<p>Turkey on Monday (March 6) summoned US Ambassador Jeff Flake to convey him of its discomfort over a top US general's visit to northeast Syria, said Reuters quoting a foreign ministry source.</p>

<p>On March 4, US Army General Mark Milley, chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff made an unannounced visit to Syria. He reviewed nearly eight-year-old US mission to an area controlled by Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turkey sees the People's Protection Units (YPG), the spearhead of the SDF, as the Syrian wing of the outlawed separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and considers both as terrorist organisations.</p>

<p>The United States and the European Union have also designated the PKK as a terrorist group, but not the YPG.</p>

<p>The SDF has played a key role in defeating Islamic State across Syria. However, US support for SDF has been a source of tension with Turkey for years.</p>

<p>During his unannounced visit to Syria, General Milley had said that US mission in Syria was still worth the risk.</p>

<p>"I happen to think that's important," Milley said.</p>

<p>"So I think that an enduring defeat of ISIS and continuing to support our friends and allies in the region ... I think those are important tasks that can be done."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Turkey on Monday (March 6) summoned US Ambassador Jeff Flake to convey him of its discomfort over a top US general's visit to northeast Syria, said Reuters quoting a foreign ministry source.

Turkey on Monday (March 6) summoned US Ambassador Jeff Flake to convey him of its discomfort over a top US general's visit to northeast Syria, said Reuters quoting a foreign ministry source. On March 4, US Army General Mark Milley, chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff made an unannounced visit to Syria. He reviewed nearly eight-year-old US mission to an area controlled by Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkey sees the People's Protection Units (YPG), the spearhead of the SDF, as the Syrian wing of the outlawed separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and considers both as terrorist organisations. The United States and the European Union have also designated the PKK as a terrorist group, but not the YPG. The SDF has played a key role in defeating Islamic State across Syria. However, US support for SDF has been a source of tension with Turkey for years. During his unannounced visit to Syria, General Milley had said that US mission in Syria was still worth the risk. "I happen to think that's important," Milley said. "So I think that an enduring defeat of ISIS and continuing to support our friends and allies in the region ... I think those are important tasks that can be done." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey: US enovy summoned after top general's unannounced visit to Syria

<p>US Army General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, made an unannounced visit to Syria and said on Saturday (March 4) that US deployment to Syria is still worth the risk. Milley visited a base to meet US troops in the country's northeast. He assessed efforts to prevent a resurgence of the militant group and review safeguards for American forces against attacks, including from drones.</p>

<p>US is fighting Islamic State in Syria and is also opposed to Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad.</p>

<p>While Islamic State is a shadow of the group that ruled over a third of Syria and Iraq in a Caliphate declared in 2014, hundreds of fighters are still camped in desolate areas where neither the U.S.-led coalition nor the Syrian army, with support from Russia and Iranian-backed militias, exert full control.</p>

<p>Thousands of other Islamic State fighters are in detention facilities guarded by Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, America's key ally in the country.</p>

<p>American officials say that Islamic State could still regenerate into a major threat.</p>

<p>Asked by reporters traveling with him if he believed the Syria mission was worth the risk, Milley tied the mission to the security of the United States and its allies, saying: "If you think that that's important, then the answer is 'Yes.'"</p>

<p>"I happen to think that's important," Milley said.</p>

<p>"So I think that an enduring defeat of ISIS and continuing to support our friends and allies in the region ... I think those are important tasks that can be done."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US Army General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, made an unannounced visit to Syria and said on Saturday (March 4) that US deployment to Syria is still worth the risk.

US Army General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, made an unannounced visit to Syria and said on Saturday (March 4) that US deployment to Syria is still worth the risk. Milley visited a base to meet US troops in the country's northeast. He assessed efforts to prevent a resurgence of the militant group and review safeguards for American forces against attacks, including from drones. US is fighting Islamic State in Syria and is also opposed to Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad. While Islamic State is a shadow of the group that ruled over a third of Syria and Iraq in a Caliphate declared in 2014, hundreds of fighters are still camped in desolate areas where neither the U.S.-led coalition nor the Syrian army, with support from Russia and Iranian-backed militias, exert full control. Thousands of other Islamic State fighters are in detention facilities guarded by Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, America's key ally in the country. American officials say that Islamic State could still regenerate into a major threat. Asked by reporters traveling with him if he believed the Syria mission was worth the risk, Milley tied the mission to the security of the United States and its allies, saying: "If you think that that's important, then the answer is 'Yes.'" "I happen to think that's important," Milley said. "So I think that an enduring defeat of ISIS and continuing to support our friends and allies in the region ... I think those are important tasks that can be done." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Top US general makes unannounced visit to Syria to assess situation

After weeks of the earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria, efforts from Arab countries to accelerate Syria's reintegration into the region's diplomatic gain momentum.

The West Asia Post: Quake pushes forward normalisation efforts with Syria

<p>In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tragic quake had left many deprived of aid as a decade of conflict has divided Syria into parts. It was a challenge for aid workers in the rebel-held northwestern part of the country which was also the hardest hit by the earthquake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-appoints-two-prominent-indian-american-corporate-leaders-to-his-export-council-567225">Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council</a></p>

<p>Tedros is the highest-ranking United Nations (UN) official to have visited the conflict zone. According to an AFP news agency correspondent, Tedros entered the rebel-held area from neighbouring Turkey via the Bab al-Hawa crossing and the UN convoy distributed aid to the quake-affected Syrians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The global health body chief also visited several hospitals in the region in the wake of the high-intensity quakes which caused massive wreckage and left thousands dead. Tedros also paid a visit&nbsp;to shelters for those displaced after the natural disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-must-follow-law-eam-jaishankar-tells-uk-foreign-secretary-567148">BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary</a></p>

<p>Earlier, on February 13, in a major reversal from his earlier stand, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government approved the use of two border crossings, Bab al-Hawa and Al Ra’ee, to supply aid to the rebel-held region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-bans-tiktok-on-work-devices-amid-data-security-breaches-567233">EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches</a></p>

<p>Bab al-Hawa crossing is the only route into Syria as Russia, the permanent member of the UN Security Council and which also backs Assad’s government, has in the past vetoed the use of the multiple other crossings via Ankara.&nbsp;Therefore, for years now, foreign aid has been entering the northwestern Idlib province from Turkey.&nbsp;</p>

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In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday.

In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday. The tragic quake had left many deprived of aid as a decade of conflict has divided Syria into parts. It was a challenge for aid workers in the rebel-held northwestern part of the country which was also the hardest hit by the earthquake. Also Read | Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council Tedros is the highest-ranking United Nations (UN) official to have visited the conflict zone. According to an AFP news agency correspondent, Tedros entered the rebel-held area from neighbouring Turkey via the Bab al-Hawa crossing and the UN convoy distributed aid to the quake-affected Syrians. The global health body chief also visited several hospitals in the region in the wake of the high-intensity quakes which caused massive wreckage and left thousands dead. Tedros also paid a visit to shelters for those displaced after the natural disaster. Also Read | BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary Earlier, on February 13, in a major reversal from his earlier stand, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government approved the use of two border crossings, Bab al-Hawa and Al Ra’ee, to supply aid to the rebel-held region. Watch | EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches Bab al-Hawa crossing is the only route into Syria as Russia, the permanent member of the UN Security Council and which also backs Assad’s government, has in the past vetoed the use of the multiple other crossings via Ankara. Therefore, for years now, foreign aid has been entering the northwestern Idlib province from Turkey. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO chief Tedros visits rebel-held region in Syria after tragic quake in first such visit

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Egypt's foreign minister arrived in Syria on Monday to meet with his counterpart and is then set to visit Turkey, marking the first such visit to both countries after a decade of tense relations.

Egyptian FM in Syria, set to visit Turkey for first time in over a decade

Weeks after facing its worst disaster in decades, Turkey is now widening its probe into alleged corrupt building practices. The collapse of the thousands of buildings due to the earthquake has created anger among the public as death toll in the country along with neighboring Syria has surpassed about 50,000.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake Aftermath: Investigations expand into corrupt building practices

<p>The death toll in the devastating earthquake that struck southern Turkey and neighbouring Syria on February 6 has surpassed the 50,000 mark.</p>

<p>While Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority reported 44,218 deaths on Friday night, Syria announced death toll of 5,914, taking the combined toll in the two countries to above 50,000.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ankara has expedited the construction work, with President Tayyip Erdogan pledging to rebuild homes within a year.</p>

<p>However, experts are concerned about the pace of construction saying that authorities should put safety before speed. Some buildings that were meant to withstand tremors crumbled in the latest earthquakes, reports Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>An estimated 1,60,000 buildings containing 5,20,000 apartments crumbled in the 7.6 magnitude earthquake in Turkey.</p>

<p>The Turkish government aims to build 2,00,000 apartments and 70,000 village houses at a cost of at least $15 billion, Erdogan said. But the US bank J P Morgan estimates the rebuilding costs to touch $25 billion.</p>

<h2><strong>WION Wideangle | Turkiye-Syria Earthquakes: Stories of hope and despair</strong></h2>

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<p>According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), at least 1.5 million people have been left homeless, adding that 5,00,000 new homes are needed.</p>

<p>The UN agency said that it requested $113.5 million from the $1 billion in funds appealed for by the United Nations last week, adding that it would focus this money on clearing away mountains of rubble.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, survivors who have left the southern Turkey region have been accommodated in tents, container homes and other government-sponsored accommodations.</p>

<p>"The glassware was very beautiful, more than usual, but then we had this (earthquake), and it all got ruined," Saeed Sleiman Ertoglu, 56, a resident of In Antakya, told Reuters. He estimated that just 5 per cent of his merchandise survived.</p>

<p>"What can we do?," he said. "This is an act of God, and God’s will always bear gifts."</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The death toll in the devastating earthquake that struck southern Turkey and neighbouring Syria on February 6 has surpassed the 50,000 mark. While Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority reported 44,218 deaths on Friday night, Syria announced death toll of 5,914, taking the combined toll in the two countries to above 50,000.

The death toll in the devastating earthquake that struck southern Turkey and neighbouring Syria on February 6 has surpassed the 50,000 mark. While Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority reported 44,218 deaths on Friday night, Syria announced death toll of 5,914, taking the combined toll in the two countries to above 50,000. Meanwhile, Ankara has expedited the construction work, with President Tayyip Erdogan pledging to rebuild homes within a year. However, experts are concerned about the pace of construction saying that authorities should put safety before speed. Some buildings that were meant to withstand tremors crumbled in the latest earthquakes, reports Reuters news agency. An estimated 1,60,000 buildings containing 5,20,000 apartments crumbled in the 7.6 magnitude earthquake in Turkey. The Turkish government aims to build 2,00,000 apartments and 70,000 village houses at a cost of at least $15 billion, Erdogan said. But the US bank J P Morgan estimates the rebuilding costs to touch $25 billion. WION Wideangle | Turkiye-Syria Earthquakes: Stories of hope and despair According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), at least 1.5 million people have been left homeless, adding that 5,00,000 new homes are needed. The UN agency said that it requested $113.5 million from the $1 billion in funds appealed for by the United Nations last week, adding that it would focus this money on clearing away mountains of rubble. Meanwhile, survivors who have left the southern Turkey region have been accommodated in tents, container homes and other government-sponsored accommodations. "The glassware was very beautiful, more than usual, but then we had this (earthquake), and it all got ruined," Saeed Sleiman Ertoglu, 56, a resident of In Antakya, told Reuters. He estimated that just 5 per cent of his merchandise survived. "What can we do?," he said. "This is an act of God, and God’s will always bear gifts." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll surpasses 50,000

Weeks after the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 50,000 people, Turkey has now begun to work to rebuild homes. The death toll in Turkey due to the massive earthquake has crossed over 44,000.

Turkey beings work to rebuild homes after several damage | Turkey-Syria Earthquake Aftermath

<p>The body of Hatayspor's Sporting Director Taner Savut was recovered on Tuesday more than two weeks after two devastating earthquakes struck in Turkey and Syria, in which more than 47,000 people have died.&nbsp;Savut had been missing since Feb. 6. His body was found close to where Ghanaian&nbsp;footballer Christian Atsu, of the same club, was discovered dead last week.</p>

<p>"We feel the deep sorrow of losing our Sporting Director Taner Savut," Turksih side Hatayspor said on Twitter on Tuesday. "We will not forget you teacher Taner. Rest in heaven. You are always in our hearts." The Turkish&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Federation (TFF) and the top teams in the Turkish league, including Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, also issued messages of condolences in Savut's memory.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/are-we-selling-lfc-liverpool-owner-john-henry-gives-an-update-on-selling-the-merseyside-club-564151">'Are we selling LFC?': Liverpool owner John Henry gives an update on selling the Merseyside club</a></strong></p>

<p>Savut was trapped under the rubble of a luxury residential building alongside Atsu when the first earthquake, magnitude 7.8, struck. Built in 2013, Ronesans Residence has since become a symbol of poor construction practices in Turkey, which many people blame for the thousands of deaths in this month's earthquakes.</p>


The body of Hatayspor's Sporting Director Taner Savut was recovered on Tuesday more than two weeks after two devastating earthquakes struck in Turkey and Syria, in which more than 47,000 people have died.

The body of Hatayspor's Sporting Director Taner Savut was recovered on Tuesday more than two weeks after two devastating earthquakes struck in Turkey and Syria, in which more than 47,000 people have died. Savut had been missing since Feb. 6. His body was found close to where Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu, of the same club, was discovered dead last week. "We feel the deep sorrow of losing our Sporting Director Taner Savut," Turksih side Hatayspor said on Twitter on Tuesday. "We will not forget you teacher Taner. Rest in heaven. You are always in our hearts." The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) and the top teams in the Turkish league, including Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, also issued messages of condolences in Savut's memory. Also Read: 'Are we selling LFC?': Liverpool owner John Henry gives an update on selling the Merseyside club Savut was trapped under the rubble of a luxury residential building alongside Atsu when the first earthquake, magnitude 7.8, struck. Built in 2013, Ronesans Residence has since become a symbol of poor construction practices in Turkey, which many people blame for the thousands of deaths in this month's earthquakes.

Hatayspor sporting director found dead following devastating earthquakes in Turkey, Syria

Another earthquake of magnitude 6.4 has hit the border region of Turkey and Syria killing three people and injuring almost 200. According to Turkey's Disaster Management Agency another 5.8 magnitude earthquake followed three minutes later.

Fresh earthquake of magnitude 6.4 jolts Turkey-Syria border

<p>As Turkey is still recuperating from the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake, another one of magnitude 6.3 hit the Turkey-Syria border region on Monday,&nbsp;the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-arrives-in-kyiv-on-surprise-visit-563870">US President Joe Biden lands in Kyiv on surprise visit, announces more arms supplies for Ukraine</a></p>

<p>The quake occurred at a depth of two kilometres (1.2 miles).</p>

<p>According to Reuters witnesses, further damage has been reported in central Antakya. After the Monday quake, Reuters while quoting witnesses said Turkish rescue teams sprung into action checking weather people were harmed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Resident Muna Al Omar said "I thought the earth was going to split open under my feet," reported Reuters. "Is there going to be another aftershock?" she questioned.&nbsp;As per reports, the earthquake was also felt in Egypt and Lebanon.&nbsp;However, reports suggest that no new casualties were immediately reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The massive 6 February quake left millions of people homeless. As per the latest tally, a total of 46,000 people have been killed in both countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed US' commitment to Turkey to help the nation in these difficult times.&nbsp;Turkey and Syria have been carrying out search and rescue operations ever since a massive earthquake hit the nations in the morning hours of 6 February. However, Turkey on Monday stopped its search and rescue operations in all provinces except for Antakya and Kahmaranmaraş cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-biden-arrives-in-kyiv-on-surprise-visit-563933">Ukraine: Biden arrives in Kyiv on surprise visit</a></p>

<p>These cities were the hardest hit regions leading to mass destruction and damage.&nbsp;The United States has vowed an additional $100 million in humanitarian aid. to the disaster-hit nation. Other nations including India also stepped up to help Turkey and Syria in their efforts to recover from the tragic situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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As Turkey is still recuperating from the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake, another one of magnitude 6.3 hit the Turkey-Syria border region on Monday, the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said.

As Turkey is still recuperating from the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake, another one of magnitude 6.3 hit the Turkey-Syria border region on Monday, the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said. Also Read | US President Joe Biden lands in Kyiv on surprise visit, announces more arms supplies for Ukraine The quake occurred at a depth of two kilometres (1.2 miles). According to Reuters witnesses, further damage has been reported in central Antakya. After the Monday quake, Reuters while quoting witnesses said Turkish rescue teams sprung into action checking weather people were harmed. Resident Muna Al Omar said "I thought the earth was going to split open under my feet," reported Reuters. "Is there going to be another aftershock?" she questioned. As per reports, the earthquake was also felt in Egypt and Lebanon. However, reports suggest that no new casualties were immediately reported. The massive 6 February quake left millions of people homeless. As per the latest tally, a total of 46,000 people have been killed in both countries. This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed US' commitment to Turkey to help the nation in these difficult times. Turkey and Syria have been carrying out search and rescue operations ever since a massive earthquake hit the nations in the morning hours of 6 February. However, Turkey on Monday stopped its search and rescue operations in all provinces except for Antakya and Kahmaranmaraş cities. Watch | Ukraine: Biden arrives in Kyiv on surprise visit These cities were the hardest hit regions leading to mass destruction and damage. The United States has vowed an additional $100 million in humanitarian aid. to the disaster-hit nation. Other nations including India also stepped up to help Turkey and Syria in their efforts to recover from the tragic situation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Magnitude 6.3 quake strikes Turkey-Syria border region, further damages reported in Antakya

The devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria earlier this month have claimed over 46,000 lives so far. Hundreds of thousands of survivors, meanwhile, struggle to rebuild their lives around the rubble manoeuvring through the streets of the raised towns and cities.

Syria Earthquakes: Medical aid reaches Northwest regions of the country

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />The massive earthquake that hit Turkey-Syria on February 6 has left behind a trail of devastation. The images and videos of the tragedy have&nbsp;been circulating on social media. While multiple rescue stories have made headlines, a sizable number of people have also lost their lives under the debris.</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />In the latest, a group of volunteers, in an effort to allay the pain of the tragedy have fixed red coloured balloons all over the earthquake debris in Turkey.&nbsp;The gesture is symbolic to the kids who lost their lives in the catastrophe. A video shared by the BBC showed multiple red balloons been planted around the rubble.</p>

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<p><meta charset="utf-8" />Oguen Sever Okur, Balloons Project Leader, who spoke to the BBC explained the intention behind the&nbsp; gesture and said, “I wanted this activity to be called ‘my last present to children’. We are still giving presents to children in Hatay but we wanted to fulfil our last duty to these angels and we are carrying out this activity with balloons.” Okur adds, “Believe me, every time we tie a balloon my heart hurts. We have tied 1,000-1,500 balloons so far but we will hopefully continue until we reach all parts of the city, until we reach every home of the children who lost their lives.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Antony Blinken tours Turkey's earthquake zone, says US&nbsp;is here with aid</strong></p>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-hit-turkey-halts-rescue-operations-in-all-but-two-provinces-563751">Earthquake-hit Turkey halts rescue operations in all but two provinces</a></div>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />So far, the total death toll of the quakes in Turkey and Syria have been 43,360. As per an Associated Press report, the 8.8 magnitude earthquake was the deadliest so far in the history of modern Turkey. Apart from the disastrous impact of the earthquake, many stories of survival and miraculous rescues have also been doing the rounds on social media. The Associated Press reported earlier this month that a newborn was rescued from under the debris with her umbilical chord attached to her mother, who died under the same rubble.</p>

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The massive earthquake that hit Turkey-Syria on February 6 has left behind a trail of devastation. The images and videos of the tragedy have been circulating on social media.

The massive earthquake that hit Turkey-Syria on February 6 has left behind a trail of devastation. The images and videos of the tragedy have been circulating on social media. While multiple rescue stories have made headlines, a sizable number of people have also lost their lives under the debris. In the latest, a group of volunteers, in an effort to allay the pain of the tragedy have fixed red coloured balloons all over the earthquake debris in Turkey. The gesture is symbolic to the kids who lost their lives in the catastrophe. A video shared by the BBC showed multiple red balloons been planted around the rubble. View this post on Instagram A post shared by BBC News (@bbcnews) × Oguen Sever Okur, Balloons Project Leader, who spoke to the BBC explained the intention behind the gesture and said, “I wanted this activity to be called ‘my last present to children’. We are still giving presents to children in Hatay but we wanted to fulfil our last duty to these angels and we are carrying out this activity with balloons.” Okur adds, “Believe me, every time we tie a balloon my heart hurts. We have tied 1,000-1,500 balloons so far but we will hopefully continue until we reach all parts of the city, until we reach every home of the children who lost their lives.” ALSO WATCH | Antony Blinken tours Turkey's earthquake zone, says US is here with aid ALSO READ | Earthquake-hit Turkey halts rescue operations in all but two provinces So far, the total death toll of the quakes in Turkey and Syria have been 43,360. As per an Associated Press report, the 8.8 magnitude earthquake was the deadliest so far in the history of modern Turkey. Apart from the disastrous impact of the earthquake, many stories of survival and miraculous rescues have also been doing the rounds on social media. The Associated Press reported earlier this month that a newborn was rescued from under the debris with her umbilical chord attached to her mother, who died under the same rubble. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey-Syria earthquake: Symbolic red balloons planted over quake debris

<p>An Israeli missile struck a building in Syria’s capital Damascus that was housing senior security officials, killing at least 15 people on Sunday.&nbsp;The targeted strike hit the densely-populated Kafr Sousa, home to senior officials, security agencies and intelligence headquarters.&nbsp;"At 00:22 am (2222 GMT), the&nbsp;Israeli enemy carried out an&nbsp;aerial aggression from the direction of the occupied Golan Heights targeting several areas in Damascus and its vicinity,&nbsp;including residential neighbourhoods,"&nbsp;Syria's defence ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>The initial toll reported by the Syrian government was five dead and 15 injured, including civilians. Later, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights pegged the casualties at&nbsp;15, reports AFP news agency.</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear whether the strike was aimed at a specific individual.</p>

<p>A video shared by state media purportedly showed that a 10-storey building was badly damaged in the attack, crushing the structure of its lower floors.</p>

<h2><strong>Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Three people rescued alive after 12 days in Turkey</strong></h2>

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<p>The Sunday strike comes more than a month after an Israeli missile strike had hit Damascus International Airport, killing four people, including two soldiers.</p>

<p>Israel has been carrying out hundreds of air strikes against its neighbour since the beginning of the Syrian war in 2011. It has primarily targeted Syrian army installations, Iranian forces and Lebanon's Hezbollah, allies of the Syrian regime.</p>

<p>It is believed that these attacks are part of an escalation of what has been a low-intensity conflict whose main aim was to slow down Iran’s growing entrenchment in Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, Israel's military has not made any comment on the missile strike.<br />
<br />
Iran has been expanding its military presence in Syria over the years and now has a foothold in most state-controlled areas, with thousands of militias and local paramilitary groups under its command, say Western intelligence sources.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-10">In recent months,&nbsp;Israel has also intensified strikes on airports and air bases in Syria to disrupt Iran's increasing use of aerial supply lines to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah.</p>

<p>The missile attack&nbsp;comes at a time when Syria&nbsp;is recovering from the devastating February 6 earthquake, which killed several thousands of people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An Israeli missile struck a building in Syria’s capital Damascus that was housing senior security officials, killing at least 15 people on Sunday. The targeted strike hit the densely-populated Kafr Sousa, home to senior officials, security agencies and intelligence headquarters.

An Israeli missile struck a building in Syria’s capital Damascus that was housing senior security officials, killing at least 15 people on Sunday. The targeted strike hit the densely-populated Kafr Sousa, home to senior officials, security agencies and intelligence headquarters. "At 00:22 am (2222 GMT), the Israeli enemy carried out an aerial aggression from the direction of the occupied Golan Heights targeting several areas in Damascus and its vicinity, including residential neighbourhoods," Syria's defence ministry said in a statement. The initial toll reported by the Syrian government was five dead and 15 injured, including civilians. Later, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights pegged the casualties at 15, reports AFP news agency. It was not immediately clear whether the strike was aimed at a specific individual. A video shared by state media purportedly showed that a 10-storey building was badly damaged in the attack, crushing the structure of its lower floors. Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Three people rescued alive after 12 days in Turkey The Sunday strike comes more than a month after an Israeli missile strike had hit Damascus International Airport, killing four people, including two soldiers. Israel has been carrying out hundreds of air strikes against its neighbour since the beginning of the Syrian war in 2011. It has primarily targeted Syrian army installations, Iranian forces and Lebanon's Hezbollah, allies of the Syrian regime. It is believed that these attacks are part of an escalation of what has been a low-intensity conflict whose main aim was to slow down Iran’s growing entrenchment in Syria. So far, Israel's military has not made any comment on the missile strike. Iran has been expanding its military presence in Syria over the years and now has a foothold in most state-controlled areas, with thousands of militias and local paramilitary groups under its command, say Western intelligence sources. In recent months, Israel has also intensified strikes on airports and air bases in Syria to disrupt Iran's increasing use of aerial supply lines to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah. The missile attack comes at a time when Syria is recovering from the devastating February 6 earthquake, which killed several thousands of people. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Syria: At least 15 killed as Israeli missile strikes building in Damascus

Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Death toll climbs 46,000; survivors struggle to rebuild lives

Israel rocket struck residential buildings in Damascus killing 15 people. According to the police officials, the strike damaged several buildings in the densely populated area in the heart of the capital. The Head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights described the incident as the deadliest Israeli attack.

Israel intensifies attack in Syria as their strike hits central Damascus

The disaster caused by the earthquake in Turkey and and Syria caused an estimated loss of up to one percent of the country's GDP as per the European bank for reconstruction and development. Turkey was already battling runaway inflation and relying on rich allies for funding to keep its economy afloat when a massive earthquake killed tens of thousands, raised entire cities and left millions needing urgent help.

Turkey-Syria Quake Aftermath: Economic loss estimated at one per cent of Turkey's GDP

The disaster caused by the earthquake in Turkey could cause an estimated loss of up to 1% of the country's GDP, as for the European Bank, the reconstruction and development.

Earthquake rattles Turkey's economy, economists predict stagnant growth

What happens when a nation at the brink of an economic collapse rushes to the rescue of others? We are talking about Pakistan sending ais to Turkey after deadly earthquakes hit the country. Islamabad dispatched relief supplies and rescue personnel to Turkey after the earthquake but... watch the video to know what happened next.

Pakistan sends Turkey's Flood-aid back to Turkey as Quake-aid, claims Scribe

The body of Ghana national player and former Newcastle midfielder Christian Atsu has been discovered in Turkey beneath the wreckage of the residence where he lived, according to local media.

Footballer Christian Atsu found dead under building where he lived in Turkey

Turkey and Syria are still reeling from the effects of the devastating earthquake that struck nearly two weeks ago. Rescue operations are still going on and humanitarian aid from around the world is pouring in.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Three people rescued alive after 12 days in Turkey

<p>Fifty-three people were killed on Friday (February 17) in central Syria in an ambush blamed on the Islamic State. According to state television, the victims were truffle hunting when they were killed "during an attack by the terrorists of IS to the southwest of the town of Al-Sokhna." The director of the Palmyra hospital Walid Audi said the victims included 46 civilians and seven soldiers. The dastardly attack comes at a time when Syria is grappling with the devastation of the massive earthquakes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to radio station Sham FM, Audi said the bodies had "been brought to the hospital after the ambush" that targeted dozens. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the attack was carried out by IS terrorists on motorcycles who opened fire on truffle hunters, news agency AFP reported early Saturday. The IS did not immediately claim responsibility for the ambush.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was the deadliest attack by the group&nbsp;since January 2022 when they stormed a prison in the Kurdish-controlled northeastern city of Hasakeh in a bid to free fellow members. The resulting fighting inside the city had killed 105 people, mostly civilians, as well as 268 terrorists.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-isis-leader-killed-four-us-troops-dog-wounded-after-helicopter-raid-in-syria-563245">Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Friday, American troops killed a senior IS leader in Syria. The leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed with the US Central Command saying that four military personnel were injured during the raid. The injured were being treated at an American medical facility in Iraq.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After losing their territory following a military onslaught backed by a US-led coalition in March 2019, the Islamic State remnants in Syria mostly retreated to hideouts in the desert. Since then, the group has used such hideouts to ambush Kurdish-led forces and Syrian government troops while continuing to mount attacks in neighbouring Iraq.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Fifty-three people were killed on Friday (February 17) in central Syria in an ambush blamed on the Islamic State. According to state television, the victims were truffle hunting when they were killed "during an attack by the terrorists of IS to the southwest of the town of Al-Sokhna.

Fifty-three people were killed on Friday (February 17) in central Syria in an ambush blamed on the Islamic State. According to state television, the victims were truffle hunting when they were killed "during an attack by the terrorists of IS to the southwest of the town of Al-Sokhna." The director of the Palmyra hospital Walid Audi said the victims included 46 civilians and seven soldiers. The dastardly attack comes at a time when Syria is grappling with the devastation of the massive earthquakes. Speaking to radio station Sham FM, Audi said the bodies had "been brought to the hospital after the ambush" that targeted dozens. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the attack was carried out by IS terrorists on motorcycles who opened fire on truffle hunters, news agency AFP reported early Saturday. The IS did not immediately claim responsibility for the ambush. This was the deadliest attack by the group since January 2022 when they stormed a prison in the Kurdish-controlled northeastern city of Hasakeh in a bid to free fellow members. The resulting fighting inside the city had killed 105 people, mostly civilians, as well as 268 terrorists. ALSO READ | Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military Meanwhile, on Friday, American troops killed a senior IS leader in Syria. The leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed with the US Central Command saying that four military personnel were injured during the raid. The injured were being treated at an American medical facility in Iraq. After losing their territory following a military onslaught backed by a US-led coalition in March 2019, the Islamic State remnants in Syria mostly retreated to hideouts in the desert. Since then, the group has used such hideouts to ambush Kurdish-led forces and Syrian government troops while continuing to mount attacks in neighbouring Iraq. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Syria: 53 killed in ambush blamed on Islamic State terrorists, say reports

<p>The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US&nbsp;servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region. “Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added. While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty. This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria. Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military

Why is the world ignoring Syrian quake survivors? While aid poured in for Turkey in the days following the monster quakes, victims in Syria were left to fend for themselves. What explains this discrimination? Listen in to @VikramChandra

This World | Why is the world ignoring Syrian quake survivors?

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