Syrian Kurdish-led forces launched an all-out attack against Islamic State fighters after the militant group tried to rescue some of its members from a prison in Raqa. According to AFP, the IS attacked the prison complex on Monday and the fight between the two groups resulted in the death of six Kurdish fighters. According to the official statement, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces called the offensive "Operation al-Jazeera Thunderbolt" and said that the main aim behind it is to "eliminate" IS gunmen from the region which has&nbsp;turned into "the source of the recent terrorist attacks".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-40-per-cent-of-kyiv-population-left-without-power-after-russian-strikes-547670">Around 40 per cent of Kyiv population left without power after Russian strikes</a>

The SDF has received support from the United States-backed coalition in this mission. Since the attack on the prison in Raqa, the IS fighters have carried out eight other attacks in the northern Syrian regions of Deir Ezzor, Hasakeh and the Al-Hol camp for displaced people.

The IS fighters have been gaining power in the region since 2014 and the SDF said that the recent attacks are being fuelled by the recent Turkish airstrikes on Kurdish establishments in Syria.

The US has been supporting the Kurdish forces in their fight against IS since 2019 and since that time, the number of clashes between the two sides have gone up considerably.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordan-ready-for-conflict-if-red-lines-in-jerusalem-are-crossed-warns-king-abdullah-547573">Jordan ready for conflict if 'red lines' in Jerusalem crossed: King Abdullah</a>

Earlier, the Islamic State took full responsibility for the attack on the prison complex in Raqa and said that it wanted to avenge “Muslim prisoners” and female relatives of jihadists living in Al-Hol camp.

Al-Hol has been a controversial region recently with Kurdish fighters detaining over 200 people.

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Syrian Kurdish-led forces launched an all-out attack against Islamic State fighters after the militant group tried to rescue some of its members from a prison in Raqa.

Syrian Kurdish-led forces launched an all-out attack against Islamic State fighters after the militant group tried to rescue some of its members from a prison in Raqa. According to AFP, the IS attacked the prison complex on Monday and the fight between the two groups resulted in the death of six Kurdish fighters. According to the official statement, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces called the offensive "Operation al-Jazeera Thunderbolt" and said that the main aim behind it is to "eliminate" IS gunmen from the region which has turned into "the source of the recent terrorist attacks". Also read | Around 40 per cent of Kyiv population left without power after Russian strikes The SDF has received support from the United States-backed coalition in this mission. Since the attack on the prison in Raqa, the IS fighters have carried out eight other attacks in the northern Syrian regions of Deir Ezzor, Hasakeh and the Al-Hol camp for displaced people. The IS fighters have been gaining power in the region since 2014 and the SDF said that the recent attacks are being fuelled by the recent Turkish airstrikes on Kurdish establishments in Syria. The US has been supporting the Kurdish forces in their fight against IS since 2019 and since that time, the number of clashes between the two sides have gone up considerably. Also read | Jordan ready for conflict if 'red lines' in Jerusalem crossed: King Abdullah Earlier, the Islamic State took full responsibility for the attack on the prison complex in Raqa and said that it wanted to avenge “Muslim prisoners” and female relatives of jihadists living in Al-Hol camp. Al-Hol has been a controversial region recently with Kurdish fighters detaining over 200 people.

Kurdish fighters launch offensive mission against Islamic State in Syria

A French gunman who opened fire at the Kurdish cultural centre in Paris killing three people has admitted to being racist, reported AFP quoting a source. The shooting that the 69-year-old man carried out on Friday (December 23) caused panic in the trendy 10th district of Paris. The area is home to a large Kurdish population and is a bustling place of shopping and restaurants.&nbsp;Three others were wounded in the shooting.

The man was found with a case loaded with a box of at least 25 cartridges and "two or three loaded magazines", the source added

French President Emmanuel Macron said,&nbsp;"the Kurds in France have been the target of an odious attack in the heart of Paris" and ordered the Paris police chief to meet with leaders of the Kurdish community on Saturday.

The gunman has a history of racist violence. On Friday, he targeted the Kurdish cultural centre before entering a hairdressing salon where he was arrested.

Of the three wounded people, one was being given intensive care in hospital and two were treated for serious injuries.

According to the Kurdish Democratic Council in France (CDK-F), the dead included one woman and two men.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-erupt-at-paris-shooting-site-kurds-unhappy-with-french-govt-ruling-out-terrorist-act-546198">Clashes erupt at Paris shooting site, Kurds unhappy with French govt ruling out terrorist act</a>

Among the victims was Emine Kara, a leader of the Kurdish Women's Movement in France, the organisation's spokesman Agit Polat said. Her claim for political asylum in France had been rejected.

The other victims were Abdulrahman Kizil and Mir Perwer, a political refugee and artist, according to the CDK-F.

A police source also confirmed that Kara and Kizil were among the victims.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A French gunman who opened fire at the Kurdish cultural centre in Paris killing three people has admitted to being racist, reported AFP quoting a source. The shooting that the 69-year-old man carried out on Friday (December 23) caused panic in the trendy 10th district of Paris.

A French gunman who opened fire at the Kurdish cultural centre in Paris killing three people has admitted to being racist, reported AFP quoting a source. The shooting that the 69-year-old man carried out on Friday (December 23) caused panic in the trendy 10th district of Paris. The area is home to a large Kurdish population and is a bustling place of shopping and restaurants. Three others were wounded in the shooting. The man was found with a case loaded with a box of at least 25 cartridges and "two or three loaded magazines", the source added French President Emmanuel Macron said, "the Kurds in France have been the target of an odious attack in the heart of Paris" and ordered the Paris police chief to meet with leaders of the Kurdish community on Saturday. The gunman has a history of racist violence. On Friday, he targeted the Kurdish cultural centre before entering a hairdressing salon where he was arrested. Of the three wounded people, one was being given intensive care in hospital and two were treated for serious injuries. According to the Kurdish Democratic Council in France (CDK-F), the dead included one woman and two men. Also Read | Clashes erupt at Paris shooting site, Kurds unhappy with French govt ruling out terrorist act Among the victims was Emine Kara, a leader of the Kurdish Women's Movement in France, the organisation's spokesman Agit Polat said. Her claim for political asylum in France had been rejected. The other victims were Abdulrahman Kizil and Mir Perwer, a political refugee and artist, according to the CDK-F. A police source also confirmed that Kara and Kizil were among the victims. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Gunman responsible for shooting at Kurdish centre in Paris admits to being ‘racist’

Hundreds of Syrian Kurds gathered in Hasakeh in northern Syria on Sunday (December 25) to protest against a deadly gun attack in Paris that targeted the local Kurdish community.

A gunman opened fire at a Kurdish cultural centre and a hairdressing salon in Paris on Friday, killing three Kurds.

The suspected gunman, a 69-year-old Frenchman, was arrested and later confessed to a "pathological" hatred for foreigners, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said.

The semi-autonomous Kurdish authorities in northeastern Syria called for the Sunday protest in Hasakeh, which drew hundreds of people brandishing photos of the three victims and calling for accountability.

"Kurds are fighting against oppression and they are massacred everywhere, even in Paris, the city of love and freedom," said feminist activist Evin Basho, 33, demanding that the killer be brought to justice.

The protesters marched through the city chanting "the martyrs of Paris are forever in our hearts" and repeating slogans against "the extermination" of the Kurdish people.

The Kurdish diaspora is often described as the world's largest ethnic group without a state. Kurdish people are spread across Syria, Turkey, Iraq and Iran.

Protester Azad Suleiman, 55, told AFP he felt Kurds were being targeted in the diaspora and at home.

"This is a war against our people, targeting us in the four parts of Kurdistan and even in Europe," he said, adding he had high hopes that the French authorities would bring the perpetrator to justice.

"We will not concede to the enemies in Kurdistan and we will not abandon our revolution," Suleiman said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hundreds of Syrian Kurds gathered in Hasakeh in northern Syria on Sunday (December 25) to protest against a deadly gun attack in Paris that targeted the local Kurdish community.

Hundreds of Syrian Kurds gathered in Hasakeh in northern Syria on Sunday (December 25) to protest against a deadly gun attack in Paris that targeted the local Kurdish community. A gunman opened fire at a Kurdish cultural centre and a hairdressing salon in Paris on Friday, killing three Kurds. The suspected gunman, a 69-year-old Frenchman, was arrested and later confessed to a "pathological" hatred for foreigners, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said. The semi-autonomous Kurdish authorities in northeastern Syria called for the Sunday protest in Hasakeh, which drew hundreds of people brandishing photos of the three victims and calling for accountability. "Kurds are fighting against oppression and they are massacred everywhere, even in Paris, the city of love and freedom," said feminist activist Evin Basho, 33, demanding that the killer be brought to justice. The protesters marched through the city chanting "the martyrs of Paris are forever in our hearts" and repeating slogans against "the extermination" of the Kurdish people. The Kurdish diaspora is often described as the world's largest ethnic group without a state. Kurdish people are spread across Syria, Turkey, Iraq and Iran. Protester Azad Suleiman, 55, told AFP he felt Kurds were being targeted in the diaspora and at home. "This is a war against our people, targeting us in the four parts of Kurdistan and even in Europe," he said, adding he had high hopes that the French authorities would bring the perpetrator to justice. "We will not concede to the enemies in Kurdistan and we will not abandon our revolution," Suleiman said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kurdish people protest in Syria against Paris gun attack that killed three from community

Iraq's Walnut farmers in the Kurdish region stare at a bleak future as the dry season has affected this year's yield. Ghadi Francis brings us all the latest updates on this week's The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post: Trouble for Iraq's Walnut market

After relentless airstrikes against Kurdish groups, Turkiye is soon going to launch a ground offensive in Syria. Ghadi Francis tells us more.

The West Asia Post: Turkiye intensifies attacks on Kurdish groups

After the Istanbul blast Turkiye mulls attacking Kurdish groups. Moscow tells Ankara to show 'restraint' Ghadi Francis tells us about the situation. #TheWestAsiaPost

The West Asia Post: Turkiye mulls attacking Kurdish groups

Following a series of airstrikes by Iran and Turkey against opposition organisations in Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, Baghdad announced on Wednesday that it will redeploy federal troops along its borders with the two nations.

In a statement following a government security meeting presided over by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, the nation said that authorities had decided to "establish a plan to redeploy Iraqi border guards... along the border with Iran and Turkey".

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kurds bear brunt of Iran's brutal crackdown

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According to the statement, the effort will be carried out "in coordination with the government of the Kurdistan region and the peshmerga ministry," referring to the Kurdish regional forces.

Currently, the peshmerga are in charge of policing the borders of Iraqi Kurdistan; however, they are subject to directions from Baghdad's federal defence ministry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-people-including-a-child-killed-by-rocket-attack-in-northern-syrian-city-of-azaz-536599">Five people, including a child, killed by rocket attack in Northern Syrian city of Azaz</a>

AFP reports that the announcement appears to be a response to Iran, which had earlier this week expressed hope that the Iraqi government would deploy "border guards at the common border so that Iran does not have to take other deterrent measures to repel threats."

The recent spate of strikes follows the unrest over the death of 22-year-old Mahasa Amini while in the custody of Iran's so-called "morality police".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/human-rights-organisations-accuse-iran-of-gunning-down-citizens-as-part-of-its-bloody-crackdown-on-protests-536575">Iran | Human rights organisation claims 72 civilians, including women and children, killed in past week</a>

Tehran has blamed "outside powers and exiled Kurdish groups" for stoking the wave of protests.&nbsp;

Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, the foreign minister of Iran, issued a warning earlier in the day, saying that the country would continue to take action against foreign "threats". He added that Tehran's forces would continue operations inside Iraq's Kurdistan until Baghdad's national forces were deployed on the border and "we would no longer need to act to defend our territorial integrity." 
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Following a series of airstrikes by Iran and Turkey against opposition organisations in Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, Baghdad announced on Wednesday that it will redeploy federal troops along its borders with the two nations.

Following a series of airstrikes by Iran and Turkey against opposition organisations in Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, Baghdad announced on Wednesday that it will redeploy federal troops along its borders with the two nations. In a statement following a government security meeting presided over by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, the nation said that authorities had decided to "establish a plan to redeploy Iraqi border guards... along the border with Iran and Turkey". Watch | Gravitas: Kurds bear brunt of Iran's brutal crackdown According to the statement, the effort will be carried out "in coordination with the government of the Kurdistan region and the peshmerga ministry," referring to the Kurdish regional forces. Currently, the peshmerga are in charge of policing the borders of Iraqi Kurdistan; however, they are subject to directions from Baghdad's federal defence ministry. Also read | Five people, including a child, killed by rocket attack in Northern Syrian city of Azaz AFP reports that the announcement appears to be a response to Iran, which had earlier this week expressed hope that the Iraqi government would deploy "border guards at the common border so that Iran does not have to take other deterrent measures to repel threats." The recent spate of strikes follows the unrest over the death of 22-year-old Mahasa Amini while in the custody of Iran's so-called "morality police". Also read | Iran | Human rights organisation claims 72 civilians, including women and children, killed in past week Tehran has blamed "outside powers and exiled Kurdish groups" for stoking the wave of protests. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, the foreign minister of Iran, issued a warning earlier in the day, saying that the country would continue to take action against foreign "threats". He added that Tehran's forces would continue operations inside Iraq's Kurdistan until Baghdad's national forces were deployed on the border and "we would no longer need to act to defend our territorial integrity."

Iraq will redeploy federal troops along its borders amid strikes by neighbours Iran and Turkey

Turkey has hit Syria with a barrage of retaliatory shelling - the aftermath of Istanbul bombing - in the form of airstrikes which targeted Kurdish forces controlling the northern Syrian Al-Hol detention camp. According to a British-based war monitoring body, the Turkish planes launched the airstrike on the exterior of the camp.

Turkiye launches fresh airstrikes in Syria's detention camp, targets Kurdish groups

Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said Wednesday that Turkey's military had hit nearly 500 Kurdish targets across Iraq and Syria as part of an air strikes’ campaign.&nbsp;“So far, 471 targets have been struck and 254 terrorists were neutralised in the operation,” Akar was quoted as saying by the official Anadolu news agency.

Ankara began the series of air strikes as part of Operation Claw-Sword on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-claw-sword-strikes-syria-ahead-of-turkiyes-general-elections-535913">WATCH |&nbsp;Operation-claw-sword strikes Syria ahead of Turkiye's general elections</a>

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President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday threatened to launch a ground&nbsp;operation&nbsp; in&nbsp;Syria "with tanks and soldiers" in defiance of international pressure not to do so.

Turkey's air raids followed a bombing in Istanbul on November 13 that killed six people and wounded 81.

Turkey blamed the attack on the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which is blacklisted as a terror group by the European Union and the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ankara-launches-bomb-strikes-over-northern-syria-after-istanbul-bomb-blast-535695">Read more:&nbsp;Türkiye launches air raids against Kurdish militants in Syria and Iraq, 31 dead</a>

The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, denied any role in the bombing -- the deadliest in five years after a spate of attacks in Turkey between 2015 and 2017.

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Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said Wednesday that Turkey's military had hit nearly 500 Kurdish targets across Iraq and Syria as part of an air strikes’ campaign.

Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said Wednesday that Turkey's military had hit nearly 500 Kurdish targets across Iraq and Syria as part of an air strikes’ campaign. “So far, 471 targets have been struck and 254 terrorists were neutralised in the operation,” Akar was quoted as saying by the official Anadolu news agency. Ankara began the series of air strikes as part of Operation Claw-Sword on Sunday. WATCH | Operation-claw-sword strikes Syria ahead of Turkiye's general elections × President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday threatened to launch a ground operation in Syria "with tanks and soldiers" in defiance of international pressure not to do so. Turkey's air raids followed a bombing in Istanbul on November 13 that killed six people and wounded 81. Turkey blamed the attack on the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which is blacklisted as a terror group by the European Union and the United States. Read more: Türkiye launches air raids against Kurdish militants in Syria and Iraq, 31 dead The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, denied any role in the bombing -- the deadliest in five years after a spate of attacks in Turkey between 2015 and 2017. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nearly 500 Kurdish targets hit in Iraq and Syria, 254 terrorists killed, claims Turkey's defence minister

Iran on Tuesday (November 22) launched fresh cross-border missile and drone strikes against Iranian-Kurdish groups in northern Iraq. Iran has been accusing these groups of stoking new wave of protests inside the country.&nbsp;

Iran has witnessed two months of nationwide protests that started after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini's custodial death. Amini was detained by Iran's morality police over her 'inappropriate' attire.

Iran's Tasnim news agency said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had "launched a new round of attacks against terrorist groups based in the Iraqi Kurdistan region", the second such strikes in two days.

Headquarters of Kurdish Freedom Party "was targetted by missiles and suicide drones" near Kirkuk, the report said.

An Iraqi Kurdish military official, a local police officer and a party spokesman confirmed renewed strikes on the region to AFP.

"We had taken our precautions and emptied the premises, there were no casualties," Kurdistan Freedom Party spokesman Khalil Nadri told AFP.

Kurdistan regional government spokesman Lawk Ghafuri said on Twitter: "Today the Islamic Republic of Iran targeted Iranian opposition groups in two areas in the Kurdistan region with rockets".

As per Ghafuri, &nbsp;the sites that were hit were in the city of Perdi, the Kurdish name of Altun Kupri, north of Kirkuk, and the Degala region east of Arbil, the regional capital.

Iraqi Kurdistan has since the 1980s hosted several Iranian-Kurdish opposition groups which have in the past waged an armed insurrection against Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran on Tuesday (November 22) launched fresh cross-border missile and drone strikes against Iranian-Kurdish groups in northern Iraq. Iran has been accusing these groups of stoking new wave of protests inside the country.

Iran on Tuesday (November 22) launched fresh cross-border missile and drone strikes against Iranian-Kurdish groups in northern Iraq. Iran has been accusing these groups of stoking new wave of protests inside the country. Iran has witnessed two months of nationwide protests that started after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini's custodial death. Amini was detained by Iran's morality police over her 'inappropriate' attire. Iran's Tasnim news agency said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had "launched a new round of attacks against terrorist groups based in the Iraqi Kurdistan region", the second such strikes in two days. Headquarters of Kurdish Freedom Party "was targetted by missiles and suicide drones" near Kirkuk, the report said. An Iraqi Kurdish military official, a local police officer and a party spokesman confirmed renewed strikes on the region to AFP. "We had taken our precautions and emptied the premises, there were no casualties," Kurdistan Freedom Party spokesman Khalil Nadri told AFP. Kurdistan regional government spokesman Lawk Ghafuri said on Twitter: "Today the Islamic Republic of Iran targeted Iranian opposition groups in two areas in the Kurdistan region with rockets". As per Ghafuri, the sites that were hit were in the city of Perdi, the Kurdish name of Altun Kupri, north of Kirkuk, and the Degala region east of Arbil, the regional capital. Iraqi Kurdistan has since the 1980s hosted several Iranian-Kurdish opposition groups which have in the past waged an armed insurrection against Tehran. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran launches fresh strikes in Iraq against Kurdish groups

The crackdown by the Iranian state against the anti-government protesters has intensified. Over the weekend, Iran's security forces targeted a Kurdish city. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Iranian security forces intensify crackdown

A base operated by Kurdish forces and the United States-led coalition, situated in northeastern Syria, was hit by Turkish drones on Tuesday, a war monitor said. The United Kingdom-based monitoring group called the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the base was under attack but did not confirm if there were any casualties. Later in the day, the Kurds came out with an official statement about the attack and said that two fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces were killed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-president-announces-compensation-for-quake-victims-as-search-for-survivors-continues-536364">Indonesia quake toll rises to 252, president announces compensation for families of victims</a>

"A joint base north of Hasakeh used for planning and executing joint operations against the Islamic State group has been hit by a Turkish drone," a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF told AFP.

The drone strike came just days after Turkiye attacked targets in northern parts of Syria as well as Iraq resulting in the death of multiple Kurdish operatives. According to The Guardian, the strikes were in response to the bomb attack in Istanbul that ended up killed six people in the capital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/36-dead-in-factory-fire-at-chinese-city-of-anyang-536253">Toll in China factory fire rises to 38; workers reportedly violated safety measures</a>

Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made it clear that a ground operation will be launched into Syria and Iraq 'God willing soon'. Turkiye has already been active in the region with their aerial missions and a ground operation will increase the conflict in both countries.

"There is no question that this operation be limited to only an aerial operation. We will make those who disturb us on our territory pay. Competent authorities, our defence ministry and chief of staff will together decide the level of force that should be used by our ground forces," Erdogan said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A base operated by Kurdish forces and the United States-led coalition, situated in northeastern Syria, was hit by Turkish drones on Tuesday, a war monitor said. The United Kingdom-based monitoring group called the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the base was under attack but did not confirm if there were any casualties.

A base operated by Kurdish forces and the United States-led coalition, situated in northeastern Syria, was hit by Turkish drones on Tuesday, a war monitor said. The United Kingdom-based monitoring group called the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the base was under attack but did not confirm if there were any casualties. Later in the day, the Kurds came out with an official statement about the attack and said that two fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces were killed. Also read | Indonesia quake toll rises to 252, president announces compensation for families of victims "A joint base north of Hasakeh used for planning and executing joint operations against the Islamic State group has been hit by a Turkish drone," a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF told AFP. The drone strike came just days after Turkiye attacked targets in northern parts of Syria as well as Iraq resulting in the death of multiple Kurdish operatives. According to The Guardian, the strikes were in response to the bomb attack in Istanbul that ended up killed six people in the capital. Also read | Toll in China factory fire rises to 38; workers reportedly violated safety measures Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made it clear that a ground operation will be launched into Syria and Iraq 'God willing soon'. Turkiye has already been active in the region with their aerial missions and a ground operation will increase the conflict in both countries. "There is no question that this operation be limited to only an aerial operation. We will make those who disturb us on our territory pay. Competent authorities, our defence ministry and chief of staff will together decide the level of force that should be used by our ground forces," Erdogan said. (With inputs from agencies)

Kurdish base used by US-led coalition in northern Syria hit by Turkish drone

Russia on Tuesday (November 22) warned Turkiye against "destabilising" Syria. Turkiye has carried out air strikes against Kurdish fighters and has also threatened to launch ground offensive.

"We understand and respect Turkey's concerns regarding its own security. We believe this is the legal right of Turkey," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"We still call on all parties to refrain from steps that could lead to seriously destabilising the situation," he said.

He added that it could "boomerang back and further complicate the security situation".

Turkiye on Sunday (November 20) launched air raids against Kurdish militants across northern Syria and Iraq. According to Britain-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights, at least 37 people were killed in the strikes.

On Monday, strikes from Syria killed at least two people, including a child, in the Turkish border town of Karkamis.

The Kremlin's comments came as representatives from Russia, Turkey and Iran -- major players in the war in Syria -- meet in the Kazakh capital Astana for trilateral talks on Syria.

Russia's special envoy on Syria, Alexander Lavrentyev, told reporters earlier in Astana that "We hope to convince our Turkish colleagues to refrain from resorting to excessive use of force on Syrian territory" to "avoid the escalation of tensions".

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russia on Tuesday (November 22) warned Turkiye against "destabilising" Syria. Turkiye has carried out air strikes against Kurdish fighters and has also threatened to launch ground offensive.

Russia on Tuesday (November 22) warned Turkiye against "destabilising" Syria. Turkiye has carried out air strikes against Kurdish fighters and has also threatened to launch ground offensive. "We understand and respect Turkey's concerns regarding its own security. We believe this is the legal right of Turkey," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "We still call on all parties to refrain from steps that could lead to seriously destabilising the situation," he said. He added that it could "boomerang back and further complicate the security situation". Turkiye on Sunday (November 20) launched air raids against Kurdish militants across northern Syria and Iraq. According to Britain-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights, at least 37 people were killed in the strikes. On Monday, strikes from Syria killed at least two people, including a child, in the Turkish border town of Karkamis. The Kremlin's comments came as representatives from Russia, Turkey and Iran -- major players in the war in Syria -- meet in the Kazakh capital Astana for trilateral talks on Syria. Russia's special envoy on Syria, Alexander Lavrentyev, told reporters earlier in Astana that "We hope to convince our Turkish colleagues to refrain from resorting to excessive use of force on Syrian territory" to "avoid the escalation of tensions". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Stop 'destabilising' Syria, Russia warns Türkiye

Several people were killed after Iranian armed forced bombed Kurdish targets in Iraq for the third time in five days. Iraq responded by summoning the Iranian envoy in Baghdad. Is the anti-hijab unrest spiraling into a broader conflict? Priyanka Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Iran bombs Kurds amid anti-hijab unrest

Iran bombed Kurdish targets in northern Iraq after accusing the Kurds of orchestrating the ongoing anti-hijab protests. The custodial death of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini has revealed the fault lines in Iranian society. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Iran bombs Kurdish targets amid anti-hijab protests

The Swedish government was able to survive a no-confidence vote just months before the country holds its elections and it all came down to the vote of a former Kurdish fighter. Amineh Kakabaveh, who is an independent member of the Swedish parliament, was a former Kurdish peshmerga fighter and she decided to abstain from voting. As a result, the non-confidence motion ended up getting 174 votes – one less than the number needed for it to pass. However, Kakabaveh’s demands can cause more problems down the line and threaten Sweden’s chances of joining NATO.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-walks-out-of-security-council-meeting-after-eu-blames-kremlin-for-looming-food-crisis-485958" hreflang="en">Russia walks out of Security Council meeting after EU blames Kremlin for looming food crisis</a>

The no-confidence motion was brought against Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and her government because of their inability to stop the rising gang violence in the country. The opposition also blamed the Social Democrat government of incompetence when it comes to immigration.

Kakabaveh, however, did not vote against the government during the no-confidence motion on Tuesday and earlier, she told Reuters she would help the government if it affirmed that "we support the Kurds and people from those organisations coming to Sweden are not terrorists".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-lot-of-happy-tears-cancer-disappears-in-every-patient-in-a-small-drug-trial-485905">'Lot of happy tears': Cancer disappears in every patient in a small drug trial</a>

This may have saved the government from losing the motion, but it can become a key point for Türkiye who has been quite critical of Sweden’s attempts of joining the NATO. Türkiye has maintained that Sweden has links to Kurdish groups – who are considered terrorists by them – and the latest incident can bolster their claims in blocking Sweden and Finland from joining the alliance.

However, the Swedish government has maintained that they have no associations with any terrorist group and their only cooperation is with Syrian Democratic Union Party – a Kurdish group.

&nbsp;

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The Swedish government was able to survive a no-confidence vote just months before the country holds its elections and it all came down to the vote of a former Kurdish fighter.

The Swedish government was able to survive a no-confidence vote just months before the country holds its elections and it all came down to the vote of a former Kurdish fighter. Amineh Kakabaveh, who is an independent member of the Swedish parliament, was a former Kurdish peshmerga fighter and she decided to abstain from voting. As a result, the non-confidence motion ended up getting 174 votes – one less than the number needed for it to pass. However, Kakabaveh’s demands can cause more problems down the line and threaten Sweden’s chances of joining NATO. Also read | Russia walks out of Security Council meeting after EU blames Kremlin for looming food crisis The no-confidence motion was brought against Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and her government because of their inability to stop the rising gang violence in the country. The opposition also blamed the Social Democrat government of incompetence when it comes to immigration. Kakabaveh, however, did not vote against the government during the no-confidence motion on Tuesday and earlier, she told Reuters she would help the government if it affirmed that "we support the Kurds and people from those organisations coming to Sweden are not terrorists". Also read | 'Lot of happy tears': Cancer disappears in every patient in a small drug trial This may have saved the government from losing the motion, but it can become a key point for Türkiye who has been quite critical of Sweden’s attempts of joining the NATO. Türkiye has maintained that Sweden has links to Kurdish groups – who are considered terrorists by them – and the latest incident can bolster their claims in blocking Sweden and Finland from joining the alliance. However, the Swedish government has maintained that they have no associations with any terrorist group and their only cooperation is with Syrian Democratic Union Party – a Kurdish group. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Swedish government survives no-confidence vote as former Kurdish fighter abstains

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) the US-backed side in the Syrian war said on Thursday that Turkey's plans of new offensive in Syria may create humanitarian crisis.

SDF commander Mazloum Abdi said that all sides involved in the conflict should "prevent any new tragedies and support de-escalation". He warned that a fresh attack would lead to more displacement in the 11-year-long conflict.

Turkey, which has mounted four operations in northern Syria since 2016, has vowed a new offensive against the Kurdish YPG militia, the spearhead of the SDF, which controls swathes of territory at the Turkish border.

Turkey considers the Kurdish forces in Syria to be terrorists and a threat to national security. On the other hand the US views SDF as an ally &nbsp;that has helped drive Islamic State from vast areas of Syria.

Turkey is one of several powers drawn into the war in Syria, where Russia backs the government.

Russia, expressing alarm, said it hoped Turkey "refrains from actions which could lead to a dangerous deterioration of the already difficult situation in Syria".

A foreign ministry spokeswoman told Interfax news agency that if Ankara launched an attack it would represent a direct violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and provoke further escalation of tension.

Washington, whose support for the SDF has long been a point of tension in ties with its NATO ally Turkey, has expressed concern, saying any new offensive would put at risk U.S. troops - which have a presence in Syria - and undermine regional stability.

On a visit to the Turkish town of Hatay near the Syrian border, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations reiterated US opposition to any military action.

"We think that nothing should be done to break the ceasefire lines that have already been established," Linda Thomas Greenfield said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) the US-backed side in the Syrian war said on Thursday that Turkey's plans of new offensive in Syria may create humanitarian crisis.

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) the US-backed side in the Syrian war said on Thursday that Turkey's plans of new offensive in Syria may create humanitarian crisis. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi said that all sides involved in the conflict should "prevent any new tragedies and support de-escalation". He warned that a fresh attack would lead to more displacement in the 11-year-long conflict. Turkey, which has mounted four operations in northern Syria since 2016, has vowed a new offensive against the Kurdish YPG militia, the spearhead of the SDF, which controls swathes of territory at the Turkish border. Turkey considers the Kurdish forces in Syria to be terrorists and a threat to national security. On the other hand the US views SDF as an ally that has helped drive Islamic State from vast areas of Syria. Turkey is one of several powers drawn into the war in Syria, where Russia backs the government. Russia, expressing alarm, said it hoped Turkey "refrains from actions which could lead to a dangerous deterioration of the already difficult situation in Syria". A foreign ministry spokeswoman told Interfax news agency that if Ankara launched an attack it would represent a direct violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and provoke further escalation of tension. Washington, whose support for the SDF has long been a point of tension in ties with its NATO ally Turkey, has expressed concern, saying any new offensive would put at risk U.S. troops - which have a presence in Syria - and undermine regional stability. On a visit to the Turkish town of Hatay near the Syrian border, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations reiterated US opposition to any military action. "We think that nothing should be done to break the ceasefire lines that have already been established," Linda Thomas Greenfield said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US-backed force in Syria warns against Turkish plans of new attack

According to <a href="https://en.insidesyriamc.com/" rel="nofollow" target="blank">Inside Syria Media Center</a> military sources in Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), SDF-Kurds will join the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) as “Northern Syria Protection units” after the establishment of the federal system in Syria.

A Rojava official and the joint chief of defence in Syrian Kurdistan (Rojava), Rezan Gilo stated that the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have no problem joining the Syrian army if a federal state is awarded in northern Syria (Kurdish autonomous territories as part of the federal Syria). They are now in process of considering the possibility <a href="http://www.kurdistan24.net/en/news/ef87496d-e1c4-41e9-a176-10139e5d5a46" rel="nofollow" target="blank">of joining</a> the SAA.

“There is no problem for our forces to join the Syrian army if a new Syrian constitution is drafted on a federal basis and the rights of all the Syrian components are reserved,” Gilo stated.

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<h5>Unification of SDF and SAA may also become another link in the chain of the U.S.’ blunders and failures of strategic planning.</h5>
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Analysts believe if the SDF ever join the national army, it would be under American supervision and guidance. Anyway, unification of SDF and SAA may also become another link in the chain of the U.S.’ blunders and failures of strategic planning.

Riad Darar of the Syrian Democratic Council confirmed this. He also noticed that if Syria was united, he believes there would be no need to have a separate force because they would join the Syrian Army. To prevent joining the rumours have been circulating online for about a month of a new army created with the U.S. supervision.

The U.S. is now allegedly in the process of forming a regular army instead of the SDF and will actually begin distributing military ranks soon to their chosen officers under American supervision.

Recent events indicate that the Syrian Kurds are beginning to realise the hopelessness of cooperation with the American side. Apparently, ‘the Kurdish card’ of Washington is bursting at the seams.

Despite the fact that the U.S. plans to extend its presence in the region, the White House’s intention will not clearly be directed to help the Kurds and the latter are clearly aware of this.

As a matter of fact, the unification of the Kurdish forces with the government troops of B. Assad will probably be the best way to solve the Kurdish problem.

The federalisation will not only legitimise the rights of the Kurds, but it can also push the people of Syria to unite under the banners of government forces, whose reputation and rating are only gaining momentum day by day.

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<h5>The top secret of the deal between the SDF and the SAA is that it will help expel the U.S. and its allies from the Syrian political arena and complete this so protracted confrontation.</h5>
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The top secret of the deal between the SDF and the SAA is that it will help expel the U.S. and its allies from the Syrian political arena and complete this so protracted confrontation.

For your information:

The Democratic Federation of Northern Syria (DFNS), most commonly known as Rojava, is a de facto autonomous region originating in and consisting of three self-governing cantons in northern Syria, namely Afrin Canton, Jazira Canton and Kobanî Canton, as well as adjacent areas of northern Syria like Shahba region.

The region gained its de facto autonomy in 2012 as part of the ongoing Rojava conflict and the wider Civil War in Syria establishing and gradually expanding an officially secular policy based on the contemporary Western democratic confederalist principles of democratic socialism, gender equality, and ecological sustainability.

Northern Syria is polyethnic and home to sizeable ethnic Kurdish, Arab, Syriac-Assyrian and Turkmen populations, with smaller communities of ethnic Armenians, Circassians, and Chechens. This diversity is mirrored in its constitution, society, and politics.

Despite such diversity, Rojava is regarded by Kurdish nationalists as Western Kurdistan, one of the four parts of Great Kurdistan. It is also considered by Assyrians as Gozarto (meaning Upper Mesopotamia), part of the historical Syriac-Assyrian homeland.

While entertaining some foreign relations, the cantons within Rojava are not officially recognised as autonomous by the government of Syria or any international state or organisation. For their part, supporters of its constitution consider their system a model for a federalised Syria as a whole, rather than independence.

(Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

Syrian Kurds are beginning to realise the hopelessness of cooperation with the American side, Hence, SDF-Kurds may sign a secret deal with Syria and join the Syrian Arab Army (SAA)

According to Inside Syria Media Center military sources in Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), SDF-Kurds will join the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) as “Northern Syria Protection units” after the establishment of the federal system in Syria. A Rojava official and the joint chief of defence in Syrian Kurdistan (Rojava), Rezan Gilo stated that the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have no problem joining the Syrian army if a federal state is awarded in northern Syria (Kurdish autonomous territories as part of the federal Syria). They are now in process of considering the possibility of joining the SAA. “There is no problem for our forces to join the Syrian army if a new Syrian constitution is drafted on a federal basis and the rights of all the Syrian components are reserved,” Gilo stated. Unification of SDF and SAA may also become another link in the chain of the U.S.’ blunders and failures of strategic planning. × Analysts believe if the SDF ever join the national army, it would be under American supervision and guidance. Anyway, unification of SDF and SAA may also become another link in the chain of the U.S.’ blunders and failures of strategic planning. Riad Darar of the Syrian Democratic Council confirmed this. He also noticed that if Syria was united, he believes there would be no need to have a separate force because they would join the Syrian Army. To prevent joining the rumours have been circulating online for about a month of a new army created with the U.S. supervision. The U.S. is now allegedly in the process of forming a regular army instead of the SDF and will actually begin distributing military ranks soon to their chosen officers under American supervision. Recent events indicate that the Syrian Kurds are beginning to realise the hopelessness of cooperation with the American side. Apparently, ‘the Kurdish card’ of Washington is bursting at the seams. Despite the fact that the U.S. plans to extend its presence in the region, the White House’s intention will not clearly be directed to help the Kurds and the latter are clearly aware of this. As a matter of fact, the unification of the Kurdish forces with the government troops of B. Assad will probably be the best way to solve the Kurdish problem. The federalisation will not only legitimise the rights of the Kurds, but it can also push the people of Syria to unite under the banners of government forces, whose reputation and rating are only gaining momentum day by day. The top secret of the deal between the SDF and the SAA is that it will help expel the U.S. and its allies from the Syrian political arena and complete this so protracted confrontation. × The top secret of the deal between the SDF and the SAA is that it will help expel the U.S. and its allies from the Syrian political arena and complete this so protracted confrontation. For your information: The Democratic Federation of Northern Syria (DFNS), most commonly known as Rojava, is a de facto autonomous region originating in and consisting of three self-governing cantons in northern Syria, namely Afrin Canton, Jazira Canton and Kobanî Canton, as well as adjacent areas of northern Syria like Shahba region. The region gained its de facto autonomy in 2012 as part of the ongoing Rojava conflict and the wider Civil War in Syria establishing and gradually expanding an officially secular policy based on the contemporary Western democratic confederalist principles of democratic socialism, gender equality, and ecological sustainability. Northern Syria is polyethnic and home to sizeable ethnic Kurdish, Arab, Syriac-Assyrian and Turkmen populations, with smaller communities of ethnic Armenians, Circassians, and Chechens. This diversity is mirrored in its constitution, society, and politics. Despite such diversity, Rojava is regarded by Kurdish nationalists as Western Kurdistan, one of the four parts of Great Kurdistan. It is also considered by Assyrians as Gozarto (meaning Upper Mesopotamia), part of the historical Syriac-Assyrian homeland. While entertaining some foreign relations, the cantons within Rojava are not officially recognised as autonomous by the government of Syria or any international state or organisation. For their part, supporters of its constitution consider their system a model for a federalised Syria as a whole, rather than independence. (Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

Opinion: Disillusioned with US, Kurds want to join Arab Army

Clashes erupted between Kurdish forces and Islamic State fighters near a prison in Syria, said Syrian Observatory of Human Rights. The prison where the fighting broke out has dozens of jihadists holed up.

An IS assault on the sprawling Ghwayran prison complex near the northeastern Syrian city of Hasakeh on January 20 sparked days of heavy fighting that has left some 260 people dead, and a bulldozer on Saturday shovelled corpses onto a truck to take some for burial.

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced they had recaptured the prison on Wednesday, but that mop-up operations continued.

On Saturday, there were "clashes in the vicinity of the prison between the Syrian Democratic Forces and Kurdish security forces on the one hand, and members of IS who are hiding in the area," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The war monitor, which relies on a network of sources inside Syria, said that four IS fighters took a local official and three civilians hostage for hours, holding them in a residential building near the prison. 
Kurdish forces later freed the hostages and killed three IS fighters.

An AFP correspondent earlier reported that US troops and Kurdish-led forces surrounded the building and deployed snipers on nearby rooftops, reporting there was intermittent shooting.

The SDF said Wednesday some 3,500 IS members had surrendered, but that holdout IS fighters had barricaded themselves inside the prison facility.

(With inputs from agencies)

Clashes erupted between Kurdish forces and Islamic State fighters near a prison in Syria, said Syrian Observatory of Human Rights. The prison where the fighting broke out has dozens of jihadists holed up.

Clashes erupted between Kurdish forces and Islamic State fighters near a prison in Syria, said Syrian Observatory of Human Rights. The prison where the fighting broke out has dozens of jihadists holed up. An IS assault on the sprawling Ghwayran prison complex near the northeastern Syrian city of Hasakeh on January 20 sparked days of heavy fighting that has left some 260 people dead, and a bulldozer on Saturday shovelled corpses onto a truck to take some for burial. The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced they had recaptured the prison on Wednesday, but that mop-up operations continued. On Saturday, there were "clashes in the vicinity of the prison between the Syrian Democratic Forces and Kurdish security forces on the one hand, and members of IS who are hiding in the area," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The war monitor, which relies on a network of sources inside Syria, said that four IS fighters took a local official and three civilians hostage for hours, holding them in a residential building near the prison. Kurdish forces later freed the hostages and killed three IS fighters. An AFP correspondent earlier reported that US troops and Kurdish-led forces surrounded the building and deployed snipers on nearby rooftops, reporting there was intermittent shooting. The SDF said Wednesday some 3,500 IS members had surrendered, but that holdout IS fighters had barricaded themselves inside the prison facility. (With inputs from agencies)

Kurdish forces fight IS near Syria prison, says monitor

Syria has been witnessing fierce fighting between the so-called Islamic state fighters and the Kurdish forces; this after the ISIS attacked a prison that was holding several of these terrorists. According to reports, at least 135 people have been killed so far in the fighting this includes about 84 ISIS terrorists in about 45 Kurdish fighters and 7 innocent civilians.

Syria prison attack: Fighting continues between ISIS, Kurdish forces

Fighting raged for a third day Saturday between the Islamic State group and Kurdish forces in&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;after IS attacked a prison housing jihadists, in violence that has claimed over 70 lives, a monitor said.

The assault on the Ghwayran prison in the northern city of Hasakeh is one of IS's most significant since its "caliphate" was declared defeated in&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;nearly three years ago.

"At least 28 members of the Kurdish security forces, five civilians and 45 members of IS have been killed" in the violence, said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

IS launched the attack on Thursday night against the prison housing some 3,500 suspected members of the jihadist group, including some of its leaders, said the Observatory.

Hundreds of jihadist inmates had since been detained and around 10 were believed to have escaped, said the Observatory, a Britain-based monitor that relies on sources inside war-torn&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;for its information.

"The exceptional situation continues in and around the prison," said Farhad Shami, spokesman for the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The fighting on Saturday morning was taking place north of the prison, he added.

The jihadist group said in a statement released by its Amaq news agency that its attack on the jail aimed to "free the prisoners".

IS has carried out regular attacks against Kurdish and government targets in&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;since the rump of its once-sprawling proto-state was overrun on the banks of the Euphrates in March 2019.

Most of their guerrilla attacks have been against military targets and oil installations in remote areas, but the Hasakeh prison break could mark a new phase in the group's resurgence.

The Kurdish authorities have long warned they do not have the capacity to hold, let alone put on trial, the thousands of IS fighters captured in years of operations.

According to Kurdish authorities, more than 50 nationalities are represented in a number of Kurdish-run prisons, where more than 12,000 IS suspects are now held.

The war in&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;broke out in 2011 and has since killed close to half a million people and spurred the largest conflict-induced displacement since World War II.

Fighting raged for a third day Saturday between the Islamic State group and Kurdish forces in Syria after IS attacked a prison housing jihadists, in violence that has claimed over 70 lives, a monitor said.

Fighting raged for a third day Saturday between the Islamic State group and Kurdish forces in Syria after IS attacked a prison housing jihadists, in violence that has claimed over 70 lives, a monitor said. The assault on the Ghwayran prison in the northern city of Hasakeh is one of IS's most significant since its "caliphate" was declared defeated in Syria nearly three years ago. "At least 28 members of the Kurdish security forces, five civilians and 45 members of IS have been killed" in the violence, said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. IS launched the attack on Thursday night against the prison housing some 3,500 suspected members of the jihadist group, including some of its leaders, said the Observatory. Hundreds of jihadist inmates had since been detained and around 10 were believed to have escaped, said the Observatory, a Britain-based monitor that relies on sources inside war-torn Syria for its information. "The exceptional situation continues in and around the prison," said Farhad Shami, spokesman for the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The fighting on Saturday morning was taking place north of the prison, he added. The jihadist group said in a statement released by its Amaq news agency that its attack on the jail aimed to "free the prisoners". IS has carried out regular attacks against Kurdish and government targets in Syria since the rump of its once-sprawling proto-state was overrun on the banks of the Euphrates in March 2019. Most of their guerrilla attacks have been against military targets and oil installations in remote areas, but the Hasakeh prison break could mark a new phase in the group's resurgence. The Kurdish authorities have long warned they do not have the capacity to hold, let alone put on trial, the thousands of IS fighters captured in years of operations. According to Kurdish authorities, more than 50 nationalities are represented in a number of Kurdish-run prisons, where more than 12,000 IS suspects are now held. The war in Syria broke out in 2011 and has since killed close to half a million people and spurred the largest conflict-induced displacement since World War II.

More than 70 dead in fighting after Syria jail attack

Iran witnessed a rare anti-government protest and sloganeering after authorities executed a Kurdish man. The crowd gathered in the hometown of Heidar Ghorbani, the executed man and raised anti-government slogans.

Heidar Ghorbani was executed despite international pressure for his life to be spared. He was convicted in connection with killing of three men linked to pro-government Basij militia. Heidar Ghorbani had been in jail since October 2016.

Heidar Ghorbani was executed on Sunday morning in Sanandaj prison in western Iran's Kurdistan province, the Oslo-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) NGO said, adding that neither his family nor his lawyer had been given prior warning.

UN human rights experts had in September urged Iran to repeal his death sentence over "serious concerns" that he did not receive a fair trial and was tortured during pre-trial detention.

Amnesty International had also called for his life to be spared, saying that there had been "numerous violations" in his trial, which it said was "grossly unfair".

Campaign groups say that Ghorbani was convicted and sentenced to death in 2020 in connection with the killing in 2016 of three men linked to the pro-government Basij militia. He had been jailed since October 2016.

He was convicted of providing transport and logistical support for the killings. But the court verdict acknowledged he had never been armed.

Videos posted on social media showed crowds gathering on Sunday for a memorial ceremony for him in his home town of Kamyaran in western Iran, chanting "martyrs don't die".

"Heidar Ghorbani was subjected to torture and sentenced to death without due process and any evidence against him," said Iran Human Rights director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam.&nbsp;

"Heidar's death penalty is unlawful even under the Islamic Republic's own laws."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Iran witnessed a rare anti-government protest and sloganeering after authorities executed a Kurdish man. The crowd gathered in the hometown of Heidar Ghorbani, the executed man and raised anti-government slogans.

Iran witnessed a rare anti-government protest and sloganeering after authorities executed a Kurdish man. The crowd gathered in the hometown of Heidar Ghorbani, the executed man and raised anti-government slogans. Heidar Ghorbani was executed despite international pressure for his life to be spared. He was convicted in connection with killing of three men linked to pro-government Basij militia. Heidar Ghorbani had been in jail since October 2016. Heidar Ghorbani was executed on Sunday morning in Sanandaj prison in western Iran's Kurdistan province, the Oslo-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) NGO said, adding that neither his family nor his lawyer had been given prior warning. UN human rights experts had in September urged Iran to repeal his death sentence over "serious concerns" that he did not receive a fair trial and was tortured during pre-trial detention. Amnesty International had also called for his life to be spared, saying that there had been "numerous violations" in his trial, which it said was "grossly unfair". Campaign groups say that Ghorbani was convicted and sentenced to death in 2020 in connection with the killing in 2016 of three men linked to the pro-government Basij militia. He had been jailed since October 2016. He was convicted of providing transport and logistical support for the killings. But the court verdict acknowledged he had never been armed. Videos posted on social media showed crowds gathering on Sunday for a memorial ceremony for him in his home town of Kamyaran in western Iran, chanting "martyrs don't die". "Heidar Ghorbani was subjected to torture and sentenced to death without due process and any evidence against him," said Iran Human Rights director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam. "Heidar's death penalty is unlawful even under the Islamic Republic's own laws." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran witnesses rare anti-government protest after execution of Kurdish prisoner

Kurdish forces arrested dozens in an operation launched to apprehend suspected family members of Islamic State militant in a camp in northeast Syria.

Al-Hol is the largest such settlement controlled by Kurdish authorities, who warn it is emerging as an extremist powder keg following dozens of murders in the camp since the start of the year.

The camp has almost 62,000 people, mostly women and children. The residents include Syrians, Iraqi and thousands from Europe and Asia.

"More than thirty women and men have been arrested" in a sweeping anti-IS operation in and around the Al-Hol camp, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

"The arrests are ongoing" as part of a days-long operation by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is the Kurdish regional administration's main fighting force, the Kurdish YPG militia and a local police force, Abdul Rahman said.

Syrians and foreigners "suspected of supporting IS" have been arrested, he said.

SDF officials confirmed the operation, with one of them saying it would run at least 10 days.

An SDF statement said 5,000 security personnel were deployed in Al-Hol to "protect residents" during the sweep.

It said nine people, including an "ISIS leader" had been detained so far.

A video released by the YPG showed the militia marching off a group of men towards vehicles.

(With AFP inputs)

Kurdish forces arrested dozens in an operation launched to apprehend suspected family members of Islamic State militant in a camp in northeast Syria. Al-Hol is the largest such settlement controlled by Kurdish authorities, who warn it is emerging as an extremist powder keg following dozens of murders in the camp since the start of the year.

Kurdish forces arrested dozens in an operation launched to apprehend suspected family members of Islamic State militant in a camp in northeast Syria. Al-Hol is the largest such settlement controlled by Kurdish authorities, who warn it is emerging as an extremist powder keg following dozens of murders in the camp since the start of the year. The camp has almost 62,000 people, mostly women and children. The residents include Syrians, Iraqi and thousands from Europe and Asia. "More than thirty women and men have been arrested" in a sweeping anti-IS operation in and around the Al-Hol camp, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "The arrests are ongoing" as part of a days-long operation by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is the Kurdish regional administration's main fighting force, the Kurdish YPG militia and a local police force, Abdul Rahman said. Syrians and foreigners "suspected of supporting IS" have been arrested, he said. SDF officials confirmed the operation, with one of them saying it would run at least 10 days. An SDF statement said 5,000 security personnel were deployed in Al-Hol to "protect residents" during the sweep. It said nine people, including an "ISIS leader" had been detained so far. A video released by the YPG showed the militia marching off a group of men towards vehicles. (With AFP inputs)

Kurdish forces arrest dozens in security sweep against IS families

The Turkish airforce conducted its first strikes in 17 months against a zone in north Syria held by Kurdish militia on Saturday night.

"A Turkish fighter jet has struck military positions of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Saida village in Ain Issa countryside... which caused loud explosions," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said.&nbsp;

This was the first aerial raid since "Operation Peace Spring" -- an October 2019 military campaign launched by Ankara and its Syrian allies against the SDF in northern Syria.&nbsp;

The above-mentioned operation had allowed Turkey to to seize control of a "safe zone" inside Syria around 120 kilometres long and 32 kilometres deep. The village of Ain Issa, however, remained in the hands of Kurdish forces.&nbsp;

The air strikes come the same day as "violent clashes" and "intensive rocket fire" on the frontlines of Ain Issa district between SDF forces and Turkish-backed factions.

"Clashes between the two sides have been going on for the last 24 hours... Turkish forces have had difficulty advancing since the SDF destroyed a Turkish tank," the director of the SOHR, Rami Abdul Rahman, told AFP.&nbsp;

The Syrian Kurdish-led People's Protection Units, which form a vital component of the SDF, are considered by Turkey to be a "terrorist offshoot" of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

The Turkish airforce conducted its first strikes in 17 months against a zone in north Syria held by Kurdish militia on Saturday night. "A Turkish fighter jet has struck military positions of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Saida village in Ain Issa countryside.

The Turkish airforce conducted its first strikes in 17 months against a zone in north Syria held by Kurdish militia on Saturday night. "A Turkish fighter jet has struck military positions of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Saida village in Ain Issa countryside... which caused loud explosions," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said. This was the first aerial raid since "Operation Peace Spring" -- an October 2019 military campaign launched by Ankara and its Syrian allies against the SDF in northern Syria. The above-mentioned operation had allowed Turkey to to seize control of a "safe zone" inside Syria around 120 kilometres long and 32 kilometres deep. The village of Ain Issa, however, remained in the hands of Kurdish forces. The air strikes come the same day as "violent clashes" and "intensive rocket fire" on the frontlines of Ain Issa district between SDF forces and Turkish-backed factions. "Clashes between the two sides have been going on for the last 24 hours... Turkish forces have had difficulty advancing since the SDF destroyed a Turkish tank," the director of the SOHR, Rami Abdul Rahman, told AFP. The Syrian Kurdish-led People's Protection Units, which form a vital component of the SDF, are considered by Turkey to be a "terrorist offshoot" of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party. (with inputs from agencies)

Turkey conducts first air strikes in months against Kurdish zone in Syria

Turkey's pro-Kurdish party was fighting for its political survival on Wednesday after a prosecutor asked the country's top court to shut it down for alleged links to militants waging a deadly insurgency against the state.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has long portrayed the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) -- parliament's third-largest -- as the political front of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).

The PKK has been waging an insurgency since 1984 that has killed tens of thousands and is recognised as a terrorist organisation by Ankara and its Western allies.

But the HDP firmly denies formal links to the militants and says it is coming under attack because of its fervent opposition to Erdogan's 18-year rule.

Wednesday's request to ban the party came from a Supreme Court prosecutor who is investigating the HDP.

Prosecutor Bekir Sahin alleged that the HDP "was acting together with PKK terrorists and affiliated organisations, acting as an extension of such organisations".

He added that such activity threatened "to destroy the indivisibility between the state and the people", the Anadolu state news agency reported.

The party condemned the indictment as a "heavy blow to democracy" and called on its supporters to resist.

"We call on all the democratic forces, the social and political opposition, and on our people to join a common fight against this political coup," it said in a statement.

The United States chimed in with its concerns, saying a ban of the party would "further undermine" democracy in Turkey.

"We call on the government of Turkey to respect freedom of expression in line with &nbsp;protections in the Turkish constitution and with Turkey's international obligations," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.

- Sit-in protest -

The Constitutional Court could theoretically throw out the prosecutor's petition and not put the HDP on trial.

But Western governments question the Turkish justice system's independence and accuse Erdogan of using the courts as a political bludgeon aimed at suppressing dissent.

The Turkish lira lost more than 1.5 percent against the dollar immediately after the indictment was issued on apparent worries about a new bout of tensions between Erdogan's government and the West.

The political and legal assault on the HDP intensified after a shaky truce between the militants and Erdogan's government broke down in 2015.

It grew even stronger after Erdogan survived a failed coup bid in 2016 that was followed by a political crackdown that saw tens of thousands jailed or stripped of their state jobs.

Those detained included two former HDP co-chairs who were jailed in 2016 and face decades in prison.

The Turkish prosecutor's request to ban the party was carried by state media while HDP lawmakers staged a sit-in protest in parliament over the expulsion of one of their members.

Parliament had earlier Wednesday decided to strip MP Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu of his seat, and its accompanying immunity from prosecution, over a social media post that could put him behind bars for 2.5 years.

The offending post featured an article in which the Kurdish militants urged the government to take a step toward peace.

Turkey's top appeals court last month upheld Gergerlioglu's 2018 conviction for "spreading terrorism propaganda" in the post.

"We're not going to be silent, we're not scared, we're not going to submit," the MPs chanted after Gergerlioglu was officially expelled.

- 'A shocking attack' -

The HDP's parliamentary group co-chair Meral Danis Bestas said Gergerlioglu had become the 14th party lawmakers to have been stripped of his immunity since 2016.

"You cannot do as you please with MPs elected by the people," her fellow co-chair Saruhan Oluc told reporters.

Gergerlioglu has long irritated Erdogan's government by shining a light on a variety of human rights violations that often go ignored by the mainstream Turkish media.

His advocacy for female detainees subjected to strip searches particularly angered the government last year.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) noted that Gergerlioglu's offending posts did not promote violence and that he was stripped of his seat before the Constitutional Court had a chance to review his appeal.

HRW's Turkey director Emma Sinclair-Webb called it "a shocking attack on democratic norms and the rule of law, a violation of Turkey's constitution, laws and obligations under international law."

The European Parliament's Turkey rapporteur Nacho Sanchez Amor called the potential jailing of Gergerlioglu "another serious step that further undermines the trust in Turkey‘s parliamentary democracy".

Turkey's pro-Kurdish party was fighting for its political survival on Wednesday after a prosecutor asked the country's top court to shut it down for alleged links to militants waging a deadly insurgency against the state.

Turkey's pro-Kurdish party was fighting for its political survival on Wednesday after a prosecutor asked the country's top court to shut it down for alleged links to militants waging a deadly insurgency against the state. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has long portrayed the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) -- parliament's third-largest -- as the political front of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The PKK has been waging an insurgency since 1984 that has killed tens of thousands and is recognised as a terrorist organisation by Ankara and its Western allies. But the HDP firmly denies formal links to the militants and says it is coming under attack because of its fervent opposition to Erdogan's 18-year rule. Wednesday's request to ban the party came from a Supreme Court prosecutor who is investigating the HDP. Prosecutor Bekir Sahin alleged that the HDP "was acting together with PKK terrorists and affiliated organisations, acting as an extension of such organisations". He added that such activity threatened "to destroy the indivisibility between the state and the people", the Anadolu state news agency reported. The party condemned the indictment as a "heavy blow to democracy" and called on its supporters to resist. "We call on all the democratic forces, the social and political opposition, and on our people to join a common fight against this political coup," it said in a statement. The United States chimed in with its concerns, saying a ban of the party would "further undermine" democracy in Turkey. "We call on the government of Turkey to respect freedom of expression in line with  protections in the Turkish constitution and with Turkey's international obligations," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement. - Sit-in protest - The Constitutional Court could theoretically throw out the prosecutor's petition and not put the HDP on trial. But Western governments question the Turkish justice system's independence and accuse Erdogan of using the courts as a political bludgeon aimed at suppressing dissent. The Turkish lira lost more than 1.5 percent against the dollar immediately after the indictment was issued on apparent worries about a new bout of tensions between Erdogan's government and the West. The political and legal assault on the HDP intensified after a shaky truce between the militants and Erdogan's government broke down in 2015. It grew even stronger after Erdogan survived a failed coup bid in 2016 that was followed by a political crackdown that saw tens of thousands jailed or stripped of their state jobs. Those detained included two former HDP co-chairs who were jailed in 2016 and face decades in prison. The Turkish prosecutor's request to ban the party was carried by state media while HDP lawmakers staged a sit-in protest in parliament over the expulsion of one of their members. Parliament had earlier Wednesday decided to strip MP Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu of his seat, and its accompanying immunity from prosecution, over a social media post that could put him behind bars for 2.5 years. The offending post featured an article in which the Kurdish militants urged the government to take a step toward peace. Turkey's top appeals court last month upheld Gergerlioglu's 2018 conviction for "spreading terrorism propaganda" in the post. "We're not going to be silent, we're not scared, we're not going to submit," the MPs chanted after Gergerlioglu was officially expelled. - 'A shocking attack' - The HDP's parliamentary group co-chair Meral Danis Bestas said Gergerlioglu had become the 14th party lawmakers to have been stripped of his immunity since 2016. "You cannot do as you please with MPs elected by the people," her fellow co-chair Saruhan Oluc told reporters. Gergerlioglu has long irritated Erdogan's government by shining a light on a variety of human rights violations that often go ignored by the mainstream Turkish media. His advocacy for female detainees subjected to strip searches particularly angered the government last year. Human Rights Watch (HRW) noted that Gergerlioglu's offending posts did not promote violence and that he was stripped of his seat before the Constitutional Court had a chance to review his appeal. HRW's Turkey director Emma Sinclair-Webb called it "a shocking attack on democratic norms and the rule of law, a violation of Turkey's constitution, laws and obligations under international law." The European Parliament's Turkey rapporteur Nacho Sanchez Amor called the potential jailing of Gergerlioglu "another serious step that further undermines the trust in Turkey‘s parliamentary democracy".

Turkey moves to ban pro-Kurdish HDP party

Committee to Protect Journalists said on Saturday that sentencing of Iraqi Kurdish journalists Sherwan Sherwani and Guhdar Zebari to six years in jail "for jeopardising Kurdish national security" was "unfair and disproportionate".

The journalists were arrested in Kurdish region of Iraq last year after their coverage of anti-government protests in Duhok, a province controlled by ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party, reported Al-Jazeera. The freelance journalists were found guilty on February 16 by a court in Erbil that held them guilty for putting Kurdish national security at risk.

They cited social media exchanges wherein they had criticised the government. According to a report by Voice of America (VOA), Sherwani`s lawyer said journalistic materials were presented as evidence of spying, and others pointed out that the region`s prime minister had described the journalists as spies in a press conference a week before the trial.

"With this verdict, the Kurdish authorities are sending a clear message: the press freedom that they claim to defend and to uphold and to respect is not being respected," Ignacio Miguel Delgado, the CPJ Middle East and North Africa representative, told Al Jazeera.

"Iraqi Kurdistan keeps claiming that it`s the only democracy [in the region] and it takes pride in that...But what we have witnessed throughout 2020 and into this new year is the exact opposite, at least as far as press freedom goes," said Delgado.

Meanwhile, the VOA has reported Sherwani as saying that he was tortured both mentally and physically during the investigation."While I was under investigation, I was not allowed to see my lawyers, I got tortured physically and mentally, they threatened me of raping my wife," Sherwani told the court.

(With ANI inputs)

Committee to Protect Journalists said on Saturday that sentencing of Iraqi Kurdish journalists Sherwan Sherwani and Guhdar Zebari to six years in jail "for jeopardising Kurdish national security" was "unfair and disproportionate".

Committee to Protect Journalists said on Saturday that sentencing of Iraqi Kurdish journalists Sherwan Sherwani and Guhdar Zebari to six years in jail "for jeopardising Kurdish national security" was "unfair and disproportionate". The journalists were arrested in Kurdish region of Iraq last year after their coverage of anti-government protests in Duhok, a province controlled by ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party, reported Al-Jazeera. The freelance journalists were found guilty on February 16 by a court in Erbil that held them guilty for putting Kurdish national security at risk. They cited social media exchanges wherein they had criticised the government. According to a report by Voice of America (VOA), Sherwani`s lawyer said journalistic materials were presented as evidence of spying, and others pointed out that the region`s prime minister had described the journalists as spies in a press conference a week before the trial. "With this verdict, the Kurdish authorities are sending a clear message: the press freedom that they claim to defend and to uphold and to respect is not being respected," Ignacio Miguel Delgado, the CPJ Middle East and North Africa representative, told Al Jazeera. "Iraqi Kurdistan keeps claiming that it`s the only democracy [in the region] and it takes pride in that...But what we have witnessed throughout 2020 and into this new year is the exact opposite, at least as far as press freedom goes," said Delgado. Meanwhile, the VOA has reported Sherwani as saying that he was tortured both mentally and physically during the investigation."While I was under investigation, I was not allowed to see my lawyers, I got tortured physically and mentally, they threatened me of raping my wife," Sherwani told the court. (With ANI inputs)

6-year jail for Iraqi Kurdish journalists unfair, says Committee to Protect Journalists

Syria's President Bashar-al-assad has accused Kurdish forces of "stealing from Syrian people" after an American company made a contract with Kurdish authorities in North-Eastern Syria. Watch report.

Your Story: Bashar-al-assad seethes with anger, US "stealing oil from Syrian people"

A Kurdish-Iranian refugee who wrote an award-winning book on his mobile phone while held in one of Australia's notorious Pacific detention camps has been granted asylum in New Zealand, officials said Friday.

Boochani arrived in New Zealand about eight months ago to speak at a literary festival, and has stayed in Christchurch country despite his visitor visa expiring.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papua-new-guinea-police-order-protesting-asylum-seekers-out-of-australian-run-camp-24941">Papua New Guinea police enter shut Australia-run detention camp, order protesting asylum seekers out</a>

Immigration New Zealand said Boochani's application had been successful, which means he has the right to stay in the South Pacific nation indefinitely.

"Mr. Boochani has been recognised as a refugee under the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol," it said in a brief statement, refusing to release further details on privacy grounds.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-asylum-seekers-scared-to-leave-detention-camp-23217">Australian asylum seekers scared to leave detention camp</a>

Reports said the decision was relayed to Boochani on Thursday, his 37th birthday.

He has been recognised as a refugee under the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugee and its 1967 Protocol, Fiona Whiteridge, Immigration New Zealand's (INZ) general manager for refugee and migrant Services, told Reuters in an email statement.

"It's very important that now I have some certainty about my future, so now I feel stronger, I feel stable to continue to work here," he told the stuff.co.nz news website.

Boochani painstakingly tapped out his book "No Friend But The Mountains" on WhatsApp while detained in the Australian-run Manus Island migrant camp off Papua New Guinea, which is now officially closed.

He was pulled from a sinking boat in Australian waters in 2013 and held in Papua New Guinea under a policy adopted by Canberra to prevent asylum seekers arriving by sea from setting foot on Australian soil.

His account of his plight won numerous awards, including Australia's richest literary honour, the Victorian Prize for Literature.

New Zealand Green Party human rights spokeswoman Golriz Ghahraman, a longtime supporter of Boochani, said the refugee decision showed her country was "a place where fairness and compassion prevails".

"People escaping torture and persecution based on their religion, race, and political activism deserve a place to call home, they deserve protection. We welcome Behrouz wholeheartedly." she said.

Boochani is reportedly working as a researcher at Canterbury University in the South Island city of Christchurch.

He fled Iran for Indonesia in 2013 when the Kurdish magazine he wrote for was raided by the military for publishing anti-government articles.&nbsp;

He then paid a people-smuggler to take him to Australia but the voyage ended with him being sent to Manus Island.

A Kurdish-Iranian refugee who wrote an award-winning book on his mobile phone while held in one of Australia's notorious Pacific detention camps has been granted asylum in New Zealand, officials said Friday.

A Kurdish-Iranian refugee who wrote an award-winning book on his mobile phone while held in one of Australia's notorious Pacific detention camps has been granted asylum in New Zealand, officials said Friday. Boochani arrived in New Zealand about eight months ago to speak at a literary festival, and has stayed in Christchurch country despite his visitor visa expiring. Also read: Papua New Guinea police enter shut Australia-run detention camp, order protesting asylum seekers out Immigration New Zealand said Boochani's application had been successful, which means he has the right to stay in the South Pacific nation indefinitely. "Mr. Boochani has been recognised as a refugee under the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol," it said in a brief statement, refusing to release further details on privacy grounds. Also read: Australian asylum seekers scared to leave detention camp Reports said the decision was relayed to Boochani on Thursday, his 37th birthday. He has been recognised as a refugee under the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugee and its 1967 Protocol, Fiona Whiteridge, Immigration New Zealand's (INZ) general manager for refugee and migrant Services, told Reuters in an email statement. "It's very important that now I have some certainty about my future, so now I feel stronger, I feel stable to continue to work here," he told the stuff.co.nz news website. Boochani painstakingly tapped out his book "No Friend But The Mountains" on WhatsApp while detained in the Australian-run Manus Island migrant camp off Papua New Guinea, which is now officially closed. He was pulled from a sinking boat in Australian waters in 2013 and held in Papua New Guinea under a policy adopted by Canberra to prevent asylum seekers arriving by sea from setting foot on Australian soil. His account of his plight won numerous awards, including Australia's richest literary honour, the Victorian Prize for Literature. New Zealand Green Party human rights spokeswoman Golriz Ghahraman, a longtime supporter of Boochani, said the refugee decision showed her country was "a place where fairness and compassion prevails". "People escaping torture and persecution based on their religion, race, and political activism deserve a place to call home, they deserve protection. We welcome Behrouz wholeheartedly." she said. Boochani is reportedly working as a researcher at Canterbury University in the South Island city of Christchurch. He fled Iran for Indonesia in 2013 when the Kurdish magazine he wrote for was raided by the military for publishing anti-government articles. He then paid a people-smuggler to take him to Australia but the voyage ended with him being sent to Manus Island.

Behrouz Boochani: Kurdish-Iranian writer granted refugee status in New Zealand

Around 200 Syrian displaced people, mostly women and children were heading home from an overcrowded desert camp in the northeast of the war-torn country on Sunday, a Kurdish official said.

Syria's Kurds, after years of fighting the Islamic State group, are holding tens of thousands of civilians and IS relatives in camps for the displaced.

In June, they started sending home Syrian families that had fled their homes during battles against the jihadists from the overpopulated camp of Al-Hol.

A Kurdish official said around <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-800-syrians-start-leaving-crowded-al-hol-camp-223945">200 people were leaving the camp on Sunday</a>, to head back to their villages in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor.

"Most are women and children, with just some men," said Sheikhmous Ahmad, a Kurdish official in charge of the displaced.

The majority were civilians with no ties to IS, he said, while a few might have aligned with the jihadists but today regretted their decision.

The group was headed back to the villages of Hajin, Shaafa or Baghouz, which were the last to be held by IS before US-backed fighters expelled them from the entire area in March.

Ahmad said around 300 people from Al-Hol had already been taken back to the same area last week.

Previously, evacuations had been put on hold after Turkish troops and their Syrian proxies on October 9 launched a blistering military operation against Kurdish forces.

In June, several hundred women and children had returned to the towns of Raqa -- once the de-facto IS capital in Syria -- and Tabqa, both located in the northern province of Raqa.

That area was taken by Kurdish-led forces from IS in October 2017.

The United Nations said the Al-Hol camp's population last month stood at around 70,000 people.

These included more than 30,000 Iraqis, some 28,000 Syrians and over 10,000 foreign nationals -- many of them relatives of alleged jihadist fighters being held in detention.

The Kurdish authorities have repeatedly called on Western nations to repatriate their nationals, but they have been largely reluctant, except in a handful of cases.

Around 200 Syrian displaced people, mostly women and children were heading home from an overcrowded desert camp in the northeast of the war-torn country on Sunday, a Kurdish official said.

Around 200 Syrian displaced people, mostly women and children were heading home from an overcrowded desert camp in the northeast of the war-torn country on Sunday, a Kurdish official said. Syria's Kurds, after years of fighting the Islamic State group, are holding tens of thousands of civilians and IS relatives in camps for the displaced. In June, they started sending home Syrian families that had fled their homes during battles against the jihadists from the overpopulated camp of Al-Hol. A Kurdish official said around 200 people were leaving the camp on Sunday, to head back to their villages in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor. "Most are women and children, with just some men," said Sheikhmous Ahmad, a Kurdish official in charge of the displaced. The majority were civilians with no ties to IS, he said, while a few might have aligned with the jihadists but today regretted their decision. The group was headed back to the villages of Hajin, Shaafa or Baghouz, which were the last to be held by IS before US-backed fighters expelled them from the entire area in March. Ahmad said around 300 people from Al-Hol had already been taken back to the same area last week. Previously, evacuations had been put on hold after Turkish troops and their Syrian proxies on October 9 launched a blistering military operation against Kurdish forces. In June, several hundred women and children had returned to the towns of Raqa -- once the de-facto IS capital in Syria -- and Tabqa, both located in the northern province of Raqa. That area was taken by Kurdish-led forces from IS in October 2017. The United Nations said the Al-Hol camp's population last month stood at around 70,000 people. These included more than 30,000 Iraqis, some 28,000 Syrians and over 10,000 foreign nationals -- many of them relatives of alleged jihadist fighters being held in detention. The Kurdish authorities have repeatedly called on Western nations to repatriate their nationals, but they have been largely reluctant, except in a handful of cases.

Around 200 displaced Syrians leave Al-Hol camp: Kurdish official

Three simultaneous bombings killed at least six civilians in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/500-troops-to-remain-in-syria-united-states-military-official-261225">Kurdish-majority city</a> of Qamishli in northeastern Syria on Monday, a Kurdish security source and a Britain-based monitor said.

There was no immediate claim for the bombings, but they occurred shortly after the Islamic State group said it was responsible for the killing the same day as a priest from the same city.

In Qamishli, an AFP correspondent saw charred cars and smoke rise from the site of the blasts.

Firefighters tried to put out the flames caused by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-britain-france-germany-to-hold-syria-summit-260882">explosions</a>, as rescue workers carried away the victims.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor, which relies on sources inside Syria, said two car bombs and an explosives-rigged motorcycle blew up in a market and near a school in the city.

More than 20 people were wounded in the simultaneous attacks, said the Britain-based monitor said.

Watch: What's the reality on-ground in Syria?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/whats-the-reality-on-ground-in-syria-258283/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The blasts come after IS claimed to have killed an Armenian Catholic priest from Qamishli.

The Observatory said the priest and his father were killed by gunfire as they made their way to the eastern province of Deir Ezzor to inspect the restoration of a church there.

Kurdish fighters have led the US-backed battle against IS in Syria, expelling the extremists from the last scrap of their proto-state in March.

But the jihadists have continued to claim deadly attacks in northeastern and eastern Syria ever since.

In July, IS said it was responsible for a massive truck bomb that killed at least 44 people in Qamishli.

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-killed-in-bombing-in-turkish-controlled-northeast-syria-261218">Turkish cross-border attack</a> against Kurdish fighters on October 9 heightened fears that IS fighters could break out in mass from Kurdish jails.

But a fragile Turkish-Russian ceasefire deal has more or less halted that offensive, and seen Kurdish forces withdraw from areas along the Turkish border, except Qamishli.

Three simultaneous bombings killed at least six civilians in the Kurdish-majority city of Qamishli in northeastern Syria on Monday, a Kurdish security source and a Britain-based monitor said.

Three simultaneous bombings killed at least six civilians in the Kurdish-majority city of Qamishli in northeastern Syria on Monday, a Kurdish security source and a Britain-based monitor said. There was no immediate claim for the bombings, but they occurred shortly after the Islamic State group said it was responsible for the killing the same day as a priest from the same city. In Qamishli, an AFP correspondent saw charred cars and smoke rise from the site of the blasts. Firefighters tried to put out the flames caused by the explosions, as rescue workers carried away the victims. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor, which relies on sources inside Syria, said two car bombs and an explosives-rigged motorcycle blew up in a market and near a school in the city. More than 20 people were wounded in the simultaneous attacks, said the Britain-based monitor said. Watch: What's the reality on-ground in Syria? The blasts come after IS claimed to have killed an Armenian Catholic priest from Qamishli. The Observatory said the priest and his father were killed by gunfire as they made their way to the eastern province of Deir Ezzor to inspect the restoration of a church there. Kurdish fighters have led the US-backed battle against IS in Syria, expelling the extremists from the last scrap of their proto-state in March. But the jihadists have continued to claim deadly attacks in northeastern and eastern Syria ever since. In July, IS said it was responsible for a massive truck bomb that killed at least 44 people in Qamishli. A Turkish cross-border attack against Kurdish fighters on October 9 heightened fears that IS fighters could break out in mass from Kurdish jails. But a fragile Turkish-Russian ceasefire deal has more or less halted that offensive, and seen Kurdish forces withdraw from areas along the Turkish border, except Qamishli.

Bombings kill 6 civilians in main Kurdish city in Syria

Considerable attention has been paid to the Turkish invasion of Syria that took place in the first week of October. While Turkey entered into a ceasefire in a separate agreement with the USA, as well as, Russia since October 15-16, there remain serious international concerns about de-stabilisation of the already war-torn region and its implication for giving a flip to international terrorism. 
 
However, not much analysis has come out with regards to its security implications for India, which has the third-largest Muslim population in the world.&nbsp;

An analysis of the security implication of the Turkish invasion of Syria for India requires an understanding of the Turkish motives behind this illegal invasion. The fact that Turkish invasion took place on the eve of ‘official declaration of defeat of ISIS’ and withdrawal of American troops from Syria on the pretext of fighting YPG, the Kurdish Peshmerga forces, which played crucial role in the defeat of ISIS speaks volume about the mal-intentions of the Erdogan regime: (A) Erdogan’s grip over his countrymen is declining as evident from the loss of Istanbul mayor election in view of rising economic&nbsp;crisis, as well as, growing level of sectarian conflict within the country. This invasion was meant to divert people’s attention from this internal mess; B) This invasion is linked with his personal ambition to showcase himself as emerging Caliph of the Muslim world; C) The Erdogan regime derives its strength from the ‘politics of blackmailing’; A perennial destabilised Syria with a potential to ‘export refugee’ allows the Erdogan regime to bargain with Europe in particular and the West in general, (D) To bring a demographic change by transferring the millions of Syrian refugees, who are living inside Turkey, into the autonomous Kurdish region along the Syrian-Turkish border so that the issue of Kurdistan ceased to pose a threat to Turkish territorial integrity. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the light of the above motives, the Turkish invasion of Syrian territory raises the following security implications for India : (A) By all account, the invasion led to freeing up the jailed ISIS terrorists, which were being controlled by YPG Kurdish forces ; the freeing of ISIS terrorists has serious implication for coordinating the global terrorist activities, particularly in the AfPak area which runs into the troubled Kashmir; (B) Erdogan himself has emerged as source of Islamicist radicalism; (C) The global ambition of Erdogan of assuming the mantles of Caliph has led him to hold every year an international conference on Muslim minority population. Indian Muslims often figure in this conference as an oppressed entity; (D) Erdogan’s utterances on Kashmir in his UN speech and his blind support to Pakistan on the issue raised a prospect of ‘Islamic alliance’ against India.

India needs to be vigilant and must not allow Turkish nefarious design to affect its peace and stability.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

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Considerable attention has been paid to the Turkish invasion of Syria that took place in the first week of October. While Turkey entered into a ceasefire in a separate agreement with the USA, as well as, Russia since October 15-16, there remain serious international concerns about de-stabilisation of the already war-torn region and its implication for giving a flip to international terrorism.

Considerable attention has been paid to the Turkish invasion of Syria that took place in the first week of October. While Turkey entered into a ceasefire in a separate agreement with the USA, as well as, Russia since October 15-16, there remain serious international concerns about de-stabilisation of the already war-torn region and its implication for giving a flip to international terrorism. However, not much analysis has come out with regards to its security implications for India, which has the third-largest Muslim population in the world. An analysis of the security implication of the Turkish invasion of Syria for India requires an understanding of the Turkish motives behind this illegal invasion. The fact that Turkish invasion took place on the eve of ‘official declaration of defeat of ISIS’ and withdrawal of American troops from Syria on the pretext of fighting YPG, the Kurdish Peshmerga forces, which played crucial role in the defeat of ISIS speaks volume about the mal-intentions of the Erdogan regime: (A) Erdogan’s grip over his countrymen is declining as evident from the loss of Istanbul mayor election in view of rising economic crisis, as well as, growing level of sectarian conflict within the country. This invasion was meant to divert people’s attention from this internal mess; B) This invasion is linked with his personal ambition to showcase himself as emerging Caliph of the Muslim world; C) The Erdogan regime derives its strength from the ‘politics of blackmailing’; A perennial destabilised Syria with a potential to ‘export refugee’ allows the Erdogan regime to bargain with Europe in particular and the West in general, (D) To bring a demographic change by transferring the millions of Syrian refugees, who are living inside Turkey, into the autonomous Kurdish region along the Syrian-Turkish border so that the issue of Kurdistan ceased to pose a threat to Turkish territorial integrity. In the light of the above motives, the Turkish invasion of Syrian territory raises the following security implications for India : (A) By all account, the invasion led to freeing up the jailed ISIS terrorists, which were being controlled by YPG Kurdish forces ; the freeing of ISIS terrorists has serious implication for coordinating the global terrorist activities, particularly in the AfPak area which runs into the troubled Kashmir; (B) Erdogan himself has emerged as source of Islamicist radicalism; (C) The global ambition of Erdogan of assuming the mantles of Caliph has led him to hold every year an international conference on Muslim minority population. Indian Muslims often figure in this conference as an oppressed entity; (D) Erdogan’s utterances on Kashmir in his UN speech and his blind support to Pakistan on the issue raised a prospect of ‘Islamic alliance’ against India. India needs to be vigilant and must not allow Turkish nefarious design to affect its peace and stability. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Examining security implications of Turkish invasion of Syria

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