Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.

"Although there are only small incidents here and there, the ceasefire has started to be violated," said President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who backs some rebel groups in Idlib.

"We are sharing these developments with Russia... and expect them to take measures."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-says-us-offering-patriot-systems-if-s-400s-remain-unboxed-285504">Turkish President Erdogan says US offering Patriot systems if S-400s remain unboxed</a>

Erdogan agreed a truce last week with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who supports government forces, but previous deals have proved temporary.

Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after more than 50 of its soldiers were killed in Idlib last month.

Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said talks were proceeding "in a constructive fashion" with Russia to launch joint patrols along the key M4 road in Idlib on Sunday, as agreed under the ceasefire deal.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-deal-with-european-union-needs-to-be-updated-turkey-285469">Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey</a>

As well as supporting some rebel groups, Turkey set up military observation posts in Idlib under a 2018 deal with Russia aimed at preventing a regime assault.

"We signed the temporary ceasefire in Moscow. The matter now is to turn this ceasefire into a permanent one. We are chasing this speedily now. Once we are done with it, we will have an easier task," Erdogan said.

"In the face of the smallest attack (on our posts), we will not only retaliate, but we will respond much more heavily."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-pitches-for-constitutional-amendment-mps-back-package-of-changes-285487"> Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes</a>

Damascus, backed by Iranian troops and Russian air strikes, has been fighting to retake Idlib since December, pushing close to a million civilians northwards towards Turkey's border.

Turkey already hosts some four million refugees, and has called for greater assistance from Europe and its NATO partners in dealing with the crisis.

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad. "Although there are only small incidents here and there, the ceasefire has started to be violated," said President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who backs some rebel groups in Idlib. "We are sharing these developments with Russia... and expect them to take measures." Also read: Turkish President Erdogan says US offering Patriot systems if S-400s remain unboxed Erdogan agreed a truce last week with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who supports government forces, but previous deals have proved temporary. Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after more than 50 of its soldiers were killed in Idlib last month. Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said talks were proceeding "in a constructive fashion" with Russia to launch joint patrols along the key M4 road in Idlib on Sunday, as agreed under the ceasefire deal. Also see: Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey As well as supporting some rebel groups, Turkey set up military observation posts in Idlib under a 2018 deal with Russia aimed at preventing a regime assault. "We signed the temporary ceasefire in Moscow. The matter now is to turn this ceasefire into a permanent one. We are chasing this speedily now. Once we are done with it, we will have an easier task," Erdogan said. "In the face of the smallest attack (on our posts), we will not only retaliate, but we will respond much more heavily." Also read: Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes Damascus, backed by Iranian troops and Russian air strikes, has been fighting to retake Idlib since December, pushing close to a million civilians northwards towards Turkey's border. Turkey already hosts some four million refugees, and has called for greater assistance from Europe and its NATO partners in dealing with the crisis.

Turkey urges Russia to address Syria truce violations

By Shelley Inglis

Remember former President Barack Obama’s infamous red line speech in 2012? In that speech, the president made it clear that the US would not stand for the use of chemical or biological weapons by President Bashar al-Assad against opposition forces in Syria.

But, despite subsequent evidence of the use of these weapons by Assad’s forces, the US declined to directly confront the regime.

A complex, devastating conflict has continued ever since, killing close to 400,000 Syrians and forcing millions from their homes. It has involved a range of players over nine years: the Assad-controlled government regime, various rebel opposition groups, the Islamic State, Syria’s Kurdish minority and major international powers, including the United States, Iran, Turkey, Russia and the European Union.

Consequently, some confusion about current events and what they mean is understandable. So, here are some answers to key questions about why Syria is back in the news.

1. What’s going on right now?

The war in Syria has resulted in more than 11 million people displaced. Over half of these displaced people are refugees, with the vast majority currently hosted in the regional states of Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan.

The war has now reached a crisis point. Since December, the Russian-backed Assad regime has significantly increased air and ground assaults on civilian sites in Idlib province, causing destruction and mass displacement.

Idlib is considered the remaining stronghold of the rebel opposition to Assad’s regime. Lying in the northeast of Syria bordering Turkey, it is home to approximately 3.5 million people.

The United Nations has repeatedly called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. Nonetheless, the assaults continued.

2. How many people are fleeing?

Since December, nearly 950,000 people, an estimated 80 per cent of whom are women and children, have fled their homes because of ground and air assaults by the Russian-backed Assad forces during an uncharacteristically cold winter.

Many live in makeshift displaced persons camps in northern Syria. Reports show that women are burning plastic to keep warm, and babies and children are dying due to the cold.

The UN estimates that close to 2 million Syrians are in need of humanitarian assistance. While aid is being delivered, it is insufficient to meet the needs of families for food, clean water and heating.

Local aid workers have also been killed.

3. Why is this considered a humanitarian crisis?

Until early January, humanitarian assistance was coming from international organizations into Syria through Iraq. Aid is currently coming in through Turkey, as it affords the most feasible route for people to seek refuge and for humanitarian assistance to get through to Syria.

However, Turkey has effectively closed its borders to those fleeing from Idlib, noting it already hosts over 3.6 million Syrian refugees.

Some reports put the death toll around Idlib in the thousands. The UN has recorded hundreds of deaths in Idlib and Aleppo due to the recent attacks, which are backed militarily by Russia. Many medical facilities and schools have been targeted or impacted.

Experts claim that the attacks are part of a strategy to explicitly target civilians. Such targeting of civilians, schools and hospitals could be war crimes – grave violations of the law of war.

The UN Commission of Inquiry and European courts are investigating crimes committed during the Syrian conflict.

4. Who is involved in this fight?

The conflict in Syria started with a peaceful uprising in 2011 against the four-decade authoritarian rule of the Assad family. Since then, it has become increasingly complicated, involving a number of countries near and far.

Iran has remained a steadfast supporter of Assad throughout the conflict, although its exact military and financial support is difficult to track.

In 2015, Russia, a historic ally of the Assad family, directly entered the conflict to support the government through airstrikes. It controls much of the airspace in northern Syria today.

The United States entered the war as part of a coalition in 2014. It has supported Syrian Kurdish militia, known as the People’s Protection Units, in a joint fight against the Islamic State, which had gained power in parts of Syria. The United States’ support of the Syrian Kurds has consistently rattled Turkey, which links the group to its own Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which is considered a terrorist group by neighbouring Turkey, the European Union and the United States.

In October, President Donald Trump ordered the removal of U.S. military personnel from northern Syria, abandoning the traditional support by the US for Syrian Kurds and opening up advantages for the Assad regime and Russia.

In response, Turkey intervened militarily to undermine the Syrian Kurds and create a safe zone along its borders. These actions infuriated Turkey’s western allies because it heightened the conflict in parts of the north that had been peacefully governed by the Syrian Kurds.

While Turkey and Russia do not agree on Syria, they have been coming closer since 2015, even overcoming crises like the downing of a Russian aircraft by Turkish forces near the Syrian border.

Turkey, the United States and European Union states are members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, known as NATO. Deepening a divide between Turkey and NATO is considered by experts to be in the interest of Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin.

5. What now? 
The humanitarian crisis is grave, and the situation in flux. With the fighting around Idlib continuing, international tensions are flaring.

After 33 Turkish soldiers died in an attack by Russian-backed Syrian forces on Feb. 27, Turkey called for NATO to meet and has retaliated in Syria. Russia has denied any involvement in the specific assault.

Neither Turkey nor Russia appears to be decreasing their interventions in Syria.

With Russia wielding a veto power on the United Nations Security Council, the institution responsible for addressing threats to international peace and security has been unable to effectively intervene to halt the conflict and protect civilians.

Many experts contend that the war could be in its final throes and some victory for Assad is no longer in question. For now, the Trump administration has indicated it has no intention of reengaging in Syria to protect the people of Idlib.

However, in such a complex conflict, the delicate balance of interests can be disrupted. For example, Turkey has opened its borders for Syrian refugees to flow into Europe, creating a potential renewed crisis for the European Union.

Turkey has asked NATO for military support for a no-fly zone over Idlib, but has gained no traction so far. Experts agree that the best route to protect civilians would be such a zone and argue the United States must play a role.

Others are calling for an EU-NATO intervention to protect the people of Idlib. The EU is meeting to discuss the crisis.

For now, Turkey is taking on the Syrian forces alone and claiming some success. Russia and Turkey are set to meet to discuss the conflict on March 5.

(Shelley Inglis is Executive Director, University of Dayton Human Rights Center, University of Dayton)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-worst-humanitarian-crisis-of-the-21st-century-5-questions-on-syria-answered-132571"> original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Shelley Inglis Remember former President Barack Obama’s infamous red line speech in 2012? In that speech, the president made it clear that the US would not stand for the use of chemical or biological weapons by President Bashar al-Assad against opposition forces in Syria.

By Shelley Inglis Remember former President Barack Obama’s infamous red line speech in 2012? In that speech, the president made it clear that the US would not stand for the use of chemical or biological weapons by President Bashar al-Assad against opposition forces in Syria. But, despite subsequent evidence of the use of these weapons by Assad’s forces, the US declined to directly confront the regime. A complex, devastating conflict has continued ever since, killing close to 400,000 Syrians and forcing millions from their homes. It has involved a range of players over nine years: the Assad-controlled government regime, various rebel opposition groups, the Islamic State, Syria’s Kurdish minority and major international powers, including the United States, Iran, Turkey, Russia and the European Union. Consequently, some confusion about current events and what they mean is understandable. So, here are some answers to key questions about why Syria is back in the news. 1. What’s going on right now? The war in Syria has resulted in more than 11 million people displaced. Over half of these displaced people are refugees, with the vast majority currently hosted in the regional states of Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan. The war has now reached a crisis point. Since December, the Russian-backed Assad regime has significantly increased air and ground assaults on civilian sites in Idlib province, causing destruction and mass displacement. Idlib is considered the remaining stronghold of the rebel opposition to Assad’s regime. Lying in the northeast of Syria bordering Turkey, it is home to approximately 3.5 million people. The United Nations has repeatedly called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. Nonetheless, the assaults continued. 2. How many people are fleeing? Since December, nearly 950,000 people, an estimated 80 per cent of whom are women and children, have fled their homes because of ground and air assaults by the Russian-backed Assad forces during an uncharacteristically cold winter. Many live in makeshift displaced persons camps in northern Syria. Reports show that women are burning plastic to keep warm, and babies and children are dying due to the cold. The UN estimates that close to 2 million Syrians are in need of humanitarian assistance. While aid is being delivered, it is insufficient to meet the needs of families for food, clean water and heating. Local aid workers have also been killed. 3. Why is this considered a humanitarian crisis? Until early January, humanitarian assistance was coming from international organizations into Syria through Iraq. Aid is currently coming in through Turkey, as it affords the most feasible route for people to seek refuge and for humanitarian assistance to get through to Syria. However, Turkey has effectively closed its borders to those fleeing from Idlib, noting it already hosts over 3.6 million Syrian refugees. Some reports put the death toll around Idlib in the thousands. The UN has recorded hundreds of deaths in Idlib and Aleppo due to the recent attacks, which are backed militarily by Russia. Many medical facilities and schools have been targeted or impacted. Experts claim that the attacks are part of a strategy to explicitly target civilians. Such targeting of civilians, schools and hospitals could be war crimes – grave violations of the law of war. The UN Commission of Inquiry and European courts are investigating crimes committed during the Syrian conflict. 4. Who is involved in this fight? The conflict in Syria started with a peaceful uprising in 2011 against the four-decade authoritarian rule of the Assad family. Since then, it has become increasingly complicated, involving a number of countries near and far. Iran has remained a steadfast supporter of Assad throughout the conflict, although its exact military and financial support is difficult to track. In 2015, Russia, a historic ally of the Assad family, directly entered the conflict to support the government through airstrikes. It controls much of the airspace in northern Syria today. The United States entered the war as part of a coalition in 2014. It has supported Syrian Kurdish militia, known as the People’s Protection Units, in a joint fight against the Islamic State, which had gained power in parts of Syria. The United States’ support of the Syrian Kurds has consistently rattled Turkey, which links the group to its own Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which is considered a terrorist group by neighbouring Turkey, the European Union and the United States. In October, President Donald Trump ordered the removal of U.S. military personnel from northern Syria, abandoning the traditional support by the US for Syrian Kurds and opening up advantages for the Assad regime and Russia. In response, Turkey intervened militarily to undermine the Syrian Kurds and create a safe zone along its borders. These actions infuriated Turkey’s western allies because it heightened the conflict in parts of the north that had been peacefully governed by the Syrian Kurds. While Turkey and Russia do not agree on Syria, they have been coming closer since 2015, even overcoming crises like the downing of a Russian aircraft by Turkish forces near the Syrian border. Turkey, the United States and European Union states are members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, known as NATO. Deepening a divide between Turkey and NATO is considered by experts to be in the interest of Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin. 5. What now? The humanitarian crisis is grave, and the situation in flux. With the fighting around Idlib continuing, international tensions are flaring. After 33 Turkish soldiers died in an attack by Russian-backed Syrian forces on Feb. 27, Turkey called for NATO to meet and has retaliated in Syria. Russia has denied any involvement in the specific assault. Neither Turkey nor Russia appears to be decreasing their interventions in Syria. With Russia wielding a veto power on the United Nations Security Council, the institution responsible for addressing threats to international peace and security has been unable to effectively intervene to halt the conflict and protect civilians. Many experts contend that the war could be in its final throes and some victory for Assad is no longer in question. For now, the Trump administration has indicated it has no intention of reengaging in Syria to protect the people of Idlib. However, in such a complex conflict, the delicate balance of interests can be disrupted. For example, Turkey has opened its borders for Syrian refugees to flow into Europe, creating a potential renewed crisis for the European Union. Turkey has asked NATO for military support for a no-fly zone over Idlib, but has gained no traction so far. Experts agree that the best route to protect civilians would be such a zone and argue the United States must play a role. Others are calling for an EU-NATO intervention to protect the people of Idlib. The EU is meeting to discuss the crisis. For now, Turkey is taking on the Syrian forces alone and claiming some success. Russia and Turkey are set to meet to discuss the conflict on March 5. (Shelley Inglis is Executive Director, University of Dayton Human Rights Center, University of Dayton) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Syria civil war: The worst humanitarian crisis of the 21st century

Turkey shot down two Syrian warplanes on Sunday in an escalating offensive against the Damascus regime as Ankara pressured Europe over the conflict by opening its border for migrants to cross into the continent.

Following weeks of violence in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-pursuing-military-operation-against-syrian-regime-283560">Turkey confirmed a full military operation against Russian-backed Syrian forces</a> after dozens of Turkish soldiers were killed last week in an air strike blamed on Damascus.

Tensions have intensified between Russia and Turkey -- who back opposing forces in the Syria's civil war -- but Ankara has insisted it does not want to clash directly with Moscow.

"One anti-aircraft system that shot down one of our armed drones and two other anti-aircraft systems have been destroyed, and two SU-24 regime planes that were attacking our aircraft have been downed," Turkey's defence ministry said in a statement.

Syrian state media said Turkish forces "targeted" two of its planes over Idlib. A rebel group and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, both said the planes had been downed.

The situation in rebel-held Idlib was already volatile as the regime supported by Russian air power pressed an assault on the region in a bid to retake the last opposition enclave in a nine-year civil war.

The confrontation between the Russia-backed Syrian forces and NATO-member Turkey, which supports Syrian rebels, has prompted worries over a wider conflict and a migrant crisis in Europe similar to 2015.&nbsp;

Migrant numbers have already surged along the rugged frontier after Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, seeking to pressure the EU over Syria, said the country had "opened the doors" to Europe.

Greece said Sunday it has blocked nearly 10,000 migrants at its border with Turkey.

As migrant boats continued to land on Greek islands, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar announced "operation 'Spring Shield'" for the first time, adding it "successfully continues" after the attack last week killed 34 Turkish troops.

Turkish forces hit Syrian regime positions after Erdogan warned Damascus would "pay a price" for the air strike.

Under a 2018 deal with Russia meant to bring calm to Idlib, Turkey has 12 observation posts in Syria -- but several have come under fire from Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces.

Turkey wants the international community to establish a no-fly zone over Idlib, where Islamist fighters backed by Ankara pose the biggest obstacle to Damascus seizing back control over all of Syria.

SANA Syrian state media reported the regime shot down a Turkish drone near the town of Saraqeb, publishing footage of an aircraft tumbling from the sky in flames. Those images could not be immediately confirmed.

But Turkish defence ministry confirmed one of its drones was shot down.

Moscow meeting?

Earlier on Sunday, Istanbul police detained the editor-in-chief of the Turkish version of Russia's Sputnik website as its offices were being searched in Istanbul.

Three of its journalists were also taken to a courthouse in Ankara for questioning, likely related to a Sputnik article in English claiming Turkey's Hatay province was "stolen" from Syria. Colonial power France ceded the southern region to Turkey in 1938.

The news website later said they had been released.

Turkish media reported on Sunday that Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin would meet in Moscow on March 5. They already spoke by telephone last week when both expressed "concern" over the escalation.

The Russian and Turkish foreign ministers also spoke by telephone on Sunday, Moscow's ministry said, to discuss preparations for the meeting between the two leaders, and the safety of the Sputnik journalists.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov said he "hoped" the meeting would be on Thursday or Friday.

"It will undoubtedly be a difficult meeting, but the leaders confirmed their wish to resolve the situation in Idlib. It's important," Peskov said on Sunday.

Protecting borders

Some 13,000 migrants have amassed at the Turkey-Greece border, including families with young children who spent the night in the cold, the International Organization for Migration said.&nbsp;

An estimated additional 2,000 migrants arrived at the Pazarkule border gate Sunday, including Afghans, Syrians and Iraqis, according to an AFP reporter.&nbsp;

But as the crowds rushed to enter Europe, Greek police and soldiers blocked 9,972 "illegal entrances" from entering the northeastern Evros region in the past 24 hours, a Greek government source said.&nbsp;

The UN refugee agency spokesman Babar Baloch called for "calm and easing of tensions on the border," as he urged countries to "refrain from the use of excessive and disproportionate force".

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday said the EU was watching "with concern" and stood ready to deploy its Frontex border guard agency.

The developments recalled events in 2015 when over a million migrants fled to Europe, mainly via Greece in what became the continent's worst refugee crisis since the Second World War.

The EU's commissioner for migration, Margaritis Schinas, tweeted Sunday he had requested an extraordinary meeting of EU interior ministers to discuss the situation.

Erdogan said Turkey, home to some 3.6 million refugees, did not plan to close the borders because "the (EU) should keep its promises".

He was referring to the 2016 deal with Brussels to stop the flow of refugees in exchange for billions of euros.

burs-raz/

Turkey shot down two Syrian warplanes on Sunday in an escalating offensive against the Damascus regime as Ankara pressured Europe over the conflict by opening its border for migrants to cross into the continent.

Turkey shot down two Syrian warplanes on Sunday in an escalating offensive against the Damascus regime as Ankara pressured Europe over the conflict by opening its border for migrants to cross into the continent. Following weeks of violence in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, Turkey confirmed a full military operation against Russian-backed Syrian forces after dozens of Turkish soldiers were killed last week in an air strike blamed on Damascus. Tensions have intensified between Russia and Turkey -- who back opposing forces in the Syria's civil war -- but Ankara has insisted it does not want to clash directly with Moscow. "One anti-aircraft system that shot down one of our armed drones and two other anti-aircraft systems have been destroyed, and two SU-24 regime planes that were attacking our aircraft have been downed," Turkey's defence ministry said in a statement. Syrian state media said Turkish forces "targeted" two of its planes over Idlib. A rebel group and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, both said the planes had been downed. The situation in rebel-held Idlib was already volatile as the regime supported by Russian air power pressed an assault on the region in a bid to retake the last opposition enclave in a nine-year civil war. The confrontation between the Russia-backed Syrian forces and NATO-member Turkey, which supports Syrian rebels, has prompted worries over a wider conflict and a migrant crisis in Europe similar to 2015. Migrant numbers have already surged along the rugged frontier after Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, seeking to pressure the EU over Syria, said the country had "opened the doors" to Europe. Greece said Sunday it has blocked nearly 10,000 migrants at its border with Turkey. As migrant boats continued to land on Greek islands, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar announced "operation 'Spring Shield'" for the first time, adding it "successfully continues" after the attack last week killed 34 Turkish troops. Turkish forces hit Syrian regime positions after Erdogan warned Damascus would "pay a price" for the air strike. Under a 2018 deal with Russia meant to bring calm to Idlib, Turkey has 12 observation posts in Syria -- but several have come under fire from Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces. Turkey wants the international community to establish a no-fly zone over Idlib, where Islamist fighters backed by Ankara pose the biggest obstacle to Damascus seizing back control over all of Syria. SANA Syrian state media reported the regime shot down a Turkish drone near the town of Saraqeb, publishing footage of an aircraft tumbling from the sky in flames. Those images could not be immediately confirmed. But Turkish defence ministry confirmed one of its drones was shot down. Moscow meeting? Earlier on Sunday, Istanbul police detained the editor-in-chief of the Turkish version of Russia's Sputnik website as its offices were being searched in Istanbul. Three of its journalists were also taken to a courthouse in Ankara for questioning, likely related to a Sputnik article in English claiming Turkey's Hatay province was "stolen" from Syria. Colonial power France ceded the southern region to Turkey in 1938. The news website later said they had been released. Turkish media reported on Sunday that Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin would meet in Moscow on March 5. They already spoke by telephone last week when both expressed "concern" over the escalation. The Russian and Turkish foreign ministers also spoke by telephone on Sunday, Moscow's ministry said, to discuss preparations for the meeting between the two leaders, and the safety of the Sputnik journalists. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov said he "hoped" the meeting would be on Thursday or Friday. "It will undoubtedly be a difficult meeting, but the leaders confirmed their wish to resolve the situation in Idlib. It's important," Peskov said on Sunday. Protecting borders Some 13,000 migrants have amassed at the Turkey-Greece border, including families with young children who spent the night in the cold, the International Organization for Migration said. An estimated additional 2,000 migrants arrived at the Pazarkule border gate Sunday, including Afghans, Syrians and Iraqis, according to an AFP reporter. But as the crowds rushed to enter Europe, Greek police and soldiers blocked 9,972 "illegal entrances" from entering the northeastern Evros region in the past 24 hours, a Greek government source said. The UN refugee agency spokesman Babar Baloch called for "calm and easing of tensions on the border," as he urged countries to "refrain from the use of excessive and disproportionate force". European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday said the EU was watching "with concern" and stood ready to deploy its Frontex border guard agency. The developments recalled events in 2015 when over a million migrants fled to Europe, mainly via Greece in what became the continent's worst refugee crisis since the Second World War. The EU's commissioner for migration, Margaritis Schinas, tweeted Sunday he had requested an extraordinary meeting of EU interior ministers to discuss the situation. Erdogan said Turkey, home to some 3.6 million refugees, did not plan to close the borders because "the (EU) should keep its promises". He was referring to the 2016 deal with Brussels to stop the flow of refugees in exchange for billions of euros. burs-raz/

Turkey shoots down two Syria warplanes in escalating offensive

Turkey said Sunday it was continuing a military operation against the Russian-backed Syrian regime in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">Syria's northwestern Idlib region</a> but insisted it did not wish to clash with Moscow.

Though Turkey has reported striking targets in Syria since dozens of its troops were killed there Thursday, it was the first confirmation of a full and continuing operation.

"Following the heinous attack on February 27 in Idlib, operation 'Spring Shield' successfully continues," Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said in a televised speech.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-asks-russias-putin-to-step-aside-in-syria-283496"> Turkey's Erdogan asks Russia's Putin to step aside in Syria</a>

"We don't have the desire or intention to clash with Russia," the minister added. Thirty-four Turkish troops have been killed in Syria since Thursday.

"Our intention is to stop the regime's massacres, and prevent... migration," he said.

"We expect Russia to stop the regime's attacks and to use their influence to ensure the regime withdraws to the borders of the Sochi agreement."

Turkey has 12 observation posts established in rebel-held Idlib following a 2018 deal between Ankara and Moscow signed in the Black Sea resort of Sochi.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laughing-syrian-girl-from-viral-video-begins-new-life-in-turkey-283378">Laughing Syrian girl from viral video begins new life in Turkey</a>

But the regime recently has pressed ahead with an assault, killing hundreds of civilians and forcing nearly a million to flee from their homes in the region.

Rebel-supporter Turkey and Damascus ally Russia previously worked closely to prevent a regime offensive in Idlib despite being on opposing sides of the nine-year war.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last month warned Damascus to get behind the agreed borders otherwise Ankara would use military force to push the regime back.

Akar said Turkish forces had destroyed dozens of tanks, helicopters and howitzers, adding 2,212 regime troops had been "neutralised".

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor, 26 Syrian soldiers were killed in Turkish drone strikes on Saturday.

Erdogan on Saturday called on Russia to "get out of our way" in Idlib and leave Turkey "face to face with the regime" in Idlib.

The latest developments has strained relations between Ankara and Moscow but Erdogan will likely meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks on Thursday or Friday, according to the Kremlin.

Turkey said Sunday it was continuing a military operation against the Russian-backed Syrian regime in Syria's northwestern Idlib region but insisted it did not wish to clash with Moscow.

Turkey said Sunday it was continuing a military operation against the Russian-backed Syrian regime in Syria's northwestern Idlib region but insisted it did not wish to clash with Moscow. Though Turkey has reported striking targets in Syria since dozens of its troops were killed there Thursday, it was the first confirmation of a full and continuing operation. "Following the heinous attack on February 27 in Idlib, operation 'Spring Shield' successfully continues," Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said in a televised speech. Also read: Turkey's Erdogan asks Russia's Putin to step aside in Syria "We don't have the desire or intention to clash with Russia," the minister added. Thirty-four Turkish troops have been killed in Syria since Thursday. "Our intention is to stop the regime's massacres, and prevent... migration," he said. "We expect Russia to stop the regime's attacks and to use their influence to ensure the regime withdraws to the borders of the Sochi agreement." Turkey has 12 observation posts established in rebel-held Idlib following a 2018 deal between Ankara and Moscow signed in the Black Sea resort of Sochi. Also read: Laughing Syrian girl from viral video begins new life in Turkey But the regime recently has pressed ahead with an assault, killing hundreds of civilians and forcing nearly a million to flee from their homes in the region. Rebel-supporter Turkey and Damascus ally Russia previously worked closely to prevent a regime offensive in Idlib despite being on opposing sides of the nine-year war. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last month warned Damascus to get behind the agreed borders otherwise Ankara would use military force to push the regime back. Akar said Turkish forces had destroyed dozens of tanks, helicopters and howitzers, adding 2,212 regime troops had been "neutralised". According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor, 26 Syrian soldiers were killed in Turkish drone strikes on Saturday. Erdogan on Saturday called on Russia to "get out of our way" in Idlib and leave Turkey "face to face with the regime" in Idlib. The latest developments has strained relations between Ankara and Moscow but Erdogan will likely meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks on Thursday or Friday, according to the Kremlin.

Turkey says pursuing military operation against Syrian regime

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that he had asked President Vladimir Putin for Russia to step aside in Syria and leave Turkey to deal with Syrian government forces alone, after 34 Turkish soldiers were killed this week.

Government forces, backed by Russian airpower, have waged a major assault to capture the northwest province of Idlib, part of the last remaining territory held by rebels backed by Turkey.

Syrian and Russian warplanes on Saturday kept up airstrikes on the Idlib city of Saraqeb, the Syrian Observatory war monitor reported. The strategic city sits on a key international roadway and has been a flashpoint of fighting in recent days.

Turkish strikes using drones and smart missiles late on Friday that hit Hezbollah headquarters near Saraqeb killed nine of its members and wounded 30 in one of the bloodiest attacks on the Iran-backed group in Syria, according to a commander in the regional alliance backing Damascus.

The Syrian Observatory said 48 pro-Damascus troops had been killed by Turkish strikes in the past 24 hours.

With diplomacy sponsored by Ankara and Moscow to ease tensions in tatters, Turkey has come closer than ever to confrontation with Russia on the battlefield.

Speaking in Istanbul, Erdogan said he had told Putin in a phone call to stand aside and let Turkey "do what is necessary" with the Syrian government. He said Turkey does not intend to leave Syria right now.

"We did not go there because we were invited by (Syrian President Bashar al-Assad). We went there because we were invited by the people of Syria. We don't intend to leave before the people of Syria say, 'Okay, this is done,'" Erdogan added.

As tensions rose, Russia and Turkey have held three rounds of talks, the first two of which did not yield a ceasefire.

Russia's Foreign Ministry said on Saturday that the two sides agreed in this week's talks to reduce tensions on the ground in Idlib while continuing military action there.

But Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told reporters in Doha that the Idlib issue can only be settled in a meeting between Erdogan and Putin, which he said would take place on March 5 or March 6.

MIgrants

After 33 of its soldiers were killed on Thursday, Turkey said it would allow migrants it hosts to freely pass to Europe. One more Turkish soldier was killed on Friday, raising this month's toll to 55.

Turkey hosts some 3.7 million Syrian refugees, in addition to Afghans, Iranians, and Moroccans among others. It has warned that it cannot take another refugee wave from Idlib.

Violence in the northwestern Syrian province has displaced one million civilians since December inside the country near the Turkish border in desperate winter conditions, in what is perhaps the worst humanitarian crisis of the conflict.

Erdogan said that 18,000 migrants has crossed the border to Europe from Turkey since the gates were opened, without providing evidence, and added that the number could rise to 25,000-30,000 on Saturday.

Greece and Bulgaria, both European Union member states neighbouring Turkey, vowed not to admit the migrants. Greek police fired teargas toward migrants who were gathered on its border with Turkey and demanding entry on Saturday.

"We will not close these doors in the coming period and this will continue. Why? The European Union needs to keep its promises. We don't have to take care of this many refugees, to feed them," Erdogan said.

He said funds transferred to Turkey from the EU to support refugees were arriving too slowly and that he had asked German Chancellor Angela Merkel to send them directly to the Turkish government.

Turkey's borders to Europe were closed to migrants under an accord between Turkey and the EU that halted the 2015-16 migration crisis when more than a million people crossed into Europe by foot.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said he was planning to host a high-level meeting in Bulgaria to seek long-lasting solutions for Syria and migrants and would meet Erdogan on Monday to discuss it.

He said there was currently no migration pressure on the Balkan country's border with Turkey.

"We have to do everything possible next week, very quickly, until Wednesday, Thursday at the latest, to provide Turkey with the necessary means so that it can take the migrants back and take care of them," he told reporters.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that he had asked President Vladimir Putin for Russia to step aside in Syria and leave Turkey to deal with Syrian government forces alone, after 34 Turkish soldiers were killed this week.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that he had asked President Vladimir Putin for Russia to step aside in Syria and leave Turkey to deal with Syrian government forces alone, after 34 Turkish soldiers were killed this week. Government forces, backed by Russian airpower, have waged a major assault to capture the northwest province of Idlib, part of the last remaining territory held by rebels backed by Turkey. Syrian and Russian warplanes on Saturday kept up airstrikes on the Idlib city of Saraqeb, the Syrian Observatory war monitor reported. The strategic city sits on a key international roadway and has been a flashpoint of fighting in recent days. Turkish strikes using drones and smart missiles late on Friday that hit Hezbollah headquarters near Saraqeb killed nine of its members and wounded 30 in one of the bloodiest attacks on the Iran-backed group in Syria, according to a commander in the regional alliance backing Damascus. The Syrian Observatory said 48 pro-Damascus troops had been killed by Turkish strikes in the past 24 hours. With diplomacy sponsored by Ankara and Moscow to ease tensions in tatters, Turkey has come closer than ever to confrontation with Russia on the battlefield. Speaking in Istanbul, Erdogan said he had told Putin in a phone call to stand aside and let Turkey "do what is necessary" with the Syrian government. He said Turkey does not intend to leave Syria right now. "We did not go there because we were invited by (Syrian President Bashar al-Assad). We went there because we were invited by the people of Syria. We don't intend to leave before the people of Syria say, 'Okay, this is done,'" Erdogan added. As tensions rose, Russia and Turkey have held three rounds of talks, the first two of which did not yield a ceasefire. Russia's Foreign Ministry said on Saturday that the two sides agreed in this week's talks to reduce tensions on the ground in Idlib while continuing military action there. But Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told reporters in Doha that the Idlib issue can only be settled in a meeting between Erdogan and Putin, which he said would take place on March 5 or March 6. MIgrants After 33 of its soldiers were killed on Thursday, Turkey said it would allow migrants it hosts to freely pass to Europe. One more Turkish soldier was killed on Friday, raising this month's toll to 55. Turkey hosts some 3.7 million Syrian refugees, in addition to Afghans, Iranians, and Moroccans among others. It has warned that it cannot take another refugee wave from Idlib. Violence in the northwestern Syrian province has displaced one million civilians since December inside the country near the Turkish border in desperate winter conditions, in what is perhaps the worst humanitarian crisis of the conflict. Erdogan said that 18,000 migrants has crossed the border to Europe from Turkey since the gates were opened, without providing evidence, and added that the number could rise to 25,000-30,000 on Saturday. Greece and Bulgaria, both European Union member states neighbouring Turkey, vowed not to admit the migrants. Greek police fired teargas toward migrants who were gathered on its border with Turkey and demanding entry on Saturday. "We will not close these doors in the coming period and this will continue. Why? The European Union needs to keep its promises. We don't have to take care of this many refugees, to feed them," Erdogan said. He said funds transferred to Turkey from the EU to support refugees were arriving too slowly and that he had asked German Chancellor Angela Merkel to send them directly to the Turkish government. Turkey's borders to Europe were closed to migrants under an accord between Turkey and the EU that halted the 2015-16 migration crisis when more than a million people crossed into Europe by foot. Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said he was planning to host a high-level meeting in Bulgaria to seek long-lasting solutions for Syria and migrants and would meet Erdogan on Monday to discuss it. He said there was currently no migration pressure on the Balkan country's border with Turkey. "We have to do everything possible next week, very quickly, until Wednesday, Thursday at the latest, to provide Turkey with the necessary means so that it can take the migrants back and take care of them," he told reporters.

Turkey's Erdogan asks Russia's Putin to step aside in Syria

A week after her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-cope-with-war-trauma-syrian-father-and-daughter-turn-bombing-sounds-into-rosy-game-281650">infectious laugh broke the internet</a>, the three-year-old Syrian girl has started a new life with her family in Turkey.

To help her daughter cope with Syria's long-running war trauma, Salwa's father turned the experience of airstrikes into a bittersweet game and&nbsp;taught her Salwa to laugh every time there is a sound of a bombing.

Thanking the Turkish government, her father informed that they have been invited to live in Turkey after the video caught global attention.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-says-syria-talks-with-russia-unsatisfactory-offensive-matter-of-time-281591">Turkey's Erdogan says Syria talks with Russia unsatisfactory, offensive 'matter of time'</a>

The video, posted by her father Abdullah al-Muhammad on social media this week, shows him and his three-year-old daughter Salwa laughing adorably as an explosion is heard outside their home.

Mohammad noted that many children suffer psychological hardships and stress due to daily airstrikes, and wanted to avoid Salwa suffering the same.&nbsp;

He said that he managed to convince his daughter that these noises are similar to the sounds of fireworks and that they are nothing to be scared of.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-strikes-hit-hospitals-camps-in-northwest-syria-300-civilian-casualties-281561">Air strikes hit hospitals, camps in northwest Syria; 300 civilian casualties</a>

The video had evoked an emotional response from viewers while several called for an end to violence in the region.

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The Syrian army has pushed hard in recent months to retake the last large rebel-held region in northwestern Syria after nine years of war that has displaced millions and killed hundreds of thousands.

Nearly a million Syrians have fled over the last three months, the biggest exodus of the war.

The United Nations said on Thursday the battle was having "catastrophic" humanitarian consequences, with the civilian death toll rising and schools and hospitals destroyed.

A week after her infectious laugh broke the internet, the three-year-old Syrian girl has started a new life with her family in Turkey. To help her daughter cope with Syria's long-running war trauma, Salwa's father turned the experience of airstrikes into a bittersweet game and taught her Salwa to laugh every time there is a sound of a bombing.

A week after her infectious laugh broke the internet, the three-year-old Syrian girl has started a new life with her family in Turkey. To help her daughter cope with Syria's long-running war trauma, Salwa's father turned the experience of airstrikes into a bittersweet game and taught her Salwa to laugh every time there is a sound of a bombing. Thanking the Turkish government, her father informed that they have been invited to live in Turkey after the video caught global attention. Also read: Turkey's Erdogan says Syria talks with Russia unsatisfactory, offensive 'matter of time' The video, posted by her father Abdullah al-Muhammad on social media this week, shows him and his three-year-old daughter Salwa laughing adorably as an explosion is heard outside their home. Mohammad noted that many children suffer psychological hardships and stress due to daily airstrikes, and wanted to avoid Salwa suffering the same. He said that he managed to convince his daughter that these noises are similar to the sounds of fireworks and that they are nothing to be scared of. Also read: Air strikes hit hospitals, camps in northwest Syria; 300 civilian casualties The video had evoked an emotional response from viewers while several called for an end to violence in the region. × The Syrian army has pushed hard in recent months to retake the last large rebel-held region in northwestern Syria after nine years of war that has displaced millions and killed hundreds of thousands. Nearly a million Syrians have fled over the last three months, the biggest exodus of the war. The United Nations said on Thursday the battle was having "catastrophic" humanitarian consequences, with the civilian death toll rising and schools and hospitals destroyed.

Laughing Syrian girl from viral video begins new life in Turkey

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres on Friday made an impassioned call for ending the ongoing conflict in Syria.

''This man-made humanitarian nightmare for the long-suffering Syrian people must stop. It must stop now," he said but did not offer any specific plan for curbing the bloodshed in the final rebel holdout.

"The message is clear: There is no military solution for the Syrian crisis. The only possible solution remains political."

Guterres recalled that he had repeatedly called for an "immediate ceasefire" in Idlib, and urged all parties to avoid any escalation in the fighting.

"It is crucial to break the vicious circle of violence and suffering," he said.

The latest offensive in the regions of Aleppo and Idlib has uprooted nearly 1 million people - most of them are women and children.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres on Friday made an impassioned call for ending the ongoing conflict in Syria. ''This man-made humanitarian nightmare for the long-suffering Syrian people must stop.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres on Friday made an impassioned call for ending the ongoing conflict in Syria. ''This man-made humanitarian nightmare for the long-suffering Syrian people must stop. It must stop now," he said but did not offer any specific plan for curbing the bloodshed in the final rebel holdout. "The message is clear: There is no military solution for the Syrian crisis. The only possible solution remains political." Guterres recalled that he had repeatedly called for an "immediate ceasefire" in Idlib, and urged all parties to avoid any escalation in the fighting. "It is crucial to break the vicious circle of violence and suffering," he said. The latest offensive in the regions of Aleppo and Idlib has uprooted nearly 1 million people - most of them are women and children. (With inputs from AFP)

UN secretary-general calls for an end to 'humanitarian nightmare' in Syria 

The United Nations warned on Friday that fighting in northwest Syria could "end in a bloodbath" and called again for a ceasefire, while Moscow denied reports of a mass flight of civilians from a Russian-led Syrian government offensive.

Syrian troops backed by Russian air power have been battling since December to eliminate the last rebel strongholds in the region in a war that has killed an estimated 400,000 Syrians, displaced millions more and left much of the country in ruins.

The latest offensive in the regions of Aleppo and Idlib has uprooted nearly 1 million people - most of them women and children - who have fled clashes to seek sanctuary further north, near the Turkish border.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-russia-discuss-joint-patrols-option-in-syrias-idlib-official-281805">Turkey, Russia discuss joint patrols option in Syria's Idlib</a>

The UN's humanitarian agency OCHA said 60% of the 900,000 people trapped in a shrinking space after fleeing are children.

"We call for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further suffering and what we fear may end in a bloodbath," OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke told a news briefing in Geneva.

"The front lines and relentless violence continue to move closer to these areas which are packed with displaced people, with bombardments increasingly affecting displacement sites and their vicinity."

At a university building in the town of Azaz in northwest Syria, people fleeing Idlib have poured in every day to shelter from the violence and bitter cold.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-turkeys-role-in-the-syrian-civil-war-281781">Explained - Turkey's role in the Syrian civil war</a>

Souad Saleh, 58, is staying in a room with her family and dozens of other people. "We want to go back home but we can't. We left things behind because the warplanes were above us and houses were collapsing," she said.

The escape was exhausting. "Everyone was crying," the grandmother recalled, bursting into tears.

Hayat al-Fayad, 50, said her village in Idlib had emptied out since her family ran from the bombing some two weeks ago. "The entire village fled," she said.

Other families are sleeping outside by roads and in olive groves, burning garbage to stay warm. Some children have died from the cold, while some families have at least reached tent camps for displaced people.

Turkey, which currently hosts 3.7 million Syrian refugees, has said it cannot handle a new influx and has warned that it will use military power to repel Syrian advances in Idlib and ease a humanitarian crisis.

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Russia denies humanitarian emergency

Russia's Defence Ministry said reports of hundreds of thousands of Syrians fleeing from Idlib towards the Turkish border - in an area where Turkish forces maintain forward observation posts - were false, urging Ankara to enable Idlib residents to enter other parts of Syria.

Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in Syria's conflict, but have collaborated towards a political solution. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's onslaught in the northwest has upset this fragile cooperation, causing Ankara and Moscow to accuse each other of flouting de-escalation agreements in the region.

Turkish and Russian officials have failed to find a solution to the clashes in several rounds of talks, and a flare-up on the ground on Thursday which killed two Turkish soldiers brought the total Turkish fatalities in Idlib this month to 15 troops.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-cope-with-war-trauma-syrian-father-and-daughter-turn-bombing-sounds-into-rosy-game-281650">To cope with war trauma, Syrian father and daughter turn bombing sounds into rosy game</a>

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he would speak by phone with Russia's Vladimir Putin on Friday at 1500 GMT and, based on those talks, determine Turkey's stance on the conflict.

Speaking to reporters, Erdogan said the French and German leaders had proposed a four-way summit with Russia in Istanbul on March 5, but that Putin had not yet responded. He repeated that Turkey was not withdrawing its forces from Idlib.

Erdogan further said Turkey was continuing work to set up housing for Syrian migrants in a 30-35 km (19-22 mile) "safe zone" inside Syria along the border with Turkey.

Earlier on Friday, the Kremlin said it was discussing the possibility of holding the summit with Turkey, France and Germany mentioned by Erdogan.

The German and French leaders called Putin on Thursday to voice alarm about the humanitarian situation.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel also held a phone call with Erdogan, who asked Paris and Berlin for concrete support in the crisis.

The United Nations warned on Friday that fighting in northwest Syria could "end in a bloodbath" and called again for a ceasefire, while Moscow denied reports of a mass flight of civilians from a Russian-led Syrian government offensive.

The United Nations warned on Friday that fighting in northwest Syria could "end in a bloodbath" and called again for a ceasefire, while Moscow denied reports of a mass flight of civilians from a Russian-led Syrian government offensive. Syrian troops backed by Russian air power have been battling since December to eliminate the last rebel strongholds in the region in a war that has killed an estimated 400,000 Syrians, displaced millions more and left much of the country in ruins. The latest offensive in the regions of Aleppo and Idlib has uprooted nearly 1 million people - most of them women and children - who have fled clashes to seek sanctuary further north, near the Turkish border. Also read: Turkey, Russia discuss joint patrols option in Syria's Idlib The UN's humanitarian agency OCHA said 60% of the 900,000 people trapped in a shrinking space after fleeing are children. "We call for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further suffering and what we fear may end in a bloodbath," OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke told a news briefing in Geneva. "The front lines and relentless violence continue to move closer to these areas which are packed with displaced people, with bombardments increasingly affecting displacement sites and their vicinity." At a university building in the town of Azaz in northwest Syria, people fleeing Idlib have poured in every day to shelter from the violence and bitter cold. Also read: Explained - Turkey's role in the Syrian civil war Souad Saleh, 58, is staying in a room with her family and dozens of other people. "We want to go back home but we can't. We left things behind because the warplanes were above us and houses were collapsing," she said. The escape was exhausting. "Everyone was crying," the grandmother recalled, bursting into tears. Hayat al-Fayad, 50, said her village in Idlib had emptied out since her family ran from the bombing some two weeks ago. "The entire village fled," she said. Other families are sleeping outside by roads and in olive groves, burning garbage to stay warm. Some children have died from the cold, while some families have at least reached tent camps for displaced people. Turkey, which currently hosts 3.7 million Syrian refugees, has said it cannot handle a new influx and has warned that it will use military power to repel Syrian advances in Idlib and ease a humanitarian crisis. × Russia denies humanitarian emergency Russia's Defence Ministry said reports of hundreds of thousands of Syrians fleeing from Idlib towards the Turkish border - in an area where Turkish forces maintain forward observation posts - were false, urging Ankara to enable Idlib residents to enter other parts of Syria. Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in Syria's conflict, but have collaborated towards a political solution. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's onslaught in the northwest has upset this fragile cooperation, causing Ankara and Moscow to accuse each other of flouting de-escalation agreements in the region. Turkish and Russian officials have failed to find a solution to the clashes in several rounds of talks, and a flare-up on the ground on Thursday which killed two Turkish soldiers brought the total Turkish fatalities in Idlib this month to 15 troops. Also read: To cope with war trauma, Syrian father and daughter turn bombing sounds into rosy game Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he would speak by phone with Russia's Vladimir Putin on Friday at 1500 GMT and, based on those talks, determine Turkey's stance on the conflict. Speaking to reporters, Erdogan said the French and German leaders had proposed a four-way summit with Russia in Istanbul on March 5, but that Putin had not yet responded. He repeated that Turkey was not withdrawing its forces from Idlib. Erdogan further said Turkey was continuing work to set up housing for Syrian migrants in a 30-35 km (19-22 mile) "safe zone" inside Syria along the border with Turkey. Earlier on Friday, the Kremlin said it was discussing the possibility of holding the summit with Turkey, France and Germany mentioned by Erdogan. The German and French leaders called Putin on Thursday to voice alarm about the humanitarian situation. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel also held a phone call with Erdogan, who asked Paris and Berlin for concrete support in the crisis.

UN says it fears 'bloodbath' in northwest Syria, Russia denies mass displacements

Turkey and Russia are discussing possible joint patrols as one way to reach a deal to halt fighting and stem an exodus of civilians in Syria's Idlib region, a Turkish official said on Thursday, a day after Ankara threatened military action to push back Syrian government forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-forces-consolidate-control-of-aleppo-air-strikes-under-way-281363">Also read: Syrian forces consolidate control of Aleppo, air strikes under way</a>

Turkey and Russia, which back opposing sides in the nine-year-old conflict, have failed to reach an agreement after two rounds of talks in the last two weeks.

A Syrian government offensive to eradicate the last rebel strongholds in northwest Syria has led to some of the most serious confrontations yet between NATO member Ankara and Damascus, and prompted Turkey to send thousands of troops and convoys of heavy weapons to the border area.

Turkey has taken in about 3.7 million Syrian refugees since the war started and says it cannot handle any more over its border, whch is now closed. The United Nations says <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/900000-people-displaced-by-fighting-in-northwest-syria-since-december-un-281225">more than 900,000 people, mostly women and children, have fled their homes in Idlib</a> since early December.

The Turkish official said the talks with Russia had not been "completely without a result". The discussions had moved forward but reached no final decision, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Russia has maintained its position that Turkey withdraws from Idlib and evacuates its observation posts since the beginning. Withdrawing from Idlib or evacuating the observation posts is not on the agenda."

"Various exercises are being discussed. For example, ensuring security through Turkish and Russian security officials and holding joint patrols could be possible," the official said, adding that both Ankara and Moscow expected their presidents to "end the issue".

Turkey, which backs rebels trying to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has threatened to use military power to drive back Syrian forces advancing in Idlib unless they withdraw by the end of the month. On Wednesday, President Tayyip Erdogan said a Turkish offensive into Idlib was a "matter of time".

Ankara and Moscow have accused each other of flouting a 2018 de-escalation agreement that allowed Turkey and Russia to set up military observation posts in Idlib.

Turkey has said some of its posts in Idlib were surrounded by Syrian government forces, but that it would not evacuate the positions or move them. On Tuesday, presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Turkey had rejected alternative maps offered by Russia during talks.

Earlier on Thursday, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said there had been some rapprochement with Russia in their talks on Idlib but that they were still not at the desired levels.

"There is no such thing as the Russians imposing a map on us, we exchanged documents presenting our respective positions," Cavusoglu told state broadcaster TRT Haber.

Russia, which backs Assad, has said a Turkish offensive into Idlib would be the "worst-case scenario" and that Russia would work to prevent the situation there from worsening. Iran, which also backs Assad, has said it was ready to mediate between Syria and Turkey if necessary.

The official said Turkey, Russia and Iran planned to meet in Tehran early next month to further discuss Syria, including the developments in Idlib. A Russian delegation may come to Ankara before that to evaluate progress made on Idlib, the person said.

Turkey and Russia are discussing possible joint patrols as one way to reach a deal to halt fighting and stem an exodus of civilians in Syria's Idlib region, a Turkish official said on Thursday, a day after Ankara threatened military action to push back Syrian government forces.

Turkey and Russia are discussing possible joint patrols as one way to reach a deal to halt fighting and stem an exodus of civilians in Syria's Idlib region, a Turkish official said on Thursday, a day after Ankara threatened military action to push back Syrian government forces. Also read: Syrian forces consolidate control of Aleppo, air strikes under way Turkey and Russia, which back opposing sides in the nine-year-old conflict, have failed to reach an agreement after two rounds of talks in the last two weeks. A Syrian government offensive to eradicate the last rebel strongholds in northwest Syria has led to some of the most serious confrontations yet between NATO member Ankara and Damascus, and prompted Turkey to send thousands of troops and convoys of heavy weapons to the border area. Turkey has taken in about 3.7 million Syrian refugees since the war started and says it cannot handle any more over its border, whch is now closed. The United Nations says more than 900,000 people, mostly women and children, have fled their homes in Idlib since early December. The Turkish official said the talks with Russia had not been "completely without a result". The discussions had moved forward but reached no final decision, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Russia has maintained its position that Turkey withdraws from Idlib and evacuates its observation posts since the beginning. Withdrawing from Idlib or evacuating the observation posts is not on the agenda." "Various exercises are being discussed. For example, ensuring security through Turkish and Russian security officials and holding joint patrols could be possible," the official said, adding that both Ankara and Moscow expected their presidents to "end the issue". Turkey, which backs rebels trying to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has threatened to use military power to drive back Syrian forces advancing in Idlib unless they withdraw by the end of the month. On Wednesday, President Tayyip Erdogan said a Turkish offensive into Idlib was a "matter of time". Ankara and Moscow have accused each other of flouting a 2018 de-escalation agreement that allowed Turkey and Russia to set up military observation posts in Idlib. Turkey has said some of its posts in Idlib were surrounded by Syrian government forces, but that it would not evacuate the positions or move them. On Tuesday, presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Turkey had rejected alternative maps offered by Russia during talks. Earlier on Thursday, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said there had been some rapprochement with Russia in their talks on Idlib but that they were still not at the desired levels. "There is no such thing as the Russians imposing a map on us, we exchanged documents presenting our respective positions," Cavusoglu told state broadcaster TRT Haber. Russia, which backs Assad, has said a Turkish offensive into Idlib would be the "worst-case scenario" and that Russia would work to prevent the situation there from worsening. Iran, which also backs Assad, has said it was ready to mediate between Syria and Turkey if necessary. The official said Turkey, Russia and Iran planned to meet in Tehran early next month to further discuss Syria, including the developments in Idlib. A Russian delegation may come to Ankara before that to evaluate progress made on Idlib, the person said.

Turkey, Russia discuss joint patrols option in Syria's Idlib: Official

Syria is almost a decade into civil war, but what's happening in the country now is perhaps its biggest-ever humanitarian crisis.

The troops of Syrian President Bashar-al Assad are trying to take over the last rebel-held province, Idlib, which has become a flashpoint and it looks like Turkey is trying to make the most of it.

The fighting between the rebels and Assad's forces have forced thousands to leave their homes. At least 70,000 people have been displaced - towns and cities have been abandoned, camps are over-crowded and there is a shortage of basic necessities.

But one of the biggest outcomes of Syria's operation Idlib is the intervention of Turkey. Ankara has been involved in the Syrian war&nbsp;since its early days. In the last 9 years, its role has been both diplomatic and military.

Back in 2011, Turkey started off by condemning the Syrian government for the very outbreak of the civil unrest. It went on to slam Asaad for cracking down on the protesters. 
 
WATCH: Turkey threatens an imminent attack on Syria's Idlib&nbsp;

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In 2016, the Turkish armed forces entered Syria - they targetted the people's protection units and the ISIS terrorists.

In 2018, Turkey signed the Sochi accord with Russia, wherein it agreed to the setting up of a de-escalation zone. Today, Turkey has troops at 12 observation posts in Idlib, back home - it hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees.

But Turkey's role in the Syrian war could change soon, Ankara is threatening to launch an operation in Idlib. Turkey wants to take on Assad's advancing forces.

Turkey says it wants to make Idlib a secure zone. Erdogan is eyeing a bigger role in the region and the world as a whole.

His moves come after the UN warned of a humanitarian catastrophe in Syria. There is another incident that Turkey is likely to use to justify an operation in Idlib. Assad's forces fired shells at an observation post that was manned by Turkish troops.

Turkey said that it lost at least a dozen of its soldiers - the question is whether Turkey will really take on the advancing Syrian forces in Idlib?

And what about Russia? Will Erdogan's quest for power force him to take on Putin? Russia and Turkey have way too many joint interests. Russia has built nuclear reactors for Turkey. Recently, Turkey also purchased the Russian S-400 Missile System.

A confrontation between the two countries wouldn't be the best idea.

At the end of the day, while countries try to play the war to its benefit - it's the people who have everything to lose.

In Idlib alone, over 900,000 people have been forced from their homes and shelters in less than 3 months. In the last 2 months alone, more than 200 civilians have died.

The Syrian and Russian forces were responsible for 93 per cent of these deaths. Turkey may be trying to play a messiah here, but one must not forget Erdogan's men too have blood on their hands. The Turkish troops killed around 500 Syrians who were fleeing the civil war and 78 of them were children. 
 
&nbsp;

Syria is almost a decade into civil war, but what's happening in the country now is perhaps its biggest-ever humanitarian crisis. The troops of Syrian President Bashar-al Assad are trying to take over the last rebel-held province, Idlib, which has become a flashpoint and it looks like Turkey is trying to make the most of it.

Syria is almost a decade into civil war, but what's happening in the country now is perhaps its biggest-ever humanitarian crisis. The troops of Syrian President Bashar-al Assad are trying to take over the last rebel-held province, Idlib, which has become a flashpoint and it looks like Turkey is trying to make the most of it. The fighting between the rebels and Assad's forces have forced thousands to leave their homes. At least 70,000 people have been displaced - towns and cities have been abandoned, camps are over-crowded and there is a shortage of basic necessities. But one of the biggest outcomes of Syria's operation Idlib is the intervention of Turkey. Ankara has been involved in the Syrian war since its early days. In the last 9 years, its role has been both diplomatic and military. Back in 2011, Turkey started off by condemning the Syrian government for the very outbreak of the civil unrest. It went on to slam Asaad for cracking down on the protesters. WATCH: Turkey threatens an imminent attack on Syria's Idlib × In 2016, the Turkish armed forces entered Syria - they targetted the people's protection units and the ISIS terrorists. In 2018, Turkey signed the Sochi accord with Russia, wherein it agreed to the setting up of a de-escalation zone. Today, Turkey has troops at 12 observation posts in Idlib, back home - it hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees. But Turkey's role in the Syrian war could change soon, Ankara is threatening to launch an operation in Idlib. Turkey wants to take on Assad's advancing forces. Turkey says it wants to make Idlib a secure zone. Erdogan is eyeing a bigger role in the region and the world as a whole. His moves come after the UN warned of a humanitarian catastrophe in Syria. There is another incident that Turkey is likely to use to justify an operation in Idlib. Assad's forces fired shells at an observation post that was manned by Turkish troops. Turkey said that it lost at least a dozen of its soldiers - the question is whether Turkey will really take on the advancing Syrian forces in Idlib? And what about Russia? Will Erdogan's quest for power force him to take on Putin? Russia and Turkey have way too many joint interests. Russia has built nuclear reactors for Turkey. Recently, Turkey also purchased the Russian S-400 Missile System. A confrontation between the two countries wouldn't be the best idea. At the end of the day, while countries try to play the war to its benefit - it's the people who have everything to lose. In Idlib alone, over 900,000 people have been forced from their homes and shelters in less than 3 months. In the last 2 months alone, more than 200 civilians have died. The Syrian and Russian forces were responsible for 93 per cent of these deaths. Turkey may be trying to play a messiah here, but one must not forget Erdogan's men too have blood on their hands. The Turkish troops killed around 500 Syrians who were fleeing the civil war and 78 of them were children.

Explained: Turkey's role in the Syrian civil war

To help her daughter cope with Syria's long-running war trauma, a Syrian father has turned the experience of airstrikes and shelling into a game.

The father Abdullah al-Muhammad who is a video journalist by profession taught her three-year-old a bittersweet game in which both laugh at the sound of shelling in Idlib.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-says-syria-talks-with-russia-unsatisfactory-offensive-matter-of-time-281591">Turkey's Erdogan says Syria talks with Russia unsatisfactory, offensive 'matter of time'</a>

The video, posted by Muhammad on social media this week, shows him and his three-year-old daughter Salwa laughing adorably as an explosion is heard outside their home.

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The video evoked emotional response from viewers&nbsp;as it got viral. Several called for an end to violence in the region after seeing the video.

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This is Selva and her father Abdullah. 
 
Abdullah created a game for his 4 year old daughter so that Selva is not scared when bombs explode. 
 
They laugh together at the explosion. 
 
This is life in Syria and it breaks my heart.<a href="https://t.co/t7CB2M0ooZ">pic.twitter.com/t7CB2M0ooZ</a>
— Travis Akers (He/Him/His) (@travisakers) <a href="https://twitter.com/travisakers/status/1230100668666568705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Syrian father helps daughter cope with the sounds of war. 
The girl has to laugh as she hears the explosion. 
 
Mohammad: "Does it make you laugh?" 
Salwa: "Yes it is funny." 
 
But more tragic 😢 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Syria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Syria</a> <a href="https://t.co/Og4yZiZIBt">pic.twitter.com/Og4yZiZIBt</a>
— Sapna Madan ❄️Care4Animals❄️ (@sapnamadan) <a href="https://twitter.com/sapnamadan/status/1230010555663974403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Talking about this "game", Muhammad told Reuters that when he moved from Sarmada district to Idlib, Salwa would become startled when she would hear the sound of a bombing near their home. After which he asked nearby children to light a firecracker to show Salwa that the noise is just for fun.

"They started laughing, and she started laughing and saw that the thing is just a game," Muhammad said, adding, "Two days later the air force hit, and I immediately told her not to fear, it's just kids detonating fire-crackers."

"I turn the matter into a game so that she won't be afraid, " said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-strikes-hit-hospitals-camps-in-northwest-syria-300-civilian-casualties-281561">Air strikes hit hospitals, camps in northwest Syria; 300 civilian casualties</a>

Since then, Mohammad has continued using the same method to keep her daughter away from the trauma of Syria's nine-year-old war. The technique seems to have worked for Muhammad and his daughter.

"It's not scary, it's funny," Salwa said in the video.

Syrian troops supported by Russian warplanes have been advancing since December against the last rebel bastions in Idlib and Aleppo provinces in what could be one of the final chapters of the nine-year-old civil war.

Several studies have proved that children in Syria suffer a severe form of psychological trauma that can cause life-long damage due to the unending war in the region.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

To help her daughter cope with Syria's long-running war trauma, a Syrian father has turned the experience of airstrikes and shelling into a game. The father Abdullah al-Muhammad who is a video journalist by profession taught her three-year-old a bittersweet game in which both laugh at the sound of shelling in Idlib.

To help her daughter cope with Syria's long-running war trauma, a Syrian father has turned the experience of airstrikes and shelling into a game. The father Abdullah al-Muhammad who is a video journalist by profession taught her three-year-old a bittersweet game in which both laugh at the sound of shelling in Idlib. Also read: Turkey's Erdogan says Syria talks with Russia unsatisfactory, offensive 'matter of time' The video, posted by Muhammad on social media this week, shows him and his three-year-old daughter Salwa laughing adorably as an explosion is heard outside their home. × The video evoked emotional response from viewers as it got viral. Several called for an end to violence in the region after seeing the video. This is Selva and her father Abdullah. Abdullah created a game for his 4 year old daughter so that Selva is not scared when bombs explode. They laugh together at the explosion. This is life in Syria and it breaks my heart.pic.twitter.com/t7CB2M0ooZ — Travis Akers (He/Him/His) (@travisakers) February 19, 2020 × Syrian father helps daughter cope with the sounds of war. The girl has to laugh as she hears the explosion. Mohammad: "Does it make you laugh?" Salwa: "Yes it is funny." But more tragic 😢 #Syria pic.twitter.com/Og4yZiZIBt — Sapna Madan ❄️Care4Animals❄️ (@sapnamadan) February 19, 2020 × Talking about this "game", Muhammad told Reuters that when he moved from Sarmada district to Idlib, Salwa would become startled when she would hear the sound of a bombing near their home. After which he asked nearby children to light a firecracker to show Salwa that the noise is just for fun. "They started laughing, and she started laughing and saw that the thing is just a game," Muhammad said, adding, "Two days later the air force hit, and I immediately told her not to fear, it's just kids detonating fire-crackers." "I turn the matter into a game so that she won't be afraid, " said. Also read: Air strikes hit hospitals, camps in northwest Syria; 300 civilian casualties Since then, Mohammad has continued using the same method to keep her daughter away from the trauma of Syria's nine-year-old war. The technique seems to have worked for Muhammad and his daughter. "It's not scary, it's funny," Salwa said in the video. Syrian troops supported by Russian warplanes have been advancing since December against the last rebel bastions in Idlib and Aleppo provinces in what could be one of the final chapters of the nine-year-old civil war. Several studies have proved that children in Syria suffer a severe form of psychological trauma that can cause life-long damage due to the unending war in the region.

Watch: To cope with war trauma, Syrian father and daughter turn bombing sounds into rosy game

Turkish<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-erdogan-says-russia-managing-libya-war-at-highest-level-280933"> President Tayyip Erdogan</a> said on Wednesday talks with Russia on the conflict in Syria's northwestern Idlib province were far from meeting Turkey's demands and he said a military operation there was a "matter of time".

Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in the nine-year-old Syrian conflict but have collaborated towards finding a political solution to end it.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-threatens-damascus-slams-moscow-over-idlib-massacre-280294">Erdogan threatens Damascus, slams Moscow over Idlib 'massacre'</a>

However, a Syrian government offensive in Idlib has upset the fragile cooperation after 13 Turkish troops were killed in Syrian attacks earlier this month.

Ankara has urged Moscow, which backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, to stop the attacks in Idlib, saying the offensive was causing a migrant wave towards Turkey, which currently hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees.

Watch: Erdogan's plans to dominate the Muslim world

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Erdogan has previously said Turkey may use military force to drive back Syrian forces unless they pull back by the end of the month.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/erdogan-battles-on-multiple-fronts-in-risky-regional-power-bid-280217">Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid</a>

Speaking to lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, Erdogan said Turkey was determined to make Idlib a secure zone "no matter the cost", even as talks continue with Russia. Several rounds of talks with Moscow had failed to reach an agreement, he said.

"We are entering the last days for the (Syrian) regime to stop its hostility in Idlib. We are making our final warnings," Erdogan said. "We did not reach the desired results in our talks (with Russia). The talks will continue, but it is true that we are far from meeting our demands at the table," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-strong-exception-to-turkish-president-erdogans-comments-on-kashmir-280785">India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir&nbsp;</a>

"Turkey has made every preparation to carry out its own operational plans. I say that we can come at any point. In other words, the Idlib offensive is only a matter of time."

Ankara and Moscow signed an agreement in 2018 to establish a de-escalation zone in Idlib, allowing both sides to also set up military observation posts in the region. Since the escalation of violence in the region, both sides have accused each other of flouting the agreement.

Turkish and Russian officials held several rounds of talks in Ankara and Moscow. The foreign ministers Turkey and Russia also met at the weekend, but failed to find a solution. Erdogan has said Turkey has given the Syrian forces until the end of February to withdraw from Idlib.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/news-update-breaking-Turkey-President-Erdogan-rakes-up-Kashmir-issue-in-Pakistan-Parliament">Turkey President Erdogan rakes up Kashmir issue in Pakistan Parliament</a>

"We will not leave Idlib to the (Syrian) regime, which does not understand our country's determination, and to those encouraging it," he said.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday talks with Russia on the conflict in Syria's northwestern Idlib province were far from meeting Turkey's demands and he said a military operation there was a "matter of time".

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday talks with Russia on the conflict in Syria's northwestern Idlib province were far from meeting Turkey's demands and he said a military operation there was a "matter of time". Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in the nine-year-old Syrian conflict but have collaborated towards finding a political solution to end it. Also read: Erdogan threatens Damascus, slams Moscow over Idlib 'massacre' However, a Syrian government offensive in Idlib has upset the fragile cooperation after 13 Turkish troops were killed in Syrian attacks earlier this month. Ankara has urged Moscow, which backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, to stop the attacks in Idlib, saying the offensive was causing a migrant wave towards Turkey, which currently hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees. Watch: Erdogan's plans to dominate the Muslim world × Erdogan has previously said Turkey may use military force to drive back Syrian forces unless they pull back by the end of the month. Also read: Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid Speaking to lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, Erdogan said Turkey was determined to make Idlib a secure zone "no matter the cost", even as talks continue with Russia. Several rounds of talks with Moscow had failed to reach an agreement, he said. "We are entering the last days for the (Syrian) regime to stop its hostility in Idlib. We are making our final warnings," Erdogan said. "We did not reach the desired results in our talks (with Russia). The talks will continue, but it is true that we are far from meeting our demands at the table," he said. Also read: India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir "Turkey has made every preparation to carry out its own operational plans. I say that we can come at any point. In other words, the Idlib offensive is only a matter of time." Ankara and Moscow signed an agreement in 2018 to establish a de-escalation zone in Idlib, allowing both sides to also set up military observation posts in the region. Since the escalation of violence in the region, both sides have accused each other of flouting the agreement. Turkish and Russian officials held several rounds of talks in Ankara and Moscow. The foreign ministers Turkey and Russia also met at the weekend, but failed to find a solution. Erdogan has said Turkey has given the Syrian forces until the end of February to withdraw from Idlib. Also read: Turkey President Erdogan rakes up Kashmir issue in Pakistan Parliament "We will not leave Idlib to the (Syrian) regime, which does not understand our country's determination, and to those encouraging it," he said.

Turkey's Erdogan says Syria talks with Russia unsatisfactory, offensive 'matter of time'

Syrian regime and Russian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirty-killed-across-syria-as-violence-rages-265808">air strikes </a>on Saturday killed 19 civilians, eight of them children, in the country's last major opposition bastion, a war monitor said.

The air raids in the jihadist-run northwestern region of Idlib also wounded several others, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Air strikes by regime ally Russia killed four civilians including a child in the village of Al-Bara in the south of the region, the Observatory said.

An AFP correspondent at the scene saw rescue workers pick through the rubble of a two-storey home whose concrete roof had collapsed.

Rescuers carried away the body of a victim wrapped in a blanket on a stretcher.

Russian raids also killed nine civilians including three children in the nearby village of Balyun, the Observatory said.

Crude barrel bombs dropped by government helicopters killed five civilians including three children in the village of Abadeeta, also in the same area.

In the southeast of the embattled region, a raid by a regime aircraft killed another child in the village of Bajghas, the Observatory said.&nbsp;

The Britain-based monitor, which relies on a network of sources inside Syria, says it determines the provenance of an air strike by looking at flight patterns and the aircraft and munitions involved.

The Idlib region, which is home to some three million people including many displaced by Syria's civil war, is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate.

The Damascus regime has repeatedly vowed to take back control of Idlib.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces launched a blistering military campaign against the region in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people from their homes.

A ceasefire announced by Moscow has largely held since late August.

But the Observatory says deadly bombardment and skirmishes have persisted, with more than 200 civilians killed in the region since the deal.

Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions from their homes since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-Assad protests.

Syrian regime and Russian air strikes on Saturday killed 19 civilians, eight of them children, in the country's last major opposition bastion, a war monitor said.

Syrian regime and Russian air strikes on Saturday killed 19 civilians, eight of them children, in the country's last major opposition bastion, a war monitor said. The air raids in the jihadist-run northwestern region of Idlib also wounded several others, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Air strikes by regime ally Russia killed four civilians including a child in the village of Al-Bara in the south of the region, the Observatory said. An AFP correspondent at the scene saw rescue workers pick through the rubble of a two-storey home whose concrete roof had collapsed. Rescuers carried away the body of a victim wrapped in a blanket on a stretcher. Russian raids also killed nine civilians including three children in the nearby village of Balyun, the Observatory said. Crude barrel bombs dropped by government helicopters killed five civilians including three children in the village of Abadeeta, also in the same area. In the southeast of the embattled region, a raid by a regime aircraft killed another child in the village of Bajghas, the Observatory said. The Britain-based monitor, which relies on a network of sources inside Syria, says it determines the provenance of an air strike by looking at flight patterns and the aircraft and munitions involved. The Idlib region, which is home to some three million people including many displaced by Syria's civil war, is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. The Damascus regime has repeatedly vowed to take back control of Idlib. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces launched a blistering military campaign against the region in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people from their homes. A ceasefire announced by Moscow has largely held since late August. But the Observatory says deadly bombardment and skirmishes have persisted, with more than 200 civilians killed in the region since the deal. Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions from their homes since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-Assad protests.

Air strikes kill 19 civilians in northwest Syria: Monitor

Two days of clashes between regime forces and armed groups in Syria's last major opposition bastion have killed nearly 70 on both sides, undermining a months-long ceasefire agreement, a war monitor said Sunday.

The battles in the northwestern province of Idlib are "the most violent" there since a Russian-brokered ceasefire agreement went into effect in late August, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Residents of affected villages fled north to escape the fighting, adding to the hundreds of thousands who have already flooded out of the province's violence-plagued south since fighting escalated earlier this year.

"I don't want to see my children trapped under rubble," said one of those driven from his home, Hafez, who escaped the flashpoint area along with his wife and three kids two days earlier.

On Sunday morning, clouds of smoke rose over the Maaret al-Numan region as warplanes pounded jihadists and allied rebels in positions they had recently recaptured from regime forces, said an AFP correspondent.

The Britain-based Observatory on Sunday put the death toll from fighting at 69 combatants since battles started the previous day.

At least 36 regime forces were among those killed.

'Cease-fire'

The Observatory said an attack led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate on several regime positions had initially sparked the fighting.

Overnight, the Syrian army backed by Russian warplanes launched a counter-push to reclaim territory it had lost in the battles, the war monitor said.

Regime forces have since regained lost ground but violent clashes are ongoing, the Observatory and an AFP correspondent said.

Airstrikes on Sunday afternoon hit jihadist-run areas dozens of kilometres (miles) away from the main frontline, signalling a potential escalation, the correspondent said.&nbsp;

The Idlib region, home to around three million people including many displaced by Syria's eight-year civil war, is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate.

The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham jihadist alliance also controls parts of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia provinces, with battles also currently taking place in the latter, according to the monitor. &nbsp;

The region is one of the last holdouts of opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad who controls more than 70 per cent of the country, according to the Observatory.

Assad has repeatedly vowed to reclaim all of Syria, including Idlib, which he views as a "terrorist" holdout.

In August, government troops began a ground offensive that saw them retake several areas in southern Idlib, allowing them their first foothold in the region in years.

Assad, during a visit to the area in October, his first since the start of the eight-year war, said that defeating jihadists in the province was key to ending the conflict.

The other flashpoint

Between late April and the end of August, Idlib was pounded ceaselessly by Syrian soldiers backed by Russian airpower.

The Observatory estimates that nearly 1,000 civilians were killed in that period, and the UN says that more than 400,000 people were displaced.

A ceasefire announced by Russia in late August has reduced fighting, but airstrikes and clashes increased in November.&nbsp;

According to the Observatory, more than 160 civilians and more than 460 fighters, including regime forces, have been killed since the deal went into effect.

The Idlib front was the main focus of Syrian regime forces before Turkey in October launched an invasion of swaths of northeast Syria.

The operation against Kurdish forces who had controlled the region since 2012 paved the way for mass regime deployments in the area for the first time in seven years.

Syrian troops arrived in positions bordering Turkey as well as other parts of the northeast under a deal with Kurdish forces seeking protection from Ankara and its Syrian proxies.

An agreement between Russia and Ankara in October further cemented the deployment, tasking regime forces with ensuring the withdrawal of Kurdish fighters from the border region.

Turkey last month accused Russia and Damascus of failing to secure that objective, threatening further action against Kurdish groups.

The war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it erupted in 2011. 
&nbsp;

Two days of clashes between regime forces and armed groups in Syria's last major opposition bastion have killed nearly 70 on both sides, undermining a months-long ceasefire agreement, a war monitor said Sunday.

Two days of clashes between regime forces and armed groups in Syria's last major opposition bastion have killed nearly 70 on both sides, undermining a months-long ceasefire agreement, a war monitor said Sunday. The battles in the northwestern province of Idlib are "the most violent" there since a Russian-brokered ceasefire agreement went into effect in late August, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Residents of affected villages fled north to escape the fighting, adding to the hundreds of thousands who have already flooded out of the province's violence-plagued south since fighting escalated earlier this year. "I don't want to see my children trapped under rubble," said one of those driven from his home, Hafez, who escaped the flashpoint area along with his wife and three kids two days earlier. On Sunday morning, clouds of smoke rose over the Maaret al-Numan region as warplanes pounded jihadists and allied rebels in positions they had recently recaptured from regime forces, said an AFP correspondent. The Britain-based Observatory on Sunday put the death toll from fighting at 69 combatants since battles started the previous day. At least 36 regime forces were among those killed. 'Cease-fire' The Observatory said an attack led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate on several regime positions had initially sparked the fighting. Overnight, the Syrian army backed by Russian warplanes launched a counter-push to reclaim territory it had lost in the battles, the war monitor said. Regime forces have since regained lost ground but violent clashes are ongoing, the Observatory and an AFP correspondent said. Airstrikes on Sunday afternoon hit jihadist-run areas dozens of kilometres (miles) away from the main frontline, signalling a potential escalation, the correspondent said. The Idlib region, home to around three million people including many displaced by Syria's eight-year civil war, is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham jihadist alliance also controls parts of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia provinces, with battles also currently taking place in the latter, according to the monitor. The region is one of the last holdouts of opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad who controls more than 70 per cent of the country, according to the Observatory. Assad has repeatedly vowed to reclaim all of Syria, including Idlib, which he views as a "terrorist" holdout. In August, government troops began a ground offensive that saw them retake several areas in southern Idlib, allowing them their first foothold in the region in years. Assad, during a visit to the area in October, his first since the start of the eight-year war, said that defeating jihadists in the province was key to ending the conflict. The other flashpoint Between late April and the end of August, Idlib was pounded ceaselessly by Syrian soldiers backed by Russian airpower. The Observatory estimates that nearly 1,000 civilians were killed in that period, and the UN says that more than 400,000 people were displaced. A ceasefire announced by Russia in late August has reduced fighting, but airstrikes and clashes increased in November. According to the Observatory, more than 160 civilians and more than 460 fighters, including regime forces, have been killed since the deal went into effect. The Idlib front was the main focus of Syrian regime forces before Turkey in October launched an invasion of swaths of northeast Syria. The operation against Kurdish forces who had controlled the region since 2012 paved the way for mass regime deployments in the area for the first time in seven years. Syrian troops arrived in positions bordering Turkey as well as other parts of the northeast under a deal with Kurdish forces seeking protection from Ankara and its Syrian proxies. An agreement between Russia and Ankara in October further cemented the deployment, tasking regime forces with ensuring the withdrawal of Kurdish fighters from the border region. Turkey last month accused Russia and Damascus of failing to secure that objective, threatening further action against Kurdish groups. The war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it erupted in 2011.

Nearly 70 dead in Syria regime clashes with Idlib terrorists

US&nbsp;Central Command chief General Kenneth McKenzie said on Saturday about 500 US&nbsp;personnel in east Syria are expected to resume operations against Islamic State in coming days and weeks.

Islamic State has lost nearly all its territory in Syria and US&nbsp;forces killed its former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi last month, but the group that once controlled a third of Syria and neighbouring Iraq is still seen as a threat.

The administration of President Donald Trump shocked US&nbsp;allies last December by saying Washington was pulling out all its troops from Syria.

It said later it decided to keep a residual force in the northeastern part of the country, focusing on preventing Islamic State from staging a comeback and attacking the oilfields there.

"Now I've got about 500 US&nbsp;personnel generally east of the Euphrates river east of Deir al Zor up to Hasaka, northeast all the way up into extreme northeast Syria," McKenzie told reporters on the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue security summit in Bahrain.

"It is our intention to remain in that position working with our SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) partners to continue operations against ISIS down the Euphrates river valley where those targets present themselves," he added.

Turkey launched and then halted an offensive against the YPG, the main component of the US-backed SDF that helped the United States defeat Islamic State, which it sees as a terrorist group with links to Kurdish militants on Turkish soil.

Moscow, the main backer of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, said this week it was also in the process of deploying more Russian military police to northeast Syria, setting up field hospitals for civilians, distributing humanitarian aid and rebuilding infrastructure.

US Central Command chief General Kenneth McKenzie said on Saturday about 500 US personnel in east Syria are expected to resume operations against Islamic State in coming days and weeks.

US Central Command chief General Kenneth McKenzie said on Saturday about 500 US personnel in east Syria are expected to resume operations against Islamic State in coming days and weeks. Islamic State has lost nearly all its territory in Syria and US forces killed its former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi last month, but the group that once controlled a third of Syria and neighbouring Iraq is still seen as a threat. The administration of President Donald Trump shocked US allies last December by saying Washington was pulling out all its troops from Syria. It said later it decided to keep a residual force in the northeastern part of the country, focusing on preventing Islamic State from staging a comeback and attacking the oilfields there. "Now I've got about 500 US personnel generally east of the Euphrates river east of Deir al Zor up to Hasaka, northeast all the way up into extreme northeast Syria," McKenzie told reporters on the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue security summit in Bahrain. "It is our intention to remain in that position working with our SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) partners to continue operations against ISIS down the Euphrates river valley where those targets present themselves," he added. Turkey launched and then halted an offensive against the YPG, the main component of the US-backed SDF that helped the United States defeat Islamic State, which it sees as a terrorist group with links to Kurdish militants on Turkish soil. Moscow, the main backer of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, said this week it was also in the process of deploying more Russian military police to northeast Syria, setting up field hospitals for civilians, distributing humanitarian aid and rebuilding infrastructure.

US Central Command says anti-IS operations to pick up in coming days, weeks

By Sarah Burns

The political and humanitarian outcry condemning President Donald Trump’s decision to pull US troops out of Syria came soon after he made the announcement.

Trump’s actions paved the way for Turkish troops to attack US-allied Kurdish forces that had been fighting the Islamic State group. In reaction, on October 15, the US House of Representatives passed a nonbinding resolution opposing his move, with strong bipartisan support.

This resolution, like many attempts to articulate a collective view on foreign policy, lets members of Congress seem like they’re holding the president accountable without actually doing so.

Constitutional scholars know there are several ways Congress can express disagreement with a president. In addition to public critiques, they can vote on nonbinding resolutions, hold hearings, restrict military spending for particular purposes or – if presidents commit the worst offences – impeach him.

Already, several proposals are taking shape in the House and Senate that would impose financial sanctions on Turkish officials, restrict weapons sales to Turkey and otherwise punish Turkey for its actions.

But some legislators worry these sanctions would go too far. Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut notes that it’s complicated to consider condemning Turkey "for doing something that the president is actively helping them do."

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said that some of the actions being considered are reserved for "the worst rogue states"&nbsp;– not fellow NATO members like Turkey.

These various parallel discussions demonstrate how hard it can be for Congress to pass a piece of legislation that effectively constrains presidents in the realm of foreign policy.

Checks and balances

The Constitution declares that the president is chief executive and commander-in-chief of the military. It says Congress controls what taxpayer money is spent on – including being able to block spending on specific military operations.

Congress also has the power to declare war, and a more obscure power, to issue "letters of marque and reprisal,"&nbsp;which many scholars interpret as giving Congress control over small conflicts as well as large ones.

In 1973, after the unprecedented abuses of power in the Johnson and Nixon administrations, Congress passed the War Powers Resolution, with the intention of eliminating presidential unilateralism.

However, Congress created a loophole by allowing presidents the ability to initiate military hostilities on their own authority for 60 to 90 days. When Congress has provided authorisations, they use broad and vague language. For instance, Barack Obama argued that he could use a 2001 congressional authorisation – designed to sanction catching those associated with the 9/11 attack – as the legal basis for his bombing campaign against the Islamic State group in 2014.

Presidents are solo decision-makers

Since the US joined the UN and NATO in the 1940s, Congress has ceded power to the president. For the last 70 years, presidents have been the predominant decision-maker in foreign affairs, collecting and digesting the information provided by advisers. In contrast, members of the House and Senate endorse or condemn those actions from the sidelines.

Harry Truman, for instance, used a UN Security Council resolution as justification for sending the US military to Korea in the summer of 1950. Congress never declared war, nor authorised military force; they did, however, allocate funding to continue the conflict.

Since the War Powers Resolution was passed, presidents of both parties have deployed troops or ordered bombings without authorisation and suffered very few consequences. While members of Congress complain, they have yet to force presidents to seek authorisation – even when the president ignores the rules. George HW Bush sent troops to Saudi Arabia in the lead-up to the first Gulf War prior to congressional authorisation. Bill Clinton acted without authorisation in Bosnia and Kosovo. Obama continued operations past the 90-day time limit in Libya.

Generally, the hands-off approach by Congress has not completely derailed foreign policy, because presidents have tended to engage in discussion, including with Cabinet members, foreign partners and sometimes congressional leaders, before making decisions or taking decisive action.

Decisions about whether and how to act typically involve members of the executive branch, perhaps with some input from Congress, weighing a variety of factors against one another, thinking in both the short and long terms.

The situation in northern Syria is one of the most complex issues currently facing the president. There are two US allies who are opposed to each other. Any move by the US raises the possibility of increasing instability or worsening a humanitarian crisis.

Typically, after weighing many options, presidents use their first-mover advantage to take clear and decisive action, often informing Congress after the fact. In this instance, however, while Trump has discussed withdrawing troops from Syria for almost a year, he seemed to impulsively make a decision in mid-October.

Furthermore, Trump has, in this and other instances surprised his advisers and political allies with sudden shifts in policy. Due to the incredible unilateral power housed in the executive branch, Trump can conduct foreign policy in this manner.

Congress is designed to debate and talk

Congress, by contrast, is made up of 535 voting members – 435 in the House and 100 in the Senate – who answer to roughly 330 million constituents. They are the deliberative bodies that can act only through discussion. That’s by design: it slows down decision-making by incorporating public opinion into government policy.

Senators and members of Congress have a wide range of opinions about foreign policy, based on how they evaluate and weigh the various factors – national security, human rights, military action and foreign aid.

The partisan divide between the political parties makes reconciliation between differing viewpoints even more onerous. In these circumstances, even passing a nonbinding resolution in one house of Congress is impressive.

Unable or unwilling to do more, lawmakers are leaving an opening for members of the executive branch to act without a lot of oversight or strong counterbalancing measures from their branch.

The role of popularity

Historically, presidents who have faced strong opposition in Congress have tended to launch smaller military operations with shorter durations.

For example, Obama launched a very limited strike against Libya in 2011, emphasising there would be "no boots on the ground."&nbsp;His decision to ask Congress for an authorisation of military force against Syria in 2013 may have been a political means of avoiding action because he knew a Republican Congress would never give him one.

Similarly, Clinton’s efforts to address the continuing crisis in Kosovo occurred while he faced impeachment proceedings in the Senate, which likely affected how much force he committed to the operation.

Though Trump may think his base will remain loyal no matter what, presidents are all too aware that unsuccessful military operations will decrease their popularity among the American people.

Congress can help tip the balance of public opinion through hearings. Shedding light on the actions of the president can alter public perception about military or diplomatic action.

The Trump presidency has changed this balance, however. Previous presidents grudgingly complied with congressional investigations, but Trump’s White House has resisted scrutiny at almost every turn. In addition, Trump is less interested in the opinions of the entire American populace, and much more focused on pleasing his base.

As a result of this new dynamic, congressional condemnations of his actions regarding the Kurds and Turkey may not have the effect they would have on other presidents. But Congress can take stronger steps, if it wishes to – and if members can overcome the institutional limitations that often stop them.

(Sarah Burns is an Associate Professor of Political Science, Rochester Institute of Technology)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. <a href="https://theconversation.com/could-congress-reverse-trumps-decision-to-pull-troops-out-of-syria-125476">Read the original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

By Sarah Burns The political and humanitarian outcry condemning President Donald Trump’s decision to pull US troops out of Syria came soon after he made the announcement.

By Sarah Burns The political and humanitarian outcry condemning President Donald Trump’s decision to pull US troops out of Syria came soon after he made the announcement. Trump’s actions paved the way for Turkish troops to attack US-allied Kurdish forces that had been fighting the Islamic State group. In reaction, on October 15, the US House of Representatives passed a nonbinding resolution opposing his move, with strong bipartisan support. This resolution, like many attempts to articulate a collective view on foreign policy, lets members of Congress seem like they’re holding the president accountable without actually doing so. Constitutional scholars know there are several ways Congress can express disagreement with a president. In addition to public critiques, they can vote on nonbinding resolutions, hold hearings, restrict military spending for particular purposes or – if presidents commit the worst offences – impeach him. Already, several proposals are taking shape in the House and Senate that would impose financial sanctions on Turkish officials, restrict weapons sales to Turkey and otherwise punish Turkey for its actions. But some legislators worry these sanctions would go too far. Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut notes that it’s complicated to consider condemning Turkey "for doing something that the president is actively helping them do." Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said that some of the actions being considered are reserved for "the worst rogue states" – not fellow NATO members like Turkey. These various parallel discussions demonstrate how hard it can be for Congress to pass a piece of legislation that effectively constrains presidents in the realm of foreign policy. Checks and balances The Constitution declares that the president is chief executive and commander-in-chief of the military. It says Congress controls what taxpayer money is spent on – including being able to block spending on specific military operations. Congress also has the power to declare war, and a more obscure power, to issue "letters of marque and reprisal," which many scholars interpret as giving Congress control over small conflicts as well as large ones. In 1973, after the unprecedented abuses of power in the Johnson and Nixon administrations, Congress passed the War Powers Resolution, with the intention of eliminating presidential unilateralism. However, Congress created a loophole by allowing presidents the ability to initiate military hostilities on their own authority for 60 to 90 days. When Congress has provided authorisations, they use broad and vague language. For instance, Barack Obama argued that he could use a 2001 congressional authorisation – designed to sanction catching those associated with the 9/11 attack – as the legal basis for his bombing campaign against the Islamic State group in 2014. Presidents are solo decision-makers Since the US joined the UN and NATO in the 1940s, Congress has ceded power to the president. For the last 70 years, presidents have been the predominant decision-maker in foreign affairs, collecting and digesting the information provided by advisers. In contrast, members of the House and Senate endorse or condemn those actions from the sidelines. Harry Truman, for instance, used a UN Security Council resolution as justification for sending the US military to Korea in the summer of 1950. Congress never declared war, nor authorised military force; they did, however, allocate funding to continue the conflict. Since the War Powers Resolution was passed, presidents of both parties have deployed troops or ordered bombings without authorisation and suffered very few consequences. While members of Congress complain, they have yet to force presidents to seek authorisation – even when the president ignores the rules. George HW Bush sent troops to Saudi Arabia in the lead-up to the first Gulf War prior to congressional authorisation. Bill Clinton acted without authorisation in Bosnia and Kosovo. Obama continued operations past the 90-day time limit in Libya. Generally, the hands-off approach by Congress has not completely derailed foreign policy, because presidents have tended to engage in discussion, including with Cabinet members, foreign partners and sometimes congressional leaders, before making decisions or taking decisive action. Decisions about whether and how to act typically involve members of the executive branch, perhaps with some input from Congress, weighing a variety of factors against one another, thinking in both the short and long terms. The situation in northern Syria is one of the most complex issues currently facing the president. There are two US allies who are opposed to each other. Any move by the US raises the possibility of increasing instability or worsening a humanitarian crisis. Typically, after weighing many options, presidents use their first-mover advantage to take clear and decisive action, often informing Congress after the fact. In this instance, however, while Trump has discussed withdrawing troops from Syria for almost a year, he seemed to impulsively make a decision in mid-October. Furthermore, Trump has, in this and other instances surprised his advisers and political allies with sudden shifts in policy. Due to the incredible unilateral power housed in the executive branch, Trump can conduct foreign policy in this manner. Congress is designed to debate and talk Congress, by contrast, is made up of 535 voting members – 435 in the House and 100 in the Senate – who answer to roughly 330 million constituents. They are the deliberative bodies that can act only through discussion. That’s by design: it slows down decision-making by incorporating public opinion into government policy. Senators and members of Congress have a wide range of opinions about foreign policy, based on how they evaluate and weigh the various factors – national security, human rights, military action and foreign aid. The partisan divide between the political parties makes reconciliation between differing viewpoints even more onerous. In these circumstances, even passing a nonbinding resolution in one house of Congress is impressive. Unable or unwilling to do more, lawmakers are leaving an opening for members of the executive branch to act without a lot of oversight or strong counterbalancing measures from their branch. The role of popularity Historically, presidents who have faced strong opposition in Congress have tended to launch smaller military operations with shorter durations. For example, Obama launched a very limited strike against Libya in 2011, emphasising there would be "no boots on the ground." His decision to ask Congress for an authorisation of military force against Syria in 2013 may have been a political means of avoiding action because he knew a Republican Congress would never give him one. Similarly, Clinton’s efforts to address the continuing crisis in Kosovo occurred while he faced impeachment proceedings in the Senate, which likely affected how much force he committed to the operation. Though Trump may think his base will remain loyal no matter what, presidents are all too aware that unsuccessful military operations will decrease their popularity among the American people. Congress can help tip the balance of public opinion through hearings. Shedding light on the actions of the president can alter public perception about military or diplomatic action. The Trump presidency has changed this balance, however. Previous presidents grudgingly complied with congressional investigations, but Trump’s White House has resisted scrutiny at almost every turn. In addition, Trump is less interested in the opinions of the entire American populace, and much more focused on pleasing his base. As a result of this new dynamic, congressional condemnations of his actions regarding the Kurds and Turkey may not have the effect they would have on other presidents. But Congress can take stronger steps, if it wishes to – and if members can overcome the institutional limitations that often stop them. (Sarah Burns is an Associate Professor of Political Science, Rochester Institute of Technology) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Could Congress reverse Trump’s decision to pull troops out of Syria?

Explainer: Turkey set to redraw map of Syrian war once more

Turkey said on Tuesday it had completed preparations for a military operation in northeast Syria after the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-opposes-syria-military-action-javad-zarif-tells-turkey-254396"> United States began pulling back troops</a>, opening the way for a Turkish attack on Kurdish-led forces long allied to Washington.

But US President Donald Trump warned he<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-obliterate-turkeys-economy-over-syria-254345"> would "obliterate" the NATO ally's economy</a> if it took action in Syria that he considered "off-limits" following his decision on Sunday to pull 50 American special forces troops from the border region.

The US withdrawal will leave its Kurdish-led partner forces in Syria vulnerable to an incursion by the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK), which brands them terrorists because of their links to Kurdish militants who have waged a long insurgency inside Turkey.

"The TSK will never tolerate the establishment of a terror corridor on our borders. All preparations for the operation have been completed," the Turkish Defence Ministry said on Twitter early on Tuesday.

"It is essential to establish a safe zone/peace corridor to contribute to our region's peace and stability, and for Syrians to achieve a safe life," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disaster-in-the-making-top-republicans-outraged-over-trump-pullback-in-syria-254361">Trump's warning on Turkey's economy</a> appeared aimed at placating critics who accused him of abandoning the Syrian Kurds by pulling out US forces. The decision drew criticism from Democrats and a rebuke from some of Trump's fellow Republicans in Congress, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

"As I have stated strongly before, and just to reiterate, if Turkey does anything that I, in my great and unmatched wisdom, consider to be off-limits, I will totally destroy and obliterate the Economy of Turkey (I've done before!)" Trump tweeted.

Turkey does not appear "as of now" to have begun its expected incursion into northern Syria, a senior Trump administration official said on Monday.

Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said overnight it was Turkey's fundamental right to take necessary measures for its national security against terrorism threats from Syria.

"Turkey is determined to clear terrorists from the east of the Euphrates and protect its own security and survival while implementing a secure zone in order to achieve peace and stability," Aksoy said in a written statement.

President Tayyip Erdogan has said Turkey plans to resettle two million refugees in northern Syria and Turkish media has said the draft resettlement plan involves a 151 billion lira ($26 billion) construction project. Turkey hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees.

The Trump administration official, briefing reporters on a conference call, said 50 U.S. troops in the region that Turkey has targeted would be redeployed elsewhere in Syria "where they aren't in the crossfire." The United States has about 1,000 troops in Syria.

Turkey's lira lost 2% of its value against the dollar to hit its weakest level since early September. It stood at 5.8385 early on Tuesday.

Turkey said on Tuesday it had completed preparations for a military operation in northeast Syria after the United States began pulling back troops, opening the way for a Turkish attack on Kurdish-led forces long allied to Washington.

Turkey said on Tuesday it had completed preparations for a military operation in northeast Syria after the United States began pulling back troops, opening the way for a Turkish attack on Kurdish-led forces long allied to Washington. But US President Donald Trump warned he would "obliterate" the NATO ally's economy if it took action in Syria that he considered "off-limits" following his decision on Sunday to pull 50 American special forces troops from the border region. The US withdrawal will leave its Kurdish-led partner forces in Syria vulnerable to an incursion by the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK), which brands them terrorists because of their links to Kurdish militants who have waged a long insurgency inside Turkey. "The TSK will never tolerate the establishment of a terror corridor on our borders. All preparations for the operation have been completed," the Turkish Defence Ministry said on Twitter early on Tuesday. "It is essential to establish a safe zone/peace corridor to contribute to our region's peace and stability, and for Syrians to achieve a safe life," it said. Trump's warning on Turkey's economy appeared aimed at placating critics who accused him of abandoning the Syrian Kurds by pulling out US forces. The decision drew criticism from Democrats and a rebuke from some of Trump's fellow Republicans in Congress, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. "As I have stated strongly before, and just to reiterate, if Turkey does anything that I, in my great and unmatched wisdom, consider to be off-limits, I will totally destroy and obliterate the Economy of Turkey (I've done before!)" Trump tweeted. Turkey does not appear "as of now" to have begun its expected incursion into northern Syria, a senior Trump administration official said on Monday. Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said overnight it was Turkey's fundamental right to take necessary measures for its national security against terrorism threats from Syria. "Turkey is determined to clear terrorists from the east of the Euphrates and protect its own security and survival while implementing a secure zone in order to achieve peace and stability," Aksoy said in a written statement. President Tayyip Erdogan has said Turkey plans to resettle two million refugees in northern Syria and Turkish media has said the draft resettlement plan involves a 151 billion lira ($26 billion) construction project. Turkey hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees. The Trump administration official, briefing reporters on a conference call, said 50 U.S. troops in the region that Turkey has targeted would be redeployed elsewhere in Syria "where they aren't in the crossfire." The United States has about 1,000 troops in Syria. Turkey's lira lost 2% of its value against the dollar to hit its weakest level since early September. It stood at 5.8385 early on Tuesday.

All preparations for Syria operations completed, says Turkey

Iran's top diplomat Mohammad Javad Zarif told his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu in a phone call that Tehran is opposed to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disaster-in-the-making-top-republicans-outraged-over-trump-pullback-in-syria-254361">military action in Syria</a>, the foreign ministry said.

"Zarif voiced opposition to military action" and "urged respect for Syria's territorial integrity and national sovereignty," Zarif was quoted as saying in a statement issued late Monday.

The Iranian foreign minister also "stressed the need for the fight against terrorism and for the establishment of stability and security in Syria".

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that Turkey was poised to launch a military operation against Kurdish forces in northern Syria, after US President Donald Trump gave him the green light.

Trump's decision to withdraw US troops from the region has faced strong criticism in the US, including from his own allies who have accused him of turning his back on Kurds who took heavy casualties in the US-backed campaign against the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria.

In their phone call, Zarif told Cavusoglu that the Adana agreement was "the best approach for Syria and Turkey and for addressing their concerns".

Ankara and Damascus signed the agreement in 1998 to ease tensions after Turkey threatened Syria with military action if it did not expel Turkish-Kurdish rebel leader Abdallah Ocalan from its soil.

For his part, Cavusoglu said the Turkish military operation in northeastern Syria "would be temporary", according to the statement from the Iranian foreign ministry.

Erdogan has expressed Ankara's determination to clear the Syrian border area east of the Euphrates river of the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).

Turkey says the YPG is a "terrorist offshoot" of Ocalan's Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).

The United States worked closely with the YPG to recapture swathes of territory from IS.

Iran's top diplomat Mohammad Javad Zarif told his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu in a phone call that Tehran is opposed to military action in Syria, the foreign ministry said.

Iran's top diplomat Mohammad Javad Zarif told his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu in a phone call that Tehran is opposed to military action in Syria, the foreign ministry said. "Zarif voiced opposition to military action" and "urged respect for Syria's territorial integrity and national sovereignty," Zarif was quoted as saying in a statement issued late Monday. The Iranian foreign minister also "stressed the need for the fight against terrorism and for the establishment of stability and security in Syria". President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that Turkey was poised to launch a military operation against Kurdish forces in northern Syria, after US President Donald Trump gave him the green light. Trump's decision to withdraw US troops from the region has faced strong criticism in the US, including from his own allies who have accused him of turning his back on Kurds who took heavy casualties in the US-backed campaign against the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria. In their phone call, Zarif told Cavusoglu that the Adana agreement was "the best approach for Syria and Turkey and for addressing their concerns". Ankara and Damascus signed the agreement in 1998 to ease tensions after Turkey threatened Syria with military action if it did not expel Turkish-Kurdish rebel leader Abdallah Ocalan from its soil. For his part, Cavusoglu said the Turkish military operation in northeastern Syria "would be temporary", according to the statement from the Iranian foreign ministry. Erdogan has expressed Ankara's determination to clear the Syrian border area east of the Euphrates river of the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG). Turkey says the YPG is a "terrorist offshoot" of Ocalan's Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The United States worked closely with the YPG to recapture swathes of territory from IS.

Iran opposes Syria military action, Javad Zarif tells Turkey

Turkey said on Tuesday it had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-preparations-for-syria-operations-completed-says-turkey-254414">completed preparations for a military operation</a> in northeast Syria after the United States began pulling back troops, opening the way for a Turkish attack on Kurdish-led forces long allied to Washington.

The first military operations began on Monday night with Turkish artillery and jet fighters bombing Kurdish positions in Tell Tawil, a village in the northeastern side of Syria.

The US withdrawal will leave Kurdish-led forces in Syria, that have long allied with Washington vulnerable to a planned incursion by the Turkish military which brands them as terrorists.

Many of the US military bases, including the one near Tel Arqam, have now been completely desolated after the withdrawal.

The Kurdish forces have denounced the US decision by calling it a stab in the back.

Even as the global outrage continued over the United State's double stand, Trump reiterated that his decision was firm and that it was something he was considering for the past nine months.

"I was going to do this nine months ago. and we were not at 100 per cent but we were pretty close, everyone said can we get to 100 per cent. now I get to 100 per cent and they say 'well maybe we could stay longer'. I said well 'when do we get out? there's going to be a time we get out we have to bring our people back home'; and frankly our great soldiers have been talking about this on the campaign. you go back three years ago and more and you watch the speeches we want to bring our soldiers back home. these are the endless wars," Trump had said during a briefing with the military leaders.

Watch: Turkey to send troops into northern Syria

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On late Monday Trump threatened to "totally destroy and obliterate" Turkey's economy if it took any action he considered "off-limits" following his decision to withdraw American forces from northeastern Syria.

"As I have stated strongly before, and just to reiterate, if Turkey does anything that I, in my great and unmatched wisdom, consider to be off-limits, I will totally destroy and obliterate the Economy of Turkey (I've done before!)" Trump had tweeted.

The President had earlier appeared to mellow his position on the troop withdrawal as he had said the troops will be relocated to different bases.

The White House held a press briefing on the issue earlier during which it said that the Trump administration would not support or endorse any Turkish military action on the Kurds and that the troops were not being withdrawn per se.

The President decided to relocate the US troops to different bases when he learnt about the planned Turkish incursion.

According to the White House, Turkey would be made responsible for any humanitarian issues during the proposed operation, and it will also have to take responsibility for the Islamic State fighters currently imprisoned by the Kurdish forces.

Meanwhile, Turkey says that the US, which supports the Syrian Democratic Forces, was moving too slowly to set up the buffer zone.

It has repeatedly warned of launching an offensive on its own into northeastern Syria, where US forces are stationed alongside the SDF.

In August, the NATO allies had agreed to establish a zone in northeastern Syria along the border with Turkey.

Ankara says that the zone should be cleared of the People's Protection Units, a Kurdish militia.

Turkey says that it wants to settle up to two million Syrian refugees in the zone.

It currently hosts 3.6 million Syrians sheltering from Syria's more than eight-year conflict.

Turkey said on Tuesday it had completed preparations for a military operation in northeast Syria after the United States began pulling back troops, opening the way for a Turkish attack on Kurdish-led forces long allied to Washington. The first military operations began on Monday night with Turkish artillery and jet fighters bombing Kurdish positions in Tell Tawil, a village in the northeastern side of Syria. The US withdrawal will leave Kurdish-led forces in Syria, that have long allied with Washington vulnerable to a planned incursion by the Turkish military which brands them as terrorists. Many of the US military bases, including the one near Tel Arqam, have now been completely desolated after the withdrawal. The Kurdish forces have denounced the US decision by calling it a stab in the back. Even as the global outrage continued over the United State's double stand, Trump reiterated that his decision was firm and that it was something he was considering for the past nine months. "I was going to do this nine months ago. and we were not at 100 per cent but we were pretty close, everyone said can we get to 100 per cent. now I get to 100 per cent and they say 'well maybe we could stay longer'. I said well 'when do we get out? there's going to be a time we get out we have to bring our people back home'; and frankly our great soldiers have been talking about this on the campaign. you go back three years ago and more and you watch the speeches we want to bring our soldiers back home. these are the endless wars," Trump had said during a briefing with the military leaders. Watch: Turkey to send troops into northern Syria × On late Monday Trump threatened to "totally destroy and obliterate" Turkey's economy if it took any action he considered "off-limits" following his decision to withdraw American forces from northeastern Syria. "As I have stated strongly before, and just to reiterate, if Turkey does anything that I, in my great and unmatched wisdom, consider to be off-limits, I will totally destroy and obliterate the Economy of Turkey (I've done before!)" Trump had tweeted. The President had earlier appeared to mellow his position on the troop withdrawal as he had said the troops will be relocated to different bases. The White House held a press briefing on the issue earlier during which it said that the Trump administration would not support or endorse any Turkish military action on the Kurds and that the troops were not being withdrawn per se. The President decided to relocate the US troops to different bases when he learnt about the planned Turkish incursion. According to the White House, Turkey would be made responsible for any humanitarian issues during the proposed operation, and it will also have to take responsibility for the Islamic State fighters currently imprisoned by the Kurdish forces. Meanwhile, Turkey says that the US, which supports the Syrian Democratic Forces, was moving too slowly to set up the buffer zone. It has repeatedly warned of launching an offensive on its own into northeastern Syria, where US forces are stationed alongside the SDF. In August, the NATO allies had agreed to establish a zone in northeastern Syria along the border with Turkey. Ankara says that the zone should be cleared of the People's Protection Units, a Kurdish militia. Turkey says that it wants to settle up to two million Syrian refugees in the zone. It currently hosts 3.6 million Syrians sheltering from Syria's more than eight-year conflict.

As Turkey, United States spar over Syrian operation, Kurdish forces feel vulnerable

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces.&nbsp;

Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US troops in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported.

Two helicopters overflew the area as the Turkish vehicles drove through an opening in the concrete wall erected between the two countries.

The agreement reached on August 7 aims to establish a "safe zone" between the Turkish border and the Syrian areas east of the Euphrates river controlled by the Kurdish People's Protection Units militia.

The YPG is an ally of the US but seen as a terrorist organisation by Turkey.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to launch an operation against the YPG in Syria unless progress is made on setting up the safe zone.

Erdogan said his US counterpart Donald Trump had promised it would be 32 kilometres (20 miles) wide.

A joint centre of operations was recently established as part of the agreement.&nbsp;

Turkey previously conducted cross-border operations in northern Syria supporting Syrian rebels in 2016 against IS and in early 2018 against the YPG.

Ankara says the YPG militia is a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party.

The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, is blacklisted as a terrorist group by Ankara, the US and the European Union.

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces. Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US troops in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported.

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces. Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US troops in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported. Two helicopters overflew the area as the Turkish vehicles drove through an opening in the concrete wall erected between the two countries. The agreement reached on August 7 aims to establish a "safe zone" between the Turkish border and the Syrian areas east of the Euphrates river controlled by the Kurdish People's Protection Units militia. The YPG is an ally of the US but seen as a terrorist organisation by Turkey. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to launch an operation against the YPG in Syria unless progress is made on setting up the safe zone. Erdogan said his US counterpart Donald Trump had promised it would be 32 kilometres (20 miles) wide. A joint centre of operations was recently established as part of the agreement. Turkey previously conducted cross-border operations in northern Syria supporting Syrian rebels in 2016 against IS and in early 2018 against the YPG. Ankara says the YPG militia is a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party. The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, is blacklisted as a terrorist group by Ankara, the US and the European Union.

US, Turkey launch joint patrols in northeast Syria

Clashes between regime loyalists and insurgents in northwest Syria killed 70 combatants on Saturday, as government forces continued to nibble away at territory held by its opponents, a war monitor said. &nbsp;

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a jihadist group led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, has since January controlled most of Idlib province as well as parts of neighbouring Hama, Aleppo and Latakia provinces.&nbsp;

Several other armed rebel groups also operate in the area. &nbsp;

Fighting in northern Hama, southern Idlib and rural Latakia on Saturday claimed the lives of 32 pro-government forces as well as 38 jihadists and allied rebels, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.&nbsp;

It came as regime fighters pushed towards the town of Hbeit in the south of Idlib province, sparking clashes on its western edges, said Rami Abdul Rahman, the head of the Britain-based monitor.&nbsp;

For days, forces loyal to Damascus have advanced towards a strip straddling the provinces of Hama and Idlib, the Observatory said.&nbsp;

They aim to capture Kafr Zita -- one of the largest towns in northern Hama -- and the nearby village of Al-Latamneh from jihadists and rebels, said Abdel Rahman.&nbsp;

Both lie on the southern edge of the jihadist-run bastion of Idlib, one of the last centres of opposition to President Bashar al-Assad after eight years of civil war.&nbsp;

Regime forces have closed in on Kfar Zeita and Latamneh over the past week, after capturing a string of nearby towns and villages, the Observatory said.

They are also trying to surround the town of Khan Sheikoun -- located near Hbeit-- in order to wrest it from the jihadists, Abdel Rahman said.

The latest advances come after the Syrian government on Monday scrapped a short-lived ceasefire for the Idlib region, accusing its opponents of refusing to abide by the truce, which lasted only three days.&nbsp;

The region was supposed to be protected from a massive government offensive by a Turkish-Russian buffer-zone deal that was reached in September last year.

But it has come under increasing bombardment by Damascus and its backer Moscow since the end of April that has killed, according to the Observatory, more than 800 civilians.

Nearly 80 people have lost their lives in the retaliatory fire on regime-held territory in that same period, the monitor said. &nbsp;

The violence has also pushed 400,000 people from their homes, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

Syria's conflict has killed a total of more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011. 
&nbsp;

Clashes between regime loyalists and insurgents in northwest Syria killed 70 combatants on Saturday, as government forces continued to nibble away at territory held by its opponents, a war monitor said.

Clashes between regime loyalists and insurgents in northwest Syria killed 70 combatants on Saturday, as government forces continued to nibble away at territory held by its opponents, a war monitor said. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a jihadist group led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, has since January controlled most of Idlib province as well as parts of neighbouring Hama, Aleppo and Latakia provinces. Several other armed rebel groups also operate in the area. Fighting in northern Hama, southern Idlib and rural Latakia on Saturday claimed the lives of 32 pro-government forces as well as 38 jihadists and allied rebels, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. It came as regime fighters pushed towards the town of Hbeit in the south of Idlib province, sparking clashes on its western edges, said Rami Abdul Rahman, the head of the Britain-based monitor. For days, forces loyal to Damascus have advanced towards a strip straddling the provinces of Hama and Idlib, the Observatory said. They aim to capture Kafr Zita -- one of the largest towns in northern Hama -- and the nearby village of Al-Latamneh from jihadists and rebels, said Abdel Rahman. Both lie on the southern edge of the jihadist-run bastion of Idlib, one of the last centres of opposition to President Bashar al-Assad after eight years of civil war. Regime forces have closed in on Kfar Zeita and Latamneh over the past week, after capturing a string of nearby towns and villages, the Observatory said. They are also trying to surround the town of Khan Sheikoun -- located near Hbeit-- in order to wrest it from the jihadists, Abdel Rahman said. The latest advances come after the Syrian government on Monday scrapped a short-lived ceasefire for the Idlib region, accusing its opponents of refusing to abide by the truce, which lasted only three days. The region was supposed to be protected from a massive government offensive by a Turkish-Russian buffer-zone deal that was reached in September last year. But it has come under increasing bombardment by Damascus and its backer Moscow since the end of April that has killed, according to the Observatory, more than 800 civilians. Nearly 80 people have lost their lives in the retaliatory fire on regime-held territory in that same period, the monitor said. The violence has also pushed 400,000 people from their homes, according to the United Nations. Syria's conflict has killed a total of more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

Clashes kill 70 combatants in northwest Syria: Report

A munitions blast killed 31 regime and allied fighters at a military airport in central Syria on Saturday, a war monitor said.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which is based in Britain and relies on a network of sources on the ground, said it was unclear what had caused the deadly explosion at the Shayrat airbase in Homs province.&nbsp;

But state news agency SANA reported that a "technical fault during the transport of expired ammunition" had killed an unspecified number of victims.

The Shayrat airbase is one of the regime's most significant installations in the centre of the country.

Iranian fighters -- who support the regime in Syria's ongoing civil war -- are based there, according to the Observatory.&nbsp;

In 2017, US airstrikes hit the base in response to a suspected sarin gas attack on the rebel-held town of Khan Sheikhun in northwest Syria that killed more than 80 people.

According to the Pentagon, US intelligence had established that the base was the launchpad for the alleged chemical attack.

Syria's war has killed more than 370,00 people since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

A munitions blast killed 31 regime and allied fighters at a military airport in central Syria on Saturday, a war monitor said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which is based in Britain and relies on a network of sources on the ground, said it was unclear what had caused the deadly explosion at the Shayrat airbase in Homs province.

A munitions blast killed 31 regime and allied fighters at a military airport in central Syria on Saturday, a war monitor said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which is based in Britain and relies on a network of sources on the ground, said it was unclear what had caused the deadly explosion at the Shayrat airbase in Homs province. But state news agency SANA reported that a "technical fault during the transport of expired ammunition" had killed an unspecified number of victims. The Shayrat airbase is one of the regime's most significant installations in the centre of the country. Iranian fighters -- who support the regime in Syria's ongoing civil war -- are based there, according to the Observatory. In 2017, US airstrikes hit the base in response to a suspected sarin gas attack on the rebel-held town of Khan Sheikhun in northwest Syria that killed more than 80 people. According to the Pentagon, US intelligence had established that the base was the launchpad for the alleged chemical attack. Syria's war has killed more than 370,00 people since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Blast kills 31 regime fighters at Syria airbase: Report

Clashes between pro-government forces and jihadist-led groups that control Syria's northwest killed at least 45 combatants on Tuesday, a war monitor said.

The fighting flared on the edge of Hama province when jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched a dawn attack on regime positions, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

At least 14 pro-government forces died in ensuing clashes, said the Britain-based monitor.

"Regime forces foiled the attack," Observatory head Rami Abdul Rahman told AFP. State news agency SANA also said the offensive had been thwarted.

Hama's northern countryside lies on the edge of a jihadist-controlled region including most of Idlib province.

The frontline had been relatively calm since clashes on Saturday killed more than 35 combatants, including jihadists and regime forces, Abdul Rahman said.

Regime airstrikes on northern Hama and neighbouring Idlib had also paused for more than 24 hours, before resuming Tuesday following the latest bout of fighting, according to the monitor.

The bombardment killed one civilian in southern Idlib, it said.

The latest battles come after rocket fire by HTS -- led by a former Al-Qaeda affiliate -- and allied rebels killed more than 12 civilians in a regime-held village in Aleppo province late Sunday.

Parts of Aleppo, Hama and Idlib are supposed to be protected from a massive regime offensive by a buffer zone deal that Russia and Turkey signed in September.

But it was never fully implemented as jihadists refused to withdraw from a planned demilitarised zone.

In January, HTS extended its administrative control over the region, which includes most of Idlib province as well as adjacent slivers of Latakia, Hama and Aleppo provinces.

The Syrian government and Russia have upped their bombardment of the region since late April, killing more than 400 civilians, according to the Observatory.

Syria's war has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started in 2011 with the repression of anti-government protests.&nbsp;

Clashes between pro-government forces and jihadist-led groups that control Syria's northwest killed at least 45 combatants on Tuesday, a war monitor said. The fighting flared on the edge of Hama province when jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched a dawn attack on regime positions, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Clashes between pro-government forces and jihadist-led groups that control Syria's northwest killed at least 45 combatants on Tuesday, a war monitor said. The fighting flared on the edge of Hama province when jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched a dawn attack on regime positions, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. At least 14 pro-government forces died in ensuing clashes, said the Britain-based monitor. "Regime forces foiled the attack," Observatory head Rami Abdul Rahman told AFP. State news agency SANA also said the offensive had been thwarted. Hama's northern countryside lies on the edge of a jihadist-controlled region including most of Idlib province. The frontline had been relatively calm since clashes on Saturday killed more than 35 combatants, including jihadists and regime forces, Abdul Rahman said. Regime airstrikes on northern Hama and neighbouring Idlib had also paused for more than 24 hours, before resuming Tuesday following the latest bout of fighting, according to the monitor. The bombardment killed one civilian in southern Idlib, it said. The latest battles come after rocket fire by HTS -- led by a former Al-Qaeda affiliate -- and allied rebels killed more than 12 civilians in a regime-held village in Aleppo province late Sunday. Parts of Aleppo, Hama and Idlib are supposed to be protected from a massive regime offensive by a buffer zone deal that Russia and Turkey signed in September. But it was never fully implemented as jihadists refused to withdraw from a planned demilitarised zone. In January, HTS extended its administrative control over the region, which includes most of Idlib province as well as adjacent slivers of Latakia, Hama and Aleppo provinces. The Syrian government and Russia have upped their bombardment of the region since late April, killing more than 400 civilians, according to the Observatory. Syria's war has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started in 2011 with the repression of anti-government protests.

Syria clashes kill 45 fighters, says war monitor

The Idlib region of some three million people has suffered increased regime and Russian air strikes in recent weeks, with hundreds of civilians killed since late April. To keep up, civil defence workers known as the White Helmets are digging graves in advance, to ensure funerals are swift and the few who attend are not killed at the cemetery.

Hounded by war planes, Syrians dig Idlib graves in advance

US President Donald Trump on Sunday told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-onus-is-on-turkey-to-rein-in-militants-in-syrias-idlib-223225">Syria and Russia</a> to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib.

"Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!" he said on Twitter shortly before he was to depart for a state visit to Britain.

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Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1135332642851893250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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His comments came after Syrian NGOs on Friday decried international inaction in the face of mounting violence in the northwestern region.

As well as killing dozens of civilians, the recent bombardments by Syrian and Russian forces in northwest Syria have pushed 300,000 people towards Turkey's border, the NGOs said at a press conference in Istanbul.&nbsp;

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Friday that almost 950 people had been killed in the latest clashes in Idlib.&nbsp;

A September deal was supposed to avert a full-out regime offensive on the province and adjacent areas held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.

But the jihadists have refused to leave the area, and the deal is on the verge of collapse as Syrian and Russian forces allied to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad ramp up air strikes and rocket fire.

Watch: Israel and Syria exchange fire amid soaring regional tensions

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Iranian fighters and Hezbollah paramilitary forces are also stationed in Syria to back the Assad regime.

The worsening unrest in Idlib comes with tensions soaring between Iran and the United States.

The stand-off has been simmering since the US last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear treaty Iran reached with major world powers.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday told Syria and Russia to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib. "Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday told Syria and Russia to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib. "Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!" he said on Twitter shortly before he was to depart for a state visit to Britain. Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2019 × His comments came after Syrian NGOs on Friday decried international inaction in the face of mounting violence in the northwestern region. As well as killing dozens of civilians, the recent bombardments by Syrian and Russian forces in northwest Syria have pushed 300,000 people towards Turkey's border, the NGOs said at a press conference in Istanbul. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Friday that almost 950 people had been killed in the latest clashes in Idlib. A September deal was supposed to avert a full-out regime offensive on the province and adjacent areas held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. But the jihadists have refused to leave the area, and the deal is on the verge of collapse as Syrian and Russian forces allied to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad ramp up air strikes and rocket fire. Watch: Israel and Syria exchange fire amid soaring regional tensions × Iranian fighters and Hezbollah paramilitary forces are also stationed in Syria to back the Assad regime. The worsening unrest in Idlib comes with tensions soaring between Iran and the United States. The stand-off has been simmering since the US last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear treaty Iran reached with major world powers.

'STOP!' bombing, killing in Syria's Idlib: US President Donald Trump

Damascus said it had been informed Iraqi flights to Syria would not resume as planned Saturday after more than seven years, over what it said were "administrative" reasons.

Iraq's national carrier, Iraqi Airways, said Thursday it would resume flights to Damascus for the first time since the Syrian civil war started in 2011.

But the Syrian transport ministry on Saturday said it had been informed of the "decision to postpone the trip of two Iraqi Airways planes today... until further notice."

The flights were postponed to allow for "the completion of some administrative and organisational steps between the company and the Syrian civil aviation" authority, it said in a statement on Facebook.

It posted a photo of an urgent letter sent from the Iraqi embassy in Damascus the same day, informing the foreign ministry both flights had been deferred.

The news comes as Iraq faces rising tensions between the United States and its neighbour Iran, and after the Pentagon deployed a carrier group accompanied by B-52 bombers to the Gulf.

The last flight from Baghdad to Damascus took place in December 2011, according to Iraqi Airways spokesman Layth al-Rubaie.

Most airlines stopped flying to and over Syria after the conflict broke out, with many taking longer routes to circumvent the war zone.

But the conflict has wound down in recent years after major regime advances against rebels and jihadists with Russian military backing since 2015.

Last month, the Syrian government said it had agreed to allow regional aviation giant Qatar Airways to resume flights over the country.

Syria's war has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions inside Syria and abroad since starting in March 2011 with a crackdown on anti-government demonstrations.

Damascus said it had been informed Iraqi flights to Syria would not resume as planned Saturday after more than seven years, over what it said were "administrative" reasons.

Damascus said it had been informed Iraqi flights to Syria would not resume as planned Saturday after more than seven years, over what it said were "administrative" reasons. Iraq's national carrier, Iraqi Airways, said Thursday it would resume flights to Damascus for the first time since the Syrian civil war started in 2011. But the Syrian transport ministry on Saturday said it had been informed of the "decision to postpone the trip of two Iraqi Airways planes today... until further notice." The flights were postponed to allow for "the completion of some administrative and organisational steps between the company and the Syrian civil aviation" authority, it said in a statement on Facebook. It posted a photo of an urgent letter sent from the Iraqi embassy in Damascus the same day, informing the foreign ministry both flights had been deferred. The news comes as Iraq faces rising tensions between the United States and its neighbour Iran, and after the Pentagon deployed a carrier group accompanied by B-52 bombers to the Gulf. The last flight from Baghdad to Damascus took place in December 2011, according to Iraqi Airways spokesman Layth al-Rubaie. Most airlines stopped flying to and over Syria after the conflict broke out, with many taking longer routes to circumvent the war zone. But the conflict has wound down in recent years after major regime advances against rebels and jihadists with Russian military backing since 2015. Last month, the Syrian government said it had agreed to allow regional aviation giant Qatar Airways to resume flights over the country. Syria's war has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions inside Syria and abroad since starting in March 2011 with a crackdown on anti-government demonstrations.

Return of Iraq-Syria flights postponed: Damascus

Britain on Friday challenged Russia and Syria to provide assurances to the UN Security Council that attacks on hospitals and schools in northwest Syria will stop.

The council was meeting in an emergency session to discuss the surge of fighting in the Idlib region that has raised the alarm of an imminent all-out assault which could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe.

At least 18 hospitals and clinics have been destroyed or damaged by air strikes and shelling over recent weeks, several of which were on UN "no target" lists that detail exact locations of the health facilities to the warring sides, the UN aid chief told the council.&nbsp;

"Russia and Syria are the only countries that fly planes in the area," British Ambassador Karen Pierce told the council. "I think we need answers today."

"If the answer is the Russian and Syrian air forces, I call on both ambassadors here today to give us the assurance that the attacks will stop."

Russia rejected accusations that hospitals and other civilian infrastructure were being targeted and stressed that military operations were aimed at wiping out terrorists.

"We categorically reject accusations of violations of international humanitarian law," Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the council.

"Not the Syrian army, or the Syrian air force, or Russia are conducting hostilities against civilians or civilian infrastructure."

"Our goal is the terrorists," he said.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate which is on the UN terror list, controls most of Idlib province as well as parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces.

More than 180,000 people have been displaced by the latest violence in three weeks, UN aid chief Mark Lowcock said, and up to 160 people have been killed.

The region was to have been spared from a major offensive under a de-escalation agreement between Russia, Iran and Turkey, which has ties to the rebels.

The war in Syria, now in its ninth year, has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Britain on Friday challenged Russia and Syria to provide assurances to the UN Security Council that attacks on hospitals and schools in northwest Syria will stop.

Britain on Friday challenged Russia and Syria to provide assurances to the UN Security Council that attacks on hospitals and schools in northwest Syria will stop. The council was meeting in an emergency session to discuss the surge of fighting in the Idlib region that has raised the alarm of an imminent all-out assault which could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. At least 18 hospitals and clinics have been destroyed or damaged by air strikes and shelling over recent weeks, several of which were on UN "no target" lists that detail exact locations of the health facilities to the warring sides, the UN aid chief told the council. "Russia and Syria are the only countries that fly planes in the area," British Ambassador Karen Pierce told the council. "I think we need answers today." "If the answer is the Russian and Syrian air forces, I call on both ambassadors here today to give us the assurance that the attacks will stop." Russia rejected accusations that hospitals and other civilian infrastructure were being targeted and stressed that military operations were aimed at wiping out terrorists. "We categorically reject accusations of violations of international humanitarian law," Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the council. "Not the Syrian army, or the Syrian air force, or Russia are conducting hostilities against civilians or civilian infrastructure." "Our goal is the terrorists," he said. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate which is on the UN terror list, controls most of Idlib province as well as parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces. More than 180,000 people have been displaced by the latest violence in three weeks, UN aid chief Mark Lowcock said, and up to 160 people have been killed. The region was to have been spared from a major offensive under a de-escalation agreement between Russia, Iran and Turkey, which has ties to the rebels. The war in Syria, now in its ninth year, has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Britain at UN presses Russia to answer for Idlib hospital attacks

Iraq's national carrier is to resume flights to the capital of neighbouring Syria for the first time since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-receives-280-islamic-state-jihadists-from-us-backed-syria-force-199482">war there erupted in 2011</a>, a spokesman said Thursday.

Iraqi Airways will operate a weekly service from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jihadist-chief-jolani-calls-for-arming-to-defend-syrias-idlib-video-218240">Baghdad to Damascus</a> starting Saturday, spokesman Layth al-Rubaie told AFP.

Rubaie said the resumption of flights between the two neighbours was "important", citing bilateral trade, tourism and "the size of the Iraqi community living in Syria".

The Syrian transport ministry welcomed the decision in a statement on its official Facebook page.

Rubaie said the last flight from Baghdad to Damascus took place in December 2011, before the service was suspended due to the conflict that erupted in Syria that year.

Most airlines stopped flying over Syria after the conflict broke out, with many taking longer routes to circumvent the war zone.

But the conflict has wound down in recent years, after major regime advances against rebels and jihadists with Russian military backing since 2015.

Damascus has been largely spared the violence.

In April, the Syrian government said it had agreed to allow regional aviation giant Qatar Airways to resume flights over the country.

"The agreement came on the principle of reciprocity, as SyrianAir crosses Qatari airspace and never stopped flying to Doha throughout the war," the Syrian transport ministry said at the time.

The use of Syrian airspace would see "increased revenues in hard currency for the benefit of the Syrian state", it added.&nbsp;

Syria was suspended from the Arab League in November 2011 as the death toll escalated and several regional powers bet on President Bashar al-Assad's demise.

But the regime, backed by allies Russia and Iran, has since re-conquered much of the territory it had lost to rebels and jihadists, and now controls some two-thirds of the country.

The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have reopened their missions in Damascus.

Jordan reopened a key land crossing with its Syrian neighbour in October last year after a three-year hiatus.

Analysts said the move would help Syria inch its way back into trade with the wider region as it looks to boost its war-ravaged economy.

Jordanian officials have also visited Damascus to discuss plans to reopen Syrian airspace to its Royal Jordanian's commercial flights.

The Syrian conflict erupted in March 2011 with anti-government demonstrations that sparked a brutal regime crackdown.

The spiralling violence drew in regional powers and has killed more than 370,000 people, displacing millions. 
&nbsp;

Iraq's national carrier is to resume flights to the capital of neighbouring Syria for the first time since the war there erupted in 2011, a spokesman said Thursday.

Iraq's national carrier is to resume flights to the capital of neighbouring Syria for the first time since the war there erupted in 2011, a spokesman said Thursday. Iraqi Airways will operate a weekly service from Baghdad to Damascus starting Saturday, spokesman Layth al-Rubaie told AFP. Rubaie said the resumption of flights between the two neighbours was "important", citing bilateral trade, tourism and "the size of the Iraqi community living in Syria". The Syrian transport ministry welcomed the decision in a statement on its official Facebook page. Rubaie said the last flight from Baghdad to Damascus took place in December 2011, before the service was suspended due to the conflict that erupted in Syria that year. Most airlines stopped flying over Syria after the conflict broke out, with many taking longer routes to circumvent the war zone. But the conflict has wound down in recent years, after major regime advances against rebels and jihadists with Russian military backing since 2015. Damascus has been largely spared the violence. In April, the Syrian government said it had agreed to allow regional aviation giant Qatar Airways to resume flights over the country. "The agreement came on the principle of reciprocity, as SyrianAir crosses Qatari airspace and never stopped flying to Doha throughout the war," the Syrian transport ministry said at the time. The use of Syrian airspace would see "increased revenues in hard currency for the benefit of the Syrian state", it added. Syria was suspended from the Arab League in November 2011 as the death toll escalated and several regional powers bet on President Bashar al-Assad's demise. But the regime, backed by allies Russia and Iran, has since re-conquered much of the territory it had lost to rebels and jihadists, and now controls some two-thirds of the country. The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have reopened their missions in Damascus. Jordan reopened a key land crossing with its Syrian neighbour in October last year after a three-year hiatus. Analysts said the move would help Syria inch its way back into trade with the wider region as it looks to boost its war-ravaged economy. Jordanian officials have also visited Damascus to discuss plans to reopen Syrian airspace to its Royal Jordanian's commercial flights. The Syrian conflict erupted in March 2011 with anti-government demonstrations that sparked a brutal regime crackdown. The spiralling violence drew in regional powers and has killed more than 370,000 people, displacing millions.

Iraqi Airways to resume flights to Syria after 8-year break

Britain and New Zealand are failing on children's rights, scoring lower than war-torn Syria and North Korea relative to their wealth in rankings released Tuesday by a children's group.

"Appalling" discrimination against migrant children and a lack of legal protection for poorer youths in New Zealand and the UK put them near the bottom of the annual survey by Dutch NGO KidsRights.

"It's a shame that countries like the United Kingdom and New Zealand are really at the lowest ranks of this index," Marc Dulleart, founder and chairman of KidsRights, told AFP.

Britain ranked 170 and New Zealand 169 in a survey of 181 countries.

Iceland was top followed by Portugal, Switzerland, Finland and Germany. Afghanistan was worst, followed by Sierra Leone, Chad, Equatorial Guinea and the Central African Republic.

The annual KidsRights rankings, compiled with the Erasmus School of Economics in Rotterdam, use UN data to measure how countries measure up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

"Of course the situation in the UK is far better than in Afghanistan or Syria, but it's relative to their position," Dulleart said.

"The message is that, considering their economic status and it is a democracy and it is a country not in war, then it is appalling in such a rich developed country that the score on the basic principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child is the lowest score."

Booming economic growth in countries such as China, India and Myanmar is meanwhile failing to translate into better rights for children, the group said.

'Old-fashioned mindset'

However Thailand and Tunisia ranked surprisingly highly, at 14th and 15th, because with the "limited resources they have, they put everything into the next generation", said Dullaert.

The group said giving children around the world a bigger say was crucial.

It cited the examples of youth movements such as teen climate activist Greta Thunberg's school marches and US rallies for gun control after school shootings.

"We are still underestimating the power of these movements," said Princess Laurentien of the Netherlands, who founded the Missing Chapter Foundation to install boards of children in companies, and has worked with KidsRights.

"We need to get rid of this old fashioned mindset that we the adults have all the answers," added the princess, who is the sister-in-law of Dutch King Willem-Alexander.

She also urged governments to invest in children now to reap future benefits -- citing the example of Dutch football team Ajax, whose young team stunned Europe by making the semi-finals of the Champions League this year.

"It's a bit like 'why is Ajax playing so well' - and we're incredibly proud of them by the way - it's because 10 years ago they had the right strategy, investing in youth. Then it shows up later that we have stars."

KidsRights also presents an annual international children's peace prize whose previous winners include Pakistani Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai, who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012.

Britain and New Zealand are failing on children's rights, scoring lower than war-torn Syria and North Korea relative to their wealth in rankings released Tuesday by a children's group.

Britain and New Zealand are failing on children's rights, scoring lower than war-torn Syria and North Korea relative to their wealth in rankings released Tuesday by a children's group. "Appalling" discrimination against migrant children and a lack of legal protection for poorer youths in New Zealand and the UK put them near the bottom of the annual survey by Dutch NGO KidsRights. "It's a shame that countries like the United Kingdom and New Zealand are really at the lowest ranks of this index," Marc Dulleart, founder and chairman of KidsRights, told AFP. Britain ranked 170 and New Zealand 169 in a survey of 181 countries. Iceland was top followed by Portugal, Switzerland, Finland and Germany. Afghanistan was worst, followed by Sierra Leone, Chad, Equatorial Guinea and the Central African Republic. The annual KidsRights rankings, compiled with the Erasmus School of Economics in Rotterdam, use UN data to measure how countries measure up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. "Of course the situation in the UK is far better than in Afghanistan or Syria, but it's relative to their position," Dulleart said. "The message is that, considering their economic status and it is a democracy and it is a country not in war, then it is appalling in such a rich developed country that the score on the basic principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child is the lowest score." Booming economic growth in countries such as China, India and Myanmar is meanwhile failing to translate into better rights for children, the group said. 'Old-fashioned mindset' However Thailand and Tunisia ranked surprisingly highly, at 14th and 15th, because with the "limited resources they have, they put everything into the next generation", said Dullaert. The group said giving children around the world a bigger say was crucial. It cited the examples of youth movements such as teen climate activist Greta Thunberg's school marches and US rallies for gun control after school shootings. "We are still underestimating the power of these movements," said Princess Laurentien of the Netherlands, who founded the Missing Chapter Foundation to install boards of children in companies, and has worked with KidsRights. "We need to get rid of this old fashioned mindset that we the adults have all the answers," added the princess, who is the sister-in-law of Dutch King Willem-Alexander. She also urged governments to invest in children now to reap future benefits -- citing the example of Dutch football team Ajax, whose young team stunned Europe by making the semi-finals of the Champions League this year. "It's a bit like 'why is Ajax playing so well' - and we're incredibly proud of them by the way - it's because 10 years ago they had the right strategy, investing in youth. Then it shows up later that we have stars." KidsRights also presents an annual international children's peace prize whose previous winners include Pakistani Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai, who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012.

Britain, New Zealand scores lower than Syria and North Korea on children's rights rankings

The head of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate in a video released Sunday urged supporters to "take up weapons" to defend his group's bastion of Idlib against increased bombardment.

The Damascus regime and its Russian ally have in recent weeks upped shelling and air strikes on the northwestern region held by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, despite a Russian-Turkish buffer zone deal intended to protect it.

"We call for anybody able to take up weapons... to head to the battlefield," HTS chief Abu Mohammad al-Jolani said.

The spike in violence against the Idlib region since late April signalled "the death of all previous agreements and conferences", he said during an interview with a local media activist in a countryside setting.

It shows that "only jihadists and military might can be relied on", said Jolani, wearing a camouflage uniform and sitting cross-legged in the grass.

The activist said the interview was recorded in the northern Hama countryside, although it was not immediately possible to verify this.

It appeared to have been made in recent days after a regime advance.

Idlib, a region of some three million people, is supposed to be protected from a massive regime assault by a September buffer zone deal signed by Russia and rebel backer Turkey.

But that agreement was never fully implemented after jihadists refused to withdraw from the planned buffer area.

Damascus and its allies have increased their deadly bombardment of the southern part of the jihadist bastion in recent weeks, killing dozens of civilians and causing tens of thousands more to flee.

They have taken control of several towns from the jihadists in recent days.

The uptick in air strikes and shelling has displaced 180,000 people between April 29 and May 9, the United Nations says.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor, says around 120 civilians have been killed in the bombardment.

Damascus has not announced a wide offensive, but instead regularly announces targeting "terrorist" -- meaning jihadist or rebel -- positions.

Analysts believe the offensive will be limited.

The regime and Russia have accused the jihadists of targeting the main Russian airbase of Hmeimim to the west of Idlib.

"It's the right of the revolutionaries to bombard this base which causes the death of... women and children," Jolani said.

"If the Russian leadership wants the bombardment on Hmeimim to stop, it simply needs to stop supporting the regime and killing the Syrian people and civilians," he added.

Russia intervened in the war in 2015 and has since helped the government to regain large parts of the country.

The civil war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

The head of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate in a video released Sunday urged supporters to "take up weapons" to defend his group's bastion of Idlib against increased bombardment.

The head of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate in a video released Sunday urged supporters to "take up weapons" to defend his group's bastion of Idlib against increased bombardment. The Damascus regime and its Russian ally have in recent weeks upped shelling and air strikes on the northwestern region held by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, despite a Russian-Turkish buffer zone deal intended to protect it. "We call for anybody able to take up weapons... to head to the battlefield," HTS chief Abu Mohammad al-Jolani said. The spike in violence against the Idlib region since late April signalled "the death of all previous agreements and conferences", he said during an interview with a local media activist in a countryside setting. It shows that "only jihadists and military might can be relied on", said Jolani, wearing a camouflage uniform and sitting cross-legged in the grass. The activist said the interview was recorded in the northern Hama countryside, although it was not immediately possible to verify this. It appeared to have been made in recent days after a regime advance. Idlib, a region of some three million people, is supposed to be protected from a massive regime assault by a September buffer zone deal signed by Russia and rebel backer Turkey. But that agreement was never fully implemented after jihadists refused to withdraw from the planned buffer area. Damascus and its allies have increased their deadly bombardment of the southern part of the jihadist bastion in recent weeks, killing dozens of civilians and causing tens of thousands more to flee. They have taken control of several towns from the jihadists in recent days. The uptick in air strikes and shelling has displaced 180,000 people between April 29 and May 9, the United Nations says. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor, says around 120 civilians have been killed in the bombardment. Damascus has not announced a wide offensive, but instead regularly announces targeting "terrorist" -- meaning jihadist or rebel -- positions. Analysts believe the offensive will be limited. The regime and Russia have accused the jihadists of targeting the main Russian airbase of Hmeimim to the west of Idlib. "It's the right of the revolutionaries to bombard this base which causes the death of... women and children," Jolani said. "If the Russian leadership wants the bombardment on Hmeimim to stop, it simply needs to stop supporting the regime and killing the Syrian people and civilians," he added. Russia intervened in the war in 2015 and has since helped the government to regain large parts of the country. The civil war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

Jihadist chief Jolani calls for arming to defend Syria's Idlib: Video

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