Russia on Friday made an appeal to Turkiye not to "destabilise" Syria with military attacks in days leading up to meet between Russia President Vladimir Putin and and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"Turkiye has legitimate concerns for security reasons, which we, of course, take into account," said Dmitry Peskov as he addressed reporters.

"It is very important not to allow any action that could lead to destabilisation of the situation in Syria, or that could jeopardize the territorial and political integrity of Syria," he added.

The meeting between Putin and Erdogan will take place in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi on Friday (August 5). Pescov said Syria will be on the agenda of the talks.

Turkiye has been threatening for months that it would launch an operation against Kurdish fighters in Syria.

At a summit in Teheran last month, Putin expressed Russia's opposition to Erdogan's planned offensive.&nbsp;

Russia and Turkey are two major international players in Syria, a country torn apart by war since 2011, in which Moscow backed Damascus and Ankara the opposition groups.&nbsp;

During their meeting on Friday, the two leaders will also discuss Ukraine, where Moscow has been conducting what it calls a special military operation since February.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia on Friday made an appeal to Turkiye not to "destabilise" Syria with military attacks in days leading up to meet between Russia President Vladimir Putin and and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Russia on Friday made an appeal to Turkiye not to "destabilise" Syria with military attacks in days leading up to meet between Russia President Vladimir Putin and and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "Turkiye has legitimate concerns for security reasons, which we, of course, take into account," said Dmitry Peskov as he addressed reporters. "It is very important not to allow any action that could lead to destabilisation of the situation in Syria, or that could jeopardize the territorial and political integrity of Syria," he added. The meeting between Putin and Erdogan will take place in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi on Friday (August 5). Pescov said Syria will be on the agenda of the talks. Turkiye has been threatening for months that it would launch an operation against Kurdish fighters in Syria. At a summit in Teheran last month, Putin expressed Russia's opposition to Erdogan's planned offensive. Russia and Turkey are two major international players in Syria, a country torn apart by war since 2011, in which Moscow backed Damascus and Ankara the opposition groups. During their meeting on Friday, the two leaders will also discuss Ukraine, where Moscow has been conducting what it calls a special military operation since February. (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 ×

Russia appeals Turkiye to not 'destabilise' situation in Syria

In the central Syrian province of Hama, a church was being inaugurated when it was bombarded, resulting in two fatalities and 12 injuries, according to the official SANA news agency. In the village of Al-Suqaylabiyah, close to Hama, "A rocket fired by terrorist organisations targeted a religious gathering in the town of Al-Suqaylabiyah near Hama, killing two people and wounding 12," it was reported. According to SANA, the attack took place at the dedication of the Ayia Sofia church.&nbsp;

The strike was confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor with offices in Britain and a sizable network of sources on the ground. The Observatory reported one civilian fatality and multiple civilian injuries and said that adjacent rebel groups may have been responsible through artillery or a drone attack. Two days prior to the attack on Sunday, a bombardment in the rebel-held Idlib region claimed the lives of seven civilians, including four children. According to the Observatory, Russian airstrikes were to blame for Friday's fatalities in the Jisr al-Shughur area in northern Syria.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/ever-heard-about-bio-weapons-that-use-dna-to-kill-specific-person-they-are-reality-now-500285">Ever heard about bio-weapons that use DNA to kill specific person? They are reality now</a>

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the former branch of Al-Qaeda in Syria, currently controls over half of the province of Idlib as well as areas of the provinces of Aleppo, Hama, and Latakia. With varying degrees of Turkish support, several rebel factions in the final stronghold of armed opposition to the Damascus regime are still operating. A ceasefire in Idlib and surrounding areas that Russia and Turkey mediated in March 2020 is still in effect despite irregular attacks from both sides, including Russian airstrikes. Nearly 500,000 people have died and nearly half of Syria's pre-war population has been driven from their homes as a result of the country's war, which started in 2011.

(with inputs from agencies)

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In the central Syrian province of Hama, a church was being inaugurated when it was bombarded, resulting in two fatalities and 12 injuries, according to the official SANA news agency.

In the central Syrian province of Hama, a church was being inaugurated when it was bombarded, resulting in two fatalities and 12 injuries, according to the official SANA news agency. In the village of Al-Suqaylabiyah, close to Hama, "A rocket fired by terrorist organisations targeted a religious gathering in the town of Al-Suqaylabiyah near Hama, killing two people and wounding 12," it was reported. According to SANA, the attack took place at the dedication of the Ayia Sofia church. The strike was confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor with offices in Britain and a sizable network of sources on the ground. The Observatory reported one civilian fatality and multiple civilian injuries and said that adjacent rebel groups may have been responsible through artillery or a drone attack. Two days prior to the attack on Sunday, a bombardment in the rebel-held Idlib region claimed the lives of seven civilians, including four children. According to the Observatory, Russian airstrikes were to blame for Friday's fatalities in the Jisr al-Shughur area in northern Syria. Also Read: Ever heard about bio-weapons that use DNA to kill specific person? They are reality now Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the former branch of Al-Qaeda in Syria, currently controls over half of the province of Idlib as well as areas of the provinces of Aleppo, Hama, and Latakia. With varying degrees of Turkish support, several rebel factions in the final stronghold of armed opposition to the Damascus regime are still operating. A ceasefire in Idlib and surrounding areas that Russia and Turkey mediated in March 2020 is still in effect despite irregular attacks from both sides, including Russian airstrikes. Nearly 500,000 people have died and nearly half of Syria's pre-war population has been driven from their homes as a result of the country's war, which started in 2011. (with inputs from agencies)

Two days after Idlib attack, Syrian church bombardment kills two

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Iran where he will hold talks on war in Ukrainian, future of Syria and 2015 Nuclear deal with his Turkish and Iranian counterparts.

Russian President Putin arrives in Iran to discuss war in Ukraine, 2015 Nuclear deal

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi is due to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran on Tuesday (July 19). The meeting of the three leaders has a shadow of Russian invasion of Ukraine over it. The three-way summit is first hosted by Iran's president since he took office ion 2021. As for Putin, this is his second trip abroad since invasion of Ukraine.

The three leaders are meeting on the heels of US President Joe Biden's Middle East visit during which he visited Israel and Saudi Arabia, both regional foes of Iran.

But the trilateral summit is ostensibly centred on Syria, as part of the so-called Astana peace process to end more than 11 years of conflict in the Arab country.

Iran, Turkey and Russia are involved in Syria conflict. Iran and Russia are supporting President Bashar al-Assad's regime while Turkey backs the rebel forces which are fighting against the regime.

Last year, Erdogan threatened to launch a new offensive in Syria against Kurdish militants. Iran has already warned that any Turkish military action in Syria could "destabilise the region".

This is Erdogan's first meeting with Putin since the start of conflict in Ukraine. Erdogan has for months offered to meet Putin in order to help resolve tensions over Ukraine war.

Turkey has launched waves of attacks on Syria since 2016, targeting Kurdish militias as well as Islamic State group jihadists and forces loyal to Assad.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran President Ebrahim Raisi is due to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran on Tuesday (July 19). The meeting of the three leaders has a shadow of Russian invasion of Ukraine over it.

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi is due to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran on Tuesday (July 19). The meeting of the three leaders has a shadow of Russian invasion of Ukraine over it. The three-way summit is first hosted by Iran's president since he took office ion 2021. As for Putin, this is his second trip abroad since invasion of Ukraine. The three leaders are meeting on the heels of US President Joe Biden's Middle East visit during which he visited Israel and Saudi Arabia, both regional foes of Iran. But the trilateral summit is ostensibly centred on Syria, as part of the so-called Astana peace process to end more than 11 years of conflict in the Arab country. Iran, Turkey and Russia are involved in Syria conflict. Iran and Russia are supporting President Bashar al-Assad's regime while Turkey backs the rebel forces which are fighting against the regime. Last year, Erdogan threatened to launch a new offensive in Syria against Kurdish militants. Iran has already warned that any Turkish military action in Syria could "destabilise the region". This is Erdogan's first meeting with Putin since the start of conflict in Ukraine. Erdogan has for months offered to meet Putin in order to help resolve tensions over Ukraine war. Turkey has launched waves of attacks on Syria since 2016, targeting Kurdish militias as well as Islamic State group jihadists and forces loyal to Assad. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran-Russia-Turkiye to soon go in huddle in Tehran today

As diplomats battled to reach an agreement with Russia, which had traded jabs with the US over the renewal of the aid operation, a UN Security Council (UNSC) mandate for relief aid to nearly 4 million people in Syria through Turkey expired on Sunday (July 9). In&nbsp;conversation with Canada’s CBC television, Martin Griffiths, UN aid chief, said that "people will die" if this operation cannot be continued. The 15-member council had to pass a fresh resolution in January to extend it for another six months, but Russia on Friday (July 7) vetoed a one year extension and then failed in its own attempt to secure a six-month renewal, reported by Reuters.

However, as per the US, France and Britain, a six-month extension is insufficient for aid groups to make a plan and carry it further.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-first-country-other-than-russia-to-recognise-ukraine-separatist-republics-of-donetsk-and-lugansk-493080">Syria first country other than Russia to recognise Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk</a>

Russia, on the other hand, claims that the UN aid mission breaches Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. There are concerns amongst the opposition that more help should be distributed domestically and that this will lead to being under the government’s control.

Watch |&nbsp;Iran seeks to resolve Syria-Turkiye tension

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Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the United Nations, spoke to the groups who informed her that without the UN’s effort, nearly 70 per cent of the world’s food needs would not be met. Linda tweeted, saying attempts are being made to reach a deal with the UNSC.

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Today, I spoke with humanitarian NGOs working to deliver cross-border aid inside Idlib. They told me about the millions of Syrians who will not eat if the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> cross-border mechanism is not renewed. The UNSC decision will be a choice between life and death. All eyes are on NY.
— Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield (@USAmbUN) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbUN/status/1546200624219439111?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In response to Linda’s tweet, Russia’s Deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy tweeted saying that Russia only wants to improve the UN operation’s effectiveness and transparency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-behind-turkeys-syria-incursion-threats-485142">What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats?</a>

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There’s no need to fight and you know it perfectly well! Both drafts foresaw 6+6 extension of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBM</a>.Implying that Russia tried to kill CBM is going against the truth:we just insist on making humanitarian assistance to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Syria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Syria</a> more efficient and transparent. Are you with us on that? <a href="https://t.co/2FklqXoLoX">https://t.co/2FklqXoLoX</a>
— Dmitry Polyanskiy (@Dpol_un) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dpol_un/status/1546221009119895554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The council’s decision on the aid operation authorisation has always been divisive, but this year’s vote coincides with the intensified hostilities between due to Russian invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As diplomats battled to reach an agreement with Russia, which had traded jabs with the US over the renewal of the aid operation, a UN Security Council (UNSC) mandate for relief aid to nearly 4 million people in Syria through Turkey expired on Sunday (July 9).

As diplomats battled to reach an agreement with Russia, which had traded jabs with the US over the renewal of the aid operation, a UN Security Council (UNSC) mandate for relief aid to nearly 4 million people in Syria through Turkey expired on Sunday (July 9). In conversation with Canada’s CBC television, Martin Griffiths, UN aid chief, said that "people will die" if this operation cannot be continued. The 15-member council had to pass a fresh resolution in January to extend it for another six months, but Russia on Friday (July 7) vetoed a one year extension and then failed in its own attempt to secure a six-month renewal, reported by Reuters. However, as per the US, France and Britain, a six-month extension is insufficient for aid groups to make a plan and carry it further. Also read | Syria first country other than Russia to recognise Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk Russia, on the other hand, claims that the UN aid mission breaches Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. There are concerns amongst the opposition that more help should be distributed domestically and that this will lead to being under the government’s control. Watch | Iran seeks to resolve Syria-Turkiye tension Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the United Nations, spoke to the groups who informed her that without the UN’s effort, nearly 70 per cent of the world’s food needs would not be met. Linda tweeted, saying attempts are being made to reach a deal with the UNSC. Today, I spoke with humanitarian NGOs working to deliver cross-border aid inside Idlib. They told me about the millions of Syrians who will not eat if the @UN cross-border mechanism is not renewed. The UNSC decision will be a choice between life and death. All eyes are on NY. — Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield (@USAmbUN) July 10, 2022 × In response to Linda’s tweet, Russia’s Deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy tweeted saying that Russia only wants to improve the UN operation’s effectiveness and transparency. Also read | What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats? There’s no need to fight and you know it perfectly well! Both drafts foresaw 6+6 extension of #CBM.Implying that Russia tried to kill CBM is going against the truth:we just insist on making humanitarian assistance to #Syria more efficient and transparent. Are you with us on that? https://t.co/2FklqXoLoX — Dmitry Polyanskiy (@Dpol_un) July 10, 2022 × The council’s decision on the aid operation authorisation has always been divisive, but this year’s vote coincides with the intensified hostilities between due to Russian invasion. (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.

UNSC fails to reach aid deal for nearly 4 million people in Syria as mandate expires

In pics: Muslims devotees around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha

Russia decided to veto a United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution to extend aid to northern Syria without the backing of Damascus. The aid is crucial for roughly 2.4 million people who live in the Idlib region of Syria under rebel control and the permission for aid supply across the Syria-Turkey border at Bab al-Hawa is set to expire on Sunday. While thirteen out of the 15 members voted in favour of the resolution, Russia suggested a six-month extension with the option of adding another six months. China did not express their stance and decided to abstain from the voting on Friday.

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While the deadline is almost coming to an end, experts believe that the nations can still find a middle ground. One option for the other countries is to agree with Russia’s proposal but most of them believe that it can create major organisational challenges for NGOs on the front line.

“We need to reach a solution in the immediate term, a solution which renews the mandate for cross-border aid. There is simply no time to waste. The Syrian people are counting on us,” Ireland’s UN representative Geraldine Byrne Nason said after the vote according to CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-uk-embassies-in-moscow-get-new-addresses-named-after-ukraine-separatists-495704" hreflang="en">US and UK embassies in Moscow get new addresses named after Ukraine separatists</a>

The US envoy - Linda Thomas-Greenfield – also criticised Russia’s stance in the issue.

“It is unfathomable that one security council member, Russia, put their own political interests above the humanitarian needs of the Syrian people,” she said.

Russia has been an ally to the Syrian government and the decision is being considered to be an attempt to bring the aids under the overview of Damascus.

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Russia decided to veto a United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution to extend aid to northern Syria without the backing of Damascus. The aid is crucial for roughly 2.

Russia decided to veto a United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution to extend aid to northern Syria without the backing of Damascus. The aid is crucial for roughly 2.4 million people who live in the Idlib region of Syria under rebel control and the permission for aid supply across the Syria-Turkey border at Bab al-Hawa is set to expire on Sunday. While thirteen out of the 15 members voted in favour of the resolution, Russia suggested a six-month extension with the option of adding another six months. China did not express their stance and decided to abstain from the voting on Friday. Also read | Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats While the deadline is almost coming to an end, experts believe that the nations can still find a middle ground. One option for the other countries is to agree with Russia’s proposal but most of them believe that it can create major organisational challenges for NGOs on the front line. “We need to reach a solution in the immediate term, a solution which renews the mandate for cross-border aid. There is simply no time to waste. The Syrian people are counting on us,” Ireland’s UN representative Geraldine Byrne Nason said after the vote according to CNN. Also read | US and UK embassies in Moscow get new addresses named after Ukraine separatists The US envoy - Linda Thomas-Greenfield – also criticised Russia’s stance in the issue. “It is unfathomable that one security council member, Russia, put their own political interests above the humanitarian needs of the Syrian people,” she said. Russia has been an ally to the Syrian government and the decision is being considered to be an attempt to bring the aids under the overview of Damascus. 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.

Russia vetoes United Nations resolution extending cross-border aid to Syria

Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian stated on Saturday (July 2) during a visit to Damascus that Iran is working toward a political solution to prevent Turkey from invading northern Syria.

Iran plans to offer a political solution to ease Syria Turkey tension

Iran is seeking to resolve the ongoing tension between Syria and Turkiye. Syria has welcomed the intervention by Iran. Iran said that it is ready to offer a political solution.

Iran seeks to resolve Syria-Turkiye tension

As Ankara ramps up measures to launch a new military operation in Northern Syria, Turkiye president Erdogan has now said that the military offensive could start any moment and that the government is waiting for the right time to launch the attack.

Turkiye all set to attack Syria's border area, aims to expand security zone

Senior Al-Qaeda-linked terrorist was killed in a US led drone strike in Syria's Idlib province in the early hours of Tuesday. Syrian opposition activists and the US military have both confirmed the death

U.S drone strike kills Al Yemeni in Syria

Syria recognised the independence of eastern Ukraine's two separatist republics on Wednesday, making it the first state other than Russia to do so, as reported by AFP. The breakaway states of Donetsk and Lugansk, whose independence Moscow recognised in February, are situated in the Donbas region at the centre of Russia's invasion and have escaped Kyiv's control since 2014. 
&nbsp; 
"The Syrian Arab Republic has decided to recognise the independence and sovereignty of both the Lugansk People's Republic and the Donetsk People's Republic," a source at Syria's foreign ministry told the official SANA news agency. 
&nbsp; 
"We will communicate with both countries to agree on frameworks for strengthening relations, including establishing diplomatic relations in accordance with established rules," the source said, as reported by AFP.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-russia-ukraine-prisoner-swap-144-ukrainian-soldiers-freed-493067">Massive Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, 144 Ukrainian soldiers freed 
&nbsp;</a> 
Earlier this month, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met with a Russian delegation and representatives of the Donetsk republic. During the meeting, he said Damascus was ready to start political relations with Donetsk. 
&nbsp; 
This is not the first time that the Syrian government, which since 2015 has been heavily backed by Russia in its own civil war, has supported Moscow's recognition of breakaway states. In 2018, Syria recognised South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent from the former Soviet state of Georgia, prompting Tbilisi to cut diplomatic ties. 
&nbsp; 
Abkhazia and South Ossetia are internationally recognised as part of Georgia, which gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, but Russia and a handful of other countries recognise their independence. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Syria recognised the independence of eastern Ukraine's two separatist republics on Wednesday, making it the first state other than Russia to do so, as reported by AFP.

Syria recognised the independence of eastern Ukraine's two separatist republics on Wednesday, making it the first state other than Russia to do so, as reported by AFP. The breakaway states of Donetsk and Lugansk, whose independence Moscow recognised in February, are situated in the Donbas region at the centre of Russia's invasion and have escaped Kyiv's control since 2014. "The Syrian Arab Republic has decided to recognise the independence and sovereignty of both the Lugansk People's Republic and the Donetsk People's Republic," a source at Syria's foreign ministry told the official SANA news agency. "We will communicate with both countries to agree on frameworks for strengthening relations, including establishing diplomatic relations in accordance with established rules," the source said, as reported by AFP. Also Read: Massive Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, 144 Ukrainian soldiers freed Earlier this month, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met with a Russian delegation and representatives of the Donetsk republic. During the meeting, he said Damascus was ready to start political relations with Donetsk. This is not the first time that the Syrian government, which since 2015 has been heavily backed by Russia in its own civil war, has supported Moscow's recognition of breakaway states. In 2018, Syria recognised South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent from the former Soviet state of Georgia, prompting Tbilisi to cut diplomatic ties. Abkhazia and South Ossetia are internationally recognised as part of Georgia, which gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, but Russia and a handful of other countries recognise their independence. (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 first country other than Russia to recognise Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk

Tourists are returning to Syria, an ancient lakeside fortress has become a tourist hotspot. This was once an Islamic state hideout in the country.

Syrian landmarks witness rising number of tourists

Syria halted flights at Damascus International Airport until further notice after Israeli air strikes damaged the runway and a terminal. Repairs have begun at the airport in Syria's capital.

Syria halts flights at Damascus airport after Israeli attack

A couple of hours after Israeli air strikes hit south of Damascus, Syria halted flights from&nbsp;Damascus International Airport, as reported by Reuters, quoting the transport ministry.

On Friday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claimed that the Israeli bombing had damaged the runway, which initially targeted the "warehouses of Iranian militias" near the airport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-unsc-informal-meet-india-expresses-concern-over-turkish-actions-in-northern-syria-484867">At UNSC informal meet, India expresses concern over Turkish actions in northern Syria</a>

An Israeli military spokesperson later declined the comment.

The statement released by the transport ministry did not associate with the Israeli attack; however, it cited technical reasons regarding the airport's shut down.

Watch |&nbsp;After Russia-Syria air strike simulation drills, Turkey gears up for offensive

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A Syrian military official told the state news agency that although the air defences of Syria obstructed the Israeli missiles, downing most of them, the early morning attack resulted in one civilian injury and some material damage as well.

Reuters quoted Cham Wings Airline, a private Syrian carrier that claimed that it was rerouting all its flights to Aleppo International Airport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-backed-force-in-syria-warn-against-turkish-plans-for-new-attack-484567">US-backed force in Syria warns against Turkish plans of new attack</a>

Israel, for several years, has been attacking what it refers to as &nbsp;Iranian-linked targets in Syria, where the Tehran-backed forces, including Lebanon's Hezbollah, have been stationed to help President Bashar al-Assad.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A couple of hours after Israeli air strikes hit south of Damascus, Syria halted flights from Damascus International Airport, as reported by Reuters, quoting the transport ministry.

A couple of hours after Israeli air strikes hit south of Damascus, Syria halted flights from Damascus International Airport, as reported by Reuters, quoting the transport ministry. On Friday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claimed that the Israeli bombing had damaged the runway, which initially targeted the "warehouses of Iranian militias" near the airport. Also read | At UNSC informal meet, India expresses concern over Turkish actions in northern Syria An Israeli military spokesperson later declined the comment. The statement released by the transport ministry did not associate with the Israeli attack; however, it cited technical reasons regarding the airport's shut down. Watch | After Russia-Syria air strike simulation drills, Turkey gears up for offensive A Syrian military official told the state news agency that although the air defences of Syria obstructed the Israeli missiles, downing most of them, the early morning attack resulted in one civilian injury and some material damage as well. Reuters quoted Cham Wings Airline, a private Syrian carrier that claimed that it was rerouting all its flights to Aleppo International Airport. Also read | US-backed force in Syria warns against Turkish plans of new attack Israel, for several years, has been attacking what it refers to as Iranian-linked targets in Syria, where the Tehran-backed forces, including Lebanon's Hezbollah, have been stationed to help President Bashar al-Assad. (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 halts flights to Damascus, hours after Israeli attack

Turkey is planning to launch an offensive in Northern Syria, this at a time when Russian and Syrian air forces hold giant air strike simulation drills across the country.

After Russia-Syria air strike simulation drills, Turkey gears up for offensive

Turkish defense ministers warned Russian counterpart that Turkiye would respond to moves aimed at disrupting stability in Northern Syria. This came after Russia and Syrian air forces held joint air strike simulation drills across Syria.

Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar warns Sergei Shoigu of Russia

What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats?

While Ankara is advancing its Syrian motive, Russia has warned Turkiye against Syrian offensive. Russia's foreign affairs ministry said we hope that Ankara will refrain from actions that could dangerously deteriorate the already difficult situation in Syria.

Ankara renews military offensive threats; Russia warns Turkiye against Syrian offensive

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is planning a military incursion into Syria to drive back Kurdish fighters. Both Russia and the US have warned Erdogan against destabilising Syria. Will Turkey's military plans drag NATO and Russia into a new conflict? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you.

Gravitas: Is Turkey planning to invade Syria?

Ankara is advancing its Syrian motive as Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said we will clean 2 North Syrian cities of terrorists.

Erdogan renews threats of military offensive in Syria

At an informal United Nations Security Council meet on Syria, India expressed concerns over Turkish actions destabilizing the situation in the northern part of the country.

Without taking names, Indian diplomat to UN Pratik Mathur said, "threats of launching “military operations” by external actors in the territory of Syria&nbsp;have further worsened the situation."&nbsp;

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has said that his country is launching military operations in northern Syrian areas of Tal Rifaat, Manbij. Interestingly both Russia&nbsp;and US have opposed the Turkish action and believe that it will create instability in the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cant-finger-point-india-says-german-envoy-lindner-on-russian-oil-import-484859">Also Read:&nbsp;Can't 'finger point' India, says German Envoy Lindner on Russian oil import</a>

Mathur highlighted, "hostilities, including airstrikes and shelling in north-west Syria, continue to affect civilians, including women and children, and we remain gravely concerned with an increase in airstrikes in north-west Syria at the end of April."

The Indian diplomat was speaking at the Arria formula meeting mechanism of the UNSC on Syria. The meet was organized by the US, Albania, UK with additional co-sponsors Belgium, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Qatar and Turkey and in partnership with the Syrian Negotiations Commission (SNC).

The Arria formula is a mechanism under which informal meetings on any issue are&nbsp;organized without going through the process followed at the high table and even experts can be invited to speak. &nbsp;The meet was first organized by Venezuelan diplomat Ambassador Diego Arria in 1992 and gets its name from him.

Pratik Mathur on the UN's involvement in&nbsp;the situation in the country said, "We hope that UN-facilitated political track will gain the much-needed momentum. We also welcome the agreement over holding the next round of meeting in end of July."

The Syrian crisis is among the worst humanitarian crisis the world is dealing with and more than 14 million people across the country now need humanitarian assistance.

Pratik Mathur&nbsp;reaffirmed India's&nbsp;"commitment to advancing a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned UN-facilitated political process in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254' and that New Delhi "firmly believes that long-term security and stability of the region can only be achieved by preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria."

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At an informal United Nations Security Council meet on Syria, India expressed concerns over Turkish actions destabilizing the situation in the northern part of the country.

At an informal United Nations Security Council meet on Syria, India expressed concerns over Turkish actions destabilizing the situation in the northern part of the country. Without taking names, Indian diplomat to UN Pratik Mathur said, "threats of launching “military operations” by external actors in the territory of Syria have further worsened the situation." Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has said that his country is launching military operations in northern Syrian areas of Tal Rifaat, Manbij. Interestingly both Russia and US have opposed the Turkish action and believe that it will create instability in the region. Also Read: Can't 'finger point' India, says German Envoy Lindner on Russian oil import Mathur highlighted, "hostilities, including airstrikes and shelling in north-west Syria, continue to affect civilians, including women and children, and we remain gravely concerned with an increase in airstrikes in north-west Syria at the end of April." The Indian diplomat was speaking at the Arria formula meeting mechanism of the UNSC on Syria. The meet was organized by the US, Albania, UK with additional co-sponsors Belgium, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Qatar and Turkey and in partnership with the Syrian Negotiations Commission (SNC). The Arria formula is a mechanism under which informal meetings on any issue are organized without going through the process followed at the high table and even experts can be invited to speak. The meet was first organized by Venezuelan diplomat Ambassador Diego Arria in 1992 and gets its name from him. Pratik Mathur on the UN's involvement in the situation in the country said, "We hope that UN-facilitated political track will gain the much-needed momentum. We also welcome the agreement over holding the next round of meeting in end of July." The Syrian crisis is among the worst humanitarian crisis the world is dealing with and more than 14 million people across the country now need humanitarian assistance. Pratik Mathur reaffirmed India's "commitment to advancing a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned UN-facilitated political process in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254' and that New Delhi "firmly believes that long-term security and stability of the region can only be achieved by preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria." 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.

At UNSC informal meet, India expresses concern over Turkish actions in northern Syria

Russia urged Turkey not to launch an offensive in northern Syria after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan renewed threats of a military campaign targeting Kurdish terrorists.

Russia urges Turkey not to launch military action in Syria

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

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

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

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