October 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News

U.S. Air Forces Central Command September Airpower Summary AFNS 31 Oct 2018 -- U.S. Air Forces Central Command published its September Airpower Summary today, highlighting airpower operations in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.
UN chief appoints Norwegian diplomat as his new envoy for Syria UN News 31 Oct 2018 -- United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed veteran Norwegian diplomat Geir O. Pedersen as his next Special Envoy for Syria.
Kurds in Syria: We Have Right to Respond to Turkish Attacks VOA 31 Oct 2018 -- U.S.-backed Kurdish fighters in eastern Syria say recent Turkish shelling attacks have stalled their offensive against their mutual enemy, the Islamic State terror group.
UN Chief Names Veteran Norwegian Diplomat as His New Syria Envoy VOA 31 Oct 2018 -- U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres announced Wednesday that Norwegian veteran diplomat Geir Pedersen will be his new special envoy for Syria.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 30 Oct 2018 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Syria.
Erdogan says Turkey set to begin operation in northern Syria IRNA 30 Oct 2018 -- President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday that Turkey has finished preparations for operations on the eastern side of Euphrates River.
Turkey to launch larger operations in northern Syria: Erdogan Press TV 30 Oct 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara will soon launch larger operations east of the Euphrates River in northern Syria, where it has been confronting US-backed Kurdish militants.
US in Touch With Turkey, SDF Regarding Ankara's Planned Offensive in Syria Sputnik 30 Oct 2018 -- The United States has been in contact with both Turkey and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) following Ankara's announcement it will launch an operation against the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) to the east of the Euphrates River, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Robertson told Sputnik on Tuesday.
Turkey Prepping for Large-Scale Op Against Syrian Kurdish Forces - Erdogan Sputnik 30 Oct 2018 -- Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan promised to clear the area east of the Euphrates River in Syria from Kurdish militia.
US-led coalition uses white phosphorus bombs against Syrian city: Damascus Press TV 29 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Ambassador to the United Nations Bashar al-Ja'afari says the so-called international coalition led by the United States has once again used white phosphorus bombs against Hajin city in Syria's troubled eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
Syria will not allow anyone to interfere in its national affairs: FM Press TV 29 Oct 2018 -- Syria's Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem says his country's constitution is a purely sovereign matter and that Syrian people will not allow anyone to interfere in their national affairs.
Israel Has Conducted Strikes in Syria Since Downing of Russian Plane - Reports Sputnik 29 Oct 2018 -- Earlier, Israeli military officials said they would not target the S-300 air defense systems given to Syria by Russia if they were not used in a way that poses a threat to Israel.
Aid convoy for north-east Syria postponed over security concerns - UN relief chief UN News 29 Oct 2018 -- A humanitarian convoy carrying relief aid for tens of thousands of "desperate" civilians in north-eastern Syria who have not received aid since January this year, has been postponed owing to security concerns along its route, the United Nations top humanitarian official said on Monday.
Fresh US-led airstrike leaves five civilians dead in eastern Syria Press TV 28 Oct 2018 -- At least five civilians have lost their lives when the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group carried out an airstrike against Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.
Monitor Says Dozens Of U.S.-Backed Fighters Killed in IS Offensive RFE/RL 28 Oct 2018 -- A Syrian rights monitor group says at least 68 members of a U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led force have been killed in a major assault by Islamic State (IS) militants in the east of the country.
Istanbul Summit Ends With Call For UN-Backed Process To End Syrian War RFE/RL 28 Oct 2018 -- The leaders of Turkey, Russia, France, and Germany have reiterated calls for a UN-backed political process to end the war in Syria that has killed hundreds of thousands of people.
Turkish Forces Reportedly Strike Syrian Kurdish YPG Militia Positions Sputnik 28 Oct 2018 -- Addressing the issue earlier in October, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed to clear the area east of the Euphrates River in Syria from Kurdish militia, which is regarded by Ankara as an affiliate of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a terrorist organization in Turkey.
Istanbul summit stresses Syria's territorial integrity IRNA 27 Oct 2018 -- The final statement of Istanbul quadripartite summit which brought together leaders of Russia, Germany, France, and Turkey stressed commitment to Syria's territorial integrity and that there could be no substitute for political solution for the crisis in it.
Erdoghan: Assad's fate must be decided by Syrian people IRNA 27 Oct 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stressed the need for preserving Syria's territorial integrity, saying that Syrian President Bashar Assad's fate must be determined by the Syrian people.
Putin highlights Iran's role in addressing Syrian crisis IRNA 27 Oct 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin in a press conference on four-way meeting on Syria on Saturday underlined Iran's role in settling Syrian crisis.
Daesh terrorists kill 60 US-backed SDF militants in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 27 Oct 2018 -- Dozens of US-backed militants from the so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been killed after members of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group launched a surprise attack on them in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr near the border with Iraq.
Constitutional committee for Syria should start work, Russia to join in: Putin Press TV 27 Oct 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says a constitutional committee for Syria should start work in order to help put an end to the years-long bloody conflict in the Arab country, adding that Moscow would actively take part in that process.
Istanbul Summit Ends With Call For UN-Backed Process To End Syrian War RFE/RL 27 Oct 2018 -- The leaders of Turkey, Russia, France, and Germany have discussed the war in Syria at a summit, reiterating calls for a UN-backed political process to end the war that has killed hundreds of thousands of people.
UN, West Call On Russia To Stop Syria From Blocking Peace Effort RFE/RL 27 Oct 2018 -- UN and Western diplomats are urging Russia to help overcome Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's opposition to giving the UN a role in forming a committee to draft a new constitution for the war-torn country.
Uncertain Fate for Syria's Last Rebel Stronghold VOA 27 Oct 2018 -- Syria's largest surviving rebel stronghold, Idlib, faces a complex, uncertain and possibly violent future.
Syria not to allow Idleb turned into new caves for terrorist IRNA 26 Oct 2018 -- Syria's permanent representative to the UN, Dr. Bashar al-Jaafari said that Syria will not allow turning Idleb into new caves for terrorists.
Coalition denies US drone attack on Russian airbase in Syria IRNA 26 Oct 2018 -- The statement by the Russian Defense Ministry that a drones attack on the Hmeymim airbase in Syria was controlled from a US reconnaissance aircraft are baseless, Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman Sean Ryan told Sputnik on Friday.
Damascus government will not allow Idlib to turn into terrorist stronghold: Envoy Press TV 26 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Ambassador to the United Nations Bashar al-Ja'afari says the incumbent Damascus government will not allow foreign-sponsored Takfiri terrorists to turn the embattled northwestern province of Idlib into a new haven for themselves.
Turkish president gives 'final warning' to US-backed militants in northern Syria Press TV 26 Oct 2018 -- President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has issued a "final warning" to those who would endanger Turkey's borders, in an apparent reference to the US-backed Kurdish militants operating in northern Syria.
Syrian Government's 'different understanding' of UN role, a 'very serious challenge' - Special Envoy UN News 26 Oct 2018 -- The difficulties of "keeping everyone onboard" an agreed path to peace in Syria highlights that "radically different" approaches are likely doomed to failure, the out-going United Nations Special Envoy for the war-torn country warned on Friday.
European, Russian Leaders Join Erdogan at Summit on Syrian Civil War VOA 26 Oct 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to host French, German and Russian leaders Saturday at a four-way summit on the Syrian civil war.
Armed Forces always ready to restore stability to Syria IRNA 25 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Armed Forces, Defense Minister Major Gen. Ali Abdullah Ayoub said that the armed forces are always ready to shoulder responsibility in restoring safety and security over Syria.
Constitution sovereign affair decided by Syrian people: FM IRNA 25 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid al-Moallem on Wednesday received UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura and the accompanying delegation.
Lavrov stresses Syria sovereignty, territorial integrity IRNA 25 Oct 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the situation in Syria with Senior Assistant to Iranian Foreign Minister Hussein Jaber Ansari, and the Turkish Assistant Foreign Minister Sadat Unal.
US plane piloted drones attacking Russia's Syria airbase: General Press TV 25 Oct 2018 -- Russia says its Hmeimim air base in Syria – where it is involved in an anti-terror mission – once came under attack by over a dozen remotely-piloted American unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs.)
Russia-Turkey deal on Syria's Idlib 'was Iran's idea' Press TV 25 Oct 2018 -- (This is the fifth and last news article in the series "Iran's point man on Middle East." To read the fourth, click here; the third, here; the second, here; and the first, here. To read a report of the interview with Hossein Jaberi Ansari, see here.)
US Poseidon-8 Orchestrated Drone Attack on Hmeymim Air Base - Russian MoD Sputnik 25 Oct 2018 -- Russia's Hmeymim Air Base in Syria has been subject to a massive drone attack, with unmanned aerial vehicles having been piloted by a US Poseidon 8 surveillance aircraft, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin stated, without specifying when exactly the assault took place.
Moscow Considers US Actions in S Syria 'Occupation' - Russian Foreign Ministry Sputnik 25 Oct 2018 -- Moscow has repeatedly criticized the US military campaign in Syria, which has not been authorized by either the UN or Damascus.
Syria's foreign minister says only Syrians can determine their own future Press TV 24 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem tells the UN special envoy that the nation's constitution is a purely sovereign matter that can only be decided by the Syrians.
Syria ceasefire guarantors hold discussions in Russian capital Press TV 24 Oct 2018 -- Senior diplomats of Iran, Russia, and Turkey, which act as guarantors of an all-Syria ceasefire, hold consultations in Moscow amid efforts to find a political solution to the crisis in the Arab country.
US Military: IS Still Poses Threat in Iraq, Syria VOA 24 Oct 2018 -- Despite the anti-Islamic State campaign being waged in both Iraq and Syria, the terror group can still attack coalition forces and their local partners in both countries, Col. Sean Ryan, spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition, said.
Joint US-Turkey Patrols Could Begin in Manbij Over Coming Days – CENTCOM Chief Sputnik 23 Oct 2018 -- Ankara has long been locked in negotiations with Washington over the city of Manbij and other parts of northern Syria under the control of Kurdish forces, seeking to limit their influence.
Feeding families remains complex task in war-torn Syria - UN relief agency UN News 23 Oct 2018 -- Nearly a million Syrians have headed home amid improving security, only to find houses destroyed and livelihoods lost said the United Nations emergency food relief agency on Tuesday, leaving many civilians still reliant on aid.
Syria's Food Production Hits 29-Year Low VOA 23 Oct 2018 -- A report by the Food and Agriculture Organization and World Food Program finds extreme weather conditions in Syria have caused the lowest production of wheat and barley for nearly three decades in this war-torn country.
Nearly 8k terrorists killed in clashes with Syrian army IRNA 22 Oct 2018 -- The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday 7,569 members of Daesh Takfiri terrorist groups have thus far been killed in clashes with the Syrian troops in several areas of the country.
Syria never used chemical weapons despite terrorists' threats: Deputy FM Press TV 22 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal al-Mikdad says Damascus has never used chemical weapons in its war against foreign-backed terrorists and it will never use any such banned munitions in the future.
Russia curbs Israeli flights near Syrian skies: Paper Press TV 22 Oct 2018 -- Israel's leading newspaper Haaretz says Russia has been taking a more forceful stance toward flights by Israeli aircraft near the Syrian border in the north.
Russian Air Defense Boost to Syria Seen Unlikely to Shield Iran's Forces from Israel VOA 22 Oct 2018 -- Israel is expressing confidence that it can pursue attacks on Iran's forces in Syria even after Iranian partner Russia transferred an advanced air defense system to Syrian territory earlier this month.
Iran says has 'strategic partnership' with Russia in Syria Press TV 22 Oct 2018 -- (This is the fourth news article in the series "Iran's point man on Middle East." To read the third, click here; the second, here; and the first, here. To read a report of the interview with Hossein Jaberi Ansari, see here.)
Some 88,000 Takfiri terrorists killed in Russian airstrikes in Syria in 3 years: Defense minister Press TV 20 Oct 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says almost 88,000 foreign-sponsored Takfiri terrorists have been killed in Syria ever since Moscow launched its counter-terrorism airstrikes against militant redoubts in the Arab country more than three years ago.
Car-bomb blast rocks NW Syria IRNA 21 Oct 2018 -- Explosion of a bomb-laden car rocked Idlib, a city in northwestern part of Syria.
Syria demands int'l probe into US-led Coalition's attacks IRNA 20 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Ministry said the heinous crime committed by the illegitimate US-led Coalition in al-Sousa and al-Bubadran villages in Deir Ezzor countryside prove once again its disregard for international law.
62 killed in US-led coalition airstrikes on Deir Ezzor IRNA 20 Oct 2018 -- At least 62 civilians were martyred in three new massacres committed by the US-led international coalition in the villages of al-Suseh and al-Bubadran in al-Bukmal region in Deir Ezzor southern countryside.
Russian officials discuss 'finally destroying' terrorists with Syria's Assad Press TV 20 Oct 2018 -- A senior delegation representing Russia's foreign and defense ministries has met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to discuss the country's situation, specifically the 'final destruction' of terrorists.
Russian Aerospace Forces Destroyed Over 122,000 Terrorist Targets in Syria Sputnik 20 Oct 2018 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces have carried out over 40,000 missions, including over 21,000 sorties during the night time, in the course of their operation in Syria, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said at the fifth ASEAN and Dialogue Partners Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM-Plus) in Singapore.
'More time' agreed for buffer zone, to spare three million Syrian civilians in Idlib UN News 18 Oct 2018 -- Russia and Turkey have said that they will allow "more time" for opposition groups to withdraw from a de-escalation zone in Syria's Idlib, which has been spared air raids for more than a month, a senior humanitarian adviser to the UN said on Thursday.
US Skeptical of Russia's Newest IS Claims VOA 18 Oct 2018 -- The United States is pushing back against claims by Russian President Vladimir Putin that the Islamic State terror group is starting to execute hundreds of hostages in Syria, including U.S. and European nationals.
Turkey Threatens to Move on Syria's Manbij VOA 18 Oct 2018 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is warning of military action against a key U.S. ally in the disputed Syrian city of Manbij, as bilateral tensions threaten to resurface between the NATO partners.
UN Urges Diplomacy to Avert War in Rebel-Held Idlib VOA 18 Oct 2018 -- A U.N. official is calling for more time to give diplomacy a chance in Idlib, the last rebel-held area in northeastern Syria.
Any foreign presence in Syria without invitation illegal IRNA 18 Oct 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed that any presence of foreign forces in Syria without an invitation of the Syrian government is illegitimate, pointing out that the Russian presence in Syria is upon an invitation of the country's government.
Daesh growing, taking hostages in US-controlled parts of Syria: Russian leader Press TV 18 Oct 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin warns that Daesh is expanding its presence in the Syrian regions controlled by Washington and its allied Kurdish militants, revealing that the Takfiri terror outfit has managed to take hundreds of people hostage in those areas, including the US's own citizens.
Not up to Russia to persuade Iran to leave Syria: Putin Press TV 18 Oct 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected US and Israeli calls for Moscow to persuade Iran to pull its military forces out of Syria, saying it is not what Russia can make a decision about.
People in southeast Syria refugee camp living in great misery: Monitor Press TV 18 Oct 2018 -- A so-called monitoring group says tens of thousands of internally displaced Syrians stranded in a refugee camp in southern Syria are facing dire conditions as food, water and medical supplies are quickly running out.
US must withdraw from Syria, stop supporting terrorism: Iran's deputy UN envoy Press TV 18 Oct 2018 -- Iran's deputy ambassador to the UN says the United States should stop supporting terrorism in Syria and end its illegal military presence there as regional efforts are underway to find a political solution to over seven years of militancy gripping the Arab country.
UN Envoy For Syria Stepping Down As Prospects For Peace Deal Wither RFE/RL 18 Oct 2018 -- The United Nations envoy for Syria is stepping down after gains this year by Syrian, Russian, and Iranian forces in reasserting control over much of the country, eclipsing prospects for an international peace deal ending Syria's seven-year civil war.
Decision by Staffan De Mistura To Finish His Tenure as UN Special Envoy for Syria US Dept. of State 18 Oct 2018
Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Press Briefing by Col. Ryan via Video conference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 17 Oct 2018 -- Presenter: Colonel Sean J. Ryan, spokesman, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve; Commander Sean Robertson, Pentagon spokesman
US Says Committed to Syria, Iraq Beyond Anti-IS Efforts VOA 17 Oct 2018 -- U.S. officials said Tuesday they will keep working to stabilize areas they helped liberate from Islamic State in Syria and Iraq.
US drones spy on S-300 Missile System at Syrian coasts IRNA 17 Oct 2018 -- The US reconnaissance drones were observed spying on the Russia-made sophisticated S-300 missile defense system used by the Syrian army near the country's coastal areas.
UNSC urged to investigate int'l coalition's crimes in Syria IRNA 17 Oct 2018 -- Syria's Permanent Representative to the UN said the illegal Int'l Coalition committed a new crime against the Syrians by bombing Hajin city in Deir Ezzor province with internationally-banned white phosphorous, causing the martyrdom and injury of scores.
UN Syria envoy de Mistura to step down at end of November Press TV 17 Oct 2018 -- The UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura has announced that he would resign at the end of November for "family" reasons.
Russia Wants White Helmets Removed From Syria 'as Soon as Possible' - Envoy Sputnik 17 Oct 2018 -- Damascus and Moscow have accused militants and the White Helmets of staging several provocations involving chemical weapons to influence public opinion and justify foreign intervention in Syria.
Veteran UN Syria Envoy to step down, pledges to work 'until the last hour' for peace UN News 17 Oct 2018 -- The United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, told the Security Council on Wednesday that he is stepping down at the end of next month, after four years and four months on the job
US Envoy: 'Some' Militants Have Withdrawn From Syria's Idlib VOA 17 Oct 2018 -- A senior U.S. official says some, but maybe not all, militant rebel holdouts have pulled out of the demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib province, two days after the deadline to leave.
Russia: Deal on Syria's Idlib going ahead despite missed deadline Press TV 16 Oct 2018 -- The Kremlin says a deal brokered by Russia and Turkey, which aims to create a demilitarized zone in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib and has so far held off a government offensive on the last major terrorist stronghold in the country, was going ahead, despite foreign-sponsored militants failing to leave the zone the day before.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 16 Oct 2018 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Syria.
Militants Fail To Leave Buffer Zone In Syria's Idlib Under Russia-Turkey Deal RFE/RL 16 Oct 2018 -- Militants in Syria's Idlib Province failed to meet an October 15 deadline for vacating a buffer zone created under a Russian-Turkish cease-fire deal, prompting a threat from the Syrian government to resume its military campaign.
Iran's Growing Influence in Syria Sparks Concern VOA 15 Oct 2018 -- While Russian and Iranian-backed Bashar al-Assad's regime is consolidating its grip on most areas once controlled by various rebel groups in Syria, Iran's involvement and military footprints in the country have some experts and U.S. lawmakers concerned that Tehran might be in the process of establishing long-term presence in Syria in an effort to project regional power in the long term.
"Iran to participate in reconstruction of Syria" ISNA 15 Oct 2018 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Bahram Qassemi stressed that Iran will participate in reconstruction of Syria.
Syrian army raises national flag on Quneitra crossing after official reopening Press TV 15 Oct 2018 -- The Syrian army has raised the national flag over Quneitra crossing on the border with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights after nearly five years since it was taken over by militant groups.
East of Euphrates Syria's next target after liberation of Idlib: FM Press TV 15 Oct 2018 -- Syria's Foreign Minister Walid Muallem says the next target after the liberation of Idlib is to retake the area east of the Euphrates, which is held by US-backed Kurdish militants.
Syria, Jordan Officially Reopen Border Crossing VOA 15 Oct 2018 -- The al-Naseeb border crossing between Jordan and Syria officially reopened Monday after a three year closure. More than 7,000 trucks used to make the crossing between Syria and Jordan daily before the passage was forced to close in 2015. Observers on both sides expressed hopes the reopening would help improve the economies in both countries.
Iran plans private sector participation in Syria reconstruction Press TV 15 Oct 2018 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry has announced that the country plans to have its private sector participate in the reconstruction of post-war Syria.
Syria army makes new advance in al-Safa hills, Sweida IRNA 14 Oct 2018 -- The military operations conducted by the Syrian Arab Army continued in the rocky cliffs adjacent to al-Safa hills in Sweida eastern Badyia (desert), tightening grip on Daesh (ISIS) remnants positioned in the area.
Syria, Jordan agree to reopen vital border crossing Press TV 14 Oct 2018 -- Syria and Jordan say they have reached an agreement to reopen a key border crossing between the two Middle Eastern countries, three years after the vital commercial lifeline fell to foreign-backed militant groups from the Syrian side and the traffic was suspended.
Terrorists fire shells from Idlib buffer zone, kill 2: Report Press TV 14 Oct 2018 -- Terrorists have reportedly fired mortar shells from a planned buffer zone in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, killing two Syrian soldiers.
Syrian Militants Partially Withdraw Weapons From Idlib - Militia Commander Sputnik 14 Oct 2018 -- Militants of illegal armed groups in the south-west of the Syrian province of Idlib comply with the ceasefire regime and partially withdrew heavy weapons from the demilitarized zone on the border with the province of Hama, Nabil, the commander of the Christian militia of Al-Suqaylabiyah city, told Sputnik.
Iran's Revolutionary Guards Vow to Keep 'Effective' Presence in Syria Sputnik 14 Oct 2018 -- Tehran has repeatedly insisted that Iran has limited its assistance to Syria in the fight against Islamist extremists to the provision of military advisers, and that no regular forces are present.
Scores of Daesh killed in army's operations in Sweida Badyia IRNA 13 Oct 2018 -- Units of the Syrian Arab Army enhanced deployment points deep in the rocky cliffs adjacent to al-Safa hills in Sweida eastern Badyia (desert), inflicting heavy losses on Daesh (ISIS) ranks and equipment.
Lavrov: US practices east of Euphrates unacceptable IRNA 13 Oct 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized the illegal US presence in Syria, saying that Washington's practices east of the Euphrates River are unacceptable.
Iran will keep 'effective, useful' advisory presence in Syria: IRGC Press TV 13 Oct 2018 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says the Islamic Republic will keep its military advisory presence in Syria as long as Tehran finds it "effective and useful" and as long as the Arab country's government demands it.
Erdogan threatens new incursion into northern Syria Press TV 12 Oct 2018 -- President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that Turkey could soon launch a new incursion across the border into northern Syria.
Russia says Iran's presence in Syria none of Israel's business Press TV 12 Oct 2018 -- A senior Russian official has dismissed the Israeli regime's demand that Iran be forced out of Syria, saying that the issue is none of Tel Aviv's business as it is Syria's sovereign right to authorize Iranian forces on its soil.
Lavrov:Changing Golan Heights status violates UN resolutions IRNA 11 Oct 2018 -- Changing the status of the Golan Heights in sidestepping the UN Security Council would come in direct violation of its resolutions, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told journalists on Wednesday.
Putin: Terror fight remains absolute priority in Syria, world Press TV 11 Oct 2018 -- The Russian leader says fighting global terrorism, especially in Syria, remains an "absolute priority" for his country, emphasizing that any solution to over seven years of crisis in the Arab state should guarantee its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Change in Golan Heights status constitutes violation of UN resolutions: Russia's FM Press TV 11 Oct 2018 -- Russia rebukes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for asking the international community to recognize the regime's claim to "sovereignty" over the occupied side of Syria's Golan Heights, warning that any such move would constitute a flagrant violation of UN Security Council resolutions.
US-backed militants in Syria say holding 900 Daesh militants Press TV 11 Oct 2018 -- A US-backed Kurdish militant group says it is holding around 900 foreign members of the Daesh terrorist group in Syria.
Al-Nusra Unwilling to Withdraw From Idlib - Reports Sputnik 11 Oct 2018 -- Militants from the terrorist organizations Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and Jabhat al-Nusra* and are not willing to withdraw their forces from the demilitarized zone in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, as Turkey has not provided the guarantee of their security, the Al Watan newspaper reported on Thursday, citing sources.
Lavrov: Eradicating terrorism is a priority in Syria IRNA 10 Oct 2018 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that eradicating terrorist threats in Syria is a priority, noting that Sochi agreement on Idleb which was reached on September 17th is being complied with.
Terrorists attack north of Syria's Aleppo IRNA 10 Oct 2018 -- Terrorists launched an artillery attack on the demilitarized Al-Zahraa district in northwest of Aleppo.
Mass grave of 1,500 Daesh victims discovered in northern Syria Press TV 10 Oct 2018 -- Syrian government forces have discovered a mass grave containing the bodies of more than one thousand people executed by members of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in the country's northern city of Raqqah.
Israeli strikes in Syria to continue despite S-300 delivery, Netanyahu says Press TV 10 Oct 2018 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has informed Russian officials that the Tel Aviv will continue to hit targets inside Syria, irrespective of Moscow's decision to deliver advanced S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to the Damascus government.
Daesh Seizes Chlorine Barrels After Fight With Nusra Front Militants In Syria Sputnik 10 Oct 2018 -- According to the Russian Center for Syrian Reconciliation, Daesh terrorists have attacked militants from Nusra Front and have seized at least two barrels with chlorine gas.
Largest Mass Grave of Daesh Victims Discovered in Syria's Raqqa – Watchdog Sputnik 10 Oct 2018 -- Bodies of some 1,400 people killed by the Daesh* terrorist group have been found in a mass grave in the Syrian city of Raqqa, the head of Damascus-based Syrian Human Rights Network Ahmad Kazem told Sputnik on Wednesday.
Turkey 'Saber-Rattling' on US-Backed Militia in Syria VOA 09 Oct 2018 -- Turkey is threatening to eradicate the People's Protection Units (YPG) militia in Syria. But such a move would put it on a collision course with the United States, which backs the Syrian Kurdish group as a key ally in the war against Islamic State and curtailing Iran's influence.
Netanyahu: World must recognize occupied Golan as Israel's Press TV 09 Oct 2018 -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the international community should recognize as "Israeli territory" the Golan Heights, a Syrian territory which has been under the regime's occupation for over five decades.
Syria grants general amnesty for military deserters IRNA 09 Oct 2018 -- President Bashar al-Assad on Tuesday issued the legislative decree granting a general amnesty for military deserters inside and outside the country and the crimes included in the Military Penalties Law issued by Legislative Decree No. 61 for 1950.
Syrian President Assad grants amnesty to army deserters, draft dodgers Press TV 09 Oct 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has signed a decree, granting amnesty to those who have either deserted the army or avoided military service, and giving them several months to report for duty.
Russia delivers 3 battalion sets of S-300 systems to Syria for free: Source Press TV 09 Oct 2018 -- Moscow has reportedly supplied Syria with three battalion sets of S-300 missile defense systems of eight launchers each for free amid its widening row with Israel, whose air force recently helped the downing of a Russian aircraft in the Arab country.
Army tightens grip on Daesh remnants in al-Safa hills IRNA 08 Oct 2018 -- Units of the Syrian Arab Army continued advancing in the rocky cliffs on the western side of al-Safa hills in the depths of Sweida province's eastern desert.
Moscow: Idleb must return to Syrian state's control IRNA 08 Oct 2018 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin said that Idleb will inevitably return to the Syrian state.
Militants complete withdrawal of heavy weapons from Idlib buffer zone Press TV 08 Oct 2018 -- Foreign-sponsored militants have completed the withdrawal of heavy weapons from a planned buffer zone in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, conforming to a deal brokered by Russia and Turkey that has so far held off a government offensive on the last major terrorist stronghold in Syria.
Militants have not withdrawn weapons from north Syria: observatory Press TV 08 Oct 2018 -- A pro-opposition monitoring group says Turkey-backed militants have not withdrawn their heavy weapons from the buffer zone in northern Syria as they claim and are instead hiding their arms in the north of Latakia.
Assad: Idlib Ceasefire 'Temporary', Gov't Will Restore Control Over All of Syria Sputnik 08 Oct 2018 -- Russia and Turkey reached an agreement on the creation of a 9-12 mile demilitarized zone in Idlib between Syrian forces and militants concentrated in the region last month in a bid to avoid needless carnage and possible Western intervention.
Syrian Opposition Completes Withdrawal of Heavy Weaponry in Idlib - Reports Sputnik 08 Oct 2018 -- The Syrian armed opposition has completed the withdrawal of heavy weaponry from the contact line in Syria's Idlib, Turkish media reported on Monday.
Russia, Turkey Determine Borders of Idlib Demilitarized Zone - Official Sputnik 08 Oct 2018 -- Russia and Turkey have determined the borders of the demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin told Sputnik in an interview.
Ankara Eyes Syria Reconstruction to Boost Crisis-Hit Economy VOA 08 Oct 2018 -- Turkey's hosting of a four-nation Syrian summit later this month is a diplomatic win for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. With Syria's reconstruction, a key item of the planned meeting of French, Russia and German leaders, Erdogan will be looking to strengthen Turkey's hand in the predicted building bonanza.
President Assad: Idleb agreement a temporary measure IRNA 07 Oct 2018 -- The Central Committee of al-Baath Arab Socialist Party held a meeting on Sunday chaired by President Bashar al-Assad, the Party's Regional Secretary, during which he gave a presentation of the latest political and field developments.
Syrian Army Cut Off Fresh Water Supplies to Militants in Al-Suwayda Sputnik 07 Oct 2018 -- The government forces continue to crack down on terrorists based near the strategic heights of Tulul al-Safa in southern Syria's al-Suwayda desert. The military operation is due to be wrapped up before the end of this fall.
Assad Calls Demilitarized Zone for Idlib a 'Temporary Measure' VOA 07 Oct 2018 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is calling the demilitarized zone deal for Idlib province, reached between Russia and Turkey, a "temporary measure."
Army advances, thwarts Daesh infiltration attempt in Sweida IRNA 06 Oct 2018 -- Units of the Syrian Army, in cooperation with the allied forces, on Saturday continued to tighten the noose around Daesh terrorists' remnants in depth of the rocky cliffs surroundings Tuloul al-Safa, the last stronghold for terrorists deep in Sweida Badiya.
Syrian rebels start to withdraw heavy weapons from Idlib buffer zone IRNA 06 Oct 2018 -- Two Turkey-backed Syrian rebel officials told Reuters that rebel groups had begun to withdraw heavy weaponry from a demilitarized zone in northwest Syria on Saturday morning.
Syrian democratic forces intensify war with ISIL IRNA 06 Oct 2018 -- Syrian media said on Saturday that the Syrian Democratic Forces' combat with the ISIL Takfiri terrorist group has intensified in the east of the Deir- al-Zur province in eastern Syria.
Syria army thwarts terrorists' infiltration attempt in Hama IRNA 06 Oct 2018 -- Syrian Arab Army units operating in the northern Hama countryside on Friday foiled an attempt by terrorist groups to infiltrate towards a number of military points in the vicinity of Ma'rkabeh and Lahaya villages.
Ceasefire Breaches Recorded in Syria's Idlib Safe Zone - Russian Military Sputnik 06 Oct 2018 -- The Russian Centre for Reconciliation in Syria said Saturday that it registered ceasefire breaches in four areas of the Idlib de-escalation zone in northern Syria.
Kurdish Units Refuse to Leave Syria's Manbij, Prepare to Defend Town - Reports Sputnik 05 Oct 2018 -- The Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) did not withdraw from the northern Syrian town of Manbij, as was ordered by Turkey and the United States, and are preparing to defend the town, the Anadolu news agency reported on Friday.
US to Stay in Syria Until US President Decides to Withdraw - State Department Sputnik 04 Oct 2018 -- The United States will remain in Syria as long as the former's president deems it necessary, Robert Wood, the US permanent representative to the Conference on Disarmament, said at a briefing in Geneva.
Centcom Commander Discusses Regional Hotspots AFPS 04 Oct 2018 -- Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen and Iran are just a few of the hotspots the commander of U.S. Central Command spoke about this morning as he discussed the range of operations in the area during a Pentagon news conference.
Russia: Iran fighting terrorism in Syria lawfully IRNA 04 Oct 2018 -- Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday that Iranian military forces are fighting international terrorism lawfully and on the invitation of the Syrian government.
Syrian army foils terrorist infiltration attempt in Hama IRNA 04 Oct 2018 -- A unit of the Syrian Arab Army has foiled a terrorist attack on military points in Hama northern countryside.
Putin: Presence of US forces in Syria illegitimate IRNA 04 Oct 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed that the presence of the US troops in Syria is illegitimate and violates the UN's Charter.
Syria Has Reached a 'Major Understanding' With Hostile Arab States - Assad Sputnik 04 Oct 2018 -- Most Gulf nations have actively sought to oust President Assad's government over the course of the multi-year conflict, providing opposition Islamist forces with arms and political support.
Israeli Minister: S-300 Systems 'Cannot Detect Our Stealth Fighters' Sputnik 04 Oct 2018 -- On Tuesday, Russia announced the delivery of batteries of S-300 anti-aircraft missiles to Syria.
Syrian Army Thwarts Militant Attack at Hama-Idlib Border - Reports Sputnik 04 Oct 2018 -- The Syrian army has foiled an infiltration attempt by affiliates of the Kataeb Al-Ezza militant group in the north of Hama province, which borders the embattled Idlib province, the SANA news agency reported on Thursday.
Moscow Says New Steps Will Follow Delivery of S-300s to Syria Sputnik 04 Oct 2018 -- Russia has completed the first delivery of S-300 systems to Syria, including 49 units of equipment-related components such as radar, basic target acquisition systems, command posts and four launchers, according to Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Syria: UN Humanitarian Coordinator calls for unimpeded access from within the country UN News 04 Oct 2018 -- Highlighting the "complexities of the situation in Syria" with close to 13 million people in need of life-saving assistance, the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in the country called on warring parties to allow access to all areas from within the country, so aid can reach those in need "fast and efficiently".
Syrian army continues advance in Toloul al-Safa area IRNA 03 Oct 2018 -- Syrian army units, in cooperation with the allied forces, continued to advance in various directions in the depth of the rocky cliffs in Toloul al-Safa area in Sweida Province, inflicting heavy losses upon Daesh (ISIS) terrorists.
Russian president: No large-scale military action needed in Syria's Idlib Press TV 03 Oct 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country's joint plan with Turkey for creating a demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib, the last major terrorist bastion in the country, has been effective, thus no major military action is needed in the region.
Putin says US presence in Syria violates UN charter Press TV 03 Oct 2018 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says the presence of US troops in Syria, providing support to anti-Damascus militant groups in the Arab country, violated the United Nations Charter.
Israel will continue strikes in Syria despite S-300 missile system delivery: Minister Press TV 03 Oct 2018 -- Israeli minister for military affairs Avigdor Lieberman has expressed Tel Aviv's discontent over Russia's delivery of an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria, stressing the move will not deter the Israeli regime from military operations in the war-ravaged Arab country.
Russia Says It Delivered Advanced Missile Defense System To Syria Despite Objections RFE/RL 03 Oct 2018 -- Russia says it has delivered S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to Syria, despite objections from Israel and the United States that the weapons will escalate the war in the Middle Eastern country.
Shoigu: Russia completed delivery of S-300 systems to Syria IRNA 03 Oct 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu stressed that the Russian side has completed the delivery of S-300 air defense missile systems to Syria.
Israel Won't Stop Ops in Syria Despite S-300 Delivery - Defense Minister Sputnik 03 Oct 2018 -- On Tuesday, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu stated that Moscow had delivered 49 units of S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to Syria in order to enhance the security of Russian servicemen in the country.
Russia's delivery of S-300 air defense system completed: Defense minister Press TV 02 Oct 2018 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says his country has completed the delivery of an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria, irrespective of Israeli authorities' strong opposition that it will pose a serious "challenge" to the Tel Aviv regime.
Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Press Briefing By Col. Ryan via Teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 02 Oct 2018 -- Presenter: Colonel Sean J. Ryan, spokesman, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve; Commander Sean Robertson, Pentagon spokesman
Iranian companies reconstructing 800 mw of Syrian power plants IRNA 02 Oct 2018 -- Iran's Energy Minister announced that more than 800 megawatts of various power plants in Syria have been introduced for reconstruction and repair, and Iranian companies are ready to finalize and sign contracts in the area.
Iran to build power plant in Syria IRNA 02 Oct 2018 -- A memorandum of understanding for constructing a power plant in the Syrian city of Latakia was signed by Iran and Syria on Tuesday.
US, Turkish forces begin training for joint patrols in Syria's Manbij: Mattis Press TV 02 Oct 2018 -- US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says units from the Turkish and US militaries have started training for joint patrols near Syria's northern town of Manbij, which has been a source of tension between the two NATO allies for months.
Russia Completes Deliveries of S-300 Air Defense Systems to Syria - Shoigu Sputnik 02 Oct 2018 -- Work on installing a unified air defense control system in Syria will be finalized by October 20, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said at President Vladimir Putin's meeting with members of Russia's Security Council on Tuesday.
Syria Shot Down Over Third of Missiles Launched by Israel on Sept. 17 - Reports Sputnik 02 Oct 2018 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has stated that four Israeli F-16 aircraft deliberately used a Russian Il-20 military aircraft as a shield against Syrian air defense systems during a missile attack on Syrian targets in the province of Latakia creating a dangerous situation that led to the downing of the Russian plane.
Reports: Al-Nusra Agrees to Leave Idlib Under Pressure From Turkish Intelligence Sputnik 02 Oct 2018 -- Terrorist organizations Jabhat al-Nusra* and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham have agreed, under pressure from Turkish intelligence, to disband and withdraw their forces from the demilitarized zone in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, Al Watan newspaper reported, citing sources with knowledge of the situation.
Erdogan: Turkey Taking Steps With Russia Against Radical Groups in Syria Sputnik 02 Oct 2018 -- Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stated that he will continue to seek a solution with the Syrian people, not the Syrian Government, stressing that he has never taken incorrect measures in the country.
US military constructing new base in western Iraq near Syria border: Kurdish official Press TV 01 Oct 2018 -- The US military is reportedly building a new base in Iraq's western province of Anbar as part of attempts to perpetuate its occupation of the conflict-ridden Arab country indefinitely, regardless of all opposition from religious figures and people from all walks of life.
Syrian army kills dozens of Daesh terrorists IRNA 01 Oct 2018 -- Syrian army units, in cooperation with the supporting forces, on Monday stormed more rocky cliffs in the rugged land of Toloul al-Safa area overlooking Daesh (ISIS) terrorists' last stronghold, achieving a significant advance.
Militant groups refuse to implement Russia-Turkey deal Press TV 01 Oct 2018 -- The fate of an agreement between Russia and Turkey to set up a demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib hangs in balance with Turkish-backed militants refusing to withdraw and opposing the deployment of Russian troops.
EU States Ready to Finance Disarming of Militants in Syria - UN Chief's Aide Sputnik 01 Oct 2018 -- Many EU countries are interested in Syrian refugees' return to their homeland, and they will be ready to invest in a disarmament program of militants, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations Alexander Zuev told Sputnik.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

October 2018 - Syria Special Weapons News