Turkey pounded Kurdish militia in northeast Syria for a second day on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee and killing at least dozens of people in a cross-border assault on U.S. allies that has turned the Washington establishment against President Donald Trump.

Turkey Invades Syria and attacks Kurds

For the second time in two years, Jihan and her family had to pack their bags and abandon their home in northern Syria because of a Turkish invasion.

As she picked her way through the belongings other <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-60000-displaced-by-turkey-assault-on-syria-monitor-255034">displaced families </a>had strewn across the schoolyard, the 47-year-old mother felt a mix of anger and wary deja vu.

"We don't know where to go," she said, moments after reaching the school in the city Hasakeh which the autonomous Kurdish administration turned into a shelter.

According to the United Nations, 70,000 people have had to flee their homes since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-invades-syria-and-attacks-kurds-255086">Turkey launched a cross-border offensive </a>on Kurdish-controlled areas on Wednesday.

It is the third time since the start of the Syria conflict in 2011 that Turkey has invaded northern Syria.

The last time was in early 2018, when Turkish forces and their Syrian proxies seized the Kurdish-majority area of Afrin, causing another major wave of displacement.

Jihan and her family fled her native Afrin then and settled in Kobane, another mostly Kurdish border town that suffered major destruction earlier in the war.

On Thursday, she had to flee again and join the flock of civilians who have streaming to Hasakeh, an eastern city that has not been targeted by Turkey so far.

"What does Erdogan want from us?," she raged, referring to the Turkish president. "Is it all simply because we are Kurds?"

She and most other displaced Kurds have been unable to return to Afrin, where mostly Sunni Arab former rebels loyal to Ankara have settled.

Some of the same former rebels, who were defeated by regime forces and cannot return to their own native regions in Syria, are now supporting Turkey's latest operation.

History is repeating itself in many ways: Turkey launched its attack on Afrin last year after Russian forces quit positions in the area.

This week, Ankara and its proxies launched their offensive two days after US forces pulled back from the border, leaving their Kurdish allies in the lurch.

"In Afrin, Russia sold us out. Today, America is selling us out," is how Jihan summed it up.

In the schoolyard in Hasakeh, the displaced children play on a rusty old swing while their parents start unpacking their bags and feed the youngest.

Most of the displaced are from the largest towns on the border, including Kobane, Tal Abyad and Ras al-Ain.

"Following the emergency... people went to Tall Tamr, Hasakeh, and surrounding villages. We have requisitioned three schools to house the people," said Majida Amin, a local official in charge of displaced people.

She said that the number of people who were given shelter in the first school was 220 and increasing with every hour.

Amin said that little help was available from local aid groups and called on the international community to step up and organise the emergency humanitarian response.

She explained that most of the people who fled their homes try to move in with relatives who live in safer areas before coming to the newly opened shelters.

Since Turkish jets and artillery started raining bombs and shells, families can be seen heading away from the border, some of them walking down roads with bags and bundles on their backs.

Others like Ibrahim Fares and his family were able to squeeze in a car to leave Ras al-Ain, one of the towns hardest hit.

"Now we don't know where to go and where we will sleep," the 28-year-old said.

For the second time in two years, Jihan and her family had to pack their bags and abandon their home in northern Syria because of a Turkish invasion. As she picked her way through the belongings other displaced families had strewn across the schoolyard, the 47-year-old mother felt a mix of anger and wary deja vu.

For the second time in two years, Jihan and her family had to pack their bags and abandon their home in northern Syria because of a Turkish invasion. As she picked her way through the belongings other displaced families had strewn across the schoolyard, the 47-year-old mother felt a mix of anger and wary deja vu. "We don't know where to go," she said, moments after reaching the school in the city Hasakeh which the autonomous Kurdish administration turned into a shelter. According to the United Nations, 70,000 people have had to flee their homes since Turkey launched a cross-border offensive on Kurdish-controlled areas on Wednesday. It is the third time since the start of the Syria conflict in 2011 that Turkey has invaded northern Syria. The last time was in early 2018, when Turkish forces and their Syrian proxies seized the Kurdish-majority area of Afrin, causing another major wave of displacement. Jihan and her family fled her native Afrin then and settled in Kobane, another mostly Kurdish border town that suffered major destruction earlier in the war. On Thursday, she had to flee again and join the flock of civilians who have streaming to Hasakeh, an eastern city that has not been targeted by Turkey so far. "What does Erdogan want from us?," she raged, referring to the Turkish president. "Is it all simply because we are Kurds?" She and most other displaced Kurds have been unable to return to Afrin, where mostly Sunni Arab former rebels loyal to Ankara have settled. Some of the same former rebels, who were defeated by regime forces and cannot return to their own native regions in Syria, are now supporting Turkey's latest operation. History is repeating itself in many ways: Turkey launched its attack on Afrin last year after Russian forces quit positions in the area. This week, Ankara and its proxies launched their offensive two days after US forces pulled back from the border, leaving their Kurdish allies in the lurch. "In Afrin, Russia sold us out. Today, America is selling us out," is how Jihan summed it up. In the schoolyard in Hasakeh, the displaced children play on a rusty old swing while their parents start unpacking their bags and feed the youngest. Most of the displaced are from the largest towns on the border, including Kobane, Tal Abyad and Ras al-Ain. "Following the emergency... people went to Tall Tamr, Hasakeh, and surrounding villages. We have requisitioned three schools to house the people," said Majida Amin, a local official in charge of displaced people. She said that the number of people who were given shelter in the first school was 220 and increasing with every hour. Amin said that little help was available from local aid groups and called on the international community to step up and organise the emergency humanitarian response. She explained that most of the people who fled their homes try to move in with relatives who live in safer areas before coming to the newly opened shelters. Since Turkish jets and artillery started raining bombs and shells, families can be seen heading away from the border, some of them walking down roads with bags and bundles on their backs. Others like Ibrahim Fares and his family were able to squeeze in a car to leave Ras al-Ain, one of the towns hardest hit. "Now we don't know where to go and where we will sleep," the 28-year-old said.

In Syria, history repeats itself for displaced Kurds

By James L Gelvin

Turkey’s attack on Kurdish-run territory in northern Syria will likely snuff out a radical experiment in self-government that is unlike anything I have seen in more than 30 years studying the Middle East.

In a surprise October 6 statement, President Donald Trump announced the US would withdraw its troops from northern Syria.

Approximately 1,000 American soldiers had been stationed in that region as a buffer separating Kurdish forces – who had been working with the Americans in the fight against the Islamic State – from Turkish troops. Turkey feared that the Syrian Kurds would link up with Turkey’s Kurdish minority who have demanded autonomy or independence.

On October 9, the Turkish military began its assault, pummeling Kurdish-held territory with artillery and airstrikes. Kurds are rapidly evacuating the region and at least 24 people have been killed in northern Syria. Retaliatory strikes from Syria have killed civilians in southern Turkey.

According to Turkish President Recep Erdogan, Turkey’s goal is to create a buffer zone separating Syria’s Kurds from the Turkish border.

But his country’s attack will do much more than that. If successful, it will destroy the most full-fledged democracy the Middle East has yet to see.

A different way to govern

The Kurds call their autonomous region in Syria “Rojava,” meaning “the land where the sunsets.”

Kurdish-led forces took possession of this swath of territory in northern and eastern Syria from direct Syrian government control in 2012. Then they successfully defended it against the Islamic State.

Kurdish Syria is a small portion of a territory, known as Kurdistan, that includes parts of Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran. Kurdistan is home to approximately 25-35 million Kurds, a cultural and ethnic minority in the Middle East.

The key to understanding the Rojava project, as those involved often refer to it, is the notion of “confederalism.” In this form of government, local units – in this case, Kurdistan’s “autonomous regions” – come together in a federation yet retain a great deal of autonomy.

Because sovereign power belongs to the local units and not to a central government, Kurdish confederalism differs from an American-style federal system.

The Kurds are so serious about devolving power to the local level that Rojava’s charter requires each of its three regions to have its own flag. And within each region, local elected councils are in charge. They organize garbage collection, adjudicate disputes and manage public health and safety.

Confederalism sets the Kurds apart from almost every other government in the Middle East.&nbsp;

Across the region, power is concentrated at the top. Syria’s president, Bashar al-Assad, is an authoritarian leader who has ruthlessly crushed his opponents in the country’s eight-year civil war. Egypt has a military government. Saudi Arabia has a king.

But Rojava would be an exceptional society almost anywhere.

Rojava’s charter guarantees freedom of expression and assembly and equality of all religious communities and languages. It mandates direct democracy, term limits and gender equality. Men and women share every position in government. Kurdish women have fought the Islamic State in Syria as soldiers in an all-female militia.

In a region where religion and politics are often intertwined, the Kurdish state is secular. Religious leaders cannot serve in politics. Rojava’s charter even affirms the right of all citizens to a healthy environment.

Surrounding countries, including Syria, also have constitutions with eloquent endorsements of political and human rights.

In Rojava, however, the constitution is actually in effect. Syrian Kurds have realized the dream of the 2010-2011 pro-democracy uprisings across the Arab world.

Rojava’s downsides

Internal cleavages in Syria’s Kurdish community undermine the Rojava project – namely, the perpetual jockeying for power between rival Kurdish clans and the struggle for preeminence among Turkish, Syrian and Iraqi Kurds.

The Kurds also have a troubled relationship with Syria’s Arabs and other groups. Beginning in the 1960s, the Syrian government began moving other populations to Kurdish territory to challenge Kurdish dominance there, sparking Kurdish resentment.

The devastation wrought by the Islamic State – such as the mass murder of the Yazidis, a religious minority within the Kurdish community, and sexual enslavement of their women – further fueled this resentment.

There have been numerous reports of Kurdish soldiers taking violent revenge against captured Islamic State members, alleged collaborators and even entire villages suspected of aiding the Islamic State enemy.

The Kurdish region of Syria also has some politically problematic origins.

The Syrian-Kurdish Democratic Union Party – Rojava’s leading political party – played an outsized role in the creation of Rojava. The party is affiliated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, a far-left militant group that has fought against the Turkish government, first for the independence of Kurds from Turkey in the 1980s and 1990s, then – in the early 2000s – for their autonomy within Turkish borders.

Many Kurds in Rojava consider PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan a national hero. It was Ocalan who came up with the idea of confederalism in the first place, back in 2005.

But both Turkey and the United States consider the PKK to be a terrorist organization. The PKK is currently conducting an insurgency against the Turkish government.

Danger ahead 
 
The Rojava project is now in imminent peril.

Even if Turkey hadn’t launched its military offensive, Rojava would probably still have a tenuous future.

The Syrian-Kurdish Democratic Union Party has refused to take sides in the Syrian civil war. Its vision, now realized, lay elsewhere.

Nevertheless, it is doubtful that the Syrian regime will reward Kurds for their relative impartiality during the civil war. Nor is it likely that the regime will reward them for limiting their goal to autonomy instead of independence.

The reason: Rojava sits atop Syria’s largest oil fields.

(James L Gelvin is Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History, University of California, Los Angeles)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/turkish-attack-on-syria-endangers-a-remarkable-democratic-experiment-by-the-kurds-125105">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;

By James L Gelvin Turkey’s attack on Kurdish-run territory in northern Syria will likely snuff out a radical experiment in self-government that is unlike anything I have seen in more than 30 years studying the Middle East.

By James L Gelvin Turkey’s attack on Kurdish-run territory in northern Syria will likely snuff out a radical experiment in self-government that is unlike anything I have seen in more than 30 years studying the Middle East. In a surprise October 6 statement, President Donald Trump announced the US would withdraw its troops from northern Syria. Approximately 1,000 American soldiers had been stationed in that region as a buffer separating Kurdish forces – who had been working with the Americans in the fight against the Islamic State – from Turkish troops. Turkey feared that the Syrian Kurds would link up with Turkey’s Kurdish minority who have demanded autonomy or independence. On October 9, the Turkish military began its assault, pummeling Kurdish-held territory with artillery and airstrikes. Kurds are rapidly evacuating the region and at least 24 people have been killed in northern Syria. Retaliatory strikes from Syria have killed civilians in southern Turkey. According to Turkish President Recep Erdogan, Turkey’s goal is to create a buffer zone separating Syria’s Kurds from the Turkish border. But his country’s attack will do much more than that. If successful, it will destroy the most full-fledged democracy the Middle East has yet to see. A different way to govern The Kurds call their autonomous region in Syria “Rojava,” meaning “the land where the sunsets.” Kurdish-led forces took possession of this swath of territory in northern and eastern Syria from direct Syrian government control in 2012. Then they successfully defended it against the Islamic State. Kurdish Syria is a small portion of a territory, known as Kurdistan, that includes parts of Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran. Kurdistan is home to approximately 25-35 million Kurds, a cultural and ethnic minority in the Middle East. The key to understanding the Rojava project, as those involved often refer to it, is the notion of “confederalism.” In this form of government, local units – in this case, Kurdistan’s “autonomous regions” – come together in a federation yet retain a great deal of autonomy. Because sovereign power belongs to the local units and not to a central government, Kurdish confederalism differs from an American-style federal system. The Kurds are so serious about devolving power to the local level that Rojava’s charter requires each of its three regions to have its own flag. And within each region, local elected councils are in charge. They organize garbage collection, adjudicate disputes and manage public health and safety. Confederalism sets the Kurds apart from almost every other government in the Middle East. Across the region, power is concentrated at the top. Syria’s president, Bashar al-Assad, is an authoritarian leader who has ruthlessly crushed his opponents in the country’s eight-year civil war. Egypt has a military government. Saudi Arabia has a king. But Rojava would be an exceptional society almost anywhere. Rojava’s charter guarantees freedom of expression and assembly and equality of all religious communities and languages. It mandates direct democracy, term limits and gender equality. Men and women share every position in government. Kurdish women have fought the Islamic State in Syria as soldiers in an all-female militia. In a region where religion and politics are often intertwined, the Kurdish state is secular. Religious leaders cannot serve in politics. Rojava’s charter even affirms the right of all citizens to a healthy environment. Surrounding countries, including Syria, also have constitutions with eloquent endorsements of political and human rights. In Rojava, however, the constitution is actually in effect. Syrian Kurds have realized the dream of the 2010-2011 pro-democracy uprisings across the Arab world. Rojava’s downsides Internal cleavages in Syria’s Kurdish community undermine the Rojava project – namely, the perpetual jockeying for power between rival Kurdish clans and the struggle for preeminence among Turkish, Syrian and Iraqi Kurds. The Kurds also have a troubled relationship with Syria’s Arabs and other groups. Beginning in the 1960s, the Syrian government began moving other populations to Kurdish territory to challenge Kurdish dominance there, sparking Kurdish resentment. The devastation wrought by the Islamic State – such as the mass murder of the Yazidis, a religious minority within the Kurdish community, and sexual enslavement of their women – further fueled this resentment. There have been numerous reports of Kurdish soldiers taking violent revenge against captured Islamic State members, alleged collaborators and even entire villages suspected of aiding the Islamic State enemy. The Kurdish region of Syria also has some politically problematic origins. The Syrian-Kurdish Democratic Union Party – Rojava’s leading political party – played an outsized role in the creation of Rojava. The party is affiliated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, a far-left militant group that has fought against the Turkish government, first for the independence of Kurds from Turkey in the 1980s and 1990s, then – in the early 2000s – for their autonomy within Turkish borders. Many Kurds in Rojava consider PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan a national hero. It was Ocalan who came up with the idea of confederalism in the first place, back in 2005. But both Turkey and the United States consider the PKK to be a terrorist organization. The PKK is currently conducting an insurgency against the Turkish government. Danger ahead The Rojava project is now in imminent peril. Even if Turkey hadn’t launched its military offensive, Rojava would probably still have a tenuous future. The Syrian-Kurdish Democratic Union Party has refused to take sides in the Syrian civil war. Its vision, now realized, lay elsewhere. Nevertheless, it is doubtful that the Syrian regime will reward Kurds for their relative impartiality during the civil war. Nor is it likely that the regime will reward them for limiting their goal to autonomy instead of independence. The reason: Rojava sits atop Syria’s largest oil fields. (James L Gelvin is Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History, University of California, Los Angeles) (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)

Turkish attack on Syria endangers a remarkable democratic experiment by the Kurds

Turkey's Invasion Of Syria & Trump's Decision To Allow It Has Sparked Global Criticism.

Gravitas: World condemns Turkey's move to invade Syria

Thousands Of Civilians Flee After Turkey's Strikes In North East Syria.

Gravitas: Turkey targets Kurds in Syria: Key implications

Turkey's Pounds Kurdish Forces In Turkey-Syria Border As Tensions Escalate.

Gravitas: Turkey's military offensive in Syria: Has the U.S. allowed a genocide?

Turkey pounded Kurdish militia in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-faces-us-sanctions-from-hell-after-syria-kurd-assault-255061">northeast Syria</a> for a second day on Thursday, forcing tens of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-60000-displaced-by-turkey-assault-on-syria-monitor-255034">thousands of people to flee </a>and killing dozens, in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-military-operation-in-syria-what-does-ankara-wants-255040">cross-border assault</a> on US allies that has turned the Washington establishment against Donald Trump.

The Turkish offensive against the US-allied Syrian Democratic Forces, launched days after Trump pulled US troops out of the way, opens one of the biggest new fronts in years in an eight-year-old civil war that has drawn in global powers.

At least 23 fighters with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and six fighters with a Turkish-backed Syrian rebel group had been killed, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors Syria's eight-year-old war.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-president-erdogan-speaks-on-syria-operation-254991/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The SDF said Turkish air strikes and shelling had also killed nine civilians. In an apparent attempt by Kurdish-led forces to retaliate, mortar fire from Syria killed three people including a child in the Turkish border town of Akcakale, hospital and security sources said.

The International Rescue Committee said 64,000 people in Syria have fled since the campaign began, the Observatory said. The towns of Ras al-Ain and Darbasiya, some 60 km (37 miles) to the east, have been largely deserted as a result of the attack.

The Observatory said Turkish forces had seized two villages near Ras al-Ain and five near the town of Tel Abyad.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan told members of his AK Party in Ankara that 109 militants had been killed so far. Kurds said they were resisting the assault.

According to a senior Turkish security official, the armed forces struck weapons and ammunition depots, gun and sniper positions, tunnels and military bases.

Jets flew operations up to 30 km (18 miles) into Syria. A Reuters journalist saw shells exploding just outside Tel Abyad.

"The operation is currently continuing with the involvement of all our units," Erdogan said in a speech.

Trump, who has faced rare criticism from senior figures in his own Republican Party who accuse him of deserting loyal U.S. allies, said on Twitter he was talking to "both sides". He warned Ankara it would be hit hard financially if it did not "play by the rules".

The SDF have been the main allies of US forces on the ground in the battle against Islamic State since 2014. They have been holding thousands of captured IS fighters and tens of thousands of their relatives in detention.

"SAFE ZONE"

NATO member Turkey has said it intends to create a "safe zone" for the return of millions of refugees to Syria.

But world powers fear the operation could intensify Syria's eight-year-old conflict, and runs the risk of Islamic State prisoners escaping from camps amid the chaos.

Erdogan sought to assuage those concerns, saying that militants from the jihadist group would not be allowed to rebuild a presence in the region.

Erdogan aimed at the European Union and Arab powers Saudi Arabia and Egypt which have voiced opposition to the operation.

"They are not honest, they just make up words," Erdogan said in a combative speech. "We, however, take action and that is the difference between us."

He threatened to permit Syrian refugees in Turkey to move to Europe if EU countries described his forces' move as an occupation. Turkey is hosting around 3.6 million people who have fled the conflict in Syria. 
Ankara brands the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia as terrorists because of their ties to militants who have waged an insurgency in Turkey. But many members of Congress, and US officials, credit the Kurds with fighting alongside American troops to defeat Islamic State militants.

"BAD IDEA"

The Kurdish-led authority in northern Syria said a prison that holds "the most dangerous criminals from more than 60 nationalities" had been struck by Turkish shelling, and Turkey's attacks on its prisons risked "a catastrophe".

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Turkey will be responsible only for Islamic State prisoners located within the safe zone it aims to form. Turkey would ask countries from which the prisoners came to take them back.

Trump has called the Turkish assault a "bad idea" and said he did not endorse it. He said he expected Turkey to protect civilians and religious minorities and prevent a humanitarian crisis.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, usually a vocal Trump ally, has been one of the most outspoken critics of his decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northeastern Syria. He unveiled a framework for sanctions on Turkey with Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen.

Their proposed sanctions would target the assets of senior officials including Erdogan, mandate sanctions over Turkey's purchase of a Russian S-400 missile defence system and impose visa restrictions.

They also would sanction anyone who conducted military transactions with Turkey or supported energy production for use by its armed forces, apart from U.S. military assistance. The measure would require a report on Erdogan's net worth and assets.

The United Nations Security Council was due to meet on Thursday to discuss Syria at the request of the five European members: Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Poland.

In a letter to the 15-member Council seen by Reuters, Turkey said its military operation would be "proportionate, measured and responsible". 
The 22-member Arab League said it would hold an emergency meeting on Saturday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Turkey's military incursion and cautioned about the possibility of ethnic cleansing.&nbsp; 
"Israel is prepared to extend humanitarian assistance to the gallant Kurdish people," he wrote on Twitter.

Russia said it planned to push for dialogue between the Syrian and Turkish governments following the incursion.

Turkey pounded Kurdish militia in northeast Syria for a second day on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee and killing dozens, in a cross-border assault on US allies that has turned the Washington establishment against Donald Trump.

Turkey pounded Kurdish militia in northeast Syria for a second day on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee and killing dozens, in a cross-border assault on US allies that has turned the Washington establishment against Donald Trump. The Turkish offensive against the US-allied Syrian Democratic Forces, launched days after Trump pulled US troops out of the way, opens one of the biggest new fronts in years in an eight-year-old civil war that has drawn in global powers. At least 23 fighters with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and six fighters with a Turkish-backed Syrian rebel group had been killed, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors Syria's eight-year-old war. Watch: The SDF said Turkish air strikes and shelling had also killed nine civilians. In an apparent attempt by Kurdish-led forces to retaliate, mortar fire from Syria killed three people including a child in the Turkish border town of Akcakale, hospital and security sources said. The International Rescue Committee said 64,000 people in Syria have fled since the campaign began, the Observatory said. The towns of Ras al-Ain and Darbasiya, some 60 km (37 miles) to the east, have been largely deserted as a result of the attack. The Observatory said Turkish forces had seized two villages near Ras al-Ain and five near the town of Tel Abyad. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan told members of his AK Party in Ankara that 109 militants had been killed so far. Kurds said they were resisting the assault. According to a senior Turkish security official, the armed forces struck weapons and ammunition depots, gun and sniper positions, tunnels and military bases. Jets flew operations up to 30 km (18 miles) into Syria. A Reuters journalist saw shells exploding just outside Tel Abyad. "The operation is currently continuing with the involvement of all our units," Erdogan said in a speech. Trump, who has faced rare criticism from senior figures in his own Republican Party who accuse him of deserting loyal U.S. allies, said on Twitter he was talking to "both sides". He warned Ankara it would be hit hard financially if it did not "play by the rules". The SDF have been the main allies of US forces on the ground in the battle against Islamic State since 2014. They have been holding thousands of captured IS fighters and tens of thousands of their relatives in detention. "SAFE ZONE" NATO member Turkey has said it intends to create a "safe zone" for the return of millions of refugees to Syria. But world powers fear the operation could intensify Syria's eight-year-old conflict, and runs the risk of Islamic State prisoners escaping from camps amid the chaos. Erdogan sought to assuage those concerns, saying that militants from the jihadist group would not be allowed to rebuild a presence in the region. Erdogan aimed at the European Union and Arab powers Saudi Arabia and Egypt which have voiced opposition to the operation. "They are not honest, they just make up words," Erdogan said in a combative speech. "We, however, take action and that is the difference between us." He threatened to permit Syrian refugees in Turkey to move to Europe if EU countries described his forces' move as an occupation. Turkey is hosting around 3.6 million people who have fled the conflict in Syria. Ankara brands the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia as terrorists because of their ties to militants who have waged an insurgency in Turkey. But many members of Congress, and US officials, credit the Kurds with fighting alongside American troops to defeat Islamic State militants. "BAD IDEA" The Kurdish-led authority in northern Syria said a prison that holds "the most dangerous criminals from more than 60 nationalities" had been struck by Turkish shelling, and Turkey's attacks on its prisons risked "a catastrophe". Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Turkey will be responsible only for Islamic State prisoners located within the safe zone it aims to form. Turkey would ask countries from which the prisoners came to take them back. Trump has called the Turkish assault a "bad idea" and said he did not endorse it. He said he expected Turkey to protect civilians and religious minorities and prevent a humanitarian crisis. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, usually a vocal Trump ally, has been one of the most outspoken critics of his decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northeastern Syria. He unveiled a framework for sanctions on Turkey with Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen. Their proposed sanctions would target the assets of senior officials including Erdogan, mandate sanctions over Turkey's purchase of a Russian S-400 missile defence system and impose visa restrictions. They also would sanction anyone who conducted military transactions with Turkey or supported energy production for use by its armed forces, apart from U.S. military assistance. The measure would require a report on Erdogan's net worth and assets. The United Nations Security Council was due to meet on Thursday to discuss Syria at the request of the five European members: Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Poland. In a letter to the 15-member Council seen by Reuters, Turkey said its military operation would be "proportionate, measured and responsible". The 22-member Arab League said it would hold an emergency meeting on Saturday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Turkey's military incursion and cautioned about the possibility of ethnic cleansing. "Israel is prepared to extend humanitarian assistance to the gallant Kurdish people," he wrote on Twitter. Russia said it planned to push for dialogue between the Syrian and Turkish governments following the incursion.

Thousands flee, dozens reported killed as Turkey pushes Syria assault

India has expressed its "deep concern" at the Turkish invasion of northern Syria, an area dominated by minority Kurds who Ankara blames for terrorism.

In a strong response by New Delhi, the ministry of external affairs said, the "unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria..undermine stability in the region and the fight against terrorism."

The west Asian country's action has the "potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress" and urged it to "exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria."It called on Ankara to peaceful settle "all issues through dialogue and discussion," the MEA added.

The Syrian Ambassador to India Riad Abbas speaking to WION has welcomed New Delhi's statement

The statement by New Delhi comes on the back of Turkey backing Pakistan on Kashmir with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan even raising Kashmir from the United Nations General Assembly in New York in Kashmir.

Turkey, along with Malaysia and China are the only three countries who have reacted negatively on New Delhi's decision to remove a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has welcomed the Turkish invasion of Syria.&nbsp;

Pakistan foreign office spokesperson said, "We appreciate Turkey’s positive role in finding a viable political solution to the conflict in Syria. We also acknowledge Turkey’s humanitarian efforts by graciously hosting over 3.5 million Syrian refugees. We recognize Turkey’s legitimate security concerns in the region. Like Pakistan, Turkey has also been a victim of terrorism."

"Pakistan has been and continues to support the territorial integrity of Syria and expresses the hope that a political solution to the Syrian conflict will be reached at the earliest, that takes into account concerns of all regional stakeholders and parties to the conflict," he added.

India has expressed its "deep concern" at the Turkish invasion of northern Syria, an area dominated by minority Kurds who Ankara blames for terrorism. In a strong response by New Delhi, the ministry of external affairs said, the "unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria.

India has expressed its "deep concern" at the Turkish invasion of northern Syria, an area dominated by minority Kurds who Ankara blames for terrorism. In a strong response by New Delhi, the ministry of external affairs said, the "unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria..undermine stability in the region and the fight against terrorism." The west Asian country's action has the "potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress" and urged it to "exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria."It called on Ankara to peaceful settle "all issues through dialogue and discussion," the MEA added. The Syrian Ambassador to India Riad Abbas speaking to WION has welcomed New Delhi's statement The statement by New Delhi comes on the back of Turkey backing Pakistan on Kashmir with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan even raising Kashmir from the United Nations General Assembly in New York in Kashmir. Turkey, along with Malaysia and China are the only three countries who have reacted negatively on New Delhi's decision to remove a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, Pakistan has welcomed the Turkish invasion of Syria. Pakistan foreign office spokesperson said, "We appreciate Turkey’s positive role in finding a viable political solution to the conflict in Syria. We also acknowledge Turkey’s humanitarian efforts by graciously hosting over 3.5 million Syrian refugees. We recognize Turkey’s legitimate security concerns in the region. Like Pakistan, Turkey has also been a victim of terrorism." "Pakistan has been and continues to support the territorial integrity of Syria and expresses the hope that a political solution to the Syrian conflict will be reached at the earliest, that takes into account concerns of all regional stakeholders and parties to the conflict," he added.

India expresses 'deep concern' over Turkish invasion of northern Syria; Pak lauds Ankara’s 'positive role'  

Turkey on Wednesday faced the threat of US "sanctions from hell" as its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-military-operation-in-syria-what-does-ankara-wants-255040">assault on Syrian Kurdish forces</a> set off a crisis with its NATO ally, although it might still be able to count on a sympathetic Donald Trump.

Turkey pounded Syria with jets and artillery and sent in troops three days after Trump told his counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan that he would <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-troops-to-withdraw-as-turkey-launches-syria-operation-white-house-254146">withdraw US troops</a> effectively serving as a buffer.

While Trump has long sought to extricate the United States from Syria's civil war, his decision triggered furious criticism from US lawmakers hoping to protect the Kurdish forces, who led the fight against the Islamic State group in the country.

A bipartisan group of senators introduced legislation that would freeze all US assets of Turkey's leadership, including Erdogan, and impose sanctions on entities that do business with Turkey's military until Ankara withdraws from Syria.

Lindsey Graham, a senior Republican senator who is usually a steadfast supporter of Trump, had warned Turkey of "sanctions from hell" if it went ahead with the invasion.

"Pray for our Kurdish allies who have been shamelessly abandoned by the Trump Administration. This move ensures the reemergence of ISIS," Graham wrote on Twitter, using an acronym for the Islamic State group.

Faced with harsh rebukes, the mogul-turned-president -- already under pressure in an impeachment inquiry -- has sent mixed messages and threatened at the White House Wednesday to "wipe out" Turkey's economy if Ankara's assault was not carried out "in as humane a way as possible."&nbsp;

"If (Erdogan) does it unfairly, he is going to pay a big economic price," Trump told reporters, adding that he'd "do far more than sanctions."

But he also distanced himself from Graham, saying that the hawkish senator "would like us to stay there for the next 200 years."

Democrats also roundly criticized Trump as abandoning allies, even though some agreed that US troops should leave.

"These sanctions will have immediate, far-reaching consequences for Erdogan and his military," said Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat who teamed up with Graham.

Trump signaled tentative support for sanctions but could veto the legislation if it is approved, setting up a showdown with Congress.

Erdogan invested in Trump

Gonul Tol, director of the Turkey program at the Middle East Institute in Washington, said that Erdogan was looking primarily at domestic considerations, especially after his party's humiliating loss in Istanbul local elections.

Erdogan links the Kurdish fighters, who head the Syrian Democratic Forces, to separatist militants at home and brands them as "terrorists" -- and is also hoping to send back some of the 3.6 million Syrian refugees in Turkey.

If Congress goes ahead with sanctions, "this will mean a new low in Turkish-American relations, and that's going to be bad news for Erdogan as well because the economy matters a lot to him," Tol said.

With Trump known to break diplomatic norms, Erdogan likely sees the US leader as similar to him, with his every word becoming policy, Tol added.

"He has invested so much in the relationship with President Trump and has complete faith in their chemistry," she said.

"Obviously that's not a wise decision because it completely disregards the role that Congress and other institutions play."

Even before entering office, Trump enjoyed ties to Erdogan, Turkey's paramount leader since 2003. In a 2012 encounter drawing fresh scrutiny, the real estate tycoon's daughter Ivanka thanked Erdogan for attending the opening of Trump Towers Istanbul.

Sympathetic Trump in past

Erdogan has seen that Trump can push back against congressional anger in the past.&nbsp;

Turkey has faced limited repercussions, and Trump voiced understanding, after the NATO ally defied the United States to buy Russia's S-400 air defense system.

But Trump last year imposed tariffs that threw the Turkish lira into a tailspin as he successfully sought the release of Andrew Brunson, a US pastor whose detention in the Muslim-majority country made him a cause celebre among Trump's evangelical Christian base.

"President Trump has proven that he does not want to alienate Erdogan. But when he feels threatened or pushed, he could act otherwise," Tol said.

Erdogan "understands that the US can inflict a lot of damage on the Turkish economy. He has seen that," she said.

Nicholas Danforth, an expert on US-Turkey relations at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, said Erdogan feels he has a "good deal of leeway" due to Trump's ambiguous threats and past hesitation at sanctions.

"But we've also seen Trump change course dramatically," Danforth said.

"If Erdogan somehow crosses whatever hard-to-fathom red line exists in Trump's head, sanctions could come suddenly," he added. 
&nbsp;

Turkey on Wednesday faced the threat of US "sanctions from hell" as its assault on Syrian Kurdish forces set off a crisis with its NATO ally, although it might still be able to count on a sympathetic Donald Trump.

Turkey on Wednesday faced the threat of US "sanctions from hell" as its assault on Syrian Kurdish forces set off a crisis with its NATO ally, although it might still be able to count on a sympathetic Donald Trump. Turkey pounded Syria with jets and artillery and sent in troops three days after Trump told his counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan that he would withdraw US troops effectively serving as a buffer. While Trump has long sought to extricate the United States from Syria's civil war, his decision triggered furious criticism from US lawmakers hoping to protect the Kurdish forces, who led the fight against the Islamic State group in the country. A bipartisan group of senators introduced legislation that would freeze all US assets of Turkey's leadership, including Erdogan, and impose sanctions on entities that do business with Turkey's military until Ankara withdraws from Syria. Lindsey Graham, a senior Republican senator who is usually a steadfast supporter of Trump, had warned Turkey of "sanctions from hell" if it went ahead with the invasion. "Pray for our Kurdish allies who have been shamelessly abandoned by the Trump Administration. This move ensures the reemergence of ISIS," Graham wrote on Twitter, using an acronym for the Islamic State group. Faced with harsh rebukes, the mogul-turned-president -- already under pressure in an impeachment inquiry -- has sent mixed messages and threatened at the White House Wednesday to "wipe out" Turkey's economy if Ankara's assault was not carried out "in as humane a way as possible." "If (Erdogan) does it unfairly, he is going to pay a big economic price," Trump told reporters, adding that he'd "do far more than sanctions." But he also distanced himself from Graham, saying that the hawkish senator "would like us to stay there for the next 200 years." Democrats also roundly criticized Trump as abandoning allies, even though some agreed that US troops should leave. "These sanctions will have immediate, far-reaching consequences for Erdogan and his military," said Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat who teamed up with Graham. Trump signaled tentative support for sanctions but could veto the legislation if it is approved, setting up a showdown with Congress. Erdogan invested in Trump Gonul Tol, director of the Turkey program at the Middle East Institute in Washington, said that Erdogan was looking primarily at domestic considerations, especially after his party's humiliating loss in Istanbul local elections. Erdogan links the Kurdish fighters, who head the Syrian Democratic Forces, to separatist militants at home and brands them as "terrorists" -- and is also hoping to send back some of the 3.6 million Syrian refugees in Turkey. If Congress goes ahead with sanctions, "this will mean a new low in Turkish-American relations, and that's going to be bad news for Erdogan as well because the economy matters a lot to him," Tol said. With Trump known to break diplomatic norms, Erdogan likely sees the US leader as similar to him, with his every word becoming policy, Tol added. "He has invested so much in the relationship with President Trump and has complete faith in their chemistry," she said. "Obviously that's not a wise decision because it completely disregards the role that Congress and other institutions play." Even before entering office, Trump enjoyed ties to Erdogan, Turkey's paramount leader since 2003. In a 2012 encounter drawing fresh scrutiny, the real estate tycoon's daughter Ivanka thanked Erdogan for attending the opening of Trump Towers Istanbul. Sympathetic Trump in past Erdogan has seen that Trump can push back against congressional anger in the past. Turkey has faced limited repercussions, and Trump voiced understanding, after the NATO ally defied the United States to buy Russia's S-400 air defense system. But Trump last year imposed tariffs that threw the Turkish lira into a tailspin as he successfully sought the release of Andrew Brunson, a US pastor whose detention in the Muslim-majority country made him a cause celebre among Trump's evangelical Christian base. "President Trump has proven that he does not want to alienate Erdogan. But when he feels threatened or pushed, he could act otherwise," Tol said. Erdogan "understands that the US can inflict a lot of damage on the Turkish economy. He has seen that," she said. Nicholas Danforth, an expert on US-Turkey relations at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, said Erdogan feels he has a "good deal of leeway" due to Trump's ambiguous threats and past hesitation at sanctions. "But we've also seen Trump change course dramatically," Danforth said. "If Erdogan somehow crosses whatever hard-to-fathom red line exists in Trump's head, sanctions could come suddenly," he added.

Turkey faces US 'sanctions from hell' after Syria Kurd assault

Turkish troops and their Syrian rebel allies attacked Kurdish militia in northeast Syria on Wednesday, pounding them with airstrikes and artillery before starting a cross-border ground operation that could transform an eight-year-old war. Here's a ground report from Turkey Syria Border by Shamim Chowdhury, Correspondent, TRT world

Syria-Turkey Conflict: Ground Report from Turkey Syria Border

The Turkish military has begun a ground offensive into northeast Syria, releasing airstrikes and artillery barrages aimed at Kurdish soldiers who control the area.

The withdrawal of US troops from northern Syria and Turkey's war preparation in public glare kept no one in doubt that another front may open up soon.

Turkey has two immediate goals. It wasn't to drive Kurdish People's Protection Units or Yekîneyên Parastina Gel (YPG) militia away from its border. It considers YPG a security threat. Turkey feels that a strong Kurdish presence on its border can lead to Kurdish sub-nationalism. A large Kurd population is spread across Turkey.

Turkey also wants two million refugees to go back to Syria. It is for this reason Turkey wants to sanitise 32 km of a 'safe zone' inside the Syrian border.

How will Kurds be affected?

Syrian democratic forces are dominated by Kurdish YPG group. YPG militia established autonomous governing council during their intense collaboration with us in the war against ISIS in West Asia.&nbsp;

Kurds have always maintained that they want autonomy and not independence.&nbsp;

A full us withdrawal can sink the area into more violence as it will allow regional players to push each other more.

How far can Turkey go?

The northern border of Syria is controlled by Kurdish led forces which is 480 km long. It starts from Euphrates river in the west to Iraq border in the east.&nbsp;

Currently, Turkey is focussed on a section of border which is between the town Ras al-Ayn and Tell Abiad which are 100 km apart. This area enjoys a substantial Arab population and the Turkish government has good relations with them.&nbsp;

It means that the YPG group find this area very difficult to hold.

<img alt="Syria-Turkey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a5bad07-1f9a-4408-9f60-09b616da0fff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MAP_WAR_ZONE_0.jpg" />

("Safe zone" [marked in red on the map] running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border.The Turkish offensive began on October 9 with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called Operation Peace Spring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. )

Will Iran and Russia back Turks?

Russia and Iran support Bashar al-Assad's government. Complete US pullout will mean that Assad backed by Russia and Iran can take back areas which are currently not controlled by him.

The European Union angle

Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels.

What does West think about Turkey's plan?

Many experts feel that it will be impossible for Turkey to resettle Syrians back home like this. West of the opinion that a plan of this scale cannot be implemented as many would not like to go back to war zones

What does it mean for Assad?

It means that areas will switch hands from non-hostile Kurds to a hostile Turkey. Damascus views Turkey as an occupying power. Damascus wanted to strike a deal with Kurds but negotiations did not make any headway.

What does it mean for the Islamic state?

Chaos could present an Islamic State with an opportunity to make a comeback.&nbsp;

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has been conducting operations against IS Sleeper cells to weaken the hidden ISIS infrastructure in the region

SDF formed in 2015 was is an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias.

Kurds currently hold 5000 Islamic fighters of Syrian and Iraqi nationality. They also hold 1000 ISIS fighters from 55 countries. The new front could weaken the capacity of the Kurds to hold terrorists in detention.

The Turkish military has begun a ground offensive into northeast Syria, releasing airstrikes and artillery barrages aimed at Kurdish soldiers who control the area.

The Turkish military has begun a ground offensive into northeast Syria, releasing airstrikes and artillery barrages aimed at Kurdish soldiers who control the area. The withdrawal of US troops from northern Syria and Turkey's war preparation in public glare kept no one in doubt that another front may open up soon. Turkey has two immediate goals. It wasn't to drive Kurdish People's Protection Units or Yekîneyên Parastina Gel (YPG) militia away from its border. It considers YPG a security threat. Turkey feels that a strong Kurdish presence on its border can lead to Kurdish sub-nationalism. A large Kurd population is spread across Turkey. Turkey also wants two million refugees to go back to Syria. It is for this reason Turkey wants to sanitise 32 km of a 'safe zone' inside the Syrian border. How will Kurds be affected? Syrian democratic forces are dominated by Kurdish YPG group. YPG militia established autonomous governing council during their intense collaboration with us in the war against ISIS in West Asia. Kurds have always maintained that they want autonomy and not independence. A full us withdrawal can sink the area into more violence as it will allow regional players to push each other more. How far can Turkey go? The northern border of Syria is controlled by Kurdish led forces which is 480 km long. It starts from Euphrates river in the west to Iraq border in the east. Currently, Turkey is focussed on a section of border which is between the town Ras al-Ayn and Tell Abiad which are 100 km apart. This area enjoys a substantial Arab population and the Turkish government has good relations with them. It means that the YPG group find this area very difficult to hold. ("Safe zone" [marked in red on the map] running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border.The Turkish offensive began on October 9 with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called Operation Peace Spring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. ) Will Iran and Russia back Turks? Russia and Iran support Bashar al-Assad's government. Complete US pullout will mean that Assad backed by Russia and Iran can take back areas which are currently not controlled by him. The European Union angle Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels. What does West think about Turkey's plan? Many experts feel that it will be impossible for Turkey to resettle Syrians back home like this. West of the opinion that a plan of this scale cannot be implemented as many would not like to go back to war zones What does it mean for Assad? It means that areas will switch hands from non-hostile Kurds to a hostile Turkey. Damascus views Turkey as an occupying power. Damascus wanted to strike a deal with Kurds but negotiations did not make any headway. What does it mean for the Islamic state? Chaos could present an Islamic State with an opportunity to make a comeback. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has been conducting operations against IS Sleeper cells to weaken the hidden ISIS infrastructure in the region SDF formed in 2015 was is an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias. Kurds currently hold 5000 Islamic fighters of Syrian and Iraqi nationality. They also hold 1000 ISIS fighters from 55 countries. The new front could weaken the capacity of the Kurds to hold terrorists in detention.

Turkey's military operation in Syria: What does Erdogan want?

Turkish troops and their Syrian rebel allies attacked Kurdish militia in northeast Syria on Wednesday, pounding them with airstrikes and artillery before starting a cross-border ground operation that could transform an eight-year-old war.

Turkey Launches Syria offensive

Turkish troops and their Syrian rebel allies attacked Kurdish militia in northeast Syria, pounding them with airstrikes and artillery before starting a cross-border ground operation that could transform an eight-year-old war.

World reacts to Turkey's offensive

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that particularly dangerous <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-kurds-say-two-civilians-killed-in-turkish-border-attack-254827">Islamic State group fighters</a> held by the Kurds in northeast Syria had been removed to US custody ahead of a Turkish attack Wednesday.

While Trump did not give any specifics, the Washington Post reported that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-air-strikes-hit-northeast-syria-near-border-monitor-254813">US forces had gained control</a> of two notorious British fighters dubbed "The Beatles" and moved them to Iraq.

CNN also reported that the US military had taken custody of the two fighters, while ABC said they had been transferred to a safe location.

"We are taking some of the most dangerous ISIS fighters out and we're putting them in different locations where it's secure," Trump said, using an acronym for the Islamic State group.

"We have taken a certain number of ISIS fighters who are particularly bad and we've wanted to make sure nothing happened to them with respect to getting out," he said.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-time-for-india-to-expose-turkeys-action-against-kurds-254844/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The move addressed one of the most worrisome issues of Trump's green light to Turkey to invade Syria, where the Kurds, a longtime US battlefield partner, are viewed as a terror threat by Ankara, a NATO ally of Washington.&nbsp;

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have been holding prisoner some 10,000 captured Islamic State group fighters.

Many have feared the Turkish attack would lead to them escaping and reconstituting the group.

The SDF-held fighters include around 2,000 of foreign nationality, many of them from European countries that have refused to take them back.

The two "Beatles" reportedly in US custody, Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh, were part of an extremely violent all-British four-man cell that kidnapped and tortured foreigners, including journalists, at the height of Islamic State group's power in Syria and Iraq.

One other was killed in a drone strike and the fourth is imprisoned on terror charges in Turkey.

Trump said the Kurds are still guarding many of the Islamic State group terrorists, but also said Turkey will be responsible for them.

"If the Kurds don't watch, Turkey will watch. They don't want those people out any more than we do," he said. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that particularly dangerous Islamic State group fighters held by the Kurds in northeast Syria had been removed to US custody ahead of a Turkish attack Wednesday.

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that particularly dangerous Islamic State group fighters held by the Kurds in northeast Syria had been removed to US custody ahead of a Turkish attack Wednesday. While Trump did not give any specifics, the Washington Post reported that US forces had gained control of two notorious British fighters dubbed "The Beatles" and moved them to Iraq. CNN also reported that the US military had taken custody of the two fighters, while ABC said they had been transferred to a safe location. "We are taking some of the most dangerous ISIS fighters out and we're putting them in different locations where it's secure," Trump said, using an acronym for the Islamic State group. "We have taken a certain number of ISIS fighters who are particularly bad and we've wanted to make sure nothing happened to them with respect to getting out," he said. Watch Video: The move addressed one of the most worrisome issues of Trump's green light to Turkey to invade Syria, where the Kurds, a longtime US battlefield partner, are viewed as a terror threat by Ankara, a NATO ally of Washington. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have been holding prisoner some 10,000 captured Islamic State group fighters. Many have feared the Turkish attack would lead to them escaping and reconstituting the group. The SDF-held fighters include around 2,000 of foreign nationality, many of them from European countries that have refused to take them back. The two "Beatles" reportedly in US custody, Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh, were part of an extremely violent all-British four-man cell that kidnapped and tortured foreigners, including journalists, at the height of Islamic State group's power in Syria and Iraq. One other was killed in a drone strike and the fourth is imprisoned on terror charges in Turkey. Trump said the Kurds are still guarding many of the Islamic State group terrorists, but also said Turkey will be responsible for them. "If the Kurds don't watch, Turkey will watch. They don't want those people out any more than we do," he said.

We have taken most dangerous Islamic State fighters in Syria: Trump

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday (October 9) called on Turkey to stop its military operation in northeast Syria, adding it could not lead to 'good results.' Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: EU urges Turkey to show restraint

Turkey's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-strikes-in-syrian-iraqi-border-ahead-of-planned-offensive-254608">military offensive</a> on northeastern Syria has displaced more than 60,000 people in less than a day, a war monitor said Thursday.

"Since Wednesday, more than 60,000 people fled border areas," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, adding that most of the displaced travelled east towards the city of Hasakeh.

Rami Abdel Rahman, the head of the Britain-based monitor, said the biggest displacement was from the border areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad and Derbasiyeh.

The Turkish military, supported by Syrian proxies, launched an offensive against Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria on Wednesday, despite widespread international warnings.

After an initial phase of airstrikes and artillery fire, troops moved across the border and attacked some of the key towns in the area.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-the-world-is-reacting-to-turkeys-assault-in-syria-255001">How the world is reacting to Turkey's assault in Syria</a>

Ankara aims to create a buffer about 30 kilometres deep in Syria territory in which to send back some of the 3.6 million Syrians who found refuge on Turkish soil since the start of the war in Syria in 2011.

Humanitarian organisations warned that this latest episode in the deadly eight-year-old conflict could once again have disastrous consequences on civilian populations.

"An estimated 450,000 people live within five kilometres of the Syria-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-threatens-eu-with-refugee-influx-if-criticises-syria-operation-255000">Turkey</a> border and are at risk if all sides do not exercise maximum restraint and prioritise the protection of civilians," a joint statement said.

The text signed by 14 humanitarian organisations warned that large numbers of civilians could soon be cut off from the vital aid they had been receiving.

"The life-saving humanitarian response will be threatened if instability forces aid agencies to suspend or relocate their programming and staff, as is already happening," said the statement.

Among the organisations that signed the appeal were several of the largest aid providers in the area, including the Norwegian Refugee Council and Mercy Corps.

In a separate statement, the Save The Children charity warned of "an impending humanitarian disaster".

It emphasised the risks facing the children among the latest wave of displacement, which includes thousands of people who had already been uprooted multiple times since the start of the war.

"With winter around the corner, they will face additional challenges as they search for shelter," Save The Children said.

Turkish forces are expected to move deeper into Syria, and the International Rescue Committee warned Wednesday that the operation could displace up to 300,000 people. 
&nbsp;

Turkey's military offensive on northeastern Syria has displaced more than 60,000 people in less than a day, a war monitor said Thursday. "Since Wednesday, more than 60,000 people fled border areas," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, adding that most of the displaced travelled east towards the city of Hasakeh.

Turkey's military offensive on northeastern Syria has displaced more than 60,000 people in less than a day, a war monitor said Thursday. "Since Wednesday, more than 60,000 people fled border areas," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, adding that most of the displaced travelled east towards the city of Hasakeh. Rami Abdel Rahman, the head of the Britain-based monitor, said the biggest displacement was from the border areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad and Derbasiyeh. The Turkish military, supported by Syrian proxies, launched an offensive against Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria on Wednesday, despite widespread international warnings. After an initial phase of airstrikes and artillery fire, troops moved across the border and attacked some of the key towns in the area. Also read: How the world is reacting to Turkey's assault in Syria Ankara aims to create a buffer about 30 kilometres deep in Syria territory in which to send back some of the 3.6 million Syrians who found refuge on Turkish soil since the start of the war in Syria in 2011. Humanitarian organisations warned that this latest episode in the deadly eight-year-old conflict could once again have disastrous consequences on civilian populations. "An estimated 450,000 people live within five kilometres of the Syria-Turkey border and are at risk if all sides do not exercise maximum restraint and prioritise the protection of civilians," a joint statement said. The text signed by 14 humanitarian organisations warned that large numbers of civilians could soon be cut off from the vital aid they had been receiving. "The life-saving humanitarian response will be threatened if instability forces aid agencies to suspend or relocate their programming and staff, as is already happening," said the statement. Among the organisations that signed the appeal were several of the largest aid providers in the area, including the Norwegian Refugee Council and Mercy Corps. In a separate statement, the Save The Children charity warned of "an impending humanitarian disaster". It emphasised the risks facing the children among the latest wave of displacement, which includes thousands of people who had already been uprooted multiple times since the start of the war. "With winter around the corner, they will face additional challenges as they search for shelter," Save The Children said. Turkish forces are expected to move deeper into Syria, and the International Rescue Committee warned Wednesday that the operation could displace up to 300,000 people.

More than 60,000 displaced by Turkey assault on Syria: Monitor

At least 18 people were injured in shelling on Turkish border towns on Thursday, local media said, a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-strikes-in-syrian-iraqi-border-ahead-of-planned-offensive-254608">Ankara launched an operation </a>against Kurdish forces in northern Syria.

Three people were injured, one seriously, when shells hit a government building in Akcakale, according to an AFP journalist on the scene.

Smoke was seen rising from several places around the town, and shelling was ongoing, AFP reporters said.&nbsp;

Turkish media said injuries were reported in Akcakale and Ceylanpinar.&nbsp;

They lie just across the border from the Syrian towns of Tal Abyad and Ras Al-Ain, which have been the focus of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-launches-land-operation-in-northeast-syria-arab-league-to-hold-emergency-meeting-254862">Turkey</a>'s operation against Kurdish forces since it was launched on Wednesday.

Families were evacuating and streets emptying in Akcakale, as local authorities called on people to take shelter.&nbsp;

One man was seen telling his family: "Run, come quickly."

Turkey says its operation is aimed at pushing back Syrian Kurdish forces, which it considers "terrorists", and establishing a "safe zone" with which to repatriate Syrian refugees. 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

At least 18 people were injured in shelling on Turkish border towns on Thursday, local media said, a day after Ankara launched an operation against Kurdish forces in northern Syria.

At least 18 people were injured in shelling on Turkish border towns on Thursday, local media said, a day after Ankara launched an operation against Kurdish forces in northern Syria. Three people were injured, one seriously, when shells hit a government building in Akcakale, according to an AFP journalist on the scene. Smoke was seen rising from several places around the town, and shelling was ongoing, AFP reporters said. Turkish media said injuries were reported in Akcakale and Ceylanpinar. They lie just across the border from the Syrian towns of Tal Abyad and Ras Al-Ain, which have been the focus of Turkey's operation against Kurdish forces since it was launched on Wednesday. Families were evacuating and streets emptying in Akcakale, as local authorities called on people to take shelter. One man was seen telling his family: "Run, come quickly." Turkey says its operation is aimed at pushing back Syrian Kurdish forces, which it considers "terrorists", and establishing a "safe zone" with which to repatriate Syrian refugees.

18 injured as shells hit Turkish border towns

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned the European Union (EU) on Thursday that Ankara would allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticised Turkey's military offensive in Syria.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-expresses-deep-concern-over-turkeys-attack-on-syria-calls-it-unilateral-254989">India expresses deep concern over Turkey's attack on Syria, calls it 'unilateral'</a>

"Hey EU, wake up. I say it again: if you try to frame our operation there as an invasion, our task is simple: we will open the doors and send 3.6 million migrants to you," Erdogan said in a speech to his party.

Turkey launched an operation into Syrian territory on Wednesday, aimed at combating Kurdish militants tied to insurgents in its own territory.

Erdogan said 109 "terrorists" had been killed so far in the operation, which would soon cover ground from Manbij in northern Syria to the Iraqi border some 350 kilometres (220 miles) east.

"God willing, we will crush these snakes' heads quickly," he said.

"What we are trying to do is prevent the establishment of a terrorist state on our southern border. This cannot happen,"

Turkey currently hosts 3.6 million refugees from the eight-year conflict in Syria -- the highest number in the world.&nbsp;

Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens, but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels.

"You have never been sincere," Erdogan said, addressing the EU.&nbsp;

"Now they say they will withhold three billion euros from us. Have you ever kept any promise you gave us so far? No."

One aim of the military operation is to establish a "safe zone" in which at least one million Syrian refugees can be repatriated, after the long-term presence of refugees became an increasingly political liability.

"For those who want to return to their country but don't have a home left anymore, we plan to build settlements for one million people, with international financing," Erdogan said.

He also sought to assuage concerns regarding Islamic State prisoners currently held by Kurdish forces.&nbsp;

"Those that need to be kept in jail we will keep in jail. We will return foreigners to their home countries if they accept them back," he said.
<img alt="Map war zone" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6b45af3-93a2-48d6-8565-28a4ebe7b6a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MAP_WAR_ZONE.jpg" />
Turkey's 'Safe Zone' in Syria

Turkey has begun ground offensive in Syria and has been threatening to launch a military operation in SDF-held territory to create a 480km "safe zone" (marked in red on the map) running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border.

The Turkish offensive began on 9 October with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called #OperationPeaceSpring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), formed in 2015 was&nbsp;an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias.

Kurds make up between 7 per cent&nbsp;and 10 per cent&nbsp;of Syria's population and Kurdish militias have largely operated from Northern Syria in offensives against ISIS occupation.

 
&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned the European Union (EU) on Thursday that Ankara would allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticised Turkey's military offensive in Syria.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned the European Union (EU) on Thursday that Ankara would allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticised Turkey's military offensive in Syria. Also read: India expresses deep concern over Turkey's attack on Syria, calls it 'unilateral' "Hey EU, wake up. I say it again: if you try to frame our operation there as an invasion, our task is simple: we will open the doors and send 3.6 million migrants to you," Erdogan said in a speech to his party. Turkey launched an operation into Syrian territory on Wednesday, aimed at combating Kurdish militants tied to insurgents in its own territory. Erdogan said 109 "terrorists" had been killed so far in the operation, which would soon cover ground from Manbij in northern Syria to the Iraqi border some 350 kilometres (220 miles) east. "God willing, we will crush these snakes' heads quickly," he said. "What we are trying to do is prevent the establishment of a terrorist state on our southern border. This cannot happen," Turkey currently hosts 3.6 million refugees from the eight-year conflict in Syria -- the highest number in the world. Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens, but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels. "You have never been sincere," Erdogan said, addressing the EU. "Now they say they will withhold three billion euros from us. Have you ever kept any promise you gave us so far? No." One aim of the military operation is to establish a "safe zone" in which at least one million Syrian refugees can be repatriated, after the long-term presence of refugees became an increasingly political liability. "For those who want to return to their country but don't have a home left anymore, we plan to build settlements for one million people, with international financing," Erdogan said. He also sought to assuage concerns regarding Islamic State prisoners currently held by Kurdish forces. "Those that need to be kept in jail we will keep in jail. We will return foreigners to their home countries if they accept them back," he said. Turkey's 'Safe Zone' in Syria Turkey has begun ground offensive in Syria and has been threatening to launch a military operation in SDF-held territory to create a 480km "safe zone" (marked in red on the map) running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border. The Turkish offensive began on 9 October with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called #OperationPeaceSpring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), formed in 2015 was an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias. Kurds make up between 7 per cent and 10 per cent of Syria's population and Kurdish militias have largely operated from Northern Syria in offensives against ISIS occupation.

Erdogan threatens European Union with refugee influx if it criticises Syria operation

How the world is reacting to Turkey's assault in Syria

Expressing deep concern at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-did-not-give-green-light-to-turkeys-syria-incursion-mike-pompeo-254950">'unilateral military offensive'</a> by Turkey in north-east Syria, India on Thursday called upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria.

On Wednesday, Turkish jets and artillery targeted Kurdish-controlled areas in Syria, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes.

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We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. 
 
We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion.<a href="https://t.co/HuIzEYGbof">https://t.co/HuIzEYGbof</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1182251797668233226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Issuing a statement, Ministry of External Affairs said: "We are deeply concerned at the unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria. Turkey’s actions can undermine stability in the region and the fight against terrorism. Its action also has the potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress."

"We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion," the MEA said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Expressing deep concern at the 'unilateral military offensive' by Turkey in north-east Syria, India on Thursday called upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria.

Expressing deep concern at the 'unilateral military offensive' by Turkey in north-east Syria, India on Thursday called upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. On Wednesday, Turkish jets and artillery targeted Kurdish-controlled areas in Syria, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion.https://t.co/HuIzEYGbof — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 10, 2019 × Issuing a statement, Ministry of External Affairs said: "We are deeply concerned at the unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria. Turkey’s actions can undermine stability in the region and the fight against terrorism. Its action also has the potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress." "We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion," the MEA said. (With inputs from agencies)

India expresses deep concern over Turkey's attack on Syria, calls it 'unilateral'

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan speaks on Syria operation. Watch this video to know more.

Turkey President Erdogan speaks on Syria operation

The head of a Turkish opposition news site was arrested Thursday, his employer said, as part of a crackdown on critics of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-turkey-conflict-ground-report-from-turkey-syria-border-254878">military operation launched in Syria </a>a day earlier.

The Anadolu state news agency said Hakan Demir, head of the leftist Birgun website, was detained for "inciting the people to hatred and enmity" over a message on Twitter.

Birgun was heavily criticised online after reporting that civilians were killed in Turkish strikes against Kurdish positions in Syria on Wednesday, which was denied by the government.

Police said they had opened a total of 78 cases against individuals for "propaganda" online against the operation.

Turkey launched<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-launches-land-operation-in-northeast-syria-arab-league-to-hold-emergency-meeting-254862"> "Operation Peace Spring" </a>on Wednesday against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, which it considers a "terrorist" offshoot of Kurdish insurgents in its own territory.

It has arrested online critics during previous offensives against Kurdish forces in Syria, accusing them of "terrorist propaganda".

Rights groups criticise the erosion of free speech under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, particularly in the wake of a failed coup in 2016 which was followed by tens of thousands of arrests of political opponents.

The head of a Turkish opposition news site was arrested Thursday, his employer said, as part of a crackdown on critics of the military operation launched in Syria a day earlier.

The head of a Turkish opposition news site was arrested Thursday, his employer said, as part of a crackdown on critics of the military operation launched in Syria a day earlier. The Anadolu state news agency said Hakan Demir, head of the leftist Birgun website, was detained for "inciting the people to hatred and enmity" over a message on Twitter. Birgun was heavily criticised online after reporting that civilians were killed in Turkish strikes against Kurdish positions in Syria on Wednesday, which was denied by the government. Police said they had opened a total of 78 cases against individuals for "propaganda" online against the operation. Turkey launched "Operation Peace Spring" on Wednesday against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, which it considers a "terrorist" offshoot of Kurdish insurgents in its own territory. It has arrested online critics during previous offensives against Kurdish forces in Syria, accusing them of "terrorist propaganda". Rights groups criticise the erosion of free speech under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, particularly in the wake of a failed coup in 2016 which was followed by tens of thousands of arrests of political opponents.

Turkey detains journalist over Syria operation coverage

Turkish troops and their Syrian rebel allies attacked Kurdish militia in northeast Syria on Wednesday, pounding them with air strikes and artillery before starting a cross-border ground operation that could transform an eight-year-old war.

The assault began days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-taken-most-dangerous-isis-fighters-in-syria-trump-254848">US President Donald Trump</a> pulled American troops out of the way, prompting denunciations from senior members of his own Republican Party who say he abandoned the Syrian Kurds, loyal allies of Washington.

"The Turkish Armed Forces and the Syrian National Army have launched the land operation into the east of the Euphrates river as part of the Operation Peace Spring," the Turkish defence ministry tweeted after nightfall, following a day of pounding the area from the air.

Turkish media reported troops entering Syria at four points, two of them close to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-backed-syrian-forces-halt-counter-islamic-state-operations-254831">Syrian town of Tel Abyad</a> and two close to Ras al Ain further east.

Watch Video:

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Turkey told the United Nations Security Council in a letter that its military operation would be "proportionate, measured and responsible." The 15-member body will meet on Thursday to discuss Syria at the request of the five European members, Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Poland.

The 22-member Arab League said it will hold an emergency meeting on Saturday.

Thousands of people fled Ras al Ain towards Hasaka province, held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The Turkish air strikes killed at least five civilians and three fighters from the SDF and wounded dozens of civilians, the SDF said.

Large explosions were heard on the Turkish side of the frontier at Tel Abyad. After dark, the red flare of rockets could be seen fired across the border into Tel Abyad, and flames burned near the town. Explosions from Tel Abyad could be heard eight hours into the bombardment. A witness reached by telephone said civilians were fleeing en masse.

SDF fighters repelled a ground attack by Turkish troops in Tel Abyad, SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali said on Twitter.

The assault on the Kurds - for years Washington's main allies on the ground in Syria - is potentially one of the biggest shifts in years in the Syrian war that has drawn in global and regional powers. The Kurds played a leading role in capturing territory from Islamic State, and now hold the largest swathe of Syria outside of the hands of President Bashar al-Assad.

Russia, Assad's strongest foreign ally, urged dialogue between Damascus and Syria's Kurds.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday US troops started to withdraw after a phone call he had with Trump.

Trump called the Turkish assault a "bad idea" and said he did not endorse it. He said he expected Turkey to protect civilians and religious minorities and prevent a humanitarian crisis.

But one of Trump's closest fellow Republican allies, Senator Lindsey Graham, said failing to support the Kurds would be "the biggest mistake of his presidency" and unveiled a framework for sanctions on Turkey with Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen.

"While the Administration refuses to act against Turkey, I expect strong bipartisan support," Graham said in a statement.

Representative Liz Cheney, a Republican hawk, said: "The US is abandoning our ally the Kurds, who fought ISIS (Islamic State) on the ground and helped protect the US homeland. This decision aids America’s adversaries, Russia, Iran, and Turkey, and paves the way for a resurgence of ISIS."

Trump's decision was denounced by some Kurds as a "stab in the back". The SDF controls much of the territory that was once held by Islamic State and holds thousands of Islamic State fighters and tens of thousands of their relatives in detention.

The US pullout has prompted concerns that some of those prisoners might escape in the chaos of the Turkish incursion.

Turkish troops and their Syrian rebel allies attacked Kurdish militia in northeast Syria on Wednesday, pounding them with air strikes and artillery before starting a cross-border ground operation that could transform an eight-year-old war.

Turkish troops and their Syrian rebel allies attacked Kurdish militia in northeast Syria on Wednesday, pounding them with air strikes and artillery before starting a cross-border ground operation that could transform an eight-year-old war. The assault began days after US President Donald Trump pulled American troops out of the way, prompting denunciations from senior members of his own Republican Party who say he abandoned the Syrian Kurds, loyal allies of Washington. "The Turkish Armed Forces and the Syrian National Army have launched the land operation into the east of the Euphrates river as part of the Operation Peace Spring," the Turkish defence ministry tweeted after nightfall, following a day of pounding the area from the air. Turkish media reported troops entering Syria at four points, two of them close to the Syrian town of Tel Abyad and two close to Ras al Ain further east. Watch Video: Turkey told the United Nations Security Council in a letter that its military operation would be "proportionate, measured and responsible." The 15-member body will meet on Thursday to discuss Syria at the request of the five European members, Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Poland. The 22-member Arab League said it will hold an emergency meeting on Saturday. Thousands of people fled Ras al Ain towards Hasaka province, held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The Turkish air strikes killed at least five civilians and three fighters from the SDF and wounded dozens of civilians, the SDF said. Large explosions were heard on the Turkish side of the frontier at Tel Abyad. After dark, the red flare of rockets could be seen fired across the border into Tel Abyad, and flames burned near the town. Explosions from Tel Abyad could be heard eight hours into the bombardment. A witness reached by telephone said civilians were fleeing en masse. SDF fighters repelled a ground attack by Turkish troops in Tel Abyad, SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali said on Twitter. The assault on the Kurds - for years Washington's main allies on the ground in Syria - is potentially one of the biggest shifts in years in the Syrian war that has drawn in global and regional powers. The Kurds played a leading role in capturing territory from Islamic State, and now hold the largest swathe of Syria outside of the hands of President Bashar al-Assad. Russia, Assad's strongest foreign ally, urged dialogue between Damascus and Syria's Kurds. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday US troops started to withdraw after a phone call he had with Trump. Trump called the Turkish assault a "bad idea" and said he did not endorse it. He said he expected Turkey to protect civilians and religious minorities and prevent a humanitarian crisis. But one of Trump's closest fellow Republican allies, Senator Lindsey Graham, said failing to support the Kurds would be "the biggest mistake of his presidency" and unveiled a framework for sanctions on Turkey with Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen. "While the Administration refuses to act against Turkey, I expect strong bipartisan support," Graham said in a statement. Representative Liz Cheney, a Republican hawk, said: "The US is abandoning our ally the Kurds, who fought ISIS (Islamic State) on the ground and helped protect the US homeland. This decision aids America’s adversaries, Russia, Iran, and Turkey, and paves the way for a resurgence of ISIS." Trump's decision was denounced by some Kurds as a "stab in the back". The SDF controls much of the territory that was once held by Islamic State and holds thousands of Islamic State fighters and tens of thousands of their relatives in detention. The US pullout has prompted concerns that some of those prisoners might escape in the chaos of the Turkish incursion.

Turkey launches land operation in northeast Syria; European members request UN meeting

The United States has not given Turkey <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-launches-land-operation-in-northeast-syria-arab-league-to-hold-emergency-meeting-254862">a green light to invade Syria</a>, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, but added that Ankara had "legitimate security concerns" and that President Donald Trump made a decision to move American soldiers out of harm's way.

"That's just false. The United States didn't give Turkey a green light. We'll continue to be in a position to do what we need to do to keep the American people as safe as we possibly can from this threat. But it is not only in Syria. It emanates from Iraq,'' Pompeo said.

''There are a dozen other countries where the threat from radical Islamic terrorism continues to exist, and we the United States, has to make sure we position our forces our resources, appropriately to reduce that threat to the United States," Pompeo added.

Speaking to broadcaster PBS Pompeo said that China's treatment of Muslims, including the Uighurs, in western China was an "enormous human rights violation" and Washington will continue to raise the issue.

"This is not only an enormous human rights violation, but we don't think it's in the best interests of the world or of China to engage in this kind of behaviour," Pompeo told PBS.

Shocking video shows hundreds of blindfolded and bound Uighur Muslims

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Asked whether Chinese President Xi Jinping was responsible, Pompeo said: "Xi Jinping leads the country just like the leader of a tank platoon, a small business or a country is responsible for the things that happen in your name."

Pompeo also said it was "wholly appropriate" for President Donald Trump to ask Ukraine's leader to investigate corruption in his country.

"I found that to be wholly appropriate to try to get another country to stop being corrupt," Pompeo said in an interview on PBS's "NewsHour" program.

Pompeo has said he listened to the July 25 call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in which Trump asked Zelenskiy to investigate Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and his son Hunter, who was on the board of a Ukrainian gas company.

The call has sparked a US House of Representatives' impeachment probe of Trump.

The United States has not given Turkey a green light to invade Syria, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, but added that Ankara had "legitimate security concerns" and that President Donald Trump made a decision to move American soldiers out of harm's way.

The United States has not given Turkey a green light to invade Syria, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, but added that Ankara had "legitimate security concerns" and that President Donald Trump made a decision to move American soldiers out of harm's way. "That's just false. The United States didn't give Turkey a green light. We'll continue to be in a position to do what we need to do to keep the American people as safe as we possibly can from this threat. But it is not only in Syria. It emanates from Iraq,'' Pompeo said. ''There are a dozen other countries where the threat from radical Islamic terrorism continues to exist, and we the United States, has to make sure we position our forces our resources, appropriately to reduce that threat to the United States," Pompeo added. Speaking to broadcaster PBS Pompeo said that China's treatment of Muslims, including the Uighurs, in western China was an "enormous human rights violation" and Washington will continue to raise the issue. "This is not only an enormous human rights violation, but we don't think it's in the best interests of the world or of China to engage in this kind of behaviour," Pompeo told PBS. Shocking video shows hundreds of blindfolded and bound Uighur Muslims Asked whether Chinese President Xi Jinping was responsible, Pompeo said: "Xi Jinping leads the country just like the leader of a tank platoon, a small business or a country is responsible for the things that happen in your name." Pompeo also said it was "wholly appropriate" for President Donald Trump to ask Ukraine's leader to investigate corruption in his country. "I found that to be wholly appropriate to try to get another country to stop being corrupt," Pompeo said in an interview on PBS's "NewsHour" program. Pompeo has said he listened to the July 25 call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in which Trump asked Zelenskiy to investigate Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and his son Hunter, who was on the board of a Ukrainian gas company. The call has sparked a US House of Representatives' impeachment probe of Trump.

US did not give 'green light' to Turkey's Syria incursion: Mike Pompeo

The U.S and the Dodgy Human rights record and uses Democracy to target rivals

U.S and Rights: One theme, many versions

As Turkey Launches Military Operations Against Ethnic Minority Kurds, Is It Time For India To Call Out Turkey?

Gravitas: Time For India To Expose Turkey's Action Against Kurds?

US Uses Human Rights & Democracy As Sticks To Beat Adversaries With One story, many Presidents, one theme, many versions; whenever the U.S. rakes up human rights and democracy in other countries, it's done for strategic gains. Be it Iraq, Libya or Syria, the U.S. intervention has only resulted in chaos and destruction. This report explores

Gravitas: U.S. & Its Dodgy Human Rights Reputation

Turkey has launched a long-threatened military operation in northeast Syria to remove Kurdish-led forces from the border area and create a "safe zone" to resettle millions of Syrian refugees.

Smoke seen rising across Syrian border

United States-backed Kurdish fighters have halted operations for now against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-security-council-head-appeals-to-turkey-for-restraint-in-syria-254812">Islamic State in Syria</a> as Turkey launches a military offensive in Syria's northeast, two US&nbsp;officials and a Kurdish military source said on Wednesday.

"The SDF stopped the anti-ISIS operations because it's impossible to carry out any operation while you are being threatened by a large army right on the northern border," the Kurdish military source said.

One of the US&nbsp;officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the suspension also impacted US&nbsp;training of stabilisation forces in Syria.

It was unclear whether the pause affected every aspect of US-partnered operations against Islamic State or whether there might be exceptions. The US&nbsp;military was not immediately available for comment.

But any suspension in such activities would represent a direct setback to the central US&nbsp;goal of helping the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) secure territory seized from Islamic State.

It would also show how the Kurdish-led SDF are rapidly shifting their focus to the fight against Turkey - at the cost of preparations to prevent Islamic State's resurgence.

Turkish warplanes and artillery struck Kurdish militia positions in several towns on Wednesday after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-urges-turkey-to-halt-syria-offensive-will-not-pay-for-safe-zone-254817">United States this week pulled back its troops from the Turkey-Syria</a> frontier following a decision by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump.

Trump's critics say his move cleared the way for the Turkish operation and amounted to a betrayal of America's allies, the Kurds. US&nbsp;officials say the president felt US&nbsp;troops should not be caught in the middle of that fight, and Trump says he is fulfilling promises to withdraw the United States from “endless” Middle East wars.

The Kurdish fighters, considered terrorists by Turkey, have described the US&nbsp;decision as "a stab in the back". Spearheaded by the Kurdish YPG militia, the SDF has been the backbone of the US-led campaign against Islamic State.

The US&nbsp;military had hoped to train SDF and other groups to create a stabilization force of 50,000-60,000 fighters to help prevent a resurgence of Islamic State. As of last month, the US&nbsp;military estimated it was perhaps about halfway toward that goal.

A third official told Reuters that the SDF was still guarding prisons holding some 11,000 captured Islamic State fighters, but noted that a small number of SDF forces had relocated ahead of the expected Turkish offensive.

US&nbsp;officials have long feared that the SDF would be unable to continue guarding the facilities in the event of a major Turkish incursion into Syria.

Still, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-air-strikes-hit-northeast-syria-near-border-monitor-254813">Islamic State remnants could force the SDF to battle it as well.</a>

Jennifer Cafarella, research director at the Institute for the Study of War think-tank in Washington, said the SDF faced the likely prospect of having to fight on two fronts: against Turkish forces and remnants of Islamic State simultaneously.

"ISIS leader (Abu Bakr) Baghdadi is undoubtedly prepared for this moment," Cafarella said, using an acronym for Islamic State.

At the height of its power, Islamic State ruled over millions of people in territory running from northern Syria through cities and towns along the Tigris and Euphrates valleys to the outskirts of Baghdad in neighbouring Iraq.

But the fall in 2017 of Mosul and Raqqa, its strongholds in Iraq and Syria respectively, stripped Baghdadi of the trappings of a caliph and turned him into a fugitive thought to be moving along the desert border between Iraq and Syria.

US&nbsp;officials have been warning for months against losing focus on Islamic State, which they believe could again become a potent insurgency.

United States-backed Kurdish fighters have halted operations for now against Islamic State in Syria as Turkey launches a military offensive in Syria's northeast, two US officials and a Kurdish military source said on Wednesday.

United States-backed Kurdish fighters have halted operations for now against Islamic State in Syria as Turkey launches a military offensive in Syria's northeast, two US officials and a Kurdish military source said on Wednesday. "The SDF stopped the anti-ISIS operations because it's impossible to carry out any operation while you are being threatened by a large army right on the northern border," the Kurdish military source said. One of the US officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the suspension also impacted US training of stabilisation forces in Syria. It was unclear whether the pause affected every aspect of US-partnered operations against Islamic State or whether there might be exceptions. The US military was not immediately available for comment. But any suspension in such activities would represent a direct setback to the central US goal of helping the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) secure territory seized from Islamic State. It would also show how the Kurdish-led SDF are rapidly shifting their focus to the fight against Turkey - at the cost of preparations to prevent Islamic State's resurgence. Turkish warplanes and artillery struck Kurdish militia positions in several towns on Wednesday after the United States this week pulled back its troops from the Turkey-Syria frontier following a decision by US President Donald Trump. Trump's critics say his move cleared the way for the Turkish operation and amounted to a betrayal of America's allies, the Kurds. US officials say the president felt US troops should not be caught in the middle of that fight, and Trump says he is fulfilling promises to withdraw the United States from “endless” Middle East wars. The Kurdish fighters, considered terrorists by Turkey, have described the US decision as "a stab in the back". Spearheaded by the Kurdish YPG militia, the SDF has been the backbone of the US-led campaign against Islamic State. The US military had hoped to train SDF and other groups to create a stabilization force of 50,000-60,000 fighters to help prevent a resurgence of Islamic State. As of last month, the US military estimated it was perhaps about halfway toward that goal. A third official told Reuters that the SDF was still guarding prisons holding some 11,000 captured Islamic State fighters, but noted that a small number of SDF forces had relocated ahead of the expected Turkish offensive. US officials have long feared that the SDF would be unable to continue guarding the facilities in the event of a major Turkish incursion into Syria. Still, Islamic State remnants could force the SDF to battle it as well. Jennifer Cafarella, research director at the Institute for the Study of War think-tank in Washington, said the SDF faced the likely prospect of having to fight on two fronts: against Turkish forces and remnants of Islamic State simultaneously. "ISIS leader (Abu Bakr) Baghdadi is undoubtedly prepared for this moment," Cafarella said, using an acronym for Islamic State. At the height of its power, Islamic State ruled over millions of people in territory running from northern Syria through cities and towns along the Tigris and Euphrates valleys to the outskirts of Baghdad in neighbouring Iraq. But the fall in 2017 of Mosul and Raqqa, its strongholds in Iraq and Syria respectively, stripped Baghdadi of the trappings of a caliph and turned him into a fugitive thought to be moving along the desert border between Iraq and Syria. US officials have been warning for months against losing focus on Islamic State, which they believe could again become a potent insurgency.

United States backed Syrian forces halt counter-Islamic State operations

Turkish bombardment on northeast Syria has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-urges-turkey-to-halt-syria-offensive-will-not-pay-for-safe-zone-254817">killed at least two civilians</a>, a Kurdish militia said Wednesday, as Ankara launched a cross-border assault.

"Two civilians lost their lives, two others were injured in the Turkish aerial bombardment" on a village west of the border area of Ras Al-Ain, said the Syrian Democratic Forces' coordination and military operations centre.

Earlier on Wednesday, the SDF reported "intensive bombardment by Turkish jets on military positions and civilian villages" in the areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad, Qamishli and Ain Issa.&nbsp;

It also said that a total of 25 Turkish jets have been involved in the initial phase of the offensive, striking a total of 16 targets across the wide border area.

Watch: Turkey deploys tank convoy to Syrian border

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It reiterated its call on the United States and the military coalition it leads in the region to implement "a no-fly zone to stop the attacks on innocent people".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-security-council-head-appeals-to-turkey-for-restraint-in-syria-254812">The Kurd-led force also said Turkey's bombardment has triggered a wave of displacement from border areas.</a>

In Ras al-Ain on Wednesday, residents could be seen walking on the street, carrying luggage, as clouds of smoke rose to the air, an AFP correspondent there said.

Motorcycles and vehicles packed with people streamed out of the area, he said, as the sound of explosions rang from several parts of the region.

Turkish bombardment on northeast Syria has killed at least two civilians, a Kurdish militia said Wednesday, as Ankara launched a cross-border assault. "Two civilians lost their lives, two others were injured in the Turkish aerial bombardment" on a village west of the border area of Ras Al-Ain, said the Syrian Democratic Forces' coordination and military operations centre.

Turkish bombardment on northeast Syria has killed at least two civilians, a Kurdish militia said Wednesday, as Ankara launched a cross-border assault. "Two civilians lost their lives, two others were injured in the Turkish aerial bombardment" on a village west of the border area of Ras Al-Ain, said the Syrian Democratic Forces' coordination and military operations centre. Earlier on Wednesday, the SDF reported "intensive bombardment by Turkish jets on military positions and civilian villages" in the areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad, Qamishli and Ain Issa. It also said that a total of 25 Turkish jets have been involved in the initial phase of the offensive, striking a total of 16 targets across the wide border area. Watch: Turkey deploys tank convoy to Syrian border It reiterated its call on the United States and the military coalition it leads in the region to implement "a no-fly zone to stop the attacks on innocent people". The Kurd-led force also said Turkey's bombardment has triggered a wave of displacement from border areas. In Ras al-Ain on Wednesday, residents could be seen walking on the street, carrying luggage, as clouds of smoke rose to the air, an AFP correspondent there said. Motorcycles and vehicles packed with people streamed out of the area, he said, as the sound of explosions rang from several parts of the region.

Syria Kurds say two civilians killed in Turkish border attack

European Union chief Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday demanded&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-security-council-head-appeals-to-turkey-for-restraint-in-syria-254812">Turkey halt its military operation against Kurdish militants in northern Syria</a>, telling Ankara the bloc would not pay for any so-called "safe zone" that might be created.

He spoke as Turkish forces launched an assault on Kurdish positions, with airstrikes and explosions reported near the border.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the start of the&nbsp;attack, which is aimed at curbing the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The SDF was previously allied to the US, which used it to crush the Islamic State group.

Juncker told the European Parliament he recognised Turkey had "security concerns" along the border. But he warned the military action would not lead to a "good result", saying a political solution was the only way to end the Syrian conflict.

"I call on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-denies-initiation-of-syria-operation-254739">Turkey as well as the other actors to act with restraint and to stop operations already</a>, as we are speaking, underway," Juncker said.

"I have to say if the Turkish plan involves the creation of a so-called safe zone, don't expect the European Union to pay for any of it."

Ankara regards the Kurdish fighters as terrorists linked to insurgents inside Turkey. It wants to invade to create a "safe zone" on the Syrian side of the border where it could send back some of the 3.6 million refugees it hosts from Syria's eight-year civil war.

NATO member Turkey is technically a candidate country to join the European Union but accession talks are effectively frozen and ties between the Ankara and the bloc have limped along for years.

Ankara agreed to a $6.6 billion&nbsp;deal with Brussels to stem the influx of migrants to the EU in 2016, but relations soured after Erdogan unleashed a major crackdown in the wake of a failed coup to overthrow him in the same year.

European Union chief Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday demanded Turkey halt its military operation against Kurdish militants in northern Syria, telling Ankara the bloc would not pay for any so-called "safe zone" that might be created.

European Union chief Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday demanded Turkey halt its military operation against Kurdish militants in northern Syria, telling Ankara the bloc would not pay for any so-called "safe zone" that might be created. He spoke as Turkish forces launched an assault on Kurdish positions, with airstrikes and explosions reported near the border. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the start of the attack, which is aimed at curbing the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF was previously allied to the US, which used it to crush the Islamic State group. Juncker told the European Parliament he recognised Turkey had "security concerns" along the border. But he warned the military action would not lead to a "good result", saying a political solution was the only way to end the Syrian conflict. "I call on Turkey as well as the other actors to act with restraint and to stop operations already, as we are speaking, underway," Juncker said. "I have to say if the Turkish plan involves the creation of a so-called safe zone, don't expect the European Union to pay for any of it." Ankara regards the Kurdish fighters as terrorists linked to insurgents inside Turkey. It wants to invade to create a "safe zone" on the Syrian side of the border where it could send back some of the 3.6 million refugees it hosts from Syria's eight-year civil war. NATO member Turkey is technically a candidate country to join the European Union but accession talks are effectively frozen and ties between the Ankara and the bloc have limped along for years. Ankara agreed to a $6.6 billion deal with Brussels to stem the influx of migrants to the EU in 2016, but relations soured after Erdogan unleashed a major crackdown in the wake of a failed coup to overthrow him in the same year.

European Union urges Turkey to halt Syria offensive, will not pay for 'safe zone'

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