BEIRUT: Militants from the extremist group Jabhat al-Nusra (banned in Russia) started an offensive against government troops in northern ...
BEIRUT: Militants from the extremist group Jabhat al-Nusra (banned in Russia) started an offensive against government troops in northern Syria and are trying to cut the Damascus-Aleppo international highway, Al Hadath television reported.
They captured 21 settlements in territory controlled by the Syrian armed forces and are moving toward other villages, towns and military sites.
TASS has put together the main developments.
Details about the offensive
- The offensive began on November 27 in the northern de-escalation zone, which is controlled by Turkey.
- According to the Syrian military, the attack involves a large number of militants and heavy weapons. Clashes with government forces are happening in several places along the front.
- Militants seized 21 settlements in the area under the Syrian government’s control, Dubai-based Al Hadath television reported.
- Some of the terrorists came as close as 7 kilometers from Aleppo and took back some advantageous positions that were previously ceded to Syrian troops. This raises the prospect that terrorists could cut the strategic highway linking Damascus and Aleppo.
Government response
- According to Al Hadath, government forces managed to hold back the enemy's advance in some areas near Aleppo, killing more than 60 militants.
- The Syrian military said the attack continues. "Our fighters are repelling the attack with various types firepower and inflicting manpower and equipment losses on the terrorist gangs," the military said in a statement.
Statement by Turkey
- The Turkish Defense Ministry is closely monitoring the situation in Syria, TRT Haber television reported, citing sources in the ministry.
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