September 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News

US Builds New Military Base on Syrian-Iraqi Border - Kurdish Commander Sputnik 30 Sep 2018 -- The US has been boosting its military presence in the region and, according to an SDF spokesperson, the base is being used in an offensive against the remaining Daesh militants in eastern Syria.
Syria: S-300 systems enough to respond to Israel's threat IRNA 30 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Moallem said Sunday that deliveries of Russian S-300 air defense systems were a 'timely step.'
Al-Moallem: US presence in Syria illegal and must leave IRNA 30 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid al-Moallem reaffirmed that the US presence on the Syrian territory is illegal and is considered as an aggression that must leave.
S-300 plays important role against Israel aggression: Syrian FM IRNA 30 Sep 2018 -- Syria's Foreign Minister said deployment of S-300 air defense system in Syria is an important message from Moscow to Tel Aviv, and the system will play a major role against Israeli air raids.
Israel prepared to reopen UN crossing with Syria: Military Press TV 30 Sep 2018 -- The Israeli military says Tel Aviv is ready to reopen its side of the crossing point with Syria following the return of the UN peacekeepers to the Golan Heights after four years.
Presence of US military forces on Syrian soil illegal, act of aggression: Muallem Press TV 30 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem has roundly condemned the presence of hundreds of American troopers in the southeastern part of his country close to the border with Iraq, terming the deployment as "illegal" and an "act of aggression."
Official: Russia's S-300 delivery to Syria to pose 'serious challenge' to Israel Press TV 30 Sep 2018 -- A senior Israeli official has admitted that Russia's delivery of S-300 anti-aircraft missile defense systems to Damascus will pose a serious "challenge" to the regime.
Idlib pullout begins but US-backed militants not leaving Press TV 30 Sep 2018 -- The first militant group has begun withdrawing its members and heavy arms from a recently-declared buffer zone in Syria's Idlib Province, a UK-based monitoring group says.
Russia's S-300 Systems 'Enough' to Respond to Israel's Threat - Syrian FM Sputnik 30 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem said Sunday that deliveries of Russian S-300 air defense systems were a "timely step."
Syria slams US for supporting terrorism IRNA 29 Sep 2018 -- Denouncing the United States for supporting terrorism and war crimes in his conflict-torn country, Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Walid Al-Moualem reported to the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday that the seven-year war is almost over, calling all those opposing President Bashar al-Assad terrorists.
Al-Moallem delivers Syria's speech at UN General Assembly IRNA 29 Sep 2018 -- Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid al-Moallem delivered Syria's speech at the United Nations General Assembly's 73th session.
Army fixes its points in Sweida, kills many Daesh terrorists IRNA 29 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Army units advanced in the area of Toloul al-Safa, the last stronghold of Daesh terrorists in the eastern Badyia in Sweida Province.
US-led coalition doing everything but fight against terror, says Syrian FM Press TV 29 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem says the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group has been doing everything it could since the onset of its airstrikes but combat terrorism and militant outfits wreaking havoc in the Arab country.
Syria reopens Nasib border crossing with Jordan after 3-year closure by militants Press TV 29 Sep 2018 -- Syria has reopened a vital border crossing with Jordan, three years after the major transit route was shut down by foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants.
Russia says already started delivering S-300 missile system to Syria Press TV 29 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says his country has already started delivering the S-300 surface-to-air missile defense system to Syria as part of its efforts to ensure the safety of Russian forces in the Arab country.
Russia Delivering Advanced Air Defense To Syria, Despite U.S. Objections RFE/RL 29 Sep 2018 -- Russia has started delivering an S-300 missile defense system to Syria, despite objections raised by the United States and Israel, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said.
All Syria Should Be Cleared of Terrorists, Foreign Presence - Foreign Minister Sputnik 29 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem said Saturday that the fight against terrorism in the country was almost over, adding that the situation had become more secure.
Syria, Iran Agree to Continue Cooperation on Idlib on UNGA Sidelines - Damascus Sputnik 29 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem has discussed the implementation of the Russian-Turkish memorandum on the creation of the demilitarized zone in Syrian Idlib and Astana peace process with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif, the Syrian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday.
At UN, Syria slams US for 'supporting terrorism', thanks Russia for cooperation UN News 29 Sep 2018 -- Denouncing the United States for supporting terrorism and war crimes in his conflict-torn country, Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Walid Al-Moualem reported to the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday that the seven-year war is almost over, calling all those opposing President Bashar al-Assad terrorists.
Lavrov at UNGA: Russia Warns Against New Chemical Weapon Provocations in Syria Sputnik 28 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has addressed the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York City. Addressing the UN on Friday, the Russian foreign minister criticized what he called "unilateral approaches" by some countries to a variety of complex global problems, ranging from the Middle East peace process to the Iran nuclear deal, commitments to the World Trade Organization, agreements on climate change, and more.
Lavrov:US presence in Syria illegal, violates UN resolutions IRNA 28 Sep 2018 -- Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov said that Western states are working to topple legitimate governments and replace international reference points to achieve their own political interests.
Erdogan accuses US of breaking promises on Syria's Manbij Press TV 28 Sep 2018 -- Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has censured the United States over its non-compliance with a deal reached in June on the withdrawal of Washington-backed Kurdish militants from Syria's northern city of Manbij.
Official admits US cannot force Iran out of Syria Press TV 28 Sep 2018 -- Neither Russia nor the US can force Iranians out of Syria as their presence is at the official request of the Damascus government, a senior US official said.
'US Did Not Keep Its Promises': Erdogan Blasts Washington Over Manbij Roadmap Sputnik 28 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President accused the United States on Friday of failing to fulfill promises to withdraw the self-defense forces of the Syrian Kurds from Syria's Manbij.
US Says Will Not Force Iran Forces Out of Syria, Hopes Govt. Will Not Need Them Sputnik 28 Sep 2018 -- The United States will not force the Iranian forces out of Syria, and hopes that the Syrian government at some point will not feel the need to have them in the country, US Special Representative for Syria Engagement James Jeffrey told reporters.
Briefing on Syria Meeting and U.S. Strategy US Dept. of State 27 Sep 2018 -- Special Briefing by James F. Jeffrey, Special Representative for Syria Engagement
Joint Statement on Syria US Dept. of State 27 Sep 2018 -- The text of the following statement on Syria was released by the Governments of Egypt, France, Germany, Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.
The United States, the United Kingdom and France Co-Sponsor an UNGA High Level Event With Syrian Human Rights Defenders To Condemn Assad Regime Detentions in Syria US Dept. of State 27 Sep 2018
Army achieves new advancement in al-Safa hills, Sweida IRNA 27 Sep 2018 -- Syrian army units killed scores of Daesh (ISIS) terrorists including a number of snipers while advancing in the area of al-Safa hills, the last bastion of the Takfiri organization in the depth of Sweida eastern Badyia (desert).
At UN, Iran, Russia, Turkey FMs exchange views on Syria crisis, Idlib situation Press TV 27 Sep 2018 -- Top diplomats of Iran, Russia and Turkey – which serve as guarantors of the Syria peace process – have sat down for talks in New York on the latest developments in the country's Idlib Province, amid efforts to peacefully rid the area of terrorists.
US-led coalition admits killing 1,100 people in Syria, Iraq IRNA 27 Sep 2018 -- The US-led international coalition admitted that it killed more than 1,100 civilians as a result of raids carried out in Syria and Iraq since 2014.
Jordan Ready to Reopen Border With Syria - Foreign Minister Sputnik 27 Sep 2018 -- Jordan is prepared to reopen its border with Syria once the technical details of such a move are worked out, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi told Sputnik on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday.
Israel's 'Unprofessional' Actions Reason for Russia's Il-20 Plane Crash - Moscow Sputnik 27 Sep 2018 -- Israel's "erroneous, unprofessional and cowardly" actions led to the crash of a Russian Il-20 plane near Syria, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday.
DoD Official Explains U.S. Strategy in Syria to House Panel AFPS 26 Sep 2018 -- In a complex part of the world, the U.S. strategy in Syria is simple to state: the enduring defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the deterrence of the use of chemical weapons and countering Iran's malign influence in the region.
Russian S-300 Supplies to Deter Israel From Reckless Attacks on Syria - Official Sputnik 26 Sep 2018 -- Russia's planned delivery of S-300 air defense systems to Syria will make Israel think twice before attacking the Arab republic once again, Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad said.
Kurds Seek Solutions for Captured IS Fighters VOA 26 Sep 2018 -- U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are seeking help from the international community to deal with more than 2,000 Islamic State foreign fighters and their families who are being held in Syria.
Syrian army advances in depth of Sweida Badyia IRNA 25 Sep 2018 -- Units of Syrian Arab Army restored control over large strategic areas in the rocky cliffs of al-Safa hills area in the depth of Sweida Badyia (desert).
Moscow: Chemical components delivered to Idleb from Europe IRNA 25 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Ministry said that components of chemical weapons were delivered to Idleb province in Syria from several European countries.
50,000 Syrians return home from Lebanon this year IRNA 25 Sep 2018 -- Fifty thousand Syrians have returned home from Lebanon so far in 2018 and the number could reach 200,000 in a year's time if it continues at this rate, a top Lebanese official said on Tuesday.
Russia decides to provide S-300 missile system to Syria after Israel-linked plane downing People's Daily 25 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday told his Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad that Russia will provide Syria with S-300 long-range surface-to-air missile system, state news agency SANA reported.
Syrian government forces will liberate Idlib from terrorists: Deputy FM Press TV 25 Sep 2018 -- A high-ranking Syrian official says government forces will eventually defeat foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants operating in the country's northwestern province of Idlib, and will retake the territory either through military operations or peaceful means.
Israel will continue conducting military operations in Syria: PM Netanyahu Press TV 25 Sep 2018 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Tel Aviv will continue to carry out military operations in Syria, two days after Russia held the occupying regime fully responsible for downing one of its reconnaissance aircraft off a Syrian coast last week.
Turkish military vehicles enter Syria's Idlib after militant snub Press TV 25 Sep 2018 -- Turkish military vehicles have entered Idlib after militants snubbed an agreement between Turkey and Russia for the creation of a buffer zone in the northwestern Syrian province, the last major militant stronghold in the Arab country.
Russia making 'major mistake' by giving Syria S-300 air defense system: Bolton Press TV 25 Sep 2018 -- Russia's decision to provide Syria with advanced S-300 air defense systems is a "major mistake," US National Security Advisor John Bolton has warned, advising Russia against escalating the already high tensions in the Middle East region.
Israeli fighter jets used doomed Russian plane as cover: Moscow Press TV 25 Sep 2018 -- The Russian defense ministry says the Israeli jet fighters are to blame for the Syrian air defense's downing of a Russian aircraft as new data shows they had hidden themselves behind the doomed plane in order to avoid the Syrian missiles.
Israel Warns Russia Over 'Dangers' Of Supplying Syria With Advanced Air Defenses RFE/RL 25 Sep 2018 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned Russian President Vladimir Putin against delivering an advanced air-defense system to Syria, saying it will further destabilize the war-torn region.
'With War or With Peace': Damascus Vows to Regain Control of Whole Syria Sputnik 25 Sep 2018 -- Syrian government forces will regain control over the whole of the country's territory, including the Idlib de-escalation zone, through peaceful means or war, Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad said on Tuesday.
Israeli Cabinet Orders Continuation of Ops in Syria, in Coordination With Russia Sputnik 25 Sep 2018 -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, commenting on the move, explained that the Israeli military presence in Syria is aimed against the entrenchment of Iran.
Russia's S-300 Will be Able to Close Parts of Syrian Airspace - Moscow Sputnik 25 Sep 2018 -- On Monday, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that Moscow would provide Syria with its advanced S-300 air defense systems to boost the security of Russian servicemen stationed in the country following the downing of the Russian Il-20 plane last week.
S-300 Deliveries to Syria to Make Russia Reliable Arms Supplier - Arab League Sputnik 25 Sep 2018 -- Jaber Habib Jaber, the ambassador of the LAS to Russia, told Sputnik constant position of the LAS on S-300 deliveries to Syria, further dialogue with Russia and Russian-Turkish agreement on Syria's Idlib.
Russia to Supply New Missile Defense System to Syria VOA 24 Sep 2018 -- Russia says it will supply Syria with a more modern S-300 missile defense system in the coming weeks, over the objections of Israel.
Russia to supply S300 to Syria in two weeks IRNA 24 Sep 2018 -- Russia's defense minister, Sergey Shoygu, has announced it will provide advanced S300 missile defense system to Syria in the next two weeks.
US airstrikes have killed 3,300 civilians in Syria: Observatory Press TV 24 Sep 2018 -- A pro-opposition monitoring group says US airstrikes have killed 3,331 civilians in Syria since they began four years ago.
Russia says to give Syria S-300; plane incident to harm Israel ties Press TV 24 Sep 2018 -- Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says Russia will supply Syria with a modern S-300 system within two weeks and block the communication of planes bombing the country from the Mediterranean.
U.S. Says Russia Supplying S-300 Missiles To Syria Is 'Major Mistake' RFE/RL 24 Sep 2018 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says he expects to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in New York amid concerns expressed by Washington over Moscow's plans to supply Syria with the S-300 surface-to-air missile system.
Delivery of S-300 to Syria to Increase Risk to US, Coalition Forces - State Dept Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- Russia's planned delivery of S-300 air defense systems to the Syrian government will increase the risk to the US-led coalition forces in Syria, a US Department of State official told Sputnik on Monday.
New Data Clearly Indicates That Syrian S-200 Missile Targeted Israeli Jets - MoD Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- Moscow has blamed the Israeli Air Force (IAF) for using the Russian Il-20 aircraft as cover, subjecting it to an attack by Syrian air defense systems.
Supplying Syria With S-300 Will Increase Security Risks - Netanyahu to Putin Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- Following an incident with a Russian Il-20 plane downed in Syria, the Russian Defense Ministry said that Moscow will deliver S-300 air defense systems to the country in order to "prevent ill-considered actions" threatening Russian servicemen.
Russia Supplying S-300 to Syria to Have No Effect on Ties With Israel - Moscow Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- Russia's decision to supply advanced S-300 air defense systems to Syria should not affect the relations between Russia and Israel, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov stated.
Syrian Army Shifts Forces From Idlib to Southern Syria to Eliminate Daesh Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- With Moscow and Ankara striking a deal earlier this month to avert all-out war in Syria's Idlib province, the Syrian Army has decreased its commitment of forces in the area, suggesting President Assad intends on adhering to the terms of the agreement.
Russia to Send S-300 Anti-Missile System to Syria After Il-20 Crash - DM Shoigu Sputnik 24 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry promised to take "adequate" measures to boost the security of Russian servicemen after the Israeli Air Force used the Russian Il-20 as a shield while attacking targets in Syria, which led to the downing of the aircraft by Syrian air defenses last week.
Russia holds Israel responsible for downing IL-20 in Syria IRNA 23 Sep 2018 -- Russian Ministry of Defense reiterated that "Israel" is fully responsible for downing the Russian IL-20 aircraft off Syrian coast last Monday.
Russia says Israel fully responsible for downing of plane in Syria Press TV 23 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says "misleading" information from the Israeli Air Force Command has in fact downed a Russian Ilyushin Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft off a Syrian coast, holding the Israeli regime fully responsible for the tragic event, which killed more than a dozen servicemen.
Turkish-backed militants accept Idlib deal, but reject disarmament Press TV 23 Sep 2018 -- Turkish-backed militants have rejected laying down their arms or surrendering the territory under their control in Syria's Idlib Province after Russia and Turkey said they had agreed to set up a buffer zone in the region.
Russia to release details on downing of military plane in Syria Press TV 23 Sep 2018 -- Russia is set to publish a report detailing the circumstances that led to the recent accidental downing of an Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft by Syrian air defenses while they were responding to a wave of Israeli airstrikes.
Moscow: Israel 'Misled' Russian Military In Syria Plane Downing RFE/RL 23 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Defense Ministry has doubled down on its allegation that Israel is to blame for the downing of a Russian military plane over the eastern Mediterranean Sea nearly a week ago, saying it was caused by "misleading information" provided by the Israeli military.
Erdogan: Russia, Turkey to Decide on Radical Groups to Leave Idlib Zone Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- Turkey and Russia will jointly determine which radical groups should leave the territory of demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib province, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in an article released on Sunday.
Syrian Army Cut Off Terrorists' Last Water Supplies Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- Syrian government troops are on course to mopping up the last of the entrenched Daesh militants in Al-Suwayda Governorate, as they have encircled the northwestern Idlib Governorate, the last remaining stronghold of militant and terror groups in the country.
Russian MoD Has Compelling Evidence to Back Up Account of Il-20's Last Moments Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- Earlier in the day, the Russian Defense Ministry reiterated, during a briefing on circumstance of the Il-20 incident, that blame for the Russian aircraft's crash fully rested with Israel, which put the Il-20 under fire of the Syrian air defense.
Israel to Continue Military Op in Syria Despite Il-20 Downing – Lieberman Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- Russia blames Israel for the destruction of the Il-20, which cost the lives of 15 servicemen, after it emerged that around the time if its demise, Israeli fighter jets were in immediate proximity to the Russian plane.
Russian MoD: Israel Violated Agreement With Russia to Prevent Incidents in Syria Sputnik 23 Sep 2018 -- The Israeli Air Force misled Russia by providing wrong information about the area of the planned air strikes in Syria on September 17, thus preventing the Russian Il-20 from moving to a safe zone, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said on Sunday.
US-led aircraft evacuate Daesh commanders from eastern Syria: Report Press TV 22 Sep 2018 -- The US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group has airlifted to a safe sanctuary several commanders of the foreign-sponsored terror outfit from a region in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, where government forces and fighters from popular defense groups are tightening the noose around the extremists.
Russia rejects Israeli findings on downed plane Press TV 22 Sep 2018 -- Russia has rejected the findings of an Israeli investigation into the deadly crash of a Russian military aircraft in the Syrian province of Latakia, and called on Tel Aviv to launch a new probe into the matter.
Russia, Turkey agree on borders of buffer zone in Syria's Idlib province Press TV 22 Sep 2018 -- Russia and Turkey have reached a consensus on borders of a demilitarized zone in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, which is the last major stronghold of anti-Damascus militants, in an attempt to avert a possible full-scale offensive by the Syrian government against terrorists in the militant-held region.
Lavrov: Idleb agreement aims to eradicate terrorism in Syria IRNA 21 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the agreement on Idleb recently made public in Sochi is aimed primarily at eradicating terrorism in Syria.
Syrian army tightens noose on Daesh terrorists in al-Safa IRNA 21 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Army units tightened the noose on Daesh (ISIS) terrorists fortified in al-Safa hills deep into Sweida badiya (desert), killing and wounding many of their members.
US threatens Syria's territorial integrity: Russian FM Press TV 21 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the United States' control over the eastern bank of the Euphrates River poses the biggest threat to Syria's territorial integrity.
Russia asks Israel to give more explanation on plane downing in Syria Press TV 21 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry has urged Israel to provide further explanations on the deadly crash of a Russian military plane in the Syrian province of Latakia, which was shot down as a result of the Israeli pilots' unprofessional actions.
Israeli Air Force Chief Holds 'Open' Talks In Moscow On Syrian Downing Of Russian Plane RFE/RL 21 Sep 2018 -- Israel's air force chief held "professional, open" talks with officials in Moscow in the aftermath of the shoot-down of a Russian warplane by Syria earlier in the week that Russian officials said was caused by Israeli actions.
Netanyahu Orders Commander to Continue Contacts With Russia on Il-20 Incident Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday received a report from Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin on the results of his talks in Moscow on the crash of the Russian Il-20 in Syria and instructed him to continue contacts with Russia on this matter, Netanyahu's office said.
IDF Source Claims Israel Warned Russia Much Earlier Than Minute Before Airstrike Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- A high-ranking IDF source said that Israel was ready to provide Russia with any additional details that may be required to identify the reasons why the IL-20 crashed.
Lavrov: Russia-Turkey Deal on Idlib Just Interim Step Sputnik 21 Sep 2018 -- The decision by Russia and Turkey on Idlib is an intermediate step; the demilitarized zone will prevent the shelling of Syrian troops at Hmeymim base, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Hezbollah Leader Claims Group Won't Pull Out of Syria After Idlib Settlement Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- On the heels of the latest Israeli airstrikes against targets in Syria, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah gave a televised address, primarily talking about the group's role and future in Syria.
Idlib deal could save three million 'from catastrophe' says UN chief, as militants are urged to lay down arms UN News 20 Sep 2018 -- A deal reached between Russia and Turkey to create a demilitarized buffer zone protecting citizens "from catastrophe" in Syria's Idlib region is a welcome development, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Thursday, before urging all parties to make a "strong commitment" to it.
UN Official: Buffer Zone in Syria's Idlib Province Averts War for Now VOA 20 Sep 2018 -- A Russian-Turkish agreement to create a demilitarized buffer zone between the Syrian army and rebels inside Syria's northern Idlib province has averted a war for now, according to a senior United Nations official.
Russia, Turkey 'optimistic' about Syria's Idlib deal, working out details: UN official Press TV 20 Sep 2018 -- Russia and Turkey say they are optimistic about but still working on a demilitarized buffer zone to separate Syrian government troops from Takfiri militant groups in the northwestern province of Idlib, says the UN humanitarian adviser, as Ankara seeks to forestall a full-scale military operation by Damascus against terrorists in the militant-held region.
Russian embassy: Israel's irresponsible acts let to plane downing in Syria Press TV 20 Sep 2018 -- Moscow's embassy in Tel Aviv lashes out at Israel for its "irresponsible and unfriendly actions," which led to the deaths of 15 Russian servicemen aboard an ill-fated aircraft in Syria, as Israel's air force commander visits Russia to give explanations on the tragic incident.
Israel is to blame for crash of Russian plane: Syrian president Press TV 20 Sep 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says the Tel Aviv regime is to blame for the tragic deaths of over a dozen Russian servicemen aboard an Il-20 surveillance aircraft, which was accidentally shot down by Syrian air defenses while they were responding to a wave of Israeli air raids.
Israeli Air Force Chief Travels To Moscow Amid Shoot-Down Anger RFE/RL 20 Sep 2018 -- The chief of the Israeli Air Force is traveling to Moscow on September 20 for discussions after a Russian military surveillance plane was shot down over Syria's coast, killing 15 Russian service-members.
Israel Reiterates Its Stance on Russian IL-20 Downing in Syria Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said he understands Moscow's accusations of involvement in the Russian Il-20 crash, but reiterated that the responsibility for the incident lies on the Syrian militaries.
Russian Troops Patrol Golan Heights After Incident Involving Downing of IL-20 Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- Russian military police have been deployed to de-escalation zones across Syria since late 2016 to help maintain security in the war-torn country amid the ongoing operations by the Syrian military and its allies to clear Syria of a collection of mostly jihadist militants.
Russian MoD Refutes Claim Il-20 Hit Due to Failure in Friend/Foe Identification Sputnik 20 Sep 2018 -- Each state has its own Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system and Russia does not install its identification systems on armaments exported abroad, the Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said.
U.S. Downplays Russian Plane Shoot-Down, Vows To Continue Fight Against IS RFE/RL 19 Sep 2018 -- U.S. officials expressed sorrow over the shoot-down of a Russian military surveillance plane off the Syrian coast and said it would not affect the U.S. campaign against Islamic State (IS) fighters.
Syrian President Assad Says Il-20 Crash 'Result of Israeli Arrogance' - Reports Sputnik 19 Sep 2018 -- Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad has sent a letter to Russian president Vladimir Putin, expressing his condolences over the recent Russian Il-20 plane crash in Syria, local media reported.
UN chief welcomes agreement over buffer zone in Idlib IRNA 19 Sep 2018 -- The agreement between Turkey and Russia to create a demilitarized buffer zone protecting civilians living in Idlib, Syria, has been welcomed by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.
Coalition Effort Aims at Stability in Iraq, Syria AFPS 18 Sep 2018 -- The coalition continues to help forces in both Iraq and Syria establish security and stability in areas that have known nothing but oppression since the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria reared its head five years ago, the spokesman for Operation Inherent Resolve said today.
Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Press Briefing By Col. Ryan via Teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 18 Sep 2018 -- Presenter: Colonel Sean J. Ryan, spokesman, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve; Commander Sean Robertson, Pentagon spokesman
Downed Russian Aircraft US Dept. of State 18 Sep 2018
Agreement over buffer zone to spare civilians in Syria's Idlib welcomed by top UN officials UN News 18 Sep 2018 -- The agreement between Turkey and Russia to create a demilitarized buffer zone protecting civilians living in Idlib, Syria, has been welcomed by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and the world body's humanitarian chief, who called on all warring parties and countries supporting them to make it effective.
Putin: Syrian Downing of Russian Jet Was 'Tragic, Accidental' VOA 18 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday called the downing of a Russian military plane by Syria "a chain of tragic, accidental circumstances," tamping down what could have turned into a tense situation with Israel.
UN Chief Welcomes De-escalation in Syria's Idlib VOA 18 Sep 2018 -- The U.N. secretary-general has welcomed an agreement reached Monday between the presidents of Russia and Turkey to create a demilitarized buffer zone in Syria's Idlib region, saying it should "avert" a full-scale military operation and provide a reprieve for some three-million civilians."The secretary-general calls on all the parties in Syria to cooperate in the implementation of the agreement and ensure safe and unimpeded humanitarian access in all areas through the most direct routes," António Guterres' spokesperson said in a statement Tuesday.
Russia holds Israel accountable for Russian aircraft downing IRNA 18 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry held the Israeli entity accountable for the destruction of the Russian aircraft in Syria.
Russia: Idleb Agreement stresses fighting terrorism in Syria IRNA 18 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Representative at the UN Vasily Nebenzya said that the agreement on Idleb in Sochi emphasizes the fight against terrorism in Syria and that Syrians have the right to decide the future of their country according to UNSC resolution no. 2254.
Syria welcomes agreement on Idleb announced in Sochi IRNA 18 Sep 2018 -- Syria has welcomed the agreement on Idleb Province announced Monday in the Russian city of Sochi, stressing that it was an outcome of intensive consultations between it and the Russian Federation with complete coordination between the two countries.
Defense Minister: Russia not to engage in Idlib IRNA 18 Sep 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that his country will not conduct military operations in Syria.
U.S. sees missing Russian aircraft accidentally downed by Syrian forces: report People's Daily 18 Sep 2018 -- The United States believed that the Russian aircraft that went missing on Monday over the Mediterranean had been mistakenly shot down by Syrian forces, U.S. media reported on Monday citing a U.S. official with knowledge of the incident.
Russian aircraft with 14 aboard goes off radar near Hmeymim airbase in Syria People's Daily 18 Sep 2018 -- A Russian aircraft with 14 servicemen on board went off radar near Hmeymim airbase in Syria Monday evening, the Russian defense ministry said in a statement.
Israeli aerial operations in violation of Syria's sovereignty, Putin says Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says the Israeli military's aerial operations in the Syrian airspace are in flagrant violation of the incumbent Damascus government's sovereignty as tensions are simmering between Moscow and Tel Aviv over the downing of the Russian Ilyushin Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft in the western Syrian province of Latakia.
Turkey needs to send more troops to Idlib under deal with Russia: FM Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says his country will need to deploy more troops to Syria's militant-held northwestern province of Idlib following an agreement with Russia, which entails a demilitarized zone in the crisis-plagued area.
Iran welcomes Turkey-Russia deal on buffer zone in Syria's Idlib Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- Iran has welcomed a recent agreement reached between Turkey and Russia to create a buffer zone in Syria's Idlib Province, the last major terrorist bastion in the Arab country.
Russia: Deliberate Israeli provocation led to plane downing Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- Russia blames Israeli warplanes for "creating a dangerous situation" that led to the shooting down of a Russian military plane by Syrian air defense systems, saying it reserves the right to give a due response to the hostile action.
Russian plane with 14 on board goes off radars amid Israeli air raids on Syria Press TV 18 Sep 2018 -- A Russian military Il-20 plane carrying 14 service members disappeared from radars on Monday night as four Israeli jet fighters were attacking state institutions in Syria's Latakia.
Iran Hails 'Responsible Diplomacy' After Turkey, Russia Agree On Idlib Plan RFE/RL 18 Sep 2018 -- Tehran, Damascus, and Syrian opposition groups have welcomed an agreement between Russia and Turkey to avert an assault on Syria's last major rebel stronghold in the northwestern province of Idlib.
Israel Rejects Russian Blame For Deadly Downing Of Surveillance Plane By Syria RFE/RL 18 Sep 2018 -- Syrian air defenses inadvertently shot down a Russian surveillance plane over the eastern Mediterranean Sea, Moscow has said, blaming what it called reckless actions by Israel that led to the deaths of 15 Russian servicemen.
Il-20 Accidentally Downed by Syria: Putin Calls Incident Tragic Chain of Events Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- A Russian military aircraft went off radar near Hmeymim Airbase on Monday, which coincided with Israeli strikes on Syrian targets in Latakia. On Tuesday, the Russian MoD stated that the plane was downed by Syrian air defenses after Israeli jets used it as cover. In light of the revelations, Sputnik has rounded up the key details about the incident.
F-16s Were Already in Israeli Airspace When Syria Hit Russian Aircraft - IDF Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- The IDF stated earlier in the day that Israel would share all information on the incident with Moscow, also expressing regret over the deaths of the Russian troops and put the blame on Damascus and Tehran.
Downed Il-20 Was on Recon Mission Over Idlib De-Escalation Zone – Russian MoD Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Hmeymim airbase had lost contact with the crew of the Russian Il-20 military aircraft late on Monday during the attack of four Israeli F-16 aircraft on Syrian targets in the province of Latakia.
Putin: Israel Didn't Down Il-20, Chain of Tragic Circumstances Led to Incident Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- Vladimir Putin has addressed the downing of a Russian IL-20 by a Syrian surface-to-air missile on Monday evening. Earlier Moscow blamed Israeli jets for having provoked the tragic accident.
Turkey Could Deploy Additional Troops to Idlib Under Deal With Russia - Ankara Sputnik 18 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan agreed on September 17 to create a demilitarized zone along the contact line between the armed opposition and government troops in Idlib by October 15.
Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS Targets in Iraq, Syria AFPS 17 Sep 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners continue to pursue the lasting defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria in designated parts of Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Upping the Ante: NATO Warships Moving Closer to Syrian Coast – Reports Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- NATO is building up its naval presence in the Eastern Mediterranean as the United States, Britain and France prepare to carry out new strikes against Syria under the pretext of an unlikely Syrian government chemical weapons attack in Idlib province.
Turkey sends large batch of reinforcements to military post in Syria's Idlib Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- Turkey's military has reportedly deployed its most significant batch of reinforcements to Syria's northwestern province of Idlib in weeks, as Ankara strives to prevent a full-scale offensive by the Syrian government against thousands of terrorists in the militant-held region.
Erdogan, Putin Strike Deal on Idlib Demilitarized Zone VOA 17 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin say they have reached an agreement that averts a looming military offensive on the Syrian rebel-held Idlib enclave.
Syrian Government Vows to 'Liberate' Idlib from 'Terrorists' VOA 17 Sep 2018 -- Syria appears to be rejecting urgent calls to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe in its northern Idlib enclave, the country's last rebel-held area. Despite appeals by the U.N. Commission of Inquiry on Syria, the government says it is determined to do whatever it takes to root out "terrorists."
Heavy losses inflicted on terrorists in Hama, Idleb IRNA 17 Sep 2018 -- Syrian army units targeted with artillery fires hideouts and positions of snipers of the terrorist groups in the village of Tal Othman and its surroundings in the northern countryside of Hama Province, killing or injuring many of the terrorists.
Syria says its air defense shoots down missiles coming from sea, targeting Latakia Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- Syria says its air defense system has shot down several missiles fired from the sea, targeting state technical industry institutions in Latakia on Monday night.
Russia, Turkey agree to create buffer zone in Syria's Idlib Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- The leaders of Turkey and Russia say they have agreed to create a demilitarized buffer zone to separate Syrian government troops from Takfiri militant groups in the northwestern province of Idlib, as Ankara seeks to prevent a full-scale operation by the Damascus government against thousands of terrorists in the militant-held region.
NATO warships moving closer to Syria shores amid looming US airstrikes: Report Press TV 17 Sep 2018 -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is reportedly beefing up its naval presence in the eastern sector of the Mediterranean Sea amid indications that the United States and its allies would use a staged chemical attack in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib to launch airstrikes on government forces.
Russia, Turkey Agree To Create Buffer Zone In Syria's Idlib RFE/RL 17 Sep 2018 -- The presidents of Russia and Turkey have agreed to create a demilitarized buffer zone in Syria's Idlib region to separate government and rebel forces.
Missiles Fired on Syrian Army Infrastructure in Latakia - Syrian TV Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- A technical manufacturing facility of the Syrian Army was one of the targets of a missile attack on the coastal city of Latakia Monday evening. One Syrian security source told Sputnik News many of the missiles were repelled by the country's air defense system.
Turkey to Cooperate With Russia on Eliminating Terrorists in Idlib - Erdogan Sputnik 17 Sep 2018 -- Turkey is ready to cooperate with Russia on the fight against terrorist groups in the Syrian northwestern province of Idlib, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said ahead of his upcoming talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Army kills scores of al-Nusra in Hama and Idleb countryside IRNA 16 Sep 2018 -- Units of Syrian Arab Army killed scores of terrorists in the countryside of Idleb and Hama.
Terrorists carry chlorine canisters to Idlib village for false-flag attack: Russia Press TV 16 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says it has reliable evidence showing that militants have already transported a number of canisters containing chlorine to a village in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib to stage a false-flag chemical attack and frame Damascus.
Syrians voting in first local council elections in 7 years Press TV 16 Sep 2018 -- Syrians have begun voting in the country's first local elections since 2011 in a sign of returning security and normalcy after years of fighting with foreign-backed militants.
Syrian army advances further in Toloul al-Safa in Sweida IRNA 15 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Army units in Sweida advanced more along the line of Ard Qa'a al-Banat to the northwest of Toloul al-Safa and established control over more areas in the depth of the rough cliffs after fierce clashes with Daesh terrorists.
Syrian military downs Israeli missiles fired at Damascus airport Press TV 15 Sep 2018 -- Syrian military has announced that its missile defense system successfully intercepted and downed Israeli missiles fired at an airport in the capital Damascus.
Syrian Air Defense Repels Israeli Air Strike on Damascus Sputnik 15 Sep 2018 -- Syrian air defenses downed several projectiles fired by Israeli military assets near Damascus airport on Saturday night, the Syrian state media reported.
Syrian Army Shoot Down Spy Drones in Latakia Sputnik 15 Sep 2018 -- A source in the Syrian Arab Army has told Sputnik that artillery managed to shoot down several spy UAVs, which are said to have been launched by Nusra terrorists, east of the city of Latakia.
Syrian Army Strike Militant Positions Near US Military Base in al-Tanf Sputnik 15 Sep 2018 -- The development comes nearly two weeks after a spokesperson for the US-led coalition's Operation Inherent Resolve against Daesh told Sputnik that there was no terrorist camp near its military base in Syria's al-Tanf.
UNHCR: $270M Needed for Syrian Refugees, Displaced VOA 15 Sep 2018 -- The U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) warns it is running out of cash to provide life-saving assistance to millions of Syrian refugees and internally displaced living in dire and extremely precarious conditions.
US Troops Wrap Up Mass Drills With Militants Near Syria's al-Tanf Base - Reports Sputnik 14 Sep 2018 -- Earlier, the US-led coalition rejected allegations that a Syrian militant group has set up training camps near the Pentagon's military base in the town of al-Tanf in southeastern Syria.
Marines hold eight days of drills with militants in southern Syria Press TV 14 Sep 2018 -- US marines have held eight days of unprecedented military exercises with US-backed militants in southern Syria in an attempt to send a "strong message" to Iran and Russia, a senior military official said.
Russia will continue supporting Syria in combating terrorism IRNA 14 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow stands with Syria in the fight against terrorism, adding that the presence of foreign forces which have not been invited by the Syrian state is illegal.
Army kills scores of al-Nusra terrorists in Hama countryside IRNA 14 Sep 2018 -- A Syrian army unit targeted a terrorist group in the northern countryside of Hama, inflicting heavy losses upon its members.
Russia's Putin concerned by terrorist moves in Syria's Idlib: Kremlin Press TV 14 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his concern over terrorist activities in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, the RIA news agency cites the Kremlin as saying.
Syria, Jordan in talks to reopen key border crossing, resume bilateral trade Press TV 14 Sep 2018 -- Syrian and Jordanian officials have started talks to reopen the key border crossing of al-Nassib after a three-year hiatus in a bid to re-establish bilateral trade and help revive the economy of war-torn Syria.
Turkey Amasses Forces in Idlib Ahead of Damascus Offensive Sputnik 14 Sep 2018 -- Turkey has sent convoys of troops to the province, despite its defense minister having said a military operation would drag the enclave toward disaster.
Scores of Jabhat al-Nusra terrorists killed by Syrian Army IRNA 13 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Army units on Thursday inflicted heavy losses upon terrorists affiliated to Jabhat al-Nusra terror organization spread in the countryside of Idleb and Hama Province.
France Suspects Damascus of Possessing Clandestine Chemical Weapons Facilities Sputnik 13 Sep 2018 -- The French Foreign Ministry has doubts about whether Syria has indeed completely destroyed the country's chemical weapons arsenal, the ministry's representative said at a briefing on Thursday.
Any Military Operation Would be Disastrous for Idlib - Turkish Defense Minister Sputnik 13 Sep 2018 -- Any possible military operation in Syria's Idlib would be disastrous, Turkey's Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said as quoted by the Anadolu news agency, adding that Turkey was working alongside Russia and Iran to avoid the crisis.
US Ambassador Haley Seethes at Syria and Russia Over Contrived Chemical Threat Sputnik 13 Sep 2018 -- Late last month, the Russian Center for Syrian Reconciliation reported that representatives of the White Helmets group had delivered a large shipment of toxic substances to a warehouse used by Ahrar al-Sham militants in Idlib province.
Diplomatic Moves Boosted to Prevent Idlib, Syria, Bloodbath VOA 13 Sep 2018 -- A senior U.N. official reports a readiness plan has been developed to assist hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped in Syria's northern province of Idlib, while diplomatic moves to prevent all-out war accelerate.
A record one million Syrians displaced over six months, during six key battles: UN investigators UN News 12 Sep 2018 -- All parties to the seven-year Syria conflict and the States that support them should do "everything in their power" to prevent a full-scale military assault on Idlib, a high-level United Nations-appointed panel of investigators said on Wednesday.
UN: Idlib Civilians Must Not Be Sacrificed to War VOA 12 Sep 2018 -- U.N. human rights experts warn that all-out war in the northern Syrian enclave of Idlib would result in the massacre of civilians worse than any other seen throughout more than seven years of war.
OPCW urged to prevent use of chemical weapons in Idleb IRNA 12 Sep 2018 -- Russia called upon the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) not to allow any act of provocation by the use of chemical weapons in Idleb province.
UN Chief warns of consequences of battle in Idlib IRNA 12 Sep 2018 -- António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations in a message warned of the humanitarian consequences of war in Syrian city of Idlib.
Syrian army hunts down al-Nusra terrorists in Hama IRNA 12 Sep 2018 -- Units of the Syrian Arab Army carried out operations against dens of Jabhat al-Nusra terrorists in the northern countryside of Hama, inflicting heavy losses upon them in personnel and equipment.
2nd round of talks on Syria Constitutional Committee held in Geneva ISNA 12 Sep 2018 -- Four days after the successful meeting of the guarantor states of the Astana process in Tehran, in which the three countries' presidents stressed on the need for continuing cooperation to facilitate the formation of Syria's constitutional committee, their representatives held a meeting on the Arab country's constitution in Geneva, Switzerland.
Militants kidnap kids to stage chemical weapons attack in Syria's Idlib: Russia Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- Russia's Defense Ministry says the foreign-backed Takfiri militants have abducted children from Syria's Aleppo to use them in a staged chemical weapons attack in Idlib to be blamed on the Syrian government.
Iran, Russia call for continued anti-terror fight in Syria at UN Security Council Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- At the UN Security Council, Iran and Russia have underlined the need to purge Takfiri terrorists from their last major stronghold in Syria amid strong objections by sponsors of militant groups fighting against the Syrian government.
Geneva talks: Syria guarantors, UN agree on constitutional body candidates Press TV 12 Sep 2018 -- Following a round of talks in Geneva, Russia says the three guarantor states of the Syria peace process have reached a consensus with the United Nations on candidates for the country's constitutional committee.
France Ready to React in Case of Proven Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria – FM Sputnik 12 Sep 2018 -- Earlier, the Russian military said that it had evidence that militants in the besieged terrorist-held Syrian province of Idlib were preparing to stage a false flag chemical attack to discredit the Syrian government and prompt Western military intervention.
Russia Calls on OPCW Not To Allow Provocation With Chem Weapons in Idlib - Envoy Sputnik 12 Sep 2018 -- Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry warned that it had intelligence indicating that militants in the besieged terrorist-held Syrian province of Idlib had started creating footage of fake chemical attacks in an effort to discredit the Syrian government.
Phase 3 of Operation Roundup Starts in Syria AFPS 11 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Democratic Forces initiated ground operations for Phase Three of Operation Roundup yesterday.
UN Chief Appeals to Parties to Protect Civilians in Syria's Idlib VOA 11 Sep 2018 -- U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres appealed Tuesday for the parties in Syria to avoid a full-scale battle for Idlib.
Analysts: Looming Idlib Conflict Threatens Turkey's Syria Strategy VOA 11 Sep 2018 -- Turkey is urging the international community to intervene to prevent Syria from launching an offensive in Syria's last remaining rebel-held Idlib enclave. The latest call for action comes as Syrian government forces mass around Idlib ahead of an expected assault for control of the enclave.
Terrorists begin filming staged chemical attack in Syria's Idlib: Russian MoD Press TV 11 Sep 2018 -- Russian Defense Ministry says foreign-sponsored terrorists have started filming scenes of a staged chemical attack in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib to facilitate the implication of Syrian government forces and invent a pretext for the United States and its allies to launch airstrikes on army troops.
US in talks with UK, France for 'much stronger' attack on Syria: Bolton Press TV 11 Sep 2018 -- US National Security Adviser John Bolton says his country has been in talks with Britain and France to orchestrate a military strike on Syria that will be "much stronger" than the joint operation the three allies carried out earlier this year.
Erdogan: Idlib liberation battle could pose risks to Turkey, Europe Press TV 11 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned against what he called "the security and humanitarian risks" of an upcoming Syrian army operation to liberate Idlib Province, which holds the largest concentration of militant groups, including those backed by Ankara.
Turkey Appeals For Idlib Cease-Fire At UN Security Council RFE/RL 11 Sep 2018 -- Turkey has called for international backing for a cease-fire in the last rebel stronghold in Syria, telling the UN Security Council that an all-out assault on Idlib Province will result in a "major humanitarian catastrophe."
UN Chief: Idlib Must Not Be Transformed Into a 'Bloodbath' Sputnik 11 Sep 2018 -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters Tuesday at UN headquarters that an all-out assault on Idlib "would unleash a humanitarian nightmare unlike any seen in the blood-soaked Syrian conflict."
UK Promises Harsh Response in Case of Chemical Weapons Use by Damascus Sputnik 11 Sep 2018 -- UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has promised a "strong and united" response in case chemical weapons are used by Syrian government forces.
Militant Warns Erdogan Against 'Selling Idlib' Ahead of Syrian Army Offensive Sputnik 11 Sep 2018 -- With the Syrian Army continuing to amass troops and military hardware in southern Idlib, militants occupying the province are seemingly beginning to panic, warning Ankara against giving Damascus the greenlight to launch its long-awaited offensive in northwestern Syria.
US-backed Militants Start Op Against Last Daesh Terrorists in Northeast Syria Sputnik 11 Sep 2018 -- The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have launched offensive against the remaining Daesh* terrorists (banned in Russia) in northeast Syria, the International Coalition for Operation Inherent Resolve said Tuesday.
Staged Filming of Mock 'Chemical Attacks' Has Begun in Idlib - Russian MoD Sputnik 11 Sep 2018 -- As the Russian Center for Syrian Reconciliation reported, all the fake footage of "chemical attacks," designed to facilitate the implication of Syrian government forces, is expected to be sent to different TV channels before the end of the day.
Attack on Syria's Idlib Risks a Severe Security Crisis - Erdogan Sputnik 11 Sep 2018 -- In an article published Tuesday in the Wall Street Journal, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on the international community to take action to prevent an attack on Idlib, the last rebel enclave in Syria, and warned that "the entire world stands to pay the price" otherwise.
Save Idlib from 'transforming into a blood bath', UN chief Guterres urges fighters and their allies UN News 11 Sep 2018 -- A full-scale battle for Idlib must be avoided at all costs, the United Nations Secretary-General has stressed, warning that failure to do so would unleash "a humanitarian nightmare unlike any seen in the blood-soaked Syrian conflict" so far.
Coalition Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 10 Sep 2018 -- The coalition and its partners continued to strike Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targets in designated parts of Syria and Iraq between Sept. 3-9, conducting 16 strikes consisting of 22 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
US-Led Coalition Denies Units in Syria Equipped With Whites Phosphorus Munitions Sputnik 10 Sep 2018 -- On Monday the US-led coalition refuted accusations of using prohibited phosphorus munitions is the Syrian province of Deir ez-Zor.
Turkey Sends Reinforcements to North of Syria - Militant Group Spokesman Sputnik 10 Sep 2018 -- The Turkish army keeps sending reinforcements to the north of Syria, Wael Alwan, a spokesman for Syrian militant group Faylaq al-Sham, told Sputnik on Monday.
US, Allies Agree to 'Stronger Response' if Syria Uses Chemical Weapons - Bolton Sputnik 10 Sep 2018 -- The United States, Britain and France have agreed that any use of chemical weapons by the government of Syria would result in a much stronger response than in previous incidents, US National Security Adviser John Bolton stated in Washington, DC.
US Reportedly Reinforces Base in E Syria Amid Looming Idlib Offensive Sputnik 10 Sep 2018 -- Media reports that surfaced earlier have suggested that the US has also reinforced its al-Tanf military base in southeastern Syria amid allegations that Moscow had warned Washington about planned strikes against militants in the region.
UN: 30,000 Syrians Displaced Since Beginning of Month VOA 10 Sep 2018 -- Some 30,000 people have fled their homes in northwest Syria this month to escape an assault by the government and allied forces on the country's last major rebel stronghold, Idlib, the United Nations said Monday.
US sends reinforcements to its Syria base after Russia warning of attack Press TV 09 Sep 2018 -- The US military is sending more than 100 Marines to Syria as reinforcements to protect an illegal American base there for training anti-Damascus terrorists after repeated Russian warnings of an impending attack on the militants in the area south of the terror-ravaged country, the Pentagon said.
US Sends Troops to its Syria Base Amid Moscow's Alleged Attack Warnings - Report Sputnik 09 Sep 2018 -- The development comes amid US media reports claiming that the Russian military had allegedly warned Washington of its plans to attack militants near America's al-Tanf military base in Syria.
US Denies Russian Report it Dropped White Phosphorus in Eastern Syria VOA 09 Sep 2018 -- The Pentagon is denying Russian reports the U.S. dropped white phosphorus munitions on military targets in a civilian area of eastern Syria.
Army advances in Sweida, destroys munitions depot in Hama IRNA 09 Sep 2018 -- Syrian army units continued to advance in the depth of the rocky cliffs in the area of al-Safa hills in Sweida eastern Badyia (desert) after violent clashes with Daesh (ISIS) terrorists.
Tailored attack likely to take place in Syria's Idlib People's Daily 09 Sep 2018 -- With the development of the anticipated battle to retake the last major rebel stronghold of Idlib province in northwestern Syria, the upcoming military campaign is likely to be limited, not a full-scale one.
Germany May Join Possible Western Airstrikes on Syria - Reports Sputnik 09 Sep 2018 -- Germany may join possible airstrikes on Syrian government forces by western nations in case of chemical weapons use by Damascus, according to local media.
Two US F-15 Jets Strike Deir ez-Zor With Banned Phosphorus Bombs – Russian MoD Sputnik 09 Sep 2018 -- The airstrikes carried out by the US F-15s have caused major fires in Deir ez-Zor province, the Russian Center for Syrian Reconciliation said in a statement, noting that information about "people killed and injured due to the strikes is being clarified."
UK Submarine Reportedly Enters Mediterranean Amid Expected Provocations in Syria Sputnik 09 Sep 2018 -- The deployment of the submarine was preceded by a build-up in US naval forces in the region, which took place amid warnings issued by the Russian Defense Ministry about planned provocations using chemical weapons in Syria. The last such provocation triggered joint airstrikes by the US, UK and France against Damascus.
France Vows to Respond in Case of Chemical Attack in Idlib - Defense Min. Sputnik 09 Sep 2018 -- If chemical attacks are carried out in Syria, retaliatory measures will follow, including those from France, French Minister for the Armed Forces Florence Parly has stated.
UN Hopes to Revitalize Political Peace Process for Syria VOA 09 Sep 2018 -- As military attacks on Idlib intensify, the United Nations is trying to put the Syrian conflict back on the political negotiating table. Senior officials from Russia, Turkey and Iran will gather in Geneva Monday for two days of discussions on drafting a new constitution for war-torn Syria.
American marines fire shots to warn Russian forces in Syria Press TV 08 Sep 2018 -- US Marines stationed in Syria have fired air and artillery shots into a desert area in south to send Russian forces a warning.
Russian-Led Idlib Offensive Would Be Humanitarian Disaster, Dunford Says AFPS 08 Sep 2018 -- The consequences of a Russian-Syrian regime offensive into Idlib, Syria, against terrorists hiding there would almost certainly be a humanitarian disaster, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today.
Syrian govt. forces target Jabhat Fateh al-Sham terrorists in Hama Press TV 08 Sep 2018 -- Syrian army forces have targeted terrorists from the Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Takfiri terror group, formerly known as al-Nusra Front, in the country's west-central province of Hama as government forces and allied fighters from popular defense group are trying to purge the Arab country of foreign-backed Takfiri militants.
Russian, Syrian Aircraft Pound Opposition-Controlled Idlib Province RFE/RL 08 Sep 2018 -- Russian and Syrian government aircraft have carried out intense attacks on opposition-held towns in Syria's Idlib Province.
Pentagon Source Reveals US Drills in Homs, Syria is Message to Russia – Reports Sputnik 08 Sep 2018 -- Earlier, American media reported that Russia had allegedly warned the US of its intentions to launch precision strikes on territory under the protection of the US-led coalition in Homs province. Moscow hasn't commented on the claims.
Chemical Weapons Provocation in Syria to Start September 8 - Russian MoD Sputnik 08 Sep 2018 -- Terrorists in the rebel-held Syrian city of Idlib have almost completed their preparations for a provocation involving chemical weapons, chief spokesman for the Russian Ministry of Defense Major General Igor Konashenkov stated Saturday.
Coalition Conducts Defeat-ISIS Exercise in Eastern Syria AFPS 07 Sep 2018 -- Operation Inherent Resolve coalition forces today commenced an exercise in eastern Syria to hone their warfighting skills for counterterrorism operations, U.S. Central Command officials said.
World Food Program Prepares For Possible Idlib Onslaught VOA 07 Sep 2018 -- The World Food Program (WFP) says it is making preparations ahead of a possible onslaught on Syria's northern province of Idlib to provide food to hundreds of thousands of people trapped in the midst of battle.
Fears of Bloodbath in Syria's Idlib as Russia, Turkey and Iran Meet VOA 07 Sep 2018 -- The leaders of Russia, Turkey and Iran are scheduled to meet Friday in Tehran under the so-called Astana format to discuss the fate of the Syrian province of Idlib, the last rebel-held area of the country.
UN Syria Envoy Warns of 'Perfect Storm' for Disaster in Idlib VOA 07 Sep 2018 -- The U.N. envoy for Syria warned Friday that all the ingredients exist for a "perfect storm" of a humanitarian catastrophe if the Syrian government, backed by Russia, carries out a large-scale military offensive on the northwestern province of Idlib.
Erdogan Warns of Massacre as Syria Summit Ends in Deadlock VOA 07 Sep 2018 -- Turkey is again warning that a "bloodbath" would result from any Syrian government military offensive on Syria's last rebel stronghold of Idlib.
Army tightens grip on Daesh in Sweida eastern countryside IRNA 07 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Arab Army advanced in al-Safa hills in eastern countryside of Sweida, tightening grip on Daesh (ISIS) terrorists.
Turkey voices concern over US support for Kurdish rebels in Syria IRNA 07 Sep 2018 -- Turkish president on Friday expressed concern over the Washington support for the Kurdish rebels, including the YPG and PKK in Syria.
Russia calls for preparing ground for return of Syrian refuges IRNA 07 Sep 2018 -- Russian president on Friday called for reconstruction of Syria and planning the return of refugees.
Tehran summit statement declares support for Syria sovereignty IRNA 07 Sep 2018 -- Tehran's trilateral summit on Syria held with the presence of Iranian, Russian and Turkish presidents in its final statement expressed support for Syria sovereignty.
US interference in Syria should be stopped immediately: Iran president IRNA 07 Sep 2018 -- Iranian president on Friday urged the US to end its interference in Syria, noting that the region's crisis should be resolved through inter-Syrian talks.
Damascus has sovereign right for Idlib operation: Syrian UN envoy Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Syria's Ambassador to the United Nations Bashar al-Jaafari says military operations against terrorist factions in the militant-held province of Idlib is a sovereign right of the Arab country and liberating the northwestern region "will be the last nail in the coffin of terrorism."
Militants preparing 'provocations' in Syria's Idlib: Putin Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says militants are preparing provocations, including the use of chemical weapons, in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib.
US must swiftly end illegal presence, interference in Syria: Iran's Rouhani Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says the United States must swiftly end its "illegal presence and interference" in Syria, which, he added, has led to the continuation of insecurity in the war-ravaged country.
Putin, Erdogan in Tehran for crucial Syria summit Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan have arrived in Tehran for a key summit to discuss key issues of interest, mainly a planned Syrian operation to retake Idlib.
Idlib will be soon under govt. control: Syrian PM Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Syrian prime minister says the northwestern province of Idlib, the last major stronghold of the terrorists in the Arab country, will be soon under government control, pledging to win any possible war there.
Russia to US: Reveal your targets for possible Syria attack Press TV 07 Sep 2018 -- Russia has called on the United States to reveal the list of the targets that it will attack in response to what it claims to be an upcoming chemical attack by the Syrian government.
Erdogan Warns Russia, Iran Against Offensive In Syria's Idlib Province RFE/RL 07 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned Russia and Iran that an attack by Syrian government forces and their allies on Idlib Province, the last rebel stronghold in the war-ravaged Middle Eastern country, would result in a "massacre."
Turkey Has Reportedly Proposed Evacuating Militants From Syria's Idlib Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- For the Syrian government, retaking the last militant stronghold in Idlib is crucial to scoring a final victory in the seven-year civil war.
Putin: Terrorists in Syria's Idlib Preparing Provocations Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- The presidents of Russia, Turkey, and Iran are meeting in Tehran on Friday for the third trilateral summit to discuss the situation in Syria.
Most of Syria's Idlib De-Escalation Zone Still Controlled by Militants - Moscow Sputnik 07 Sep 2018 -- Russia Calls on Ukraine to Immediately Release Journalist Vyshinsky
'Sanctity of human civilian life' in Idlib must win out, urges UN Syria Envoy UN News 07 Sep 2018 -- With the ingredients for a "perfect storm" brewing in the Syrian province of Idlib, the international community cannot allow civilians there to succumb to such a fate, the UN Envoy for the country told the Security Council on Friday.
WFP and UNICEF prepare for the worst in Syria's Idlib, as insecurity mars start of another school year UN News 07 Sep 2018 -- Emergency food supplies for hundreds of thousands of people in Syria's Idlib are "ready for distribution" in the event of mass displacement caused by a full-scale military offensive on the last opposition-held region, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday.
Syrian army targets terrorists in Hama, Idleb IRNA 06 Sep 2018 -- Syrian army units achieved a new advancement in hunting down Daesh (ISIS) terrorists in al-Safa hills in the depth of Sweida eastern Badyia (desert).
Daesh to lose all territory in Syria by 2019: French army chief Press TV 06 Sep 2018 -- The French military chief says the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group will have been flushed out from all the territory it once controlled in Syria under a self-proclaimed "caliphate" before the end of this year.
Russia 'to fight terrorists in Syria until their obliteration' Press TV 06 Sep 2018 -- Russia has stressed that it will continue to fight terrorist forces in Syria until "their total elimination," as a full-scale liberation operation against remaining militants concentrated in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib draws close.
US Treasury Sanctions Target Syrian Government's Petroleum Procurement Network Sputnik 06 Sep 2018 -- The US Treasury Department has announced new sanctions against four people and five entities who, according to the department facilitated petroleum shipments and financing to the Syrian government, accusing one of the companies of facilitating fuel trade between the Syrian government and Daesh terrorists.
Russia Calls on US to Release Targets in Syria Tied to Alleged Chemical Weapons Sputnik 06 Sep 2018 -- The United States should release the list of facilities in Syria where chemical weapons are allegedly stockpiled and allow the OPCW to inspect these sites, Russian Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia told the Security Council on Thursday.
Damascus Destroyed All Chemical Weapons With Support of US - Syrian FM Sputnik 06 Sep 2018 -- Two days ago the White House stated that Washington, together with its allies, was ready to respond to a possible chemical attack carried out by the Syrian government forces.
Mattis Claims US Has 'Zero Intelligence' on Syrian Militants' Chemical Weapons Sputnik 06 Sep 2018 -- In late August, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said that militants in Syria were preparing a provocation to accuse Damascus of using chemical weapons against civilians in Idlib.
The U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Supporters of the Syrian Regime US Dept. of State 06 Sep 2018 -- Today, the United States imposed financial sanctions on four individuals and five entities that have facilitated weapons or fuel transfers, or provided other financial or material support, to the Assad regime in Syria.
U.S. Treasury Imposes Sanctions on Assad Regime's Key ISIS Intermediary and a Petroleum Procurement Network US Treasury 06 Sep 2018 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated four individuals and five entities pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13582, "Blocking Property and Interest in Property of the Government of Syria and Prohibiting Certain Transactions with Respect to Syria." Those added to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List) as a result of today's action have facilitated financial transactions and shipments of fuel and weapons to the Syrian regime.
Security Council must work towards 'common approach' as investigations continue into alleged Syria chemical attack UN News 06 Sep 2018 -- Experts continue to gather information related to an alleged chemical weapons attack in Douma, Syria, earlier this year, the UN's nuclear disarmament chief told the Security Council on Thursday.
Erdogan warns against missile strikes during upcoming Idlib liberation operation Press TV 05 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned against missile strikes during an upcoming military campaign by the Syrian army to liberate Idlib Province, the last major militant stronghold in the Arab country.
Army units continue to advance against terrorists in Sweida IRNA 06 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Arab Army units continued to advance in their operations to take out the remaining Daesh (ISIS) pockets in al-Safa hills deep in the Badiya (desert) of Sweida province.
Russia says airstrikes hit terrorists not populated areas in Syria's Idlib Press TV 05 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says its fighter jets have bombed the positions of foreign-sponsored Takfiri terrorists in Syria's militant-held northwestern province of Idlib, as Syrian government troops and allied fighters are preparing for a ground operation to liberate the territory.
Erdogan Warns Of 'Massacre' In Idlib As Syrian Government Prepares Assault RFE/RL 05 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned that an attack on Syria's Idlib Province could cause a "massacre," as government forces prepare for a major offensive against the last rebel-held region.
Drones Downed Near Hmeymim Base Launched From Idlib Zone - Russian Military Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- Two drones destroyed overnight to Tuesday near Russia's Hmeymim airbase in Syria were launched from the Idlib de-escalation zone, head of Russia's center for Syrian reconciliation Lt. Gen. Vladimir Savchenko said Wednesday.
Trump Says He Didn't Discuss Assad's Assassination Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- US President Donald Trump's statement comes after a Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward claimed in his book that Trump was outraged and wanted to assassinate Syrian President Bashar Assad after he learnt about an alleged chemical attack at Khan Shaykhun on April 4, 2017.
Four Russian Warplanes Hit Nusra Front Positions in Syria's Idlib Province - MoD Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- On Tuesday night, Russia's Hmeymim Airbase in Syria destroyed two terrorist drones with surface-to-air missiles, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said.
Turkish President Speaks Against Possible Operation in Syrian Idlib - Reports Sputnik 05 Sep 2018 -- Turkish President Rejep Tayyip Erdogan claimed that the possible offensive in Syria's Idlib province would be a massacre, local media reported.
Trump: Syria's Idlib 'Cannot Be a Slaughter' VOA 05 Sep 2018 -- International calls for restraint grew Wednesday for Syria and its allies, Russia and Iran, to avoid a bloodbath and humanitarian disaster in Syria's Idlib province.
Mattis: Syrian Rebels Have No Chemical Weapons VOA 05 Sep 2018 -- Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says the U.S. is watching to see if the Syrian government uses chemical weapons during its offensive on the rebel-held bastion of Idlib, noting Syrian opposition fighters are not able to carry out such attacks.
Tel Aviv carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria in last two years, Israel admits Press TV 05 Sep 2018 -- A senior Israeli official says the Tel Aviv regime has launched hundreds of strikes against various targets inside conflict-plagued Syria in the last two years.
Interview: Israel Will Seek To 'Destroy' Any Iranian Military Presence In Syria RFE/RL 05 Sep 2018 -- Israel's defense chief has warned that his country will seek to "destroy any Iranian military presence" in Syria, where Tehran has intervened to prop up its ally President Bashar al-Assad in a war that has lasted more than seven-years.
Turkey Defends its Borders With Syria in Fear of Refugee Inflow - Reports Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- The Turkish military is sending military equipment to Kilis province bordering Syria over concerns of a new wave of refugees that could be provoked by a possible military operation in Syria's northwestern Idlib province, Hurriyet Daily News reported on Tuesday.
US Warns Syria Against Chemical Attack on Idlib VOA 04 Sep 2018 -- The United States promises to "respond swiftly and appropriately" if Syria uses chemical weapons in Idlib province, the last rebel stronghold in Syria.
Within Days, Largest Remaining Syrian Rebel Enclave Could Become Killing Zone VOA 04 Sep 2018 -- The Syrian province of Idlib has been a perilous, frequently bombed sanctuary for hundreds of thousands of Syrians forced to flee homes elsewhere in their war-shattered country. But within days the largest remaining rebel enclave could be reduced to a killing zone – effectively underscoring the end of the seven-year-long uprising against President Bashar al-Assad.
Russia Joins Iran in Support of Syrian Idlib Offensive VOA 04 Sep 2018 -- Russia on Tuesday joined Iran in expressing support for Syria's impending operation to retake control of rebel-held Idlib province, the last major opposition stronghold in the country.
Statement by the Press Secretary The White House 04 Sep 2018
Peskov:Idleb situation undermines Syria political settlement IRNA 04 Sep 2018 -- Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov affirmed that Idleb province has become a nest of terrorism, where many terrorist groups have settled there and this leads to the destabilization of the situation and undermines attempts for diplomatic settlement in Syria.
Araqchi: Astana meeting on Syria very promising IRNA 04 Sep 2018 -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araqchi said on Tuesday that Astana negotiations comprising the Islamic Republic of Iran, Turkey and Russia experienced a very promising progress in fight against terrorism and lessening of tensions.
Syria to expel terrorists from Idlib with minimum casualties IRNA 04 Sep 2018 -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Tuesday that efforts are underway to drive the terrorists out of the city of Idlib in Syria with minimum casualties.
White House says US 'closely monitoring' situation in Syria's Idlib Press TV 04 Sep 2018 -- The United States is "closely monitoring" the situation in Syria's Idlib province, where efforts are underway to drive terrorists out.
Iran FM vows bids to drive terrorists out of Syria's Idlib with least humanitarian cost Press TV 04 Sep 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says efforts are underway to drive terrorists out of the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib with the least humanitarian cost.
Russia dismisses President Trump's warning about offensive in Syria's Idlib Press TV 04 Sep 2018 -- Russia has strongly dismissed US President Donald Trump's warning to Syria not to carry out a full-scale offensive against terrorists in the militant-held province of Idlib, stressing that the northwestern region is a "nest of terrorism."
US call for Iran, Hezbollah withdrawal from Syria meaningless: Sheikh Qassem Press TV 04 Sep 2018 -- Hezbollah says the US, whose pro-terror policies have faced defeat in Syria, is in no position to call for the withdrawal of Iranian advisors and allied Lebanese resistance fighters, who have emerged as "victors" of the war against terrorists in the Arab state.
Attacking militant-held Idlib 'humanitarian mistake' for Iran, Russia, Trump claims Press TV 04 Sep 2018 -- US President Donald Trump has claimed that attacking militant-held Idlib would be a "humanitarian mistake" for Tehran and Moscow.
Lawmaker Says Armenia Willing To Take Part In Syria Reconstruction RFE/RL 04 Sep 2018 -- Armenia is willing to take part in the reconstruction of Syria, Armenian parliament speaker Ara Babloyan has said during a meeting with the Syrian ambassador to Yerevan, Muhammad Haj Ibrahim.
UN Urges Putin, Erdogan To Help Avert 'Bloodbath' In Syria's Idlib RFE/RL 04 Sep 2018 -- The presidents of Russia and Turkey should act urgently to avert a "bloodbath" in Idlib Province, the last major rebel stronghold in Syria, the UN envoy to Syria has said.
US, Turkey Agree 'Any' Syrian Offensive in Idlib 'Unacceptable' - US State Dept Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke on Tuesday over the phone with his Turkish counterpart, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, about the situation in Idlib, Syria.
Moscow, Tehran, Ankara Ultimately Want Put an End to War in Syria - Russian FM Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the end goals of Russia Turkey and Iran in Syria may differ at some aspects, but the countries ultimately want the Syrian conflict to end.
US Vows to Respond to 'Swiftly and Appropriately' if Assad Uses Chemical Weapons Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- The White House stated Tuesday that Washington, together with its allies, was ready to respond to a possible chemical attack carried out by the Syrian government forces. Prior to that, the Russian Defense Ministry warned that Syrian militants were preparing to stage fake attacks to blame them on the Syrian army.
Trump Wanted to 'F***ing Kill' Assad After 2017 False Flag Chem Attack – Reports Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- A new book by Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward claiming to offer insight into a tumultuous Trump White House revealed the tense atmosphere during the lead-up to the US missile strikes against Syria in April 2017.
Nusra Front May Produce Weaponized Chlorine in Syria - UN Envoy Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- Nusra Front terrorists have the ability to produce weaponized chlorine, UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura said in a press conference on Tuesday.
Hezbollah Defies Alleged Secret US Offer on Tit-for-Tat Withdrawal From Syria Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- Earlier, Lebanese media reported that officials from US intelligence and security agencies had secretly traveled to Damascus in June to meet with Syrian officials, and to offer to pull US forces out of Syria in exchange for a withdrawal of Iranian advisers, the sharing of intelligence on terrorists, and a share of the spoils from Syrian oil sales.
US-Led Coalition Denies Militants Operate Base Near Syria's Al-Tanf Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- The US-led coalition in Iraq and Syria denies allegations that a Syrian militant group has set up training camps near the United States' military base in Syria's al-Tanf, a spokesperson for Operation Inherent Resolve told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Trump Warns Syrian Government Against Operation in Idlib Province Sputnik 04 Sep 2018 -- Trump has warned Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad against conducting a military operation in Syria's Idlib province, which remains a stronghold of insurgency in the country.
It's time to apply maximum 'moral pressure' to save lives in Syria's Idlib: UN negotiator UN News 04 Sep 2018 -- All countries with influence over the grinding conflict in Syria should use all the "moral pressure" they can to avoid a full-scale military attack on Idlib, particularly Russia and Turkey, the United Nations top negotiator Staffan de Mistura said on Tuesday.
Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS Targets in Iraq, Syria AFPS 03 Sep 2018 -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners continue to pursue the lasting defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria in designated parts of Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Army destroys terrorists' bases in Hama northern countryside IRNA 03 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Arab Army units destroyed bases for Jabhat al-Nusra terrorists and its affiliated groups in northern and northwestern countryside of Hama province near the administrative borders of Idleb province, the last major stronghold of terror organizations.
Russia to continue supporting Syria in combating terrorism IRNA 03 Sep 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated that his country will continue to provide support to Syria to combat terrorism and to reach a political solution to the crisis in it based on the Security Council's resolution no. 2254.
Iranian, Syrian FMs meet in Damascus ISNA 03 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem held a meeting with visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Monday.
Iran optimistic about trilateral summit in Tehran over Syria ISNA 03 Sep 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi announced Monday that the trilateral summit in Tehran between Turkey, Russia and Iran will be held following the Astana talks.
Iran will continue support for Syria's fight against terrorism: Zarif Press TV 03 Sep 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the Islamic Republic will continue to support Syria in its fight against terrorist groups.
Iran FM in Syria, says Idlib must be cleansed of terrorists Press TV 03 Sep 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has said that Idlib in northwestern Syria must be cleansed of terrorists and returned to the government fold as he arrived in Damascus for key talks.
Iranian Foreign Minister In Damascus Ahead Of Idlib Offensive RFE/RL 03 Sep 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was in Damascus on September 3 for talks with President Bashar al-Assad and other Syrian officials ahead of an expected military offensive by Syrian government forces in Idlib Province, the last opposition stronghold in Syria.
Terrorists Should Be Expelled From Syria's Idlib Province - Iranian FM Sputnik 03 Sep 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has arrived in Damascus to hold talks with his Syrian counterpart Walid Muallem and President Bashar Assad, the Iranian Foreign Ministry stated on the Damascus-Tehran bilateral relations and the Syrian crisis settlement.
Syrian Government Has Every Right to Liquidate Terrorists In Idlib - Lavrov Sputnik 03 Sep 2018 -- It is impossible to tolerate the situation in Syria's Idlib province indefinitely, it is necessary to separate the armed opposition from terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Syria FM refutes US allegations about chemical weapons IRNA 02 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid al-Moallem, affirmed the allegations made by the US and its allies on the use of chemical weapons have become exposed to the world public opinion and its aim is to justify any potential aggression on Syria.
Army destroys terrorists rocket launching pads in Hama IRNA 02 Sep 2018 -- Units of the Syrian Arab Army on Sunday conducted intensive strikes against gatherings for Jabhat al-Nusra terrorist organization and its affiliated groups in the northern countryside of Hama.
Military official dismisses attack on airport in Damascus IRNA 02 Sep 2018 -- The accident in Mezzeh airbase was an explosion that happened in the ammunition depot, a senior Iranian military official told the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) on Sunday.
Syria denies foreign attack on airbase west of Damascus People's Daily 02 Sep 2018 -- The Syrian army denied reports that an Israeli missile attack targeted a Syrian airbase west of Damascus early Sunday, saying a short circuit caused an explosion in an arms depot near the airbase, according to the state TV.
Syria Confirms Blasts at Ammunition Depot Near Damascus Caused by Short Circuit Sputnik 02 Sep 2018 -- Over the past several years, Syria has repeatedly accused Israel of attacks on the Mezzeh military airport. According to Tel Aviv, Israel strikes the Iran-supplied Hezbollah arms depot at the Mezzeh facility to prevent the Lebanese movement from obtaining advanced weapons for terrorist aims.
Iran, Russia, Iraq, Syria hold security meeting in Iraq IRNA 02 Sep 2018 -- Iran, Russia, Iraq, and Syria security committee meeting was held at Baghdad on Saturday to facilitate intelligence coordination among these countries.
Iran, Russia, Iraq, Syria hold quartet meeting in Baghdad ISNA 02 Sep 2018 -- Iraqi sources announced that senior military commanders from Iraq, Russia, Iran and Syria have met in Baghdad and exchanged views on security and intelligence cooperation.
Iraq, Russia, Iran, Syria military chiefs discuss security, intel cooperation Press TV 02 Sep 2018 -- Senior military commanders from Iraq, Russia, Iran and Syria have met in Baghdad and exchanged views on security and intelligence cooperation.
Iraqi Military Hosts Counterparts From Russia, Iran, Syria RFE/RL 01 Sep 2018 -- Iraq says its senior military commanders have met in Baghdad with their counterparts from Russia, Iran, and Syria to discuss regional security and the fight against Islamic State (IS) and other militants.
Syria determined to end presence of terrorists in Idleb IRNA 01 Sep 2018 -- Deputy Foreign and Expatriates Minister Dr. Fayssal Mikdad stressed that the Syrian state is determined to end the presence of terrorist organizations in Idleb province with the aim of restoring security and stability to it and freeing besieged civilians.
Army eradicating remnants of Daesh terrorists in al-Safa IRNA 01 Sep 2018 -- Syrian Army units, in cooperation with the supporting forces, carried out concentrated strikes against the remnants of Daesh (ISIS) positions in al-Safa hills in the depth of Sweida eastern Badyia (desert).
Participation of Iranian firms in reconstruction of Syria to be facilated IRNA 01 Sep 2018 -- Director General of the Arabic-African Bureau of the Organization for Trade Development of Iran, announced that the Islamic Republic of Iran, with participating at the fourth Syria reconstruction exhibition, will pave the way for the participation of Iranian
US-trained militants to attack Syria's central city of Palmyra: Russian military Press TV 01 Sep 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry says newly-obtained information from captured militants has revealed that the US-trained militants are set to conduct a terrorist attack on Palmyra, a city in Syria's central province of Homs, almost a year after it was liberated from the clutches of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group.
US prepared initial list of Syria targets for possible strike: Report Press TV 01 Sep 2018 -- The United States has reportedly drawn up a preliminary list of facilities in Syria that could be targeted in case of a false flag chemical weapons attack in the war-torn country.
U.S. Warns Russia, Syria Against Escalating 'Already Dangerous Conflict' RFE/RL 01 Sep 2018 -- The United States has warned Damascus and Moscow that it views any military assault on Syria's last rebel-held province in coming days as an escalation of the seven-year Syrian civil war.
Iran Plans to Supply Syria With Its Own Jets, S-300 Analogues – Reports Sputnik 01 Sep 2018 -- Last week, Iranian Defense Minister Amir Hatami met with his Syrian counterpart Ali Abdullah Ayyoub and President Bashar Assad to sign an agreement on defense cooperation.
Syrian Kurds, Damascus Discuss Future Governance VOA 01 Sep 2018 -- The Kurdish led Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), a political wing of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), reportedly is in preliminary discussions with Damascus to ensure the future government in Syria is inclusive and represents all sects of Syrian society, including ethnic Kurds.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

September 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News