- The UN Secretary-General on Friday expressed his grave concern for thousands of civilians caught up in an escalation of fighting across southwestern Syria, close to the border with Jordan.
US Sets Up New Military Base Near Manbij – Syrian Commander Sputnik 22 Jun 2018 -- The presence of US troops in Syria is escalating tensions between government forces and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
Syrian government forces besiege US base in al-Tanf Press TV 22 Jun 2018 -- Syrian government forces have reportedly encircled a US military base at the al-Tanf border crossing with Jordan, after recapturing large parts of the Badyia region from Daesh.
Russia Slams U.S. Ahead Of UN Report On Syria Chemical Attacks RFE/RL 22 Jun 2018 -- Moscow has charged that the United States and its allies fabricated evidence to implicate Syrian government forces in chemical-weapons attacks against civilians.
Russia skeptical about UN human rights report on Syria's Eastern Ghouta: FM Lavrov Press TV 21 Jun 2018 -- Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says he is "skeptical" about a United Nations report accusing the Syrian government of committing alleged crimes against humanity when its troops carried out a military operation in Eastern Ghouta earlier this year.
Iraqi Hashd al-Sha'abi pledges 'suitable' response to deadly Syria strike Press TV 21 Jun 2018 -- The Iraqi voluntary and pro-government Popular Mobilization Units have pledged to get revenge for a deadly air raid on their fellow fighters in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr earlier this week, blaming the United States or Israel for the attack.
Syrian Army Steps Up Offensive in Southwest - Reports Sputnik 21 Jun 2018 -- Syrian Army activity has increased significantly in the nation's southwestern region, where rebel-controlled areas border Jordan and the disputed area of Golan Heights.
Reported Violations of the Southwest Ceasefire US Dept. of State 21 Jun 2018 -- The United States remains deeply troubled by reports of increasing Syrian regime operations in southwest Syria within the boundaries of the de-escalation zone negotiated between the United States, Jordan, and the Russian Federation last year and reaffirmed between Presidents Trump and Putin in Da Nang, Vietnam in November.
Syria Moves Troops Ahead of New Offensive VOA 20 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian government is deploying its military forces in southern Syria, in preparation for a looming offensive against the southern governorates of Daraa and Quneitra, as confrontation in the north and northeast are winding down.
Siege of Syria's eastern Ghouta 'barbaric and medieval', says UN Commission of Inquiry UN News 20 Jun 2018 -- The siege of eastern Ghouta in war-torn Syria, which lasted more than five years, has been labelled "barbaric and medieval" – "amounting" to war crimes, and crimes against humanity, a high-level UN inquiry said on Wednesday.
Coalition, Partners Continue Progress Against ISIS in Iraq, Syria AFPS 19 Jun 2018 -- The coalition and its partners in Syria and Iraq are continuing to make progress in defeating the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve said today.
Coalition Kills ISIS Criminal Leader, Followers AFPS 19 Jun 2018 -- Four Islamic State of Iraq and Syria members affiliated with the group's oil and gas network were killed May 26 during coalition operations in Syria's Middle Euphrates River Valley, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials announced today.
Iran will remain on Syria side in post-war reconstruction: VP Press TV 19 Jun 2018 -- Iranian First Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri says the Islamic Republic will stand by Syria in the reconstruction plans of the war-stricken country.
Israeli spy drone crashes in southwestern Syria Press TV 19 Jun 2018 -- An Israeli spy drone has crashed in southwestern Syria as the Tel Aviv regime defies calls to end its violations of the airspace of the Arab country.
Syria strongly condemns presence of US, Turkish forces around Manbij Press TV 19 Jun 2018 -- Syria has strongly denounced the presence of Turkish and US troops around the Arab country's northern town of Manbij, a day after soldiers of both countries entered the outskirts of the flashpoint town as part of a deal reached between Ankara and Washington to purportedly remove US-backed Kurdish militants from the area and "secure" the region.
US, Turkey Start Coordinated Patrols in Syrian Town of Manbij Sputnik 19 Jun 2018 -- The People's Protection Units (YPG), which Turkey considers a terrorist group, agreed to retreat to the east side of the Euphrates River, meeting a longstanding demand by Ankara.
Israel bombed Syria's al-Hari killing Iraqi PMUs: US Press TV 19 Jun 2018 -- Israel was behind the bombing raid on the Syrian town of al-Hari where over 22 members of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) were killed, claims a US official.
Operation Roundup Hits ISIS Remnants in Iraq, Syria AFPS 18 Jun 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners have increased offe
Coalition Partners Seize, Destroy ISIS Drug Cache in Southern Syria AFPS 18 Jun 2018 -- Coalition-supported forces destroyed an Islamic State of Iraq and Syria-owned cache of narcotic drugs in southern Syria, June 12, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
AFCENT Airmen Kept Pressure on Taliban, ISIS in May AFNS 18 Jun 2018 -- U.S. Air Forces Central Command published its monthly Airpower Summary June 18th, highlighting U.S. and coalition airpower operations in May, 2018, in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.
Turkish forces enter outskirts of Syria's Manbij as part of deal with US: Media report Press TV 18 Jun 2018 -- Turkish troops have reportedly entered the outskirts of the northern Syrian city of Manbij as part of a deal agreed with the United States to remove Washington-backed Kurdish militants from the area and secure the region.
Turkish Army Occupies Outskirts of Syria's Manbij Sputnik 18 Jun 2018 -- The Turkish armed forces have occupied the outskirts of the Syrian city of Manbij in line with a road map coordinated with the United States, the NTV television channel reported citing local sources.
Syrian forces repel militant attack in Quneitra province Press TV 18 Jun 2018 -- Syrian government forces have thwarted an attack by terrorists belonging to various notorious Takfiri outfits on military points in southwestern Syria.
Manbij Military Council Denies Turkish Military Presence in City - Council Head Sputnik 18 Jun 2018 -- There are no Turkish troops in the Syrian city of Manbij, however they are deployed in the area of the Euphrates Shield operation, Mohammed Abu Adil, the head of the Manbij Military Council, told Sputnik.
SDF Wipes Out Major Daesh Stronghold in Syria's Northeast – Reports Sputnik 18 Jun 2018 -- The US-backed SDF forces have conducted a large-scale offensive in Syria's Hasakah province, liberating yet another town from the clutches of Daesh terrorists.
US, Turkey Begin 'Coordinated, Independent' Patrols Near Manbij VOA 18 Jun 2018 -- The United States has begun "coordinated but independent patrols" with Turkey near the volatile northern Syrian city of Manbij, the Pentagon confirmed to VOA on Monday.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 15 Jun 2018 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Syria.
Syrian Army seizes control of a number of points in Deir Ezzor IRNA 15 Jun 2018 -- Units of the Syrian Arab Army, in cooperation with the allied forces, on Thursday restored security and stability to large areas in the eastern countryside of Deir Ezzor, after they were completely cleared of Daesh terrorists.
Turkey-backed armed groups looted, destroyed civilian property in Syria's Afrin: HRW Press TV 14 Jun 2018 -- Human Rights Watch says Turkey-backed militants in the Syrian town of Afrin have looted and destroyed civilian property after taking control of the Kurdish-dominated region in March.
Assad Says He Needs Iranian, Hizballah Forces To Stay In Syria RFE/RL 14 Jun 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has said he needs the assistance of Iranian and Hizballah forces in Syria and they will stay for as long as they deem necessary.
Assad Vows Resistance Against US, Israeli, Turkish "Occupying Forces" in Syria Sputnik 14 Jun 2018 -- In an interview with the al-Alam News Network on Wednesday, President Bashar Assad underscored his country's full support for "any act of resistance, whether against terrorists or against occupying forces regardless of their nationality."
Funding for the Syrian Civil Defense and UN International Impartial and Independent Mechanism US Dept. of State 14 Jun 2018 -- The President has authorized the United States Agency for International Development and the U.S. Department of State to release approximately $6.6 million for the continuation of the vital, life-saving operations of the Syrian Civil Defense, more commonly known as the White Helmets, and the UN's International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM).
Efforts Underway to Revive Dormant Syrian Political Process VOA 14 Jun 2018 -- The U.N. special envoy for Syria says work has begun on establishing a committee that will aim to produce a new constitution for Syria when it finally emerges from war.
US-led warplanes strike northeastern Syria, kill four civilians Press TV 13 Jun 2018 -- Four civilians have been killed when the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group conducted an airstrike against Syria's northeastern province of Hasakah.
Syria's Assad says US, French, Turks, Israeli troops are occupying forces Press TV 13 Jun 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says that the American, French, Turkish and Israeli troops present in his country are occupying forces.
Iraqi Hashd al-Sha'abi fighters inflict losses on Daesh in eastern Syria Press TV 13 Jun 2018 -- Fighters from the Iraqi pro-government Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) have pounded the positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr as the militants are seeking to sneak through the border into Iraq.
Syrian army enhances air defense near Israeli-occupied Golan Heights Press TV 12 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian army has reinforced its anti-aircraft defense systems in the country's southwest near the border areas of Golan Heights against potential attacks from Israel, a pro-Syrian government commander says.
Fresh US-led airstrikes leave dozen civilians in northeastern Syria Press TV 12 Jun 2018 -- A dozen civilians have lost their lives and several others sustained injuries when the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group carried out a string of airstrikes against Syria's northeastern province of Hasakah.
Syria repels Daesh attempt to seize key border town near Iraq: Monitor Press TV 12 Jun 2018 -- Following days of intense fighting, Syrian government forces have thwarted an attempt by Daesh remnants to seize a strategic town near the Iraqi border, clearing all its neighborhoods of Takfiri terrorists.
Syrian Army Enhancing Anti-Aircraft Defenses on Golan Heights – Reports Sputnik 12 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian army is reinforcing its air defenses near the Golan frontier as tensions with Israel continue, a Syrian army commander said on Tuesday.
Syrian Army Defused Dozens of Explosive Devices in Yarmouk Camp Sputnik 12 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian army has defused a total of 18 improvised explosive devices, four mines, and seven projectiles in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk located south of Damascus, Russia's Syrian reconciliation center said in a statement on Monday.
Operation Roundup Targets ISIS Remnants in Iraq, Syria AFPS 11 Jun 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners have increased offensive activity against Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targets in designated parts of Iraq and Syria throughout the month of May.
Truman Carrier Group Renews Attacks on Daesh From E Mediterranean - US Navy Sputnik 11 Jun 2018 -- The Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier strike group has returned to the Eastern Mediterranean to continue operations against Daesh, the US Navy said on Monday.
More than 920,000 displaced across Syria over past four months: UN Press TV 11 Jun 2018 -- The United Nations says more than 920,000 people have been displaced inside Syria during the first four months of 2018, the highest level since foreign-backed militancy began in the Arab country seven years ago.
US-backed militants 'ready' for talks with Syrian govt. Press TV 11 Jun 2018 -- The political arm of a US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab militants in Syria has said again that it is ready for unconditional peace talks with the central government in Damascus.
UN Chief Seeks Probe Into 'Russian' Syria Air Strikes RFE/RL 11 Jun 2018 -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an investigation into deadly air strikes in northern Syria last week that were allegedly conducted by Russian jets.
Syrian Army Prevents Attempted Offensive Towards Palmyra – Russian Military Sputnik 11 Jun 2018 -- Syrian government troops backed by the Russian Aerospace Forces have prevented militants from breaking out of the Al-Tanf area in Homs toward Palmyra, the Russian reconciliation center said.
'Highly explosive' escalation of conflict and displacement across Syria's Idlib, says top UN official UN News 11 Jun 2018 -- The situation inside Syria's Idlib threatens to become "highly explosive" amid an uptick in conflict between armed groups and a spike in the number of people displaced inside the war-torn country, a top UN aid official said on Monday.
Syria: Guterres concerned over reported attacks in Idlib, calls for 'full investigation' UN News 11 Jun 2018 -- United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over airstrikes that reportedly targeted a village in northern Idlib last week, killing dozens – including children.
President Assad: US and UK existence in Syria is invasion IRNA 10 Jun 2018 -- President Bashar al-Assad said that the UK publicly supported the White Helmets that are a branch of Al Qaeda and Jabhat al-Nusra in different areas of Syria, stressing that Syria considers the White Helmets to be a PR stunt by the UK.
Terrorists fire rocket shells at Aleppo, causing damage IRNA 10 Jun 2018 -- Terrorist groups fired a number of rocket shells at residential neighborhoods in Aleppo city, causing only material damage.
Turkey Constructs 475-Mile Wall Along Syrian Border – Reports Sputnik 09 Jun 2018 -- Turkey has constructed a 764-kilometer (475-mile) concrete wall along the country's border with Syria, he Anadolu Agency reported on Saturday, citing an anonymous Turkish official.
Daesh continues resistance only in US-controlled areas IRNA 09 Jun 2018 -- Pockets of resistance of the Daesh* terrorist group in Syria are located only in areas controlled by the United States, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said on Saturday, Sputnik reported.
Daesh continues resistance in Syria only in US-controlled areas: Russian top brass Press TV 09 Jun 2018 -- A high-ranking Russian military figure says the last pockets of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria wreak havoc and perpetrate acts of terror only in areas controlled by US military forces.
US hints longer Syria presence amid army gains on battlefield Press TV 09 Jun 2018 -- US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis claims that a swift withdrawal of US troops from Syria will be a "strategic blunder" as pro-Damascus forces edge closer to victory through sweeping gains against foreign-backed Takfiri terrorists.
Defeat-ISIS/Da'esh Defense Ministerial Joint Statement DoD 08 Jun 2018 -- The text of the following statement is a joint release of defense ministers of Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iraq, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States and the Secretary General of NATO. They were joined by senior representatives from Albania, New Zealand, Poland, Saudi Arabia and Singapore.
Coalition Partner Forces Kill 7 ISIS Terrorists in Southern Syria AFPS 08 Jun 2018 -- Coalition trained and backed partner forces killed seven Islamic State of Iraq and Syria terrorists in southern Syria June 4, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said today.
Turkey Reportedly Plans to Establish Joint 'Safe Zone' in Syria, Iraq Sputnik 08 Jun 2018 -- According to the Turkish newspaper Yeni Safak, taking the city of Manbij in northern Aleppo Governorate will be the first step in creating this security zone, which will extend through Idlib, al-Bab and A'zaz in the north-west of Syria, before later being extended through currently Kurdish held territory east of the Euphrates and in northern Iraq.
Hezbollah Vows to Leave Syria Only on Assad's Request Sputnik 08 Jun 2018 -- Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah announced that Hezbollah forces would not withdraw from Syria until the country is "liberated" and its "territorial integrity is restored."
Daesh Breaches Syrian Army's Defenses in Deir ez-Zor Near Iraqi Border - Reports Sputnik 08 Jun 2018 -- Daesh militants have hit the defenses of the Syrian armed forces with a devastating blow in the southeastern part of Deir ez-Zor province, targeting Abu-Kumal, a strategic border city close to Iraq's Al-Anbar province, Al-Masdar reported. If the Syrian forces lose, they will have to put their military operation on hold.
Russian troops to stay in Syria as long as needed: Putin Press TV 07 Jun 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow has no immediate plans for withdrawing troops from Syria, stressing that his country's military forces would remain in the war-ravaged Arab country as long as it is in Russia's interests.
Netanyahu says Syria 'no longer immune' from Israel's attacks Press TV 07 Jun 2018 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is "no longer immune" from attacks carried out by the occupying regime, a month after Tel Aviv conducted a large-scale air raid against military targets in southern Syria.
Iraqi fighter jets target Daesh positions in Syria Press TV 07 Jun 2018 -- Iraq says it has launched an airstrike against Daesh positions inside the Syrian territory as both neighboring countries step up efforts to get rid of the Takfiri terror group's remnants.
US-backed SDF ready for dialog with Syrian government: Officials Press TV 07 Jun 2018 -- The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed coalition of mainly Kurdish militants that maintains a grip on northeastern Syria, is reportedly prepared to hold talks with Damascus over the future of the territory under its control.
Iraqi Air Force Strikes Daesh Command Center in Eastern Syria Sputnik 07 Jun 2018 -- The Iraqi Air Force destroyed a command center of Daesh* terrorist group in the eastern Syrian province of Deir ez-Zor on Thursday, the Iraqi military command said.
Russia-Jordan-US Talks on Syria's Southern De-Escalation Zone Canceled - Reports Sputnik 07 Jun 2018 -- The meeting between Russian, US, Jordanian representatives regarding the de-escalation zone in southern Syria will not take place, Jordanian newspaper Al Ghad reported, citing its sources.
Army eliminates terrorists from Jabhat al-Nusra in Aleppo IRNA 06 Jun 2018 -- Syrian Arab Army units carried out on Wednesday concentrated operations targeting the positions and gatherings of Jabhat al-Nusra terrorists and the groups affiliated to them in the western and southwestern countryside of Aleppo province.
Department Of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Veale via Teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 05 Jun 2018 -- Presenter: Colonel Thomas Veale, Director, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Public Affairs; Major Adrian Rankine-Galloway, Pentagon Spokesman
Operation Roundup in Syria Continues to Target ISIS Terrorists AFPS 05 Jun 2018 -- In Syria, Operation Roundup is in its 36th day of targeting and destroying remnants of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Army Col. Thomas Veale, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman, told Pentagon reporters today via teleconference from Baghdad.
US targeting Syrian people: Damascus tells UN chief IRNA 05 Jun 2018 -- Foreign and Expatriates Ministry said the illegitimate US-led International Coalition has been targeting civilians in the villages of al-Hasaka, Raqqa and Deir Ezzor as a retribution for their refusal to join US-allied separatist militias.
Army secures points infiltrated by Daesh in Deir Ezzor IRNA 05 Jun 2018 -- Units of Syrian Arab Army secured points previously infiltrated by Daesh (ISIS) terrorist organization in the southeastern countryside of Deir Ezzor.
Kurdish militants to withdraw advisors from Syria's Manbij Press TV 05 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian People's Protection Units (YPG) has announced that it will take its advisors out of Syria's northern city of Manbij a day after the US and Turkey agreed on a roadmap for withdrawal of the Kurdish militant group from the region.
US-led coalition targeting Syrians over refusal to back SDF militants: Damascus Press TV 05 Jun 2018 -- The Damascus government says the so-called US-led coalition purportedly fighting Daesh Takfiri terrorist group is targeting ordinary people in the northern province of Hasakah and Raqqah as well as eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr as a punishment for their refusal to back and join US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) militants.
Turkey, US agree on 'road map' for Syria's Manbij Press TV 05 Jun 2018 -- Turkey and the US have agreed a plan on the withdrawal of Washington-backed Kurdish militants from the northern Syrian city of Manbij, which has been a source of tension between the two NATO allies for months.
US-led Coalition Intensifies Airstrikes in Syria - Spokesman Sputnik 05 Jun 2018 -- The US-led coalition to defeat the Daesh* terrorist group has substantially increased strikes against targets in Syria since March and killed a senior Daesh leader, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman Col. Thomas Veale said in a press briefing.
UN Delivers Humanitarian Aid to Areas Near Yarmouk Camp in Syria - OCHA Sputnik 05 Jun 2018 -- The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) delivered humanitarian aid to thousands of people in the areas near the Yarmouk refugee camp near Damascus, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) said Tuesday.
SDF Continue Military Operation on Syrian-Iraqi Border Sputnik 05 Jun 2018 -- The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) resumed the al-Jazeera Storm operation to liberate the Syrian province of al-Hasakah on the Iraqi border from the Daesh terrorist group, the SDF press service said on Monday.
Support for Ongoing Defeat ISIS Operations in Syria US Dept. of State 05 Jun 2018
Senior State Department Officials on the U.S.-Turkish Working Group on Syria US Dept. of State 05 Jun 2018 -- Special Briefing by Senior State Department Officials
Counter-IS Coalition Slams Amnesty Report on Raqqa VOA 05 Jun 2018 -- The U.S.-led coalition battling Islamic State in Iraq and Syria has strongly criticized a report by human rights group Amnesty International accusing it of violating international law last year.
Syrian Kurdish YPG Militia to Pull Military Advisers Out of Manbij VOA 05 Jun 2018 -- The Syrian Kurdish YPG militia says its military advisers will withdraw from the northern Syrian city of Manbij, after the United States and Turkey agreed on a road map to resolve the future of the city, an issue that is a major source of tension between the NATO allies.
Almost 100 Local Tribes Form Coalition to Expel US Forces From Syria - Reports Sputnik 04 Jun 2018 -- The presence of US troops in Syria is escalating tensions between government forces and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), with some politicians and Syrian Army officers accusing the SDF of serving as “puppets” for the US and other western powers.
Terrorists launch 12 rocket shells on Aleppo neighborhoods IRNA 04 Jun 2018 -- Terrorist organizations positioned in Aleppo western countryside targeted residential neighborhoods in Aleppo with a number of rocket shells, causing material damage to properties.
Syrian tribes announce 'resistance' against foreign troops, support Assad Press TV 04 Jun 2018 -- More than 70 tribes in Syria have reiterated support for President Bashar al-Assad and announced the creation of a "resistance" front against the American, French, and Turkish presence on Syrian soil.
US, Turkey Agree on Roadmap to Resolve Dispute Over Syria Town VOA 04 Jun 2018 -- The United States and Turkey have agreed on a roadmap to resolve the future of the northern Syrian city of Manbij, an issue that has become a major source of tension between the NATO allies.
Coalition Forces, Partners Begin Phase 2 of Operation Roundup AFPS 03 Jun 2018 -- Syrian Democratic Forces have initiated ground operations for phase two of Operation Roundup to defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria remnants in northeastern Syria, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials announced today.
US Reportedly Sets Up Base on Syria-Iraq Border Sputnik 03 Jun 2018 -- Earlier this week, several media outlets reported, citing Sinjar Governor Mahma Khalil that the US military had been deployed to the Sinjar Mountain of Iraq's Mosul province.
Army thwarts infiltration attempts by Daesh in Deir Ezzor IRNA 03 Jun 2018 -- Units of Syrian Arab Army thwarted infiltration attempt by terrorist groups of Daesh (ISIS) to the eastern countryside of Deir Ezzor province, inflicting losses upon their ranks and equipment.
Syrian clans reaffirm support for Damascus Gov't IRNA 03 Jun 2018 -- Representatives of Syrian clans organized on Saturday a public gathering in Deir Hafer area in the eastern countryside of Aleppo province, in order to express rejection of foreign interference in Syrian affairs.
'Illegal Presence': US Must Pull its Forces Out of al-Tanf Base – Syrian FM Sputnik 03 Jun 2018 -- During a Saturday press conference in Damascus, Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem described the US military presence in the country as illegal, insisting that the American forces should leave the region.
Syrian President to meet North Korean leader IRNA 03 Jun 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is scheduled to hold meeting with Leader of the Workers' Party of Korea Kim Jong-un, American media Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported.
Syrian President on Development of Friendly Ties with DPRK KCNA 03 Jun 2018 -- Bashar Al-Assad, president of the Syrian Arab Republic, received credentials from DPRK Ambassador Mun Jong Nam on May 30.
Syrian President Assad Expresses Wish to Visit North Korea - Reports Sputnik 03 Jun 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad expressed on Wednesday his intention to visit Pyongyang and meet with country's leader Kim Jong-un, North Korean Rodong Sinmun newspaper reported on Sunday.
Syria thanks Iran for advisory help to its army IRNA 02 Jun 2018 -- Syrian foreign minister thanked the Islamic Republic for sending military advisors to the war-torn county which is suffering from terrorism for more than seven years.
Presence of Iranian military advisors in Syria legitimate: Muallem Press TV 02 Jun 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem says Iran has no military presence or bases in his country but Iranian military advisors are there to help Damascus fight terrorist groups.
Damascus Strikes Oil Deal With Kurdish YPG - Reports Sputnik 02 Jun 2018 -- The agreement between the Syrian government and the Kurdish People's Protection Units reportedly applies to one of the most productive oilfields in Deir ez-Zor, a province held by Daesh militants till October 2017.
Operation Roundup Hits ISIS Remnants in Iraq, Syria AFPS 01 Jun 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners increased offensive activity against Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targets in designated parts of Iraq and Syria throughout May.
Pentagon: Planned Syria attack on US allies 'bad policy' Press TV 01 Jun 2018 -- The Pentagon has called on the Syrian government to reconsider its plans to launch attacks on Kurdish militants and allied US forces which have been operating in areas in northeastern Syria.
Israeli, Russian Defense Ministers Discuss Iranian Military Presence In Syria RFE/RL 01 Jun 2018 -- Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman visited Moscow on May 31 for talks with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu, on Israeli concerns about Iran's military presence in Syria.
Assad Raises Possibility Of Conflict With U.S. Forces, Allies In Syria RFE/RL 01 Jun 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has raised the possibility of conflict between his army and U.S. forces in Syria if they do not withdraw from the country soon - prompting a warning from the Pentagon.
Pentagon Claims Assad's Call for US Troops to Pull Out of Syria 'Bad Policy' Sputnik 01 Jun 2018 -- President Bashar Assad has made it plain that American troops should leave Syria and that Damascus is ready for talks with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

June 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News