/mlpol/ - My Little Politics

Fresh bread.

Le kurdish maya-maya ambush.
>https://www.funker530.com/gopro-close-quarters-ambush-sc1/

>>153333
checked

Soon?

>>153341
SOON, G*d willing.

>>153333
Check!

>Syrian military reinforcements pour into southeast Syria as ISIS launches another attack
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:30 P.M.) – A large number of Syrian Arab Army (SAA) reinforcements poured into the Badiya Al-Sham region of Al-Sweida to help their comrades beat back another Islamic State (ISIS) attack.

ISIS launched another attack tonight after failing to infiltrate the Syrian Arab Army’s defenses near the strategic hilltop of Tal Barakat in the Badiya Al-Sham region.

While no advances have been made, the Islamic State has intensified their assault this time around in order to fracture the Syrian Army’s lines and retake the Tal Barakat area.

The Islamic State is trying to retake this area from the Syrian Arab Army after losing Tal Barakat this past weekend.

The Syrian Army is defending this area alongside their allies from the National Defense Forces (NDF), Liwaa Al-Fatemiyoun, and Hezbollah.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-military-reinforcements-pour-into-southeast-syria-as-isis-launches-another-attack/

>Houthi forces turns the tables on Arab Coalition, seizes ground in Saudi Arabia
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:10 A.M.) – The Houthi forces responded to the latest offensive by the Arab Coalition and their Yemeni allies by launching a powerful attack inside Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

According to the official media wing of the Houthi forces, their troops seized several hilltops around the town of Majazah in the Asir Region after overrunning the Saudi defenses.

In addition to advancing in the Asir Region, the Houthi forces managed to score new gains inside the Najran province after killing and wounding several Hadi loyalists and Saudi-backed troops.

The Houthi forces are attempting to alleviate the pressure on their troops in western Yemen by capturing several areas inside of Saudi Arabia.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/houthi-forces-turns-the-tables-on-arab-coalition-seizes-ground-in-saudi-arabia/

>>153345
Syriana is unbelievably cute.

I wanted you to know that i'll be off for a few days if anyone wonders why i'm not active

>>153373
Take care, Doc.

>Saudi-backed forces attempted amphibious landing at strategic Yemeni port – Houthi official
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:45 A.M.) – The Saudi-backed troops attempted an amphibious landing at the strategic Hodeideh Port on Wednesday, a Houthi official told Al-Mayadeen TV.

“We foiled a sea landing of Saudi and Emirati forces near the port of Hodeidah,” Dayfallah al-Shami, a member of the movement’s political bureau, told the pro-Iranian al-Mayadeen.

“The Saudi coalition has not advanced at all in Hodeidah,” Shami added.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Houthi forces announced that they scored a direct hit on a Saudi Coalition boat, which later sunk the vessel off the coast of Hodeideh.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/saudi-backed-forces-attempted-amphibious-landing-at-strategic-yemeni-port-houthi-official/

>Rebels arrest fellow FSA fighter dressed in women’s clothing after attempted escape
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:00 A.M.) – The Islamist rebels of Jaysh Al-Izza arrested a member of their own organization that was attempting to escape from their lines in northern Hama to the government areas.

According to Jaysh Al-Izza’s statement, Lu’ay Al-Mustafa of the Free Syrian Army was arrested by the group after attempting to escape to the government lines in women’s clothes.

Jaysh Al-Izza posted a photo of their arrested fighter and their accusation that he was attempting to defect.

Jaysh Al-Izza is one of the most powerful groups in northern Hama; they currently control two major towns near the government’s lines.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebels-arrest-fellow-fsa-fighter-dressed-in-womens-clothing-after-attempted-escape/

>Jihadist rebels kill 6 civilians in Aleppo after launching attack on city
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:10 A.M.) – The jihadist rebels launched another powerful attack on the provincial capital of the Aleppo Governorate on Wednesday.

Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham’s attack resulted in the death of at least six civilians, while also wounding four people that were in the area.

Aleppo is supposed to be part of the de-escalation zone deal; however, the jihadist rebels have not respected this agreement, as they have launched several attacks.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-kill-6-civilians-in-aleppo-after-launching-attack-on-city-video/

>Assad confirms Russia, US, Israel in contact over southern Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:00 A.M.) – Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad sat down for an interview with Lebanese journalist Hosein Murtada on Wednesday in order to discuss a number of topics currently affecting his country.

The Syrian President discussed the situation in southern Syria, which he said had not been settled yet due to the ongoing talks of reconciliation.

However, the Syrian President did confirm the reports of ongoing talks between Russia, the U.S., and Israel regarding the fate of southern Syria.

“No, contacts are still ongoing between the Russians, the Americans, and the Israelis, while nobody is communicating with the terrorists, because they are mere tools, and they implement what their masters decide ultimately,” Assad began.

“This is what happened, i.e. there was an opportunity to reach reconciliation, but the American and Israeli interference prevented that possibility,” he continued.

Assad’s confirmed the recent reports that these three world powers were in fact negotiating and working towards a solution that avoid a possible conflict.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/assad-confirms-russia-us-israel-in-contact-over-southern-syria/

R&U video,

>Libyan forces' battle for eastern city Derna in final stages | June 12th 2018
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mg-uud4tCjo

>Gulf-backed troops make serious push to seize Hodeideh Airport
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:40 A.M.) – The Gulf-backed troops are making another serious push to capture the strategic Hodeideh Airport from the Houthi forces in west Yemen, pro-government activists reported this morning.

Led by the Syrian Resistance Army and Yemeni Republican Guard, the Gulf-backed troops stormed the last remaining sites located south of the Hodeideh Airport.

No gains have been reported yet.

Should the Gulf-backed troops capture the Hodeideh Airport, they will be within distance of the provincial capital and its strategic port.

The Hodeideh Port is the last major port that is under the control of the Houthi forces in west Yemen.

If lost, the Houthi forces will find themselves under a land, sea, and air siege that is imposed by the pro-government troops and Arab Coalition.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/gulf-backed-troops-make-serious-push-to-seize-hodeideh-airport/

>Fierce clashes breakout in northern Aleppo as Syrian Army, rebels trade attacks
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:00 A.M.) – A violent exchange was reported this morning in the Aleppo Governorate after the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and jihadist rebels traded attacks in the northern part of the provincial capital.

According to a report from the National Defense Forces (NDF), the jihadist rebels unleashed a barrage of artillery shells and missiles towards the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) positions inside the Al-Zahra’a Association Quarter.

In response to this jihadist attack, the Syria Army launched several missiles and artillery shells towards the rebel defenses inside the nearby Al-Layramoun District.

While the NDF blames the jihadist rebels for the hostilities, the pro-opposition Qasioun News Agency claimed that the clashes broke-out after the Syrian military was spotted trying to sneak across the Castillo Highway.

The fighting in the Aleppo Governorate has recently intensified after the arrival of the Turkish military, who have established several observation posts around the provincial capital.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/fierce-clashes-breakout-in-northern-aleppo-as-syrian-army-rebels-trade-attacks/

>Military commanders from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Russia meet in Baghdad
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:30 A.M.) – Military commanders from Iraq, Syria, Iran, and Russia held a meeting in Baghdad on Wednesday to discuss regional security and their continued cooperation in the battle against terrorism, the Mehr News Agency reported this morning.

According to the Mehr report, representatives of the four countries emphasized the need to continue and expand cooperation in fight against terrorism.

Iraq’s Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Othman al-Ghanmi, stated after the meeting that he appreciated the ongoing cooperation between Iraq, Iran, Russia and Syria, adding that this coalition has been ‘effective’ in the fight against terrorism.

Brigadier General Mostafa Moradian, the Military Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Iraq, called for cementing the quadrilateral ties until they defeat terrorists inside their countries.

This military meeting is held periodically and it includes all four of these countries.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/military-commanders-from-iraq-syria-iran-russia-meet-in-baghdad/

>Netanyahu says Israel has struck pro-Iranian forces in Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:00 P.M.) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Thursday that his military has repeatedly struck Hezbollah inside Syria.

Netanyahu accused Iran of sending approximately 80,000 Shiite fighters to Syria, which is based on the numerical figure first mentioned by an MEK-linked think tank.

“That is a recipe for a re-inflammation of another civil war – I should say a theological war, a religious war – and the sparks of that could be millions more that go into Europe,” Netanyahu told an international security forum.

“Obviously we are not going to let them do it,” Netanyahu stated in regards to this alleged ‘religious’ war.

“We’ll fight them. By preventing that – and we have bombed the bases of these Shiite militias – by preventing that, we are also offering, helping the security of your countries, the security of the world,” he added.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/netanyahu-says-israel-has-struck-pro-iranian-forces-in-syria/

>Syrian Army extends deadline for rebels to reconcile in southern Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:15 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has agreed to extend the deadline for the rebels to submit their answer regarding whether or not they will reconcile with the government in southern Syria.

Initially, the deadline was set for June 14th, but as Al-Masdar reported on Wednesday, the date would likely be pushed back as the Syrian Army negotiates with the Al-Quneitra town elders and community leaders.

While the Syrian Army is fully prepared to launch their Al-Quneitra offensive, they will attempt to secure a reconciliation agreement in order to avoid a long operation against the rebel forces.

The rebel forces in both Dara’a and Al-Quneitra have already indicated that they are not willing to reconcile with the government; however, the Syrian military is attempting to convince the town elders in both provinces to pressure these militants into accepting a deal .

The government’s main priority at this point is reopening the Nassib Crossing in southern Dara’a, so if they can secure an agreement with the rebels to open this site, this could delay the offensive for much longer.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-extends-deadline-for-rebels-to-reconcile-in-southern-syria/

>US, Turkey agree to force YPG leave Manbij in July
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:40 P.M.) – Turkey’s Chief of General Staff General Hulusi Akar and NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Curtis Scaparotti agreed via telephone on Wednesday to force the Kurdish-led People’s Protection Units (YPG) to leave Manbij by July.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Turkish General Staff said Akar and Scaparrotti developed a roadmap to end the disagreement over Manbij.

The Manbij roadmap was announced after a meeting in Washington last week between Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The deal focuses on the withdrawal of the YPG forces from Manbij.

Should the model prove a success, Turkey will push for a similar arrangement in eastern Syria.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-turkey-agree-to-force-ypg-leave-manbij-in-july/

>>153477
>>153476
>>153475
>>153474
>>153473
>>153472
cheers Pingu, you are making my morning devs update much easier, usually I check al-Masdar first

>>153478
np mate.

>>153480
they have really stepped up activity in Kirkuk lately, plus a few sporadic suicide bombings in Baghdad over the last few weeks

>>153479
I guess we will get to see if MBS is alive today

>Putin to meet Saudi crown prince, energy ministers on Thursday

>Russian President Vladimir Putin and Energy Minister Aleksandr Novak will meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman and Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih on Thursday, according to the Kremlin schedule. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov has previously said that the two delegations would discuss an agreement on cutting global oil production, which Saudi Arabia and Russia are leading. They did not plan to discuss an exit from the deal. Crown Prince Mohammad is one of world leaders visiting Russia for the soccer World Cup. The Saudi and Russian soccer teams are due to play in the first game of the tournament on Thursday.

Devs June 14
>SAA extends deadline for reconciliation in Daraa, negotiation with Al-Quneitra town elders and community leaders ongoing
>Deal reached between Turkey and Nato, YPG will depart from Manbij by July
>Yemen; Gulf-backed troops continue push to cap Hodeideh Airport from Houthis, storming the last sites S of airport
>N Aleppo; Rebels launch artillery/missiles at SAA in Al-Zahra’a Association Quarter, SAA responded with strikes at rebels in Al-Layramoun Dist
>SDF reportedly captured Rujm Darwish town from ISIS in southern Al-Hasakah
>OPCW released statement stating Sarin & Chlorine were used in Al-Lataminah on 24th and 25th of March 2017
>Military commanders from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Russia met in Baghdad to discuss regional security and continued coop against terrorism
>Bibi; Israel will prevent Iran from using militias in Sy to wage "religious war...sparks of that could be millions more that go into Europe"
>Libya; LNA battle for Derna nears final stage as they close in on final jihadist postions
>Putin to meet Saudi crown prince and KSA energy ministers today
>Jordan’s king approves new govt led by Harvard-educated ex-World Bank economist, Omar al-Razzaz

>>153481
aye, seems things are going back to 2003 insurgency and that shit was extreme in its own right.
>>153482
>Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov has previously said that the two delegations would discuss an agreement on cutting global oil production
Didnt they already made an agreement on reducing the oil production to overcome the glut in the market?

>Assassination of two members from reconciliation committee in NW #Daraa by unknown assailants:

1. Dr. Musa ‘Ali Jamil Qanbas” in Al-Hara town
2. Hamed Riyadh Shahadat in Da’el town
https://twitter.com/ArabianaINTEL/status/1007250974673719296

>Syrian, Russian Forces respond to rebel violations in northwest Aleppo
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (4:45 P.M.) – Rebels’ repeated violations for the agreed-on ceasefire in Aleppo city were met with a decisive response by the Syrian as well Russian forces.

Several airstrikes were carried out by Russian fighter jets on positions, headquarters and launch-pads for the jihadi groups holed up in Al-Layramoun area in northwest Aleppo.

The deadly aerial bombardment has reportedly killed and injured scores of militants.

This was done concurrently with heavy shelling with MLRs and ground-to-ground missiles by the Syrian Army.

Jihadi militants outside Aleppo have stepped up their attacks in the past few weeks, killing and injuring scores of civilians, including children.

Yesterday, at least 6 people were killed in rebel rocket attack on Tishreen Street residential area.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-russian-forces-respond-to-rebel-violations-in-northwest-aleppo/

>Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnO4mmUIP-I

>Kurdish militia inches closer to ISIS stronghold in eastern Syria
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (5:25 P.M.) – A US-backed Syrian group continues to seize more territories from the Islamic State, thus inching closer to the group’s main stronghold along the Syria-Iraq borders.

The offensive, heavily backed by US airstrikes, has so far granted the Syrian Democratic Forces over control over 30 towns and villages with the main objective to seize ISIS’ bastion in south Hasakah; Dashishah .

According to SDF sources, some 700-800 ISIS militants have been killed during the assault launched nearly 2 weeks ago, mostly of Tunisian and Afghan nationalities.

A Kurdish commander spoke of the tactics used by the terror group in the ongoing battles. “ISIS heavily relies on mines and IEDs to curb the SDF advance given the intensity and scale of our attack”.

“Our forces now are only 3 km away from Dashishah after taking over 2 new towns yesterday”, he added.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-kurdish-militia-inches-closer-to-isis-stronghold-in-eastern-syria/

>Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwiUgK3ZlzE

Greetings! It was a long time since I dont post anything here.
I was busy with some studies, but I guess I´ll be back to pay more atention at these threads again. And maybe I could make more of Syriana if I got the chance.

>Kremlin comments on Moscow’s call to stop operations in Syria
Moscow’s calls for refraining from operations in Syria have nothing to do with the FIFA World Cup but are in line with Russia’s consistent efforts to resolve the Syria issue, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in response to a TASS question.

“It has nothing to do with the World Cup, it is in line with Russia’s consistent efforts aimed at calling on countries and encouraging them to adopt a balanced position and prevent actions that could lead to dangerous consequences and destabilize the situation, which is already fragile,” the Russian presidential spokesman said.

The Israel Hayom daily said earlier that Russia had called on Israel not to conduct any operations in Syria during the FIFA World Cup. According to the newspaper, in the past several weeks, Moscow informed countries active in Syria that it expected them to maintain a low level of activity on the Syrian territory for the duration for the World Cup.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/kremlin-comments-on-moscows-call-to-stop-operations-in-syria/

>#HASAKAH: #SDF’s separatist militias (#YPG/J) led by #US Army claim “capture” of Rujm Darwish town from #ISIS en route to strategic #Dashishah town & #Syria|n - #Iraq|i border crossing (Tal Safouk). (13 June 2018) #JazeeraStorm

INTERACTIVE SYRIA: https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?ll=36.05250721045434%2C41.102617994382854&z=11&mid=18SR1C6ndDz5d0qzT2qYQ34FaQJ0 …
https://twitter.com/ArabianaINTEL/status/1007259597227347969

>>153484
>Didnt they already made an agreement on reducing the oil production to overcome the glut in the market?

Pretty sure they do, I think that is what the article is basically saying, that they were discussing the details of the agreement that is already in place

>>153500
Please do.

>>153500
Please do!

>>153500
Oh, good joy, please do.
There's a dangerous lack of pony-related content in these threads.

>>153507
Ebin is back?

>>153557
Nothing I know about, had quite a busy day today. ;^)

>US threatens decisive ‘response’ if Syrian Army launches southern Syria offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (6:30 A.M.) – The U.S. State Department released a statement on Thursday evening that warned the Syrian government against launching their planned southern Syria offensive.

According to the first part of the statement, the U.S. is concerned about this government operation because it violates the de-escalation zone agreement in southwest Syria.

“The United States remains concerned by reports of impending Syrian government operations in southwest Syria within the boundaries of the de-escalation zone,” the statement began.

The State Department then threatened to issue a decisive response if the government goes through with this operation.

“We affirm again that the United States will take firm and appropriate measures in response to Syrian government violations in this area,” they continued.

Furthermore, the U.S. State Department called on Russia to step in to dissuade the Syrian government from launching this offensive against the militant groups in the Dara’a and Al-Sweida governorates.

“Russia is duly responsible as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to use its diplomatic and military influence over the Syrian government to stop attacks and compel the government to cease further military offensives,” the statement added.

The de-escalation zone agreement that the U.S. State Department is referring to is in the provinces of Al-Sweida, Dara’a, and Al-Quneitra.

Due to the fact that rebel groups have refused to reconcile with the government, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has increased their presence in the Dara’a and Al-Quneitra governorates.

The reason for this large deployment of Syrian military personnel is to launch an offensive that is similar to their previous operations in the East Ghouta, eastern Qalamoun, and northern Homs regions.
As of now, the Syrian government is negotiating with the rebel forces and town elders in both the Dara’a and Al-Quneitra governorates; they are attempting to convince them to reconcile in order to avoid a military confrontation.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-us-threatens-decisive-response-if-syrian-army-launches-southern-syria-offensive/

>De Mistura says ‘progress is possible’ in Syrian talks
United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura expressed confidence that “progress is possible” in Syria talks, during a news conference in Geneva on Thursday.

“This is a Syrian-owned, Syrian-led UN facilitated effort that we are seeking and intending to carry forward. We are seeing movement and we will keep seeking more of it,” de Mistura said.

He however cautioned about having big expectations, saying “I don’t expect, let’s be frank, a major breakthrough, okay, but I’m confident that progress is possible and there is something moving in that direction and we need to capitalize on it.”

De Mistura also confirmed that he received a list of 50 names from the Syrian government, from which candidates will be selected to join a constitutional committee to set a framework for political reform in Syria.

According to reports, de Mistura plans to hold talks with Russian, Turkish, and Iranian officials early next week, and later on the 25th will meet with US, Saudi, German, British, French, and Jordanian officials.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/de-mistura-says-progress-is-possible-in-syrian-talks-video/

>US tells Saudi Arabia to not purchase S-400 air defense system – report
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:00 A.M.) – U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Mid-East Affairs, David Schenker, recommended that Saudi Arabia and other allies not purchase Russian-manufactured military equipment, including the S-400 air defense systems, an RIA Novosti report claimed on Friday.

“I will (if approved) interact with our allies to dissuade them or encourage them to refuse to acquire military equipment that is potentially under the sanctions,” Schenker said at a congressional hearing.

“In other words, I would advise Saudi Arabia not to do this,” Schenker stressed.

At the end of May, Saudi Ambassador to Moscow Raid bin Khalid Krimli said that negotiations with Russia on the supply of S-400 surface-to-air missile systems are proceeding successfully, but the date of finalization has not yet been fixed.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-tells-saudi-arabia-to-not-purchase-s-400-air-defense-system-report/

>Houthi forces score direct missile strike on gathering of Gulf-backed troops in Hodeideh
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:10 A.M.) – The Houthi forces fired a ballistic missile towards the Gulf-backed troops in the western province of Hodeideh this morning.

According to the official media wing of the Houthi forces, their rocket battalion fired a Qaher-M2 missile at a gathering of Gulf-backed troops in the Hodeideh Governorate.

The Houthi forces added that they scored a direct hit on the Gulf-backed troops.

This latest missile strike by the Houthi forces comes just 48 hours after the Gulf-backed troops launched their largest offensive of the Yemen War.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/houthi-forces-score-direct-missile-strike-on-gathering-of-gulf-backed-troops-in-hodeideh/

>FSA launches new attack in west Daraa
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:20 A.M.) – The rebel forces launched a new assault in the western countryside of the Dara’a Governorate this week, targeting the Islamic State’s (ISIS) positions near the Heit axis.

Led by the Free Syrian Army (FSA), the rebel forces began their assault by attempting to advance west of Heit.

The rebel forces were then confronted by the ISIS-affiliate Jaysh Khaled bin Walid; this would result in a fierce battle that is supposedly still ongoing.

According to opposition activists, their forces have killed at least five Islamic State terrorists, while not mentioning their own casualties.

The Free Syrian Army and ISIS have been involved in several intense clashes over the last two weeks, as both groups attempt to gain the upper-hand in this part of the Yarmouk Basin region of Dara’a.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/fsa-launches-new-attack-in-west-daraa/

>Large number of ISIS terrorists killed as Syrian troops score major advance in southeast Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (9:00 A.M.) – A large number of Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists were killed this week during the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) major advance across the Badiya Al-Sham region of Deir Ezzor.

Led by their 5th Legion, the Syrian Arab Army was able to liberate more than 2,000 square kilometers of territory inside this part of the Badiya Al-Sham region, which is located just west of Al-Mayadeen city.

As a result of this advance, the Syrian Army was able to fully secure Al-Mayadeen city and force the Islamic State to fully retreat to the vast desert region between west Deir Ezzor and east Homs.

According to a military source in Deir Ezzor, the Syrian Army was able to kill more than 40 Islamic State militants during their short operation against the terrorist forces inside this desert region.

The source added that the Syrian Army is now working to clear the last remnants of the Islamic State to the west of Al-Mayadeen.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/large-number-of-isis-terrorists-killed-as-syrian-troops-score-major-advance-in-southeast-syria/

>Turkey claims 26 PKK fighters killed in northern Iraq
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:20 A.M.) – The Turkish military killed at least 26 fighters from the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in the Qandil Mountains region of northern Iraq today, Turkish state-owned Anadolu Agency reported.

According to the report, the Turkish Air Force carried out a number of airstrikes on PKK targets in the Qandil Mountains, killing these 26 Kurdish fighters in the process.

The PKK, which has fought a decades-old insurgency against the state in southeastern Turkey, has bases in the Qandil region.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan recently vowed to “drain the terror swamp” in Qandil.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkey-claims-26-pkk-fighters-killed-in-northern-iraq/

>Saudi Air Force attempts to pound Houthi forces into submission in Hodeideh
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:30 A.M.) – The Saudi Air Force and their allies in the Arab Coalition have relentlessly targeted the strategic port-city of Hodeideh this morning, hitting several areas in and around the provincial capital.

According to pro-Houthi media, the Saudi-led Coalition has launched dozens of airstrikes over Hodeideh city and its corresponding airport, with most of the attacks targeting latter.

The Saudi-led Coalition is launching these airstrikes over the Hodeideh Airport in an effort to force the Houthi troops to abandon this strategic installation that is located just south of the provincial capital.

However, other than badly damaging some parts of the airport and residential areas inside the city, the airstrikes have been unable to forces the Houthi troops from abandoning thes sites.

Due to their losses from yesterday’s battle, the Yemeni Republican Guard and UAE-backed Southern Resistance Army are heavily relying on the Saudi-led Coalition to do most of the legwork around Hodeideh.

While they claim scores of Houthi fighters were killed during yesterday’s battle, the aforementioned group denies their reports, adding that it was their forces that got the better of the two.

Hodeideh is the last major port that is under the control of the Houthi forces; if lost, the latter will be under a land, air, and sea siege.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/saudi-air-force-attempts-to-pound-houthi-forces-into-submission-in-hodeideh/

>Turkey slams US demand to drop S-400 deal for F-35s as ‘blackmail’
Turkish Defense Minister Nurettin Canikli has warned the US against preventing the new F-35 jets from being shipped in accordance with their contract, the Turkish news agency Anadolu reported.

Canikli branded Washington’s threats to block Turkey from acquiring the cutting-edge jet unless it abandons its agreement with Russia on the delivery of S-400 systems as “blackmail.”

He also recalled that Ankara has fulfilled its obligations pertaining to the F-35 development project and has already paid $800 million out of a total $11 billion for 100 jets.

He added that making such additional demands to the original agreement is not acceptable from either a diplomatic or an economic point of view.

At the same time, a Lockheed Martin spokesman confirmed to the media outlet Defense News that the company is still aiming to deliver Turkey’s first F-35 in according to schedule on June 21.

According to the spokesman, it will be delivered to Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, where Turkish pilots will familiarize themselves with the new jet.

The US Senate will be voting on the bill proposing that Washington halt the transfer of F-35s to Turkey until the Department of Defense submits a report on Turkey’s deal with Russia on acquiring S-400 air defense systems.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkey-slams-us-demand-to-drop-s-400-deal-for-f-35s-as-blackmail/

>Syrian reconciliation delegate assassinated in Daraa
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:15 A.M.) – A reconciliation delegate was assassinated in the Dara’a Governorate, Thursday, as he was preparing to enter his office near the Al-Quneitra provincial border.

According to local repports, Dr. Mousa Qanbas was entering his clinic in Tal Al-Harrah, when unknown assailants opened fire on him.

Dr. Qanbas was succumbed to his wounds before he could receive any medical care, a source told Al-Masdar.

Militant groups have recently targeted residents and rebel factions for holding reconciliation talks with the government in southern Syria; this has prompted the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) to threaten to launch their military operations in Dara’a and Al-Quneitra.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-reconciliation-delegate-assassinated-in-daraa/

>Kurdish-led forces claim 15 Turkish soldiers, rebels killed in Afrin
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:45 A.M.) – The Kurdish-led People’s Protection Units (YPG) alleged on Friday that their troops had killed at least 15 Turkish soldiers and rebels in the Afrin region of northwest Aleppo.

“Within the scope of the second phase of the resistance of the Age against the Turkish occupation in Afrin, our units carried out a series of military operations against the invasion forces and its mercenaries in the vicinity of Afrin’s Sherawa district and city center, killing at least 15 Turkish soldiers and mercenaries.”

While the Turkish military and their rebel allies control Afrin, there are many YPG sleeper cells that are believed to be located across this region.

Most recently, a group calling themselves “Suqour Afrin” (var. Afrin Hawks) issued a threat to the Turkish-backed rebels and their families in Afrin.

Suqour Afrin demanded that the Turkish-backed rebels and their families leave Afrin or else they were going to kill them.

Since they made this threat, several rebel fighters have been killed and at least one major field commander has been assassinated.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/kurdish-led-forces-claim-15-turkish-soldiers-rebels-killed-in-afrin/

>Russia fires back at US over chemical weapons provocation denial
All chemical provocations in Syria follow the same scenario, the Russian embassy in Washington said, commenting on the US Department of State’s recent remarks.

Russian Defense Ministry Spokesman Igor Konashenkov said on June 14 that Free Syrian Army (FSA) militants have delivered chlorine cylinders to the Syrian Deir ez-Zor province to simulate another “chemical attack against civilians” in a bid to create “a new pretext for a missile strike on Syria’s state facilities by the US-led coalition.”

“Even State Department spokesperson cannot deny any CW [chemical weapons] provocation in Syria having the same scenario. Let’s remind you about the loud exposure of the staged Douma ‘attack’,” the embassy said in a Twitter post.

US Department of State Spokesperson Heather Nauert replied that the United States was not preparing any kind of chemical provocation in Syria, describing Konashenkov’s report as “false.” “While Russia used nerve agent in #Salisbury and shields Assad from accountability for repeated CW attacks in Syria, we abide by the Chemical Weapons Convention,” she added.

The Russian diplomatic mission also called on Washington to destroy its chemical stockpiles and declassify information about the nerve agent known as Novichok. While OPCW experts have confirmed that Moscow has completely fulfilled its obligations under the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Washington still delays the program.

The Convention that went into force in 1997 stipulates that chemical weapons must be eliminated no later than 10 years after the document’s entry into force. However, the Pentagon has shifted the deadline of completing the program of eliminating its chemical weapon stockpiles several years now: from 2007 to 2012, then to 2017, to 2021 and, finally, to 2023.

In April, some non-governmental organizations, including White Helmets, claimed that chemical weapons were used in Douma, Eastern Ghouta, on April 7. According to the statement uploaded to the organization’s website on April 8, chlorine bombs were dropped on the city to kill dozens and poison other local civilians who had to be brought to hospital.

The Russian Foreign Ministry dismissed that as fake news. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that White Helmets were an unreliable source, notorious for disseminating falsehoods. The Russian center for the reconciliation of conflicting parties on April 9 examined Douma to find no traces of chemical weapons. However, on April 14, the US, the UK and France, using unconfirmed information about the chemical attack as an excuse, carried a massive strike on Syria without the sanction of the UN Security Council.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russia-fires-back-at-us-over-chemical-weapons-provocation-denial/

>Syrian Army, Hezbollah gear up for 2nd phase of southeast Syria offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:00 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and Hezbollah are preparing to launch the second phase of their eastern Al-Sweida offensive that is geared to clear the last remnants of the Islamic State (ISIS) in this region.

According to a military report, reinforcements from the Republican Guard have arrived in the Badiya Al-Sham region of Al-Sweida in order to participate in the next phase of this offensive.

The Syrian Army and Hezbollah launched the first phase of this Badiya Al-Sham offensive early last week.

In a matter of hours, the Syrian Army and Hezbollah were able to take control of large swathes of territory, including several hilltops that were previously under the Islamic State’s control.

This next phase of the offensive will be focused on clearing the Islamic State terrorists from the Al-Kara’a area and large hilltop of Tal Barakat.

Recently, Islamic State offensives have been reported at Tal Barakat; however, all of these terrorist attacks have failed.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-gear-up-for-2nd-phase-of-southeast-syria-offensive/

>Tensions rise in southwest Syria as Syrian military attacks rebel forces
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:20 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) heavily bombarded the northwestern part of the Dara’a Governorate this morning, following the assassination of a reconciliation delegate from the town of Tal Al-Harrah.

According to a military report, the Syrian Army launched several artillery shells and missiles towards Tal Al-Harrah and a few nearby villages in retaliation for the death of a local doctor that was part of the reconciliation delegation in northwest Dara’a

The pro-opposition Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) claimed that this bombardment resulted in the death of a half dozen people, making this the deadliest day in southwest Syria in the last two months.

On Thursday, the Syrian Army postponed their offensive in an effort to continue reconciliation talks with the opposition in southwest Syria; however, later in the day, Dr. Mousa Qanbas of the reconciliation delegation in Tal Al-Harrah was assassinated by unknown assailants.

This assassination infuriated the Syrian military commanders in southwest Syria, as there is an agreement to not target reconciliation delegates.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/tensions-rise-in-southwest-syria-as-syrian-military-attacks-rebel-forces/

>Islamist rebels launch powerful attack on Syrian military positions in northern Hama
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:50 P.M.) – The Islamist rebels in northern Hama have launched a new attack on the Syrian military’s positions this afternoon, the National Defense Forces (NDF) reported.

According to the NDF, the Islamist rebels of Jaysh Al-Izza launched several missiles towards the Syrian military’s positions at the Al-Mayadan District and Al-Zaleen checkpoint in northern Hama.

The National Defense Forces added that the attack originated from the town of Al-Lataminah, which is Jaysh Al-Izza’s stronghold in northern Hama.

The Syrian military has yet to respond.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-launch-powerful-attack-on-syrian-military-positions-in-northern-hama/

>Jordan allegedly withdraws ambassador from Iran – Al-Arabiya
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:00 P.M.) – Jordan has allegedly withdrawn their ambassador to Iran, Saudi state-owned Al-Arabiya TV claimed this afternoon.

Citing a senior Jordanian official, Al-Arabiya claimed ambassador ‘Abdallah Suleiman Abu Raman was transferred from Tehran to ‘Amman this week.

“There is no intention of naming another Jordanian ambassador to Tehran at this moment,” the unnamed Jordanian official told Al-Arabiya.

According to the Al-Arabiya source, the reason for the withdrawal is “Jordan’s firm stance on Iran’s policies that involve their interference in the affairs of regional countries.”

The Al-Arabiya source stressed Iran’s specific policies against “the security of the countries in this region, especially Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.”

He added “Saudi Arabia’s security is our security.”

The source confirmed that the Jordanian ambassador to Iran had already returned to Amman this morning after being summoned for consultations on the background of “Iranian interference in Arab affairs.”
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-jordan-allegedly-withdraws-ambassador-from-iran-al-arabiya/

>Russian diplomat says some countries softening stance on Assad’s resignation
Some countries that earlier demanded that Bashar al-Assad step down as Syria’s President are softening their position, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Friday.

“Political efforts are underway to set up a UN-backed constitutional committee and launch work on Syria’s Constitution in accordance with the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and taking into account the results of the Syrian National Dialogue Congress in Sochi,” the diplomat stated.

“The Syrian government’s military accomplishments in the war on terror and efforts to promote the political settlement of the Syrian crisis have prompted the external forces involved in it to think about choosing their line for the future,” Zakharova said.

“We have been receiving signals on softening stances by a number of countries, which earlier demanded Assad’s resignation and regime change in Syria.”

According to Zakharova, illegitimate military presence in Syria continues. “Attempts to set up parallel government agencies in the areas controlled by external forces continue,” she noted.

“The US-led coalition tends to divide terrorists into ‘bad’ and ‘not very bad’ ones. This approach is not conducive to finding a political solution and stabilization, pose a threat to Syria’s territorial integrity and preserve the potential for conflict.”

She pointed to the need for making progress to achieve a sustainable political settlement in Syria, adding that “stagnation in that process is very dangerous.” “Stagnation can nullify the considerable accomplishments in the fight against terrorists over the past few months,” she said. “This cannot be allowed to happen.”.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-diplomat-says-some-countries-softening-stance-on-assads-resignation/

>Gulf-backed forces advance on strategic Hodeideh city
Yemeni pro-government forces backed by the Saudi-led coalition advanced towards the western port city of Hodeideh on Thursday.

The Saudi-led coalition launched a full-scale offensive on Houthi positions in Hodeidah on Wednesday. According to reports, the attack included targets close to the city’s airport.

The Yemeni port of Hodeideh is the country’s main point of entry for food aid.

With 8.4 million people forced to the brink of starvation, the country has plunged into what is deemed the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/gulf-backed-forces-advance-on-strategic-hodeideh-city-video/

>Video in link

>Putin, Netanyahu express readiness to coordinate in Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:30 P.M.) – Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a phone conversation on Friday that touched on a number of topics, including the current war in Syria, a Kremlin statement read this afternoon.

According to the Kremlin, the two leaders expressed their readiness to coordinate inside Syria and expand their relations in the region.

“The situation in Syria was discussed in the context of joint efforts to ensure security in the Syrian-Israeli border area. Both sides expressed readiness to boost coordination on Syria, including on countering international terrorism,” the statement said.

While the statement did not mention the current situation in southwest Syria, it is very likely that the two leaders discussed this topic, especially since the U.S. issued a stern warning to the Syrian government on Thursday.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/putin-netanyahu-express-readiness-to-coordinate-in-syria/

>Gulf-backed troops seize strategic Hodeideh Airport
BEIRUT, LEBANON (4:15 P.M.) – The Gulf-backed troops in western Yemen have seized the strategic Hodeideh Airport after a short battle with the Houthi forces today, the Yemeni Republican Guard reported.

According to the Yemeni Republican Guard, their troops first seized the southern part of the Hodeideh Airport, which ultimately forced the Houthi fighters to completely withdraw from the installation this afternoon.

No photos or videos have been released yet to corroborate these claims.

The Houthi forces have not issued a statement to deny the Yemeni Republican Guard’s claims.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-gulf-backed-troops-seize-strategic-hodeideh-airport/

>#Syria ##Daraa_CS
The Syrian Army this morning conducted artillery strikes and rocket barrage upon the positions of Militants in #Al_Hara and #KafrShams and the road connecting #AlMal and #Aqraba.
https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/1007623439904108544

>New OPCW report on chemical weapons use in Syria raises questions — Russian diplomat
A report by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on the alleged use of chemical weapons in Syria’s Hama province on March 24-25, 2017 fails to meet information gathering and analysis criteria and raises questions, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Friday.

“It becomes obvious already after the first reading of the report that the methods of the [OPCW] mission’s work are still far from the requirements for gathering and analyzing information on the alleged use of chemical agents that are set forth in the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and the OPCW regulatory documents,” the Russian diplomat noted.

“It is also questionable why the report was released more than a year after the chemical attacks were registered and what value the analysis of the probes generally has after the elapse of such a lengthy period,” Zakharova noted.

Moreover, “all this [the OPCW report] appeared intentionally for the agenda of a special session of the Conference of the Convention’s member states being convened already the other day by a group of Western states and scheduled to take place in The Hague on June 26-28,” the Russian diplomat said.

The Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman did not rule out that another report might appear closer to this date on the alleged use of chemical weapons in the Syrian town of Douma on April 7 this year.

“It won’t come as any surprise, if on the eve of the conference the corresponding report appears on the chemical incident in Douma contrary to the reliable information received by the Russian military specialists on the staged nature of the incident,” Zakharova pointed out.

The OPCW press office reported on June 13 that its fact-finding mission probing the alleged use of chemical weapons in Syria confirmed in a new report that “sarin was very likely used as a chemical weapon in the south of Ltamenah, Syrian Arab Republic, on 24 March 2017.”

The fact-finding mission also concluded that chlorine was very likely used as a chemical weapon during the shelling of Ltamenah Hospital and the surrounding area on March 25, 2017.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/new-opcw-report-on-chemical-weapons-use-in-syria-raises-questions-russian-diplomat/

>>153650
Can they start already? Deadline was set to 14th...

>>153654
The deadline was extended but the strikes are most probably in response to the assassination of the reconciliation delegate.

>>153655
Even more? Gooood...

>>153656
The timeframe for the extension has not disclosed but I dont think it will last more than this weekend
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-extends-deadline-for-rebels-to-reconcile-in-southern-syria/

Mohammad bin Salman after the match
https://twitter.com/Moosa__IRQ/status/1007300443410763776

>‘Falsification of facts’ – Zakharova on OPCW Syria report
BEIRUT, LEBANON (6:10 P.M.) – Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova commented on the recent report by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on the alleged chemical attack in Syrian city of Hama last year, speaking at the weekly briefing in Moscow, Thursday.

She added that the report is questionable as it was issued more than a year after the reported incident.

On June 13 the fact-finding mission of the OPCW confirmed the use of sarin and chlorine in the Syrian province of Hama in March 2017, not saying who is to blame for the attack.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/falsification-of-facts-zakharova-on-opcw-syria-report-video/

>Video in link

>With the announcement of the new political bloc between Iraqi Sairoon Alliance&Fatah Alliance,Kurdistan Democratic Party led by #KRG president Masoud Barzani's alliance would join forces with Sadr and Amiri after Eid al-Fitr
#Iraq
https://twitter.com/metesohtaoglu/status/1007659273764134912

>France’s Renault to stay in Iran despite US sanctions against Tehran
In May, Washington announced its decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal and re-impose sanctions on Tehran, the move that prompted backlash in Europe and other countries worldwide.

The CEO of France’s automobile manufacturer Renault has announced that it would stay in Iran even “with lower sails.”

Tensions between Iran and the United States have been on the rise since May 8, when the US President Donald Trump announced his decision to pull the US out of the Iran nuclear deal and hit the country with new economic sanctions in 90 days.

Renault Group is represented in Iran by the Renault Pars, France’s and Iran’s joint venture.

Iran is the third largest market for French manufacturer after France and Brazil, with Renault’s 2017 sails in Iran accounting for almost 80 percent of all cars sold by the company in the Middle East.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/frances-renault-to-stay-in-iran-despite-us-sanctions-against-tehran/

>Russian official warns US to not use ‘tough measures’ against Syrian Army in southwest Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:00 P.M.) – The Deputy Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Jabarov, was quoted as saying on Friday that the U.S. military should avoid using “tough measures” against the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) in southwest Syria.

As quoted by the RBC News Agency, Jabarov warned the U.S. from usig tough measures against the Syrian Army, stressing that this “is totaly unaccelptable” behavior by the U.S. military.

“Americans have resorted to this practice before. I hope that there will be no unpredictable action against the Syrian government army. In any case, it is necessary to avoid the confrontation, ” the Russian official said.

“Russia always listens to good advice. If this is really aimed at reducing tensions, then perhaps we will listen. I think that Russia with the data provided by its intelligence, intelligence services and government structures of Syria will analyze and make relevant conclusions, ” he said.

Jabarov was responding to the U.S. State Department’s recent statement that warned the Syrian government against launching their southwest Syria offensive.

In particular, State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said that the U.S. will give the Syrian government a decisive response to their offensive.

“As a guarantor of this de-escalation area with Russia and Jordan, the United States will take firm and appropriate measures in response to Assad regime violations,” she stated.

The Syrian government has not responded to Nauert’s warnings as of yet.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-official-warns-us-to-not-use-tough-measures-against-syrian-army-in-southwest-syria/

>Houthi forces deny Gulf-backed troops advanced to Hodeideh Airport
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:20 P.M.) – The Houthi forces have denied reports that the Gulf-backed troops have reached the Hodeideh Airport this afternoon, despite several claims from pro-government media outlets.

According to the official media wing of the Houthi forces, there have been no clashes near the Hodeideh Airport or most other places around the Hodeideh Governorate.

The Houthi forces added that the explosions heard in Hodeideh were a result of heavy airstrikes from the Saudi-led Coalition.

Earlier today, Sky News Arabia reported that the Yemeni Republican Guard and their allies had reached the southern entrance of the Hodeideh Airport after a fierce battle with the Houthi forces.

Since this report, several pro-government activists have claimed that the Yemeni Republican Guard has seized several parts of the airport, with some even claiming that the entire installation is under their control.

As of now, the situation is still unclear, as both sides report entirely different things.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/houthi-forces-deny-gulf-backed-troops-advanced-to-hodeideh-airport/

>Israeli DM denies reports of Hezbollah, Iranians disguised as Syrian Army in southern Syria
The Israeli Defense Minister’s remarks follow a report printed in the Wall Street Journal last week claiming that Iranian and Hezbollah forces had left the areas of Daraa and Quneitra in southern Syria, only to return disguised as Syrian troops, in a bid to avoid Israeli strikes.

Speaking to the Israeli radio station 103FM, Israel’s Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said that although there are several dozen Iranian “so-called advisors” in southern Syria, there are no forces there disguised as Syrian army forces or operating within its ranks.

Last week, The Wall Street Journal citing senior Syrian rebels who claimed that Iranian troops and Hezbollah fighters dressed in Syrian army uniforms were present in southern Syria.

Earlier, Russia, the US, Jordan and Israel discussed the withdrawal of all non-Syrian military formations from the southern de-escalation zone on the country’s southern borders with Israel and Jordan.

Tel Aviv insists on the withdrawal of the alleged Hezbollah and Iranian military presence in the country, and has vowed to pursue a military campaign against these forces on Syrian territory.

“Israel’s demand on the Syrian issue is very clear, and involves the complete removal of Hezbollah and Iran from Syrian territory…These are not just broad generalizations; Israel actively demonstrates and promotes its position,” the IDF’s press service said, citing the defense minister.

The Israeli Air Force has carried out airstrikes on Syrian territory throughout the Syrian civil war.

The latest attack took place May 10, when Israeli jets fired over 100 missiles at targets it claimed were Iranian troops after several dozen rockets were fired at IDF positions in the Golan Heights.

Damascus has repeatedly slammed Tel Aviv for what it characterizes as Israeli aggression. Tehran has denied that it has forces in the country apart from advisers assisting Syrian forces in their fight against the jihadists.

On Thursday, Washington urged Russia to prevent Syrian troops from carrying out an offensive in the southern de-escalation zone in southwest Syria, warning that it would take “firm and appropriate measures” if it did so.

Earlier, Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad said that Israel and the US were pressuring the “terrorists in that region” to prevent a peaceful solution to the liberation of the south of Syria.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/israeli-dm-denies-reports-of-hezbollah-iranians-disguised-as-syrian-army-in-southern-syria/

Dropping off Shitmaps before disappearing again

>>153710
Ebin!!! *pounces*

>>153710
*Hugs*

>>153930
Wasn't he accused of being a Mukhabarat agent?

>>153932
Dont know mate.

>ISIS carries out powerful attack against Syrian troops in east Homs
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:40 A.M.) – The Islamic State (ISIS) carried out a deadly attack against a group of Syrian Arab Army (SAA) soldiers in the Badiya Al-Sham region of eastern Homs this weekend.

ISIS reportedly carried out the attack east of the T-3 Pumping Station; this resulted in the death of a few soldiers that were positioned in this vast desert region.

According to the Islamic State’s official media wing, Al-‘Amaq, their terrorists managed to destroy at least one tank during this surprise attack on the Syrian Army’s positions.

The Islamic State has been carrying out surprise attacks like this for several months now, forcing the Syrian military to have to conduct daily missions to clear the caves ISIS terrorists are believed to be hiding in.

This latest attack also comes just days after the Syrian Arab Army and their allies managed to liberate more than 2000 square kilometers of territory in the western countryside of Al-Mayadeen City.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-carries-out-powerful-attack-against-syrian-troops-in-east-homs/

>US-backed forces seize ISIL’s last major stronghold in northeast Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:15 A.M.) – The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) scored a major advance in northeastern Syria, today, when their troops seized the Islamic State’s last major stronghold.

According to pro-SDF activists, their troops managed to take full control of Al-Dashishah after a short battle this morning with the Islamic State terrorists in the area.

If these reports prove true, this loss could be devastating for the Islamic State, as Al-Dashishah was the terrorist group’s headquarters in northeast Syria since they conceded Al-Shaddadi to the US-backed forces in 2016.

The Syrian Democratic Forces launched their second phase of Operation Jazeera Storm earlier this month, following a semi-successful campaign in the southeastern part of the Deir Ezzor Governorate.

Since launching the second phase of Operation Jazeera Storm, the Syrian Democratic Forces managed to seize over 15 localities from the Islamic State terrorists in a span of two weeks.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-us-backed-forces-seize-isils-last-major-stronghold-in-northeast-syria/

>Turkish forces strike important PKK meeting in northern Iraq
Turkish Air Force jets have struck a meeting of Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) members, including high-ranking officials, close to the Iraq-Iran border, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Kanal 7 television.

“With the latest operations, we struck a very important meeting point of theirs. We haven’t received the results yet, but it is certain that they have been hit,” Erdogan said.

The military is now conducting an assessment of the raid, in which 20 Turkish jets hit at least 10 “important” targets in Qandil, Iraq.

Last week Ankara announced the launch of a military operation in the Qandil mountains against the PKK, which Turkey considers a terrorist organization.

According to media reports, up to 5,000 Turkish soldiers are taking part in the operation.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkish-forces-strike-important-pkk-meeting-in-northern-iraq/

>Houthi forces claim French military boat captured off the coast of west Yemen
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:00 P.M.) – The Houthi forces claimed on Saturday that the Yemeni Coast Guard had captured a French military boat off the coast of west Yemen.

According to the official media wing of the Houthi forces, the Yemeni Coast Guard captured a French military speed boat that was believed to be carrying out an operation near the port-city of Hodeideh.

No visual proof was given to corroborate these claims by the Houthi forces nor has the French military commented on this report.

Reports of U.S. and French intervention first surfaced earlier this week; however, they were later denied by the French Ministry of Defense.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/houthi-forces-claim-french-military-boat-captured-off-the-coast-of-west-yemen/

>Houthi forces allegedly capture Saudi-led sleeper cell in Hodeideh
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:40 P.M.) – The Houthi forces allegedly captured an imperative Saudi-led sleeper cell that was active inside the port-city of Hodeideh this morning, the Yemen-based Saba News Agency reported.

“The security services in the province of Hodeidah arrested the most serious monitoring cell working for Saudi-led coalition in the area of Tihama,” a security official told Saba News Agency.

“The cell members were monitoring targets and sending coordinates to the invasion and occupation forces, as well as misleading some citizens and recruiting them to join the coalition camps,” the security official told Saba News.
On Saturday, the Houthi forces claimed the Yemeni Coast Guard seized a French military speed boat that was apparently carrying out a mission near the Hodeideh Port.
In addition to seizing this French speed boat, the Houthi forces also allege they are still in full control of the Hodeideh Military Airport, despite contrasting claims by the pro-government media outlets.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/houthi-forces-allegedly-capture-saudi-led-sleeper-cell-in-hodeideh/

>Syrian military prepares to kickoff 2nd phase of east Sweida offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:30 P.M.) – Zero hour is approaching for the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) second phase of the Badiya Al-Sham offensive in east Al-Sweida, a military source told Al-Masdar News.

According to the military source, the Syrian Air Force has already begun hammering the Islamic State’s (ISIS) positions in he Badiya Al-Sham, scoring several direct hits on the terrorist group’s defenses.

With the large number of reinforcements that arrived in eastern Al-Sweida this weekend, the Syrian military is poised to kickoff the second phase of this offensive.

Unlike the first phase, the second is geared at seizing the Islamic State’s stronghold at Al-Kara’a and securing the Tal Barakat area, which has been contested as of late.

The Islamic State currently possesses a large presence in this vast desert area, which is one of the reasons why the Syrian Army has recently shifted their attention to this front.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-military-prepares-to-kickoff-2nd-phase-of-east-sweida-offensive/

>Intense clashes breakout in east Sweida as Syrian troops attack ISIL’s positions
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:15 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has reportedly begun the second phase of their Badiya Al-Sham offensive this afternoon, following a short hiatus i this fight against the Islamic State (ISIL).

According to a military report, the Syrian Army attacked the Islamic State’s positions in the Al-Harmieh region, resulting in a fierce battle that is still ongoing at the moment.

Meanwhile, from the air, the Syrian Arab Air Force (SyAAF) heavily bombarded the Islamic State’s positions in the Al-Kara’a, Al-Tamthounah, Khirbet Al-Ambashi, and Al-Habiriyeh areas of eastern Al-Sweida.

The Syrian Air Force is still bombarding these areas, as the Syrian Arab Army prepares to storm the Islamic State’s positions.

Also participating in this battle are the National Defense Forces (NDF), Syrian Social Nationalist Party (SSNP), Hezbollah, and Liwaa Al-Fatemiyoun.

The NDF, SSNP, ad Hezbollah played an integral role in phase one of the offensive, as they attacked the Islamic State’s positions in several areas.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/intense-clashes-breakout-in-east-sweida-as-syrian-troops-attack-isils-positions/

>Smoke rises over Hodeidah Airport as Houthis, coalition forces keep fighting
Houthis and Saudi-led forces continued to fight to gain full control of Hodeidah International Airport on Saturday.

The Saudi-led coalition launched a full-scale offensive on Houthi positions in Hodeidah earlier this week.

The Yemeni port of Hodeidah is the country’s main point of entry for food aid.

With 8.4 million people forced to the brink of starvation, the country has plunged into what is deemed the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/smoke-rises-over-hodeidah-airport-as-houthis-coalition-forces-keep-fighting-video/
>Video in link

>Rebels set fire farms in Al-Quneitra as Syrian Army prepares to launch offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:10 P.M.) – The jihadist rebels in the Al-Quneitra Governorate set fire to several farms near the government-held town of Hadar, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported this morning.

According to the SANA report, the jihadist rebels set fire to the farms in the Jubata Al-Khashab area last night.

Furthermore, the jihadist rebels also set fire to the orchards in the Kroum Al-Hamiriyah Al-Kashe areas; they are located directly south of Hadar.

The SANA reporter said that the fire is still blazing due to the direction of the wind and inability of the firefighting vehicles to reach the site of fire.

The fire caused significant damage to the farmlands and the trees, some of which were over 20 years old, the reporter added.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebels-set-fire-farms-in-al-quneitra-as-syrian-army-prepares-to-launch-offensive/

>Taliban Says Ceasefire Won't Be Extended, Fighting to Resume - Reports

Previously, media reported, citing Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, that the country's government and the Taliban militant group had agreed to prolong the truce.

"The ceasefire ends tonight and our operations will begin, inshallah. We have no intention to extend the ceasefire," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told the AFP news agency in a WhatsApp message.

The day before, the TOLOnews broadcaster reported, citing Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, that the country's government and the Taliban militant group had agreed to prolong the truce, which was initially announced on June 7 for the period between June 11 and June 19 to mark the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Later in June, Taliban decided to join the declared truce and also announced a three-day ceasefire on the occasion of the Islamic holiday Uraza-Bairam.

The Afghan authorities’ initiative to prolong the ceasefire and launch talks was welcomed by Washington, with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo expressing readiness to assist in the negotiating process.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg hailed Kabul's decision as well, adding that the initiative could allow Taliban to show that the group would like a peaceful future for the Asian nation.

Afghanistan has long been suffering from unstable political, social and security situation due to the simmering militant insurgency, including that of Taliban and the *Daesh terrorist group.
https://sputniknews.com/middleeast/201806171065485879-taliban-fight-no-ceasefire/

New ANNA news Video,
>ALEPPO. EARTHQUAKE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1sBmllcoY8

>Breaking: Houthi forces fire ballistic missile at Saudi military camp in east Jizan
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:45 P.M.) – Minutes ago, the Houthi forces fired a ballistic missile towards a Saudi military camp in the Gulf kingdom’s southern countryside.

According to the official media wing of the Houthi forces, their rocket battalion fired a Badr-1 ballistic missile towards a Saudi military camp in the eastern part of the Jizan Province.

The fate of the missile is unknown.

Today’s missile attack marks the fourth time in this week that the Houthi forces have targeted a site inside Saudi Arabia.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-houthi-forces-fire-ballistic-missile-at-saudi-military-camp-in-east-jizan/

Interesting share by JJ
>How Britain engaged in a covert operation to overthrow Assad
http://www.middleeasteye.net/columns/how-britain-engaged-covert-operation-overthrow-assad-1437573498

>After Dashishah, SDF fighters are now heading to Nasser village, Tel Safuya hill and Tal Safoq outpost on the Iraqi border
SDF press
#JazeeraStorm
https://twitter.com/ClaudiaAlMinah/status/1008329529067220992

>Syrian Army’s southern Syria offensive appears to get green light as elite troops deploy to Daraa
BEIRUT, LEBANON (6:10 P.M.) – Earlier today, the elite Tiger Forces division deployed to the southern province of Dara’a after a month long hiatus following the withdrawal of the rebel forces in northern Homs.

With the arrival of the Tiger Forces this weekend, the Syrian military appears to be moving towards an actual operation against the rebel forces in both Dara’a and Al-Quneitra.

Previously, Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad told Al-Alam News that no decision was made to launch an offensive in southern Syria, adding that the Russians were attempting to negotiate with the rebel groups in these provinces.

However, over the last three days, tensions have been mounting in both the Dara’a and Al-Quneitra governorates, as local rebel groups continue to target reconciliation delegates.

The Syrian Army has warned the rebels against targeting these delegates; however, the latter has mostly ignored Damascus’ threats.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-southern-syria-offensive-appears-to-get-green-light-as-elite-troops-deploy-to-daraa/

>Netherlands to intensify military mission in Afghanistan and end involvement in Mali
Afghanistan
Partly at the request of NATO and Afghanistan, the government has decided to step up and extend the Netherlands' contribution to NATO's Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan. Unlike in previous years, this time the contribution will be extended for several years, to the end of 2021. In addition to the 100 military personnel currently deployed, another 60 military personnel will work closely with Germany over the next few years to train, advise, assist and accompany a unit of the Afghan Special Security Forces in Mazar-e Sharif. What is more, six police advisers will be attached to the NATO mission in Kabul, to help strengthen Afghanistan's security apparatus. The Netherlands will continue working in Afghanistan to help find a political solution to the conflict, as this is the only way to achieve lasting stability.
https://www.government.nl/latest/news/2018/06/15/netherlands-to-intensify-military-mission-in-afghanistan-and-end-involvement-in-mali

>E. #Syria: (suspected) airstrikes targeted last night pro-Assad positions near #AbuKemal, leaving dozens of dead. Among them also high-ranking officers from Coastal Area.
https://twitter.com/QalaatAlMudiq/status/1008651595758923776

>One of our sources reports #Israel's warplanes targeted positions of #Iran-backed forces in #AlHara town near #AbuKamal.
Yesterday #Netanyahu said #Israel is going to attack all the forces supported by #Iran in #Syria wherever they are stationed.
https://twitter.com/smmsyria/status/1008603423745429504

>US Coalition bombs Syrian Army troops in east Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:00 A.M.) – The US-led Coalition has alegedly bombed the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) troops in the eastern countryside of the Deir Ezzor Governorate tonight.

According to a military report from Deir Ezzor, the US-led Coalition bombed the Syrian Army’s positions near the town of Al-Harri, which is located right next to the border-city of Albukamal.

The military report added that several soldiers were killed or wounded as a result of this attack by the US-led Coalition.

If the US-led Coalition did in fact carry out this attack, this would be the second major bombing of Syrian Army troops in the last year.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-us-coalition-bombs-syrian-army-troops-in-east-syria/

>US denies bombing Syrian Army in Deir Ezzor
A US-led coalition aircraft has bombed one of Syrian military positions, local media reported citing a source in the military.

Pentagon denied the coalition’s involvement in the reported airstrike.

Syrian SANA news agency reported, citing a military source that one of US-led coalition aircraft had made an airstrike on the positions of the Syrian troops in al-Harra settlement, which is southeast of Al Bukamal, killing several servicemen and injuring others.

The Syrian city of Al Bukamal is apart of Deir ez-Zor Governorate and is situated near the border with Iraq.

US Department of Defense spokesman Adrian Rankine-Galloway told Sputnik later that neither Washington nor the US-led coalition was behind a reported attack on the Syrian troops.

“Not a US or Coalition strike,” Rankine-Galloway said Sunday speaking about the reported attack.

Previous month, Iran’s Fars news agency cited sources as saying that a new US military base was being set up in the Deir ez-Zor province.

The base, which, according to reports is located in the Badiyeh al-Sha’afa area, was to be equipped with “advanced military tools and systems”.
The US-led coalition has been making airstrikes against what it calls Daesh* targets in Syria since 2014. The coalition’s mission was approved neither by Damascus nor the UN.
Currently, about 2,000 US troops are deployed in Syria.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-denies-bombing-syrian-army-in-deir-ezzor/

>Alleged ISIS sleeper cell carries out ambush against HTS in west Idlib
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:15 A.M.) – A group of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham militants were ambushed along the Jisr Al-Shughour-Aleppo Highway (M-4 Highway), Sunday, resulting in several casualties for the jihadist rebels.

According to pro-opposition activists, the group of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham fighters were traveling along the Jisr Al-Shughour-Aleppo Highway when their vehicle struck a roadside bomb in the ‘Ayn Zarqa area of west Idlib.

As a result of this attack, at least three members of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham were killed and two others were badly wounded.

Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham has accused Islamic State (ISIS) sleeper cells of carrying out this latest attack against the jihadist rebels.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/alleged-isis-sleeper-cell-carries-out-ambush-against-hts-in-west-idlib-video/

>Saudi Army offensive near Yemen border ends in disaster as Houthi forces swarm area
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:30 A.M.) – The Saudi Army launched a new attack inside the Gulf kingdom’s southern region, yesterday, targeting the Houthi forces’ positions inside the Asir Province.

The Saudi Army offensive would take a turn for the worse on Sunday afternoon, when their troops found themselves overwhelmed by Houthi missiles from their well-positioned fighters.

According to the official media wing of the Houthi forces, their fighters managed to foil the Saudi Army offensive, while also seizing two ACPs that belonged to the latter.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/saudi-army-offensive-near-yemen-border-ends-in-disaster-as-houthi-forces-swarm-area-video/
>video in link

>Netanyahu tells Putin he will oppose any Iranian presence in Syria
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a weekly government session on Sunday that he had told Russian President Vladimir Putin and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that Israel would be taking action against the military presence of Iran on the whole territory of Syria.

“At the end of the week, I spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. I reiterated our main principles towards Syria – first of all, Iran must leave the territory of Syria. Secondly, we will be taking measures and we are already taking action against efforts to establish the military presence of Iran and its satellites close to the border [with Israel] and deep in Syria”.

“We will act against these efforts in any part of Syria,” the prime minister’s office quoted him as saying.

On Friday, the Kremlin press service said Vladimir Putin and Benjamin Netanyahu discussed over the phone the situation in Syria and joint steps to ensure security on the Syrian-Israeli border, the Kremlin press service said on Friday.

“The sides discussed the situation in Syria in the context of joint efforts on ensuring security in the area of the Syrian-Israeli border,” the Kremlin press service said in a statement after the phone conversation.

The two leaders “expressed readiness to bolster coordination on Syria, including the issues of countering international terrorism.”.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/netanyahu-tells-putin-he-will-oppose-any-iranian-presence-in-syria/

>First footage of US-backed forces inside ISIL’s last northeast Syria stronghold
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:00 A.M.) – The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) scored a major advance in northeast Syria, Sunday, when their troops seized the strategic town of Al-Dashishah from the Islamic State (ISIL).

The Syrian Democratic Forces were able to take control of Al-Dashishah after they took control of several towns and hilltops located to the north of this Islamic State stronghold.

ISIL’s loss of Al-Dashishah is devastating for their terror organization, as this was their last major stronghold in the northeastern region of Syria.

For the Syrian Democratic Forces, the capture of Al-Dashishah opened up a new path for their troops to the Iraqi border; they now find themselves just 3km away from the crossing.

Once the SDF seizes this last 3km of territory from the Islamic State, they will be able to meet up with the Iraqi Army at the border.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/first-footage-of-us-backed-forces-inside-isils-last-northeast-syria-stronghold/
>Video in link

>Russian warships armed with cruise missiles head to Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:10 A.M.) – A group of Russian warships were seen traveling this past weekend through the Bosphorous Strait en route for the Syrian port-city of Tartous.

According to Yoruk Isik of the Bosphorous Observer, the Russian warships part of the Caspian Buyan M-class corvettes, Veliki Ustyug 651 (x-023) and Grad Sviyazhsk 652 (c-021), made their way to the Bosphorous Strait this past weekend before continuing their journey to the Port of Tartous.

As Isik mentioned in his tweets above, the two warships are armed with SS-N-30/Kalibr 3M-14 cruise missiles.

This move by the Russian Navy comes just days after the Vladimir Putin announced that all naval vessels in Syria’s waters will have Kalibr cruise missiles.

Since Putin made this announcement, the Russian Navy has launched some cruise missile attacks against the jihadist rebels in the Idlib Governorate.

In particular, the Russian Navy targeted the positions of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham near the provincial capital of the Idlib Governorate; this is due to the fact the latter repeatedly attacked the besieged Shiite towns of Al-Fou’aa and Kafraya.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-warships-armed-with-cruise-missiles-head-to-syria/

>Russian, Iranian, Turkish officials to discuss Syrian Constitutional Committee
High representatives of the countries acting as guarantors of the ceasefire in Syria – Russia, Iran and Turkey – are meeting in Geneva on Monday to discuss the formation of the Syrian Constitutional Committee with the special envoy of the UN Secretary General for Syria, Staffan de Mistura.

The Russian Delegation includes Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Vershinin and the Russian President’s special envoy, Alexander Lavrentyev.

The parties to the discussions will spend the whole day in bilateral consultations and a plenary session will likely be held on Tuesday, June 19.

In essence, the countries united in the Astana format of negotiations on Syria will hold a visiting session in Geneva.

Staffan de Mistura has been actively holding consultations in the past months. He visited Egypt on June 11, Teheran on June 9 and Istanbul on June 6.

While in Turkey, he had meetings with Turkish government officials and the Syrian opposition – the High Negotiating Committee and the National Coalition of Syrian Opposition and Revolutionary Forces.

De Mistura said on June 12 in Cairo the further continuation of the Syrian conflict would pose danger for security across the entire region.

He invited the official representatives of France, Germany, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the US to the consultations in Geneva.

De Mistura will continue consultations after the trilateral Russian-Iranian-Turkish meeting.

Representatives of the Syrian opposition, too, are expected to come to Geneva. Unlike the Syrian government, they have not submitted their lists of delegates for taking part in the formation of the constitutional committee but De Mistura said serious efforts were underway to draw the opposition list.
Agreement on setting up the constitution committee was reached on January 30 at the Syrian National Dialogue Congress in Sochi. The committee will draft proposals for Syria’s new constitution in cooperation with De Mistura.

As many as 150 persons have been nominated for the committee to date and 100 of them are representatives of the government or moderate [internal] opposition. The opposition based outside of Syria has named 50 delegates so far.

On the face of it, De Mistura believes that the committee’s membership should be limited to 50 persons in all

Convocation of the 2nd Syrian National Dialogue Congress depends on progress with this issue. The special envoy of the Russian President to the Middle East and North Africa, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov says the problem will be discussed, too.

“When there’s more clarity on the setting up of the constitution commission and on how it will function, then we’ll look at organizing a new meeting for endorsing the decisions that will be taken in the light of setting up of the commission,” Bogdanov said.

Moscow has said more than once only the Syrians themselves can map out their country’s destiny at the conference table in line with the UN Security Council resolution 2254.

Russian diplomats concentrate substantial efforts on creating the basis for pan-Syrian dialogue.

“Russia has never positioned itself as a side in the inter-Syrian confrontation,” Bogdanov said in this connection. “We have been urging the Syrians from the very start to launch a broad dialogue. Today, too, Russia doesn’t see any other opportunity for settling the Syrian conflict than on the basis of Resolution 2254, which envisions joint steps by the parties to the conflict on the constitutional reform and organizing fair election where all the Syrians will take part under UN supervision.”.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-constitutional-committee/

>Syrian Army scores massive advance in southeast Syria to eliminate entire ISIS presence
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:45 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) launched a big assault in the southeastern region of Syria, yesterday, targeting the Islamic State’s (ISIS) last remnants between the T-2 Pumping Station and Hamimah areas.

Backed by their allies from Hezbollah and the National Defense Forces (NDF), the Syrian Army began the assault by storming the Islamic State’s positions near the T-2 Pumping Station.

Not long after launching this assault, the Syrian Army and their allies were able to completely overwhelm the remaining Islamic State terrorists in this vast terrorist region.

According to a military report from Deir Ezzor, the Syrian Arab Army was able to eliminate all of the ISIS sleeper cells between the Tanf Green Zone and eastern desert of Deir Ezzor.

In particular, the Syrian Army managed to fully liberate Bir ‘Atshan, Tal Shadid, Al-Wark Fields, and Luwayza Canyon after a fierce battle with the Islamic State terrorists in the area.

With this region cleared, the Syrian Army has managed to secure the northeastern part of the Tanf Region, which is controlled by the U.S. forces.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-scores-massive-advance-in-southeast-syria-to-eliminate-entire-isis-presence-map/

>US threats ignored as Syrian Army sends largest military convoy to southwest Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:00 P.M.) – Late last week, the U.S. State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert issued a stern warning to the Syrian government against waging a new offensive in southwest Syria.

The Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) command has responded to the U.S.’ threats by sending their largest military convoy to the southern province of Dara’a.

According to a military report from Dara’a, more than 60 vehicles filled with soldiers from the elite Tiger Forces entered the province on Sunday afternoon.

This Tiger Forces convoy comes just a week after their troops transported dozens of armored vehicles to the Dara’a Governorate for their upcoming offensive in the provincial capital.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-sends-largest-military-convoy-to-southwest-syria/
>video in link

>Syrian Army, Hezbollah move to west Deir Ezzor for new military operation
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:20 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and their allies are preparing to launch a new operation in the eastern part of the country, a military source in Damascus told Al-Masdar News this morning.

According to the military source, the Syrian Arab Army’s 5th Legion and Republican Guard are heading towards the Hamimah region and T-3 Pumping Station to launch a new military against the so-called Islamic State (ISIS).

The source added that the operation will be backed by the National Defense Forces (NDF), Hezbollah, Liwaa Al-Fatemiyoun, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

This move by the Syrian military comes just hours after they managed to eliminate the Islamic State’s last pocket and sleeper cells around the northeastern region of the Tanf Green Zone.

On Sunday, the Syrian Army launched a big operation to clear the Islamic State’s pocket around the T-2 Pumping Station; this offensive would result in the complete liberation of this region from the terrorist forces.

The Syrian military is now working to clear the T-3 Pumping Station and Hamimah region because this area is located just east of the historical city of Palmyra (Tadmur), which was previously under the Islamic State’s control.

For ISIS, they have controlled this vast desert region for several years; if lost, they will be confined to a small part of the Badiya Al-Sham.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-move-to-west-deir-ezzor-for-new-military-operation/

>Clashes between the rebels and the government forces near Masharah and Umm Batinah in Quneitra
https://twitter.com/jisrtv/status/1008655788620025856

Woah, this is a lot of news!

>S. #Syria: substantial Regime reinforcements incl. many artillery pieces arrived in #Daraa.
https://twitter.com/QalaatAlMudiq/status/1008664155656806400
>video in link

>S. #Syria: dozens of tanks & BMPS gathered for #Quneitra-#Daraa Offensive.
https://twitter.com/QalaatAlMudiq/status/1008665388341714944
1st pic

>S. #Syria: Offensive vs #ISIS in NE. #Suweida desert resumed today after a week pause. Advances reportedly made on Aura & Arar fronts. http://wikimapia.org/#lang=en&lat=32.955961&lon=36.842823&z=12&m …
https://twitter.com/QalaatAlMudiq/status/1008671493159641088
2nd, 3rd, 4th pic

>Fresh reports on #Idlib province assassinations Pt.1:
-3 #HTS fighters killed by roadside bomb on Darkoush-Zarka road
-1 #HTS fighter killed by unknown gunmen on Aleppo-Damascus road in #Idlib
https://twitter.com/smmsyria/status/1008659944256802816

> reports on #Idlib province assassinations Pt.2:
-1 National Front for Liberation (Jabhat al-Wataniya lil-Tahrir) fighter killed by IED on Idlib-Maart Misrin road
-2 #HTS fighters killed by unknown in Maarat Nuuman
https://twitter.com/smmsyria/status/1008660066097131520

Devs June 18
>Al-Sweida; SAA claim they capped Bir Al-Aroura & Tal Arar from IS, currently trying to cap Tal Barakat hilltop
>SAA 5th Legion & Republican Guard allegedly heading to Hamimah region and T-3 to launch new op against IS
>Abukamal cs; Several SAA,NDF, & Iraqi PMU killed near Al-Harri by drones, Penatgon denies involvement
>Al-Hasakah; SDF claim to have capped Al-Nasira & Al-Dashisha from IS
>Homs; IS ambush SAA and allies' convoy near Humaymah and Saed Awaird
>Military source states Daraa/Quneitra op could start in next 3-5 days, Tiger Forces arrived Sunday, all other units ready to begin
>RF,Iran,Turkey meet in Geneva to discuss formation of Syrian Constitutional Committee with de Mistura
>Group of RF warships armed with Kalibr cruise missiles seen passing through Bosphorous Strait bound for Tartous
>UAE official states UN envoy to Yemen could convince Houthis to cede Hodeidah port, envoy arrived in Sanaa on Saturday
>Yemen; Houthis take out KSA operated Abrams in Jizan Region
>Afghan president extends Eid ceasefire with Taliban another 10 days, most Taliban have begun returning to their positions

>>154118
what did you think of the Eid ceasfire between the Taliban and ANA?

>>154130
The ceasefire was part of a plan to get the peace talks going between the government and the Taliban while the killing of the TTP commander Mullah Fazulluah was an offering to Pakis so as to get the Afghan Talis talking to them. But even during Eid the Taliban were demanding that the US should directly talk with them they wont accept anything else[1], Ashraf Ghani instead of saying that the a US representative would be present in these talks along with an government representative so as to atleast to offer them something instead said that they should discuss this demands first[2]. And so after a three day ceasefire things are going back. All in all:

-Pakis got the TTP leader who was in hiding in Afghanistan for the last 9 years under government protection killed, in response they got the Afghan Talis to agree to a short open ceasefire but not the peace talks as Taliban core demand was not met.

-The Afghan Taliban got to show everyone how a peaceful Afghanistan would look if the invaders are not present[3] and are going to hit their target on a larger scale so as to force the US to direct talks. I also expect defections to rise in the Afghan forces due to the governments fucking up this chance at peace.

-IS-K got to kill alot of Talis and ANA in the last few days while running a propaganda campaign saying that by agreeing to this ceasefire shows that the Taliban are willing to accept a deal with the puppets of kafirs thus they are not serious about Jihad and should not be followed(I think that in the absence of a more unifying new leader, there is a possibility most or a large number of TTP remnants will opt to defect to IS-K instead of the Afghan Taliban due the current situation and how effective the IS messaging is).

Apologies for the late reply. Thats my take on it. What about you?

1. https://nation.com.pk/14-Jun-2018/afghan-taliban-chief-calls-for-direct-talks-with-us
2. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-44507090
3. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-taliban/taliban-assure-afghans-of-bright-future-once-u-s-invaders-leave-idUSKBN1J90SY

>Syrian Army liberates new Iraqi border region, meets up with Hashd Al-Shaabi
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:35 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has liberated an Iraqi border region in southeast Syria, today, following a fierce battle against the so-called Islamic State (ISIS).

Backed by the National Defense Forces (NDF) and Hezbollah, the Syrian Arab Army was able to completely overwhelm the remaining Islamic State terrorists south of the Humaymah area this evening.

With ISIS struggling to hold their ground, the Syrian Army and their allies managed to liberate the Bir Tayyarah and Bir Umm Salabikh regions.

Following the liberation of these areas in southern Deir Ezzor, the Syrian Army and their allies finally cracked the last Islamic State defenses to reach the Iraqi border.

Once they reached the Iraqi border, the Syrian Army and their allies were greeted by Iraq’s Hashd Al-Sha’abi (Popular Mobilization Units).

In addition to reaching the Iraqi border, the Syrian Army and their allies also managed to reach the eastern part of the Tanf region’s Green Zone.

This part of the Green Zone is controlled by the U.S. Coalition forces and has been since they constructed their base in this region in 2016.

For the Syrian Arab Army this is a major victory over the Islamic State, as the latter constantly launched hit-and-run attacks on their forces from this region.

Furthermore, the Syrian Arab Army has been able to finally secure the strategic Humaymah area and T-2 Pumping Station.

These two sites in rural Deir Ezzor had been contested since the Syrian Arab Army recaptured them from the Islamic State last year.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-liberates-new-iraqi-border-region/

> Syrian Army’s elite group redeploys from Golan region to lead east Daraa offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:45 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army’s elite 42nd Brigade (Ghiath Forces) of the 4th Division has been given orders to redeploy from the occupied Golan Heights region to the eastern countryside of the Dara’a Governorate, an officer from the unit told Al-Masdar News this evening.

According to the officer, the 42nd Brigade will be leading the offensive to retake the strategic Nassib Crossing in southeast Dara’a.

The 42nd Brigade will be joined by a number of brigades from the 4th and 7th divisions, along with several units from the Republican Guard.

This major operation will be led by the prominent commander of the 42nd Brigade, Colonel Ghiath Dalla.

Colonel Dalla has commanded the 42nd Brigade in several operations in the past, including the battles for Beit Jinn, Al-Zabadani, Khan Al-Sheih, and Darayya.

The 42nd Brigade commander is considered one of the Syrian military’s most intelligent officers, as his track record in battle has been perfect.

Colonel Dalla will not put his expertise to work in east Daraa, as the capture of the Nassib Crossing is one of the top priorities of the southern Syria offensive.

According to a military source in Damascus, the Syrian Arab Army’s first major operation in the Dara’a Governorate will concentrate on the eastern countryside of the province.

In particular, the Syrian military offensive will focus on the Nassib Crossing and the towns surrounding this imperative border region.

The Syrian Arab Army lost the Nassib Crossing to the Islamist rebels in early 2015.

The loss of the Nassib Crossing led to the Syrian Army’s complete collapse in the southeastern countryside of Dara’a, as they would later lose the historical city of Busra Al-Sham.

Once southeast Dara’a was lost, the Free Syrian Army’s Southern Front Brigades and Jabhat Al-Nusra attempted to push into the Al-Sweida Governorate; however, this offensive would ultimately fail after several thousand people in this province took arms to protect their homes from the insurgency.

Since the failed rebel offensive in Al-Sweida, the Syrian Arab Army and National Defense Forces (NDF) have retaken almost the entire province.

Meanwhile, in southeast Dara’a, this front has been mostly dead until recently, as the de-escalation zone had mostly halted the fighting for a year.

The Syrian Army is now poised to retake southeast Dara’a and the Nassib Crossing, despite the objections from the U.S. State Department.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/saas-42nd-brigade-redeploys-from-golan-region-to-east-daraa/

>Latest map update of strategic Hodeideh battle
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:20 P.M.) – The Gulf-backed forces launched a massive military operation last week that targeted the Houthi-held areas of the Hodeideh Governorate.

Within hours of launching this offensive, the Yemeni Republican Guard and UAE-backed Southern Resistance Army managed to score a major advance in southern Hodeideh, forcing the Houthi troops to retreat to the area just south of the provincial airport.

Over the next few days, the Gulf-backed troops worked their way up to the Hodeideh Airport, where they expected to overrun the installation shortly after it.

However, the Houthi forces have proven unwilling to concede this strategic installation to the Gulf-backed troops, which has infuriated the Arab Coalition.

In a matter three days, the Gulf-backed troops have repeatedly failed to expel the Houthi forces from the Hodeideh Airport, despite having air supremacy and superior firepower.

Infuriated over the Houthi forces’ refusal to give up, the UAE issued an ultimatum to the former, demanding that they immediately withdraw from the Hodeideh Airport before any peace talks could begin.

The Houthi forces responded by launching several drone strikes on their positions in western Yemen.

Since receiving this response, the Arab Coalition has launched over ten airstrikes over the Hodeideh Airport.

For the Houthi forces, losing the Hodeideh Airport would be devastating, as it would pave the way for the Gulf-backed troops to attack the provincial capital.

The provincial capital is also the location of the Hodeideh Port, which is the last port that is under the control of the Houthi forces.

If the Hodeideh Port is lost, the Houthi-held areas in Yemen will be under a land, air, and sea siege.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/latest-map-update-of-strategic-hodeideh-battle/

>Houthi forces ambush UAE-backed troops in west Yemen, cut supply line
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:10 A.M.) – The Houthi forces continued their effort to wreck havoc on the UAE-backed troops in western Yemen, as their fighters carried out more anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) attacks.

As shown in the nine minute long video below, the Houthi forces fired an ATGM at a vehicle used by the UAE-backed troops in the Al-Fazah area; it would ultimately score a direct hit.

The Houthi forces also reported on Monday that their attacks on Al-Fazah have paid off, as their troops managed to cut the supply line of the UAE-backed fighters in west Yemen.

Despite these claims, the Houthi forces often cut the supply lines of the Gulf-backed troops, but later retreat before the Arab Coalition launches airstrikes over the captured areas.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/houthi-forces-ambush-uae-backed-troops-in-west-yemen/

>#Syria #Daraa Tonight :
The Syrian Arab Army took control of several farms between Busra Al-Harir and Museika. Many fighters of the dollars ran away like rats in front of the lions.
https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/1008830576487526401

>#Syria #Suwayda
The #SAA continues their military operations in Suweida's Badiya (steppe), & achieves a huge advance in the direction of Tal Ar'ar starting from Tal Asfar towards the north eastern depth. An advance was also achieved on Shinwan Al-Saqiya & Khirbat Al-Imbashi axes.
https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/1008831475498803204

>#Syria #Lajat Reports that the #SAA & Allied Forces took control ofthe air defense battalion east Al Museeka village
https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/1008831769548939269

>#Syria #Aleppo
Forces who are defending Aleppo, targets the insurgents movements near the 1070 Rashideen and reinforce the iron shield of Aleppo city.
Liwa AL Quds, the protective shield
https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/1008831865795604480

>#Daraa #Suwayda #Lajat #Quneitra
Words from a #SyrianArmy Soldier :
Multiple axes will be worked on, from the triangle of death (between Daraa, Quneitera, and Damascus countryside) all the way to the Suweida Badiya reaching the Iraqi borders.
https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/1008866536470216704

>>154155
my take would be right on with yours, it was a good public relations affair that showed that at least there is a chance at some sort of reconciliation, as both the Taliban and Afghan govt were somewhat on an equal level for once. I would hope though that this would send a bigger message to the US, scenes like we saw over the weekend are unprecedented, and if the US would stop acting so foolish perhaps a process of pullout and ending of this decades long war could be realized, unfortunately I don't think this will happen as the "defense budget" has become such a huge part of our economy, and the way our media has effectively made the majority of the public forget we are still waging war there makes that easier.
On a personal level I really enjoyed just seeing the pics of the gatherings, I didn't think we would see anything like that once the ceasefire was announced.

>>154312
>On a personal level I really enjoyed just seeing the pics of the gatherings
Aye that was quite a sight to see.

>Syrian Army attempts to advance in east Daraa before upcoming offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:30 A.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) launched a surprise ground assault in the northeastern countryside of the Dara’a Governorate last night.

Backed by heavy artillery, the Syrian Arab Army attempted to advance near the Air Defense Base east of the small town of Masekah.

An intense battle would ensue for several hours, as the Syrian Arab Army and the National Defense Forces (NDF) attempted to fracture the enemy’s front-lines.

According to pro-government activists, the Syrian Army allegedly captured the Air Defense Base and several farms located between the towns of Busra Al-Harir and Masekah; however, these advances are still not confirmed.

Al-Masdar is awaiting confirmation from the Syrian Army regarding these claims.

If these reports prove true, this will be the first time in years that the Syrian Arab Army has been able to advance inside the Al-Lijat region of northeast Dara’a.

The Al-Lijat region has mostly been under the control of the rebel forces since the start of the war.

The Syrian Army will need to capture this strategic volcanic area in northeast Dara’a if they want to secure the Nassib Crossing in the southeastern part of the province.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-attempts-to-advance-in-east-daraa-before-upcoming-offensive/

>US State Dept. reveals details of Pompeo, Lavrov conversation on Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:00 A.M.) – The U.S. State Department revealed on Monday the details of the recent phone conversation between Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

According to the State Department’s press release, the ongoing situation in Syria was one of the main topics of discussion between the two diplomats.

“The two discussed issues and concerns related to Syria and the bilateral relationship. Secretary Pompeo reemphasized the US commitment to the southwest ceasefire arrangement that was approved by President Trump and President Putin one year ago,” the press release stated.

“He [Pompeo] noted that it was critical for Russia and the Syrian regime to adhere to these arrangements and ensure no unilateral activity in this area,” it continued.

The Syrian military is preparing to launch a large-scale offensive in southwest Syria that is geared to retake the territory currently under the control of the rebel forces.

Washington has been clear about their stance regarding this government offensive; they have repeatedly warned Damascus that they will take action if they go through with this attack.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-state-dept-reveals-details-of-pompeo-lavrov-conversation-on-syria/

>Jihadist commander assassinated in rural Aleppo
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:20 A.M.) – Another high ranking jihadist commander was assassinated in northern Syria this week, pro-opposition activists reported on Monday.

According to pro-opposition activists, the field commander of Jabhat Tahrir Souriya, Mohammad Suleiman, was kidnapped and killed by unknown assailants in rural Aleppo.

The assailants dumped Suleiman’s body along the Damascus-Aleppo Highway, where he was later found by his forces.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-commander-assassinated-in-rural-aleppo/

>Syrian troops meet up with Iraqi forces along newly liberated area
The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has liberated an Iraqi border region in southeast Syria, today, following a fierce battle against the so-called Islamic State (ISIS).

Backed by the National Defense Forces (NDF) and Hezbollah, the Syrian Arab Army was able to completely overwhelm the remaining Islamic State terrorists south of the Humaymah area this evening.

With ISIS struggling to hold their ground, the Syrian Army and their allies managed to liberate the Bir Tayyarah and Bir Umm Salabikh regions.

Following the liberation of these areas in southern Deir Ezzor, the Syrian Army and their allies finally cracked the last Islamic State defenses to reach the Iraqi border.

Once they reached the Iraqi border, the Syrian Army and their allies were greeted by Iraq’s Hashd Al-Sha’abi (Popular Mobilization Units).

In addition to reaching the Iraqi border, the Syrian Army and their allies also managed to reach the eastern part of the Tanf region’s Green Zone.

This part of the Green Zone is controlled by the U.S. Coalition forces and has been since they constructed their base in this region in 2016.

For the Syrian Arab Army this is a major victory over the Islamic State, as the latter constantly launched hit-and-run attacks on their forces from this region.

Furthermore, the Syrian Arab Army has been able to finally secure the strategic Humaymah area and T-2 Pumping Station.

These two sites in rural Deir Ezzor had been contested since the Syrian Arab Army recaptured them from the Islamic State last year.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-troops-meet-up-with-iraqi-forces-along-newly-liberated-area-photos/

>US to ban weapons supply to Turkey over S-400 purchase – Senate
The U.S. Senate adopted on Monday the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2019, which obliges the Secretary of Defense to present a special report regarding the potential purchase of the S-400 air and missile defense system from Russia by the Turkish government.

No later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of the Authorization Act, “the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the status of the United States relationship with the Republic of Turkey,” the document said.

According to the Act, “the Secretary of Defense may not take any action to execute delivery of a foreign military sale for major defense equipment” to Tukey until the report is submitted.

The required report should include “an assessment of the potential purchase by the Government of Turkey of the S-400 air and missile defense system from the Russian Federation and the potential effects of such purchase on the United States-Turkey bilateral relationship, including an assessment of impacts on other United States weapon systems and platforms operated jointly with Turkey to include the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike aircraft; the Patriot surface-to-air missile system; the CH-47 Chinook heavy lift helicopter; the AH-1 Attack helicopter; the H-60 Black Hawk utility helicopter; and the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft,” the Senate said.

The Secretary of Defense is not allowed to take any action “to execute delivery of a foreign military sale for major defense equipment subject to congressional notification to the Republic of Turkey until the Secretary submits to the appropriate congressional committees the report,” the Act said.
Earlier reports said that Ankara intends to purchase over 100 F-35 warplanes. The proposed measure may hinder the execution of the contract.
Russia’s S-400 Triumf (NATO reporting name: SA-21 Growler) is the latest long-range antiaircraft missile system that went into service in 2007. It is designed to destroy aircraft, cruise and ballistic missiles, including medium-range missiles, and surface targets. The S-400 can engage targets at a distance of 400 kilometers and at an altitude of up to 30 kilometers.

In November 2016, it was announced that Turkey and Russia were negotiating the contract for the supply of S-400 air defense systems. Russia confirmed the conclusion of the contract on September 12, 2017.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-to-ban-weapons-supply-to-turkey-over-s-400-purchase-senate/

>Iraq condemns foreign airstrikes against Syrian, Iraqi troops
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:30 A.M.) – The Iraqi Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Tuesday morning that condemned the foreign airstrikes against the Iraqi and Syrian troops in southeast Syria.

The Iraqi Foreign Ministry said it “expresses rejection and condemnation of any air operations targeting forces in areas where they are fighting ISIS, whether in Iraq or Syria or any other area where there is a battlefield against this enemy that threatens humanity.”

As a result of these airstrikes, more than 50 Syrian and Iraqi military personnel near the border-city of Albukamal in southeast Deir Ezzor.

Iraq’s Hashd Al-Sha’abi (Popular Mobilization Units) reported that their forces had lost at least 22 fighters as a result of these airstrikes.

The Syrian government has accused the U.S. of carrying out these deadly airstrikes on Monday morning.

The U.S. has denied carrying out the airstrikes, but a U.S. official told CNN that Israel was behind the attack.

Israel has yet to comment on these allegations.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraq-condemns-foreign-airstrikes-against-syrian-iraqi-troops/

>Arab tribes meet in Idlib to renew support for Syrian military
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:00 P.M.) – Dignitaries of Arab tribes from the Idleb, Hama, and Aleppo governorates met in the eastern countryside of Idlib to renew their support for the Syrian Arab Army (SAA).

According to a report from the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the Arab tribes meeting took place inside the village of Wraidat Al-Daher, which is located east of Abu Dhuhour.

The Arab tribes reportedly hailed the victories achieved by the Syrian Army and provided support to the military in their continued war against terrorism.

The participants pledged to continue their support to the Syrian Army in facing terrorism.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/arab-tribes-meet-in-idlib-to-renew-support-for-syrian-military/

>Syrian Army activates sleeper cells in southwest Syria to begin attacks before offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:40 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has begun activating their sleeper cells in southwest Syria, as their large-scale offensive in Al-Quneitra and Dara’a looms.

According to a military source in Damascus, the Syrian Army’s sleeper cells have begun attacking the rebels through targeted assassinations and roadside bombs.

In particular, a Syrian Army sleeper cell carried out an assassination attempt of an important rebel leader that was traveling through the Al-Quneitra countryside earlier today.

The Syrian military spies in southern Al-Quenitra planted a roadside bomb along the ‘Ayn Ziwan Road, which would later be used by the leader of the Syrian Revolutionaries Front of the Free Syrian Army.

According to a military report from southwest Syria, the roadside bomb badly wounded the FSA commander, Thamer Al-Numairi, as he was attempting to head towards the front-lines in central Al-Quneitra.

Rebel activists reported that Numairi lost both his legs as a result of the explosion and one of his associates was killed.

More assassinations are expected in the coming days, as the Syrian military continues to target the rebels before their upcoming offensive.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-activates-sleeper-cells-in-southwest-syria-to-begin-attacks-before-offensive/

>Gulf-backed troops score important advance towards Hodeideh city
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:10 P.M.) – The Gulf-backed troops scored an imperative advance south of Hodeideh city, today, seizing an important junction that was under the control of the Houthi forces.

Led by the Yemeni Republican Guard and Southern Resistance Army, the Gulf-backed troops managed to take control of the Kilo 16 Junction after a fierce battle with the Houthi forces along this important roadway to Hodeideh city.

The loss of the Kilo 16 Junction comes just hours after the Houthi forces had briefly cutoff the supply route to the Gulf-backed troops in this part of the Hodeideh Governorate.

Meanwhile, at the provincial airport, the Houthi forces and Gulf-backed troops were engaged in another intense confrontation for this installation.

Pro-government activists have claimed that the Yemeni Republican Guard entered the Hodeideh Airport again; however, the latter’s official media wing has yet to corroborate these reports.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-gulf-backed-troops-score-important-advance-towards-hodeideh-city/

>Jihadists carry out first attack on Sweida city in years
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:20 P.M.) – On Tuesday, the jihadist forces in eastern Dara’a carried out their first attack on the provincial capital of Al-Sweida since late 2015.

According to a government report, the jihadist rebels heavily shelled Sweida city this morning, hitting the provincial capital’s Al-Jalaa and Astaqlal neighborhoods.

The missiles and mortar shells were fired by the jihadist rebels of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham, who were angry over the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) attack on their positions in Busra Al-Sham.

In addition to the attack on Sweida city, the jihadist rebels also attacked the provincial capital of Dara’a, killing one child after a mortar shell hit their home.

With the recent build-up of Syrian military forces in southern Syria, the jihadist rebels have become increasingly more aggressive, as they await the government’s upcoming offensive.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-carry-out-first-attack-on-sweida-city-in-years/

>US is ready to commit to southwest Syria ceasefire: Pompeo
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:35 P.M.) – The U.S. State Department issued a statement on Monday evening that confirmed a recent phone meeting between Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

The main focus of this telephone conversation between the foreign diplomats was the ongoing situation in southwest Syria.

Pompeo reportedly told Lavrov of his reservations over the Syrian government’s upcoming offensive.

“Secretary Pompeo reemphasized the US commitment to the (Syrian) southwest ceasefire arrangement that was approved by President (Donald) Trump and President (Vladimir) Putin one year ago,” State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said in the statement.

The statement added that “it was critical for Russia and the Syrian regime to adhere to these arrangements and ensure no unilateral activity in this area,” she added.

Despite this conversation, the Syrian military has exponentially increased the size of their forces in southwest Syria, as they prepare to kickoff this long-awaited offensive.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-is-ready-to-commit-to-southwest-syria-ceasefire-pompeo/

>Former rebel preacher accused of espionage turns to Syrian government
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (2:05 P.M.) – Ahmad Nashouk, a former preacher and Sharia law chief for the Saudi-backed Jaish al-Islam rebel group has turned himself in to the Syrian government as the entire East Ghouta region fell to the Syrian Army’s control on April.

Nashouk chose to have his legal status settled and eventually joined the Ministry of Islamic Affairs as a judge.

However, opposition activists accused him of spying for the Syrian regime ever since he was a senior member of the Sharia body of Jaish al-Islam.

Before Nashouk, Sheikh Bassam Difdaa; a Sufi preacher working in the Kafr Batna neighborhood, has reportedly played an important role in surrendering several Faylaq al-Rahman-controlled areas.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/former-rebel-preacher-accused-of-espionage-turns-to-syrian-government/

>Turkish PM says Kobane, Hasakah, Qamishli are next targets after Manbij
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:00 P.M.) – Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim stated on Monday that the Turkish military will shift their attention to three cities in northern Syria that are partially or fully controlled by the Kurdish-led forces.

According to Yildirim, the Turkish military will turn their attention to the cities of Kobane (northeast Aleppo), Qamishli (northern Hasakah), and Hasakah (provincial capital).

All three of these cities have a large presence of fighters from the Kurdish-led People’s Protection Units (YPG), who are also considered ‘terrorists’ by the Turkish regime and their proxies in Syria.

Yildirim reportedly added that Turkey is seeking to create a safe-zone in northern Syria because of the weapons that were provided to the Kurdish-led forces.

Despite Yildirim’s claims, he may find some opposition from the Syrian government, who is currently inside both Qamishli and Hasakah.

Furthermore, Kobane is a predominately Kurdish city near the Turkish border; it was under siege by the Islamic State (ISIS) in early 2015.

While their campaign was successful in Afrin, the Turkish-backed rebels do not have much support in predominately Kurdish areas in northeast Syria, so it will require Ankara to deploy their army to take on the YPG and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in cities like Hasakah and Qamishli.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkish-pm-says-kobane-hasakah-qamishli-are-next-targets-after-manbij/

>#IslamicState Claiming Captures Of 17 Police & #PMU Members In An Ambush On The #Baghdad-#Kirkuk Highway. #TerrorMonitor
1st pic

>#Taliban Claims 16 Police/ANA & Arbaki Fighters Left Their Ranks & Joined With Them In Jani Khel District Of #Paktika. #TerrorMonitor
2nd pic

>US ambassador assures Iraq his country did not bomb Syrian, Iraqi troops near Albukamal
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:40 P.M.) – The U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Douglas Sillman told Iraqi Vice President Usama Al-Nujaifi that his country did not carry out the airstrikes that killed several Iraqi and Syrian troops in southwest Syria, Iraq News reported this afternoon.

According to the media office of Nujaifi, Sillman assured him that “the U.S. had no hand in the bombardment of Iraqi factions at Boukamal, a Syrian city near the borders with Iraq.”

Sillman added that “the U.S. has no aerial presence at that area”.

The Syrian government and Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Units (Hashd Al-Sha’abi) have accused the U.S. of carrying out this deadly attack.

The Pentagon released a statement on Monday denying that the U.S. forces had anything to do with this attack.

This is the second time in three weeks that the Syrian Army has accused the U.S. Coalition of bombing their troops in southeast Syria.

The Syrian Army has not responded to the attack and will not likely attack the US-backed forces in the region, as this would only escalate the situation and lead to violent confrontation.

Furthermore, it is not necessarily clear that the U.S. Coalition carried out the attack, a some pro-government activists have accused the Israeli Air Force of carrying out the airstrikes.

Albukamal is a long distance from the Israeli border, but it would be a viable target for their military, given the large presence of Iranian-backed forces near the Iraqi-Syrian border.

Israel has also never attacked the Syrian military this far from their border, so if they were behind this – this would be the first time they have every bombed the Deir Ezzor Governorate.

A U.S. official did however tell CNN on Monday evening that Israel was behind the deadly bombing that killed over 50 Syrian and Iraqi military personnel in the southeastern city of Albukamal.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-ambassador-assures-iraq-his-country-did-not-bomb-syrian-iraqi-troops-near-albukamal/

>>154317
your take on the TTP defectors to IS-K is very interesting, I hadn't thought about that

Devs June 19
>NE Daraa; SAA with artillery support attempted to advance at Air Defense Base s of Harran, unconfirmed reports state it has been captured
>Turkish PM says Kobane, Hasakah, Qamishli are next targets after Manbij
>Pompeo tells Lavrov the US is committed to the SW Syria ceasefire aggmt put in place between Trump/Putin in 2017
>Al-Sweida; HTS launches missile/mortar attack for first time since 2015 in retaliation for SAA attacking their positions at Busra Al-Sham
>SAA activates sleeper cells in SW Syria, one target was an FSA commander, he lost both legs to a roadside bomb planted by these assassins
>US ambass to Iraq tells Iraqi VP US did not launch strikes that killed SAA and PMU troops near Albukamal
>SAA claim advances against IS in NE Suwedia, capture Tel Aldabab, Tel Dahaya, Khirbet Alambachi
>Yemen; Houthis claim to have cut off UAE forces in 2 more locations along W coast
>Gulf troops take control of Kilo 16 Junction in Hodiedeh, unconfirmed reports state Yemeni RG entered provincial airport again
>Taliban resumes operations despite Afghan govt extending ceasefire addtl 10 days

Its not necessary that they join IS but considering that IS-K in Nangarhar has a large number of former TTP men the chance that it can happen is there.

>>154337
true

>>154339
This might be of interest to you
http://www.chechensinsyria.com/?p=26038
http://www.chechensinsyria.com/?p=26042

>Syrian Army, allies score fresh advance against ISIS in east Suwayda
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (4:10 P.M.) – Battles continue in the eastern countryside of Suwayda province as the Syrian forces attempt to oust the Islamic State from its enclave that stretches out to the Syrian Desert.

The government troops, backed by allies and paramilitary fighters, blitzed ISIS territories from 3 axes; Rast Hatiti,-Souh Majidi, Al-Saqiyah-Khirbet Ambashi, and Al-Qasr-Khirbet Ambashi.

The attack granted the Syrian forces full control over Marar hills and Tal Abu Layah and all surrounding areas, reaching out to the outskirts of Shatayeb Sulieman.

Judging by the pace of the advance, the entire ISIS enclave could possibly be liberated within one week or so, where the troops will be deployed to fight back ISIS in east Homs pocket.

Today, several neighborhoods in Suwayda city have come under attack when rebels in east Daraa countryside shelled the city with mortars and homegrown rockets.

The attack, the first since 2015, have left several civilians injured and caused material damage.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-allies-score-fresh-advance-against-isis-in-east-suwayda/

>Israel’s National Security Advisor presses Russia to force Iran to leave Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:55 P.M.) – Israel’s National Security Advisor Meir Ben-Shabbat recently visited Moscow to meet with his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev and several other officials, Channel 10 reported.

Ben-Shabbat told Channel 10 that during his meeting, he pressed the Russians to force Iranians to leave Syria.

“I made clear to them our principles on this matter,” he said.

“Iran must leave Syria and we will act and are already acting against Iran’s attempts to establish itself in that country,” he added.

Ben-Shabbat’s visit comes just days after Israel’s Minister of Defense Avigdor Lieberman traveled to Moscow to meet with his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoygu.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/israels-national-security-advisor-visits-moscow-to-discuss-iran-in-syria/

>>154342
very interesting, and the site itself as well. thanks Pingu

>>154409
np, also
>A Negotiated End to the Afghan Conflict: The Taliban’s Perspective
https://www.usip.org/sites/default/files/2018-06/pw-137b-a-negotiated-end-to-the-afghan-conflict-the-talibans-perspective.pdf

>No relief for rebels tonight as Syrian troops hammer southwest Syria ahead of offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:45 A.M.) – The rebel forces in southwest Syria were the target of several attacks by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) tonight, as the latter gears up for their long-awaited offensive.

According to a local report, the Syrian Army repeatedly struck the rebel positions in northeast and southeast Dara’a, causing a number of explosions in the process.

Using missiles and artillery shells, the Syrian Arab Army, including the Tiger Forces, hammered away at the rebel positions inside the towns of Busra Al-Sham and Busra Al-Harir.

While their ground offensive has yet to begin, the Syrian military often launches attacks like this to weaken the enemy’s resolve in an effort to get them to surrender before any major operation.

Regardless of the attack’s intensity, it does not appear that the rebel forces are going to agree to surrender or even accept any reconciliation agreement in southwest Syria.

Unlike the Syrian Army’s previous offensives around Damascus, their southwest Syria operation will not be facing a besieged enemy.

Many of the rebel forces in southwest Syria maintain good relations with neighboring Jordan, which allows them to have a safe haven in the area.

The level of Jordan’s intervention in this upcoming offensive is still unknown; however, they could create major problems for the Syrian Army should they provide intel and supplies to the rebels.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/no-relief-for-rebels-tonight-as-syrian-troops-hammer-southwest-syria-ahead-of-offensive/

>Al-Hariri, develop significant momentum on Harran-Duweiri axis in direction of Izra’. #Daraa #Suweida #OpBasalt

During the process, about 50 gunmen surrendered themselves & weapons after being encircled by #Syria|n Arab Army. (19 June 2018)
https://twitter.com/ArabianaINTEL/status/1009201926897053699

>Jihadist rebels kill several Syrian Army soldiers in northern Latakia
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:15 A.M.) – The jihadist rebels carried out a powerful hit-and-run attack in the northern countryside of the Latakia Governorate tonight.

According to a military source in Latakia, the jihadist rebels launched the hit-and-run attack against a group of Syrian Army soldiers that were positioned at the town of Rabi’ain the Turkmen Mountains.

The source stated that the attack took place at 8 P.M. (local time) and resulted in the death of 9 soldiers.

Among the nine soldiers killed during this jihadist attack, at least three of them were officers in the Syrian Arab Army.

In response to this attack, the Syrian Army has already begun heavily bombarding the northern part of the Turkmen Mountains.

Since the Turkish troops arrived in northern Latakia late last month, the jihadist rebels have become more aggressive against the Syrian Army troops in the region.
https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-kill-several-syrian-army-soldiers-in-northern-latakia/

>Taliban kills 30 Afghan soldiers, captures military base in 1st major attack since ceasefire

Taliban militants killed 30 Afghan soldiers and captured a military base in the western province of Badghis on Wednesday, in their first major attack since a ceasefire for the Eid al-Fitr holiday, Reuters reported. Provincial Governor Abdul Qafoor Malikzai said the Taliban attacked two security posts in the early hours. One military base was targeted in the district of Balamerghab, according to Abdul Aziz Bek, head of the Badghis provincial council. A total of 15 Taliban were killed in other areas of the province overnight, the official said, adding that the militants had prepared their attacks and did reconnaissance of the area during their three-day ceasefire that ended on Sunday.

https://www.rt.com/newsline/430277-taliban-afghan-soldiers-ceasefire/

Ideas of what could I draw using Syriana?

>>154497
Hmm... maybe something about that F-16 shot-down?

>>154495
maybe my wishful thinking here >>154312 wasn't too far from reality. In the very least this is a positive step in the right direction by the US, if it goes anywhere that will be another story though.....

Devs June 20
>NE Daraa;Tigers attack rebels in Al-Lajat, capture Air Defense Base, Al-Museikah, Al-Dallafa, impose fire control on Busra Al-Harir
>Cont; The SAA cut main supply lines for Al-Lajat, rebels issue distress calls for reinforcements
>Al-Sweida; SAA captured hilltops of Tal Al-Khayl and Tal Daires from IS, now engaging IS lines from multiple axes
>E Homs; IS launches counterattack to retake ground near Awiraz Dam E of T-3, reportedly pushed back by SAA
>UNHRC releases statement accusing both Sy govt and rebel groups of committing war crimes during fight for E Ghouta
>Iraq; Kata’eb Hezbollah vows response to alleged US or Israeli strikes that killed several troops in SE Syria this week
>Turkey releases statement claiming airstrikes on PKK in N Iraq/SE Turkey killed 26 fighters earlier this week
>Yemen; Saudi-led coalition claims capture of Hodeidah airport from Houthis
>Bibi visits King Abdullah II in Amman, "reiterated Israel’s commitment to maintaining...status quo at...holy sites in Jerusalem"
>Afghanistan; In 1st major attack since ceasefire ends Taliban kill 30 Afghan troops and capture military base in W Badghis province

>>154497
Syriana and her disowned sister [insert appropriate name for FSA pone here] arguing about Syria.

Devs June 21
>Daraa; SAA continues heavy shelling and surface missiles on rebels in Busra Al-Harir as ground op set to begin soon
>SAA reportedly took control of Musaykah and al-Dallafa from rebels in Al-Lajat area
>Turkish FM reports that YPG will depart from Manbij by July 4
>Al-Sweida; SAA ops against ISIS continue, have captured over a dozen towns/hills this week, still have 1,000 sq km to clear
>DeZ/Homs; SAA advances against ISIS from the May’zlah area to Fidat bin Muwayna region, liberates 1,200 sq km
>Up to 7 FSA rebel factions in SW Syria declare forming joint operation room to combat upcoming SAA Daraa offensive
>Golan region; HTS launch surprise attack at W axis of Al-Ba’ath City, get reinforcements from Al-Hamidiyah, unable to advance against SAA
>Latakia; HTS and Jabal al-Islam launched raid on SAA positions on Al-Dorah and Rabiea fronts, at least 10 SAA killed
>Arabic RT correspondent reports Iran has deployed a carrier and destroyer towards Yemen to Gulf of Aden and Bab Al-Mandeb Strait
>Sara Netanyahu charged with aggravated fraud and breach of trust for misuse of state funds

Devs June 22
>Daraa; SAA launches 30+ missiles towards Busra Al-Sham, Busra Al-Harir, and Al-Karak
>Supply lines for HTS in the Al-Lajat have been completely cut off by SAA, rebels are close to being besieged at Al-Sweida border
>Military sources state Tigers are now in place for ground ops in Busra Al-Harir, SAA and allies also in place for Al-Quneitra op
>Hashd Al-Sha’abi PMU forces state they are not withdrawing from the Syrian border despite Israeli airstrikes and rumors they were leaving
>Jordan sends large convoy of troops to Syrian border to prevent spillover from upcoming Daraa offensive
>SAA source claims US did not bomb SAA troops last night, that the attack was carried out by US-backed rebels from Al-Tanf area
>US DoS issue warning to RF/Sy govts regarding ops in Daraa "violating" SW de-escalation zones
>Al-Suwayda; SAA captured Khirbet Hawi Husayn from IS, an SAA brigadier general was killed
>Yemen; Houthis claim recapturing Mahlikhi/Majilis in SW Hodeiedeh, at airport they announced full control and released footage to corroborate claim
>Houthis claim their AD downed a UAE reconnaisance warplane in KSA Jizan region

>>155034
>>155036
We aren't worthy.

>>155034
EBin!
>tell us if the genie is keeping you captive
>and show us on the doll where he touches you

>>155034
EBIN!!!

>>155034
Glad to see you alive Ebin!

>>154777
>The Taliban has successfully built a parallel state in many parts of Afghanistan, report says
https://archive.li/ispVB

The complete report on whic the article is based on
https://www.odi.org/sites/odi.org.uk/files/resource-documents/12269.pdf

>>155179
I wonder.. what if Afghan was divided in two or more parts?

>>155204
That will lead to a whole new set of problems mate. And will probably effect the surrounding nations quite severely.

>>155179
Kek, I love how the burgers seem so surprised by this, they think the Taliban are just towelheads with no sense of governing structure. I also really liked this part of the article...
>One of the most dramatic areas of evolution in Taliban attitudes has been toward education. In areas under its control, there is better teacher and pupil attendance, less theft and more order, although the Taliban vetoes texts on modern topics and may forbid English from being taught. On the whole, a majority of people interviewed “felt that the Taliban had improved” how public education was run.

>>155204
wew, that would be a bigger clusterfuck than it is right now.

Devs June 25
>Unconfirmed preliminary reports state SAA has full control of al-Lajat
>RF MoD claims at least 70 Nusra jihadists have been killed, says SAA has not lost any troops
>NE Daraa; Rebels claim downing Syrian MIG-23, SyAf says plane was hit and damaged but safely returned to base
>SAA 4th Div targets rebel positions in Daraa al-Balad district with heavy use of Golan missiles
>Manbij; Newly formed popular resistance group has apparently formed, claim they will not tolerate invaders, 'Manbij belongs to Sy govt'
>Assad; Syria won't accept Western money to rebuild, open for negotiations with future US presidents if conducted on "productive" basis
>Yemen; Houthis release footage showing counter-attack on W coast, fully secured al-Jah area, destroy 7 armor vehicles/cap 5 others
>Battle for Hodeideh airport still ongoing. Southern Resistance seize large mountaintop/several points at Ta’iz Governorate border
>An IRGC top commander killed in Sy, Genl Shahrokh Daiepour was training Hez troops, details of death not released
>Putin congratulates Erdogan on re-election win

>>155220
Well to be fair the Talis were initially country bumpkins when they began their whole "movement" if you will but yeah they have changed alot. Also I wanted to ask you who is this american anon
https://archive.4plebs.org/pol/thread/176369755/#176374718
For some reason he reminds of Ebin

>>155223
>Well to be fair the Talis were initially country bumpkins when they began their whole "movement" if you will but yeah they have changed alot
Yep, it seems to me they were just becoming more "professional" for lack of a better term right before the American invasion, but now as they have matured they built on that more.
>I wanted to ask you who is this american anon
He just seemed to show up out of nowhere, strangely because besides Ebin and myself there aren't many burger contributors. Plus he used the term for you that most of us regulars use, and as you haven't been active it is all the more strange.
>For some reason he reminds of Ebin
I agree, and I am pretty sure that Ebin is posting if not on a daily basis he shows up at least every week for a bit. I am quite sure that I was debating the Yarmouk ISIS battle with him a while back, plus JJ thought he caught on to him once recently and said "why so dumb Ebin" when he was talking about the Yarmouk Camp not being a Palestinian refugee camp, I also thought it was him. Once confronted he stopped posting in that thread.

>>155227
>I was debating the Yarmouk ISIS battle with him
Aye I remember that. He was quite knowledgeable of the whole situation for random US anon.

>>155229
Yeah he was really butthurt about me telling him to drop his blind devotion to the SAA and at least be realistic that they were getting their asses kicked, the way he defended them and with his reliance on maps and some knowledge on the battle is what made me feel he was Ebin.

>>155234
I dont understand why doesnt he post his shitmaps there like he does here?
>inb4 why dont you post updates at the other place

>>155235
I think he is just really trying to keep that low profile, for whatever reason. I know he had told me in the past he was going to try and stop being as much of a /soc/ poster on 4/sg/, maybe that is why

>>155236
I see.

Mad gainz again.
Background music:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1wOK9yGUYM

Devs June 26
>SAA now controls Lajat region, capturing Busra al-Harir/several other towns, took Madajin and amass troops near Nahteh
>SAA reached the outskirts of Harak as they continue advance in E cs of Daraa, heavy airstrikes reported, major collapse of rebel defenses
>Rebels in Maliha al-Sharqiya release footage allegedly showing them downing SyAf MiG, claim to have captured pilot after he ejected in Daraa cs
>UN states 45,000 civs have been displaced since start of Daraa op
>N Hama; Jaish al-Izza launch rockets at SAA checkpoint in Zalin, suffer heavy losses from SAA retaliatory artillery in Al-Lataminah/Latmen
>NE Al-Suwayda; ISIS claim killing 9 SAA troops in attack near Bir al-Neama
>Raqqa; Unknown gunmen open fire on SDF vehicle on road between Ayn Issa and Raqqa, reportedly injuring 3 SDF personnel
>2 Israeli missiles struck near Damas airport last night, SOHR claims "targeted weapons depots..warehouses..of..non-Syrian militias"
>OPCW began 2 day hearing to determine if chem weapons inspectors will be given authority to assign blame of CW use
>Turkish authorities arrest 132 people with purported Gulen links, many of them were military/security personnel

Devs June 27
>Daraa; SAA captures Samma al-Hneidat, S of Nahetah, E of Mleihat Sharqiyyeh and Hirak, can now encircle Hirak from 3 axes
>SAA 4th Div/Republican Guard are prepped to launch assault on Daraa city, mil source states first goal will be to cap southern districts
>Over 450 rebels surrendered to the SAA in Sha’arah
>SyAf strikes IS-affiliate Jaysh Khalid bin Walid on Golan border for 1st time in 4 years
>IS-affiliate JKBW reached out to FSA for temporary truce to last 1 month, after which negotiations will take place
>Red Cross issues plea for warring parties in Daraa to cease hostilities
>Afrin; Twin car bombs detonated outside of FSA HQ, at least 6 civs killed, 20 wounded, no responsibility claimed yet
>Turkish-backed groups Liwaa Al-Mutassem and Jabhat Al-Shamiyah clashed over location of military checkpoint in Afrin
>Bibi lauds Tehran protesters, likens them to Iran playing Portugal in WC, hopes to see Israel play Iran one day in "Free Tehran...we'll all be winners"
>John "Bomb it" Bolton reportedly arrived in Moscow today to meet with Lavrov ahead of Putin/Trump meeting next month

Deir ez Zor desert area cleared of ISIS, only part of Hama left.

Devs June 28
>SAA captured Battalion 49 Base in E Daraa, rebels withdrew to Alma, which SAA has captured as well, SAA assault on Hirak next
>SAA is working on cutting off the supply route between Umm Ould & Jbeib in E Daraa
>Rebels in Bosra al-Sham offer weapons handover and withdrawal if SAA will not pursue military action on city
>Rebels central ops claims repelling an SAA attack towards Tell Hamad in W Daraa
>Tiger Forces captured Brigade 52 military base from HTS, pushed S to Rakham and captured it as well, rebels retreated to Al-Karak
>SOHR claims RF airstrikes killed 17 civs in underground bunker in Mseifra, also claim Mseifra hospital out of service due to RF strikes
>SAA advanced from Nahitah/Sama Al-Hadeitat, captured Maliha Al-Gharbiyah/Maliha Al-Sharqiyah
>Russian MoD announces withdrawal of 1,140 soldiers, 13 helicopters, 14 jets over last few days
>CJTF-OIR claims killing 930+ civs in Syria/Iraq since August 2014, a London-based firm says 9,600 is death toll from US strikes
>Libya; LNA reportedly established control over the Al-Maghar district in Derna

Border with Jordan reached, rebels are collapsing on every part of the front. Yamrouk basin also reached, ISIS off-shot of Jaish Khalid Ibn al-Walid likely to be targeted soon.

Reposting from 4/sg/

Nassib town captured near the border crossing to Jordan. Less than 2 hours after the crossing was taken in firefights by mechanised infantry units and FSA fighters

At least 140 rebels killed in north eastern Daraa perhaps to as many as 400 in the last 24 hours of armoured advance and heavy air and artillery strikes not counting today's gains. Over 4000 prisoners taken so far in the offensive as part of the reconciliation. Another 1400 defected to the SAA.

Today is the 10th day of the offensive and 7th for actual ground forces moving in. Estimated strength of FSA was around 16,000-18,000 at the start of the operation and ISIS a little over 1000. SAA forces involved number 30,000+ with 67 confirmed deaths in eastern Daraa as of 28th June since the operation began.

They've lost huge numbers and defensive positions, their fronts aren't sustainable anymore lads. This is why its collapsing so quickly. It's beautiful, much less costly than was anticipated. I wonder if the Russians and Syrians are surprised it fell apart this quickly. because before it started everyone was saying how this will easily last until August due to the Daraa region being the spiritual heart of the rebellion.
Expect a lot more red paint today as towns and villages keep surrendering.

Reminder: This is called Operation Basalt and was intended to be a morale reducer and surprise attack on eastern Daraa to fracture the rebel resistance for the greater campaign ahead. it's gone way better than expected and why the SAA haven't halted taking full advantage of the chaos of the FSA retreat and surrenders. This isn't even the full scale offensive they had planned.
Perhaps its now being merged into the grander plan.

Devs June 29
>Harak under full control, FSA surrender Ibta, Da'il, Al-Musayfirah and Tafas, civs in Da'il raise Syrian flag
>Sayda/Umm Mayadin/Nasib/Tayyibah/Um-Al Mizan in negotiations, weapons handover and defection to SAA reported in some of these towns
>SAA now in control of the hills overlooking air defense base West of Minshiyeh in Daraa
>Hilltop of Tal Zamitiyah captured after short battle with Southern Front Brigades.
>SAA control Shaik Said village and cut rebels in two pockets
>IDf says they will provide humanitarian aid to civs fleeing Daraa op, will not accept refugees
>Idlib; HTS launched large security op against IS in Sarmin and surrounding area, kill/arrest several, set up checkpoints and curfew
>Next round of Sochi talks between Russia/Iran/Turkey will be held on July 30-31
>Libya; LNA announce full control of eastern city of Derna
>US Senate confirms new commdr for Afghan war, will be the 17th US general to oversee ops since start of war in 2001
>Yemen; UN envoy expects to get warring factions to sit for talks for 1st time in years soon, says both sides voiced willingness for negotiation

>>156182
>>156183
nice
>>156188
thanks mate

>>156193
Accurate.

It's all too easy...

New video of Jaish al-Izza's training:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THkDmjFFGfA
if you're borded try finding them in the Idlib province.