An advanced Russian multi-role fighter plane crashed in Syria on Thursday morning shortly after take-off, killing both members of its crew, the Russian military was cited as saying by Russian news agencies.

The two-seater Sukhoi-30SM jet crashed after taking off from Russia’s Hmeymim air base in Latakia Province. Agencies cited the Ministry of Defence in Moscow as saying its two crew members had tried in vain to save the plane until the last moment.

“According to preliminary information, the reason for the aviation disaster could have been birds getting into the engine,” the RIA news agency cited the ministry as saying. The plane was not struck by any projectile.”

The plane was among Russia’s most advanced and performed its maiden flight in 2012. In Syria, it was used to launch air-to-ground missiles at rebel targets and to escort attack jets and strategic bombers.

The two-seater Sukhoi-30SM jet crashed after taking off from Russia’s Hmeymim air base in Latakia Province.

An advanced Russian multi-role fighter plane crashed in Syria on Thursday morning shortly after take-off, killing both members of its crew, the Russian military was cited as saying by Russian news agencies. The two-seater Sukhoi-30SM jet crashed after taking off from Russia’s Hmeymim air base in Latakia Province. Agencies cited the Ministry of Defence in Moscow as saying its two crew members had tried in vain to save the plane until the last moment. “According to preliminary information, the reason for the aviation disaster could have been birds getting into the engine,” the RIA news agency cited the ministry as saying. The plane was not struck by any projectile.” The plane was among Russia’s most advanced and performed its maiden flight in 2012. In Syria, it was used to launch air-to-ground missiles at rebel targets and to escort attack jets and strategic bombers.

Russian war plane crashes in Syria, killing two crew

The United States and its allies would not want to pull troops out of Syria before diplomats win the peace, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Monday, one of the strongest signs yet a full US&nbsp;withdrawal was unlikely anytime soon.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said last week he wants to withdraw American troops from Syria relatively soon, but appeared to temper that position by voicing a desire to leave a "strong and lasting footprint."

A footprint, in military-speak, usually refers to a US&nbsp;troop presence.

Mattis said the United States and its allies were on the cusp of victory against Islamic State and added they would not want to simply abandon Syria while it remained in a state of war.

"We do not want to simply pull out before the diplomats have won the peace. You win the fight -- and then you win the peace," Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon.

Mattis said he was due to meet later on Monday with UN&nbsp;Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura to "see where the Geneva process is and what we can do to assist."

Efforts are stuck to forge a negotiated end to Syria's civil war, which has killed half a million people over seven years and displaced millions.

The Pentagon and State Department have also held that a longer term US&nbsp;effort will be needed to ensure a lasting defeat of Islamic State. The group seized large swathes of Syria and Iraq but has gradually lost its territory since the United States and its allies started a military offensive in 2014.

Some of the harshest critics of a potential withdrawal from Syria come from Trump's own Republican party, which blasted President Barack Obama when he withdrew US&nbsp;troops from Iraq in 2011. Iraqi forces began to unravel and eventually collapsed in the face of Islamic State's advance into the country in 2014.

Mattis said he was due to meet later on Monday with UN Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura to 'see where the Geneva process is and what we can do to assist'

The United States and its allies would not want to pull troops out of Syria before diplomats win the peace, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Monday, one of the strongest signs yet a full US withdrawal was unlikely anytime soon. US President Donald Trump said last week he wants to withdraw American troops from Syria relatively soon, but appeared to temper that position by voicing a desire to leave a "strong and lasting footprint." A footprint, in military-speak, usually refers to a US troop presence. Mattis said the United States and its allies were on the cusp of victory against Islamic State and added they would not want to simply abandon Syria while it remained in a state of war. "We do not want to simply pull out before the diplomats have won the peace. You win the fight -- and then you win the peace," Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon. Mattis said he was due to meet later on Monday with UN Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura to "see where the Geneva process is and what we can do to assist." Efforts are stuck to forge a negotiated end to Syria's civil war, which has killed half a million people over seven years and displaced millions. The Pentagon and State Department have also held that a longer term US effort will be needed to ensure a lasting defeat of Islamic State. The group seized large swathes of Syria and Iraq but has gradually lost its territory since the United States and its allies started a military offensive in 2014. Some of the harshest critics of a potential withdrawal from Syria come from Trump's own Republican party, which blasted President Barack Obama when he withdrew US troops from Iraq in 2011. Iraqi forces began to unravel and eventually collapsed in the face of Islamic State's advance into the country in 2014.

Mattis plays down odds of Syria pullout before peace agreement

US-backed Syrian forces on Tuesday relaunched their operations to seize the last territory Islamic State controls in the east near the border with Iraq.

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias, had halted their battle after Turkey launched an assault in January against northern Afrin region.

“We have rearranged our ranks,” said Lilwa al-Abdallah, spokeswoman for the offensive in oil-rich Deir al-Zor province.

Islamic State militants stepped up attacks in the region in recent weeks in a bid to reorganize, she told a news conference at an oilfield on the eastern bank of the Euphrates river.

“Our heroic forces will liberate these areas and secure the border...We welcome the support of the Iraqi forces.”

Also, the US-led coalition on Monday announced the end of a huge operation against Islamic State in Iraq by stating the "deactivation" of its land forces command headquarters.&nbsp;

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared victory over the Islamic State in December, five months after his forces recaptured the country’s second city Mosul in a protracted battle with the jihadist militants.

Meanwhile, the Islamic State terrorists agreed to hand over their last pocket in Damascus on Friday, reports said. The surrender was made after a week of escalations by pro-government forces against &nbsp;Islamic State-held Hajar al-Aswad neighborhood and Yarmouk Palestinian camp in Damascus.

Pro-government forces bombed the two areas and blanketed them with artillery fire in a crescendo of violence captured by the state-affiliated Central Military Media outlet on Friday.

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said last week that he expected a “re-energized” effort soon against the ultra-hardline militants in eastern Syria.

Syrian fighters, backed by US&nbsp;airstrikes and troops, have dealt heavy blows to Islamic State but the jihadists still hold a swathe of land along the desert frontier with Iraq. They are widely expected to revert to guerrilla tactics if they lose the last remnants of their once self-styled “caliphate”.

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias, had halted their battle after Turkey launched an assault in January against northern Afrin region

US-backed Syrian forces on Tuesday relaunched their operations to seize the last territory Islamic State controls in the east near the border with Iraq. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias, had halted their battle after Turkey launched an assault in January against northern Afrin region. “We have rearranged our ranks,” said Lilwa al-Abdallah, spokeswoman for the offensive in oil-rich Deir al-Zor province. Islamic State militants stepped up attacks in the region in recent weeks in a bid to reorganize, she told a news conference at an oilfield on the eastern bank of the Euphrates river. “Our heroic forces will liberate these areas and secure the border...We welcome the support of the Iraqi forces.” Also, the US-led coalition on Monday announced the end of a huge operation against Islamic State in Iraq by stating the "deactivation" of its land forces command headquarters. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared victory over the Islamic State in December, five months after his forces recaptured the country’s second city Mosul in a protracted battle with the jihadist militants. Meanwhile, the Islamic State terrorists agreed to hand over their last pocket in Damascus on Friday, reports said. The surrender was made after a week of escalations by pro-government forces against Islamic State-held Hajar al-Aswad neighborhood and Yarmouk Palestinian camp in Damascus. Pro-government forces bombed the two areas and blanketed them with artillery fire in a crescendo of violence captured by the state-affiliated Central Military Media outlet on Friday. U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said last week that he expected a “re-energized” effort soon against the ultra-hardline militants in eastern Syria. Syrian fighters, backed by US airstrikes and troops, have dealt heavy blows to Islamic State but the jihadists still hold a swathe of land along the desert frontier with Iraq. They are widely expected to revert to guerrilla tactics if they lose the last remnants of their once self-styled “caliphate”.

US-backed Syrian forces relaunch operations against Islamic State

The Syrian army is continuing its operations in al-Qadam, south of the country's capital of Damascus.

The operations marked more security for the residential area and the industrial zone, all previously dominated by militants.

The advances helped the army make some progress in al-Qadam and west of al-Hajar al-Aswad.

A military correspondent Issa Issa said that the battle has a few hurdles yet to pass as there are a large number of tunnels on top of the battlefield being close to a residential area.

"The progress is slow. Firstly, because efforts are being made to guarantee residents' security. Secondly, because there are many tunnels and trenches, some of which are not controlled by the Syrian army," said Issa.

"The uniqueness of this battle is that the areas are adjacent to the densely-populated Damascus and its neighborhoods. Plus, it's a slum, with a lot of construction zones, which adds to the difficulty," Issa added.

Residents are happy to have the prospect of stability in the near future.

"We had lived here for a long time, thanks to the God. Since the army controlled it, we are eager to return to the camp and return to the areas of al-Qadam. We have jobs here and we have shops," said Mohammad Hazam, a local resident.

The appearance of the army has not only assured the locals, but also brought them closer to their former life.

"God protects the Syrian Arab army. We're here to protect them (soldiers), and they protect me, my shop and my job, and I will not leave my job ever. There are coffee shops, sawmills of wood and iron and aluminum, and vehicle chair processing factories. The distance is short between us and the army, and everyone can work now," said Ahmed Bardakani, owner of a local wood factory.

However, no laughter could be heard on the playgrounds, and people are still waiting for life to return to normal.

The advances helped the army make some progress in al-Qadam and west of al-Hajar al-Aswad

The Syrian army is continuing its operations in al-Qadam, south of the country's capital of Damascus. The operations marked more security for the residential area and the industrial zone, all previously dominated by militants. The advances helped the army make some progress in al-Qadam and west of al-Hajar al-Aswad. A military correspondent Issa Issa said that the battle has a few hurdles yet to pass as there are a large number of tunnels on top of the battlefield being close to a residential area. "The progress is slow. Firstly, because efforts are being made to guarantee residents' security. Secondly, because there are many tunnels and trenches, some of which are not controlled by the Syrian army," said Issa. "The uniqueness of this battle is that the areas are adjacent to the densely-populated Damascus and its neighborhoods. Plus, it's a slum, with a lot of construction zones, which adds to the difficulty," Issa added. Residents are happy to have the prospect of stability in the near future. "We had lived here for a long time, thanks to the God. Since the army controlled it, we are eager to return to the camp and return to the areas of al-Qadam. We have jobs here and we have shops," said Mohammad Hazam, a local resident. The appearance of the army has not only assured the locals, but also brought them closer to their former life. "God protects the Syrian Arab army. We're here to protect them (soldiers), and they protect me, my shop and my job, and I will not leave my job ever. There are coffee shops, sawmills of wood and iron and aluminum, and vehicle chair processing factories. The distance is short between us and the army, and everyone can work now," said Ahmed Bardakani, owner of a local wood factory. However, no laughter could be heard on the playgrounds, and people are still waiting for life to return to normal.

Syrian army advance into industrial zone of al-Qadam

According to Syrian media, government's military provinces of Hama and Aleppo were targetted by enemy missiles, the attackers have not been identified.

The attack was confirmed by the Syrian Observatory of Human Rights monitor which also informed about the presence of "Iranian elements" at two of the targeted bases.

"Syria is being exposed to a new aggression with some military bases in rural Hama and Aleppo hit with enemy rockets," an army source was quoted as saying without elaborating.

Earlier, state television said successive blasts were heard in rural Hama province and that authorities were investigating the cause.

An opposition source said one of the locations hit was an army base known as Brigade 47 near Hama city, widely known as a recruitment centre for Iranian-backed Shi`ite militias who fight alongside President Bashar al-Assad`s forces.

No information on the number of casualties was available.

Meanwhile, Syria and its ally Iran recently accused Israel of conducting deadly strikes against a military base in the heart of the country.

The United States and its allies France and UK carried out strikes targetting several Syrian regime's military positions on April 14.

The US-led attack came in response to a suspected chemical attack by the Syrian regime on rebel-held Douma.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

No information on the number of casualties was available

According to Syrian media, government's military provinces of Hama and Aleppo were targetted by enemy missiles, the attackers have not been identified. The attack was confirmed by the Syrian Observatory of Human Rights monitor which also informed about the presence of "Iranian elements" at two of the targeted bases. "Syria is being exposed to a new aggression with some military bases in rural Hama and Aleppo hit with enemy rockets," an army source was quoted as saying without elaborating. Earlier, state television said successive blasts were heard in rural Hama province and that authorities were investigating the cause. An opposition source said one of the locations hit was an army base known as Brigade 47 near Hama city, widely known as a recruitment centre for Iranian-backed Shi`ite militias who fight alongside President Bashar al-Assad`s forces. No information on the number of casualties was available. Meanwhile, Syria and its ally Iran recently accused Israel of conducting deadly strikes against a military base in the heart of the country. The United States and its allies France and UK carried out strikes targetting several Syrian regime's military positions on April 14. The US-led attack came in response to a suspected chemical attack by the Syrian regime on rebel-held Douma. (With inputs from agencies)

Syrian regime military positions attacked by missiles: State Media

The Syrian army unleashed a massive bombardment against one rebel enclave on Monday and prepared for the withdrawal of insurgents from another as President Bashar al-Assad pushes to crush the rebels' last besieged strongholds.

However, missile strikes against several government military bases on Sunday - not claimed by any party despite speculation in Israel that its military was responsible - underscored the risks of a wider escalation in the seven-year conflict.

More than 140 Syrian army air strikes hit the town of Rastan and surrounding villages in the rebel enclave between the cities of Hama and Homs early on Monday alongside sustained shelling, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said.

Last week a Syrian government minister said the enclave would be the army's next target after retaking all rebel areas around the capital, a goal it looks closer to achieving with Monday's expected insurgent withdrawal from south Damascus.

Despite Assad's ever-stronger position against rebels since Russia's entry into the war in 2015 brought a string of battlefield victories, the involvement of numerous regional and global powers threatens to inflame the war further.

Nobody has claimed responsibility for the missile attacks that struck several bases near Hama and Aleppo overnight, causing large explosions, and the Syrian army has blamed only "aggression" by its enemies.

However, Israel has previously carried out strikes in Syria to stop Assad's ally Iran getting stronger there or transferring weapons to the Lebanese group Hezbollah, and there is widespread speculation in Israel that it was behind the attack.

Israel's Intelligence Minister Israel Katz would not comment on the strikes, but added that Israel "has made it unequivocally clear at all levels that it will not allow an Iranian front in Syria to be established".

A spokesman for Israel's military said it would not comment on foreign reports. But Amos Yadlin, a former head of Israeli military intelligence, said Israel was likely behind the strikes.

"Israel has to decide: 'are we confronting Iran in Syria before they have the full advanced weapons capabilities' ... or do we wait ... let them build a huge military capability in Syria and meet them in a future war and pay a very high price?"

Diplomats have warned of a possible major escalation between Israel and Iran in Syria as Assad and his allies take more territory from rebels.

The United States, Jordan and Assad's main ally Russia have declared a ceasefire zone in southwest Syria, near the border with Israel, and on Monday Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington's strategy there "remains unchanged".

The Observatory said at least 26 people - mostly Iranians and members of an Iran-backed Iraqi militia - were killed in Sunday's strikes, and that dozens more people were missing.

Speaking in Israel on Sunday, Pompeo said the United States was "deeply concerned about Iran's dangerous escalation of threats towards Israel and the region" and said it was critical for the two allies to work together to stop it.

Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency said no Iranian base had been hit or Iranians killed. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a senior Iranian member of parliament met Assad on Monday and said Iran would keep its military advisers in Syria until the war ended.

Tehran and its allies blamed Israel for an April 9 air strike on the Tiyas air base in Syria, in which several Iranian military personnel were killed, and Iran has warned it would not go "without response".

ASSAULT

The Syrian army's assault on the pocket between Homs and Hama - the most populous remaining besieged area in Syria - included air strikes and artillery, said the Britain-based Observatory.

Reinforcements arrived in government-held areas before the bombardment, which targeted Rastan, the biggest town in the pocket, and several nearby villages, the Observatory said.

Syrian rebels hold large swathes of both northwest and southwest Syria. An alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by the United States holds large parts of northern and eastern Syria after an offensive against Islamic State last year.

The pocket in southern Damascus is split between areas held by Islamic State and rebel groups. It has been the focus of a massive bombardment and intense fighting since the Syrian army recaptured eastern Ghouta earlier this month.

Late on Sunday, state media reported that one of the rebel groups there, the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which includes Syria's former al-Qaeda affiliate, had agreed to withdraw to opposition-held Idlib province in northern Syria.

Footage on state television on Monday showed what it said was preparations for that withdrawal, along with the departure of buses in northern Syria to evacuate civilians from two government-held villages besieged by insurgents.

The surrender deal for Tahrir al-Sham in south Damascus was part of a deal to allow about 5,000 people to leave the two government-held Shi'ite villages, al-Foua and Kefraya, it said.

However, SANA state news agency reported continued intensive bombardment of al-Hajar al-Aswad, another area in the south Damascus pocket where Islamic State fighters are based.

No one has as yet claimed responsibility for the strikes

The Syrian army unleashed a massive bombardment against one rebel enclave on Monday and prepared for the withdrawal of insurgents from another as President Bashar al-Assad pushes to crush the rebels' last besieged strongholds. However, missile strikes against several government military bases on Sunday - not claimed by any party despite speculation in Israel that its military was responsible - underscored the risks of a wider escalation in the seven-year conflict. More than 140 Syrian army air strikes hit the town of Rastan and surrounding villages in the rebel enclave between the cities of Hama and Homs early on Monday alongside sustained shelling, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said. Last week a Syrian government minister said the enclave would be the army's next target after retaking all rebel areas around the capital, a goal it looks closer to achieving with Monday's expected insurgent withdrawal from south Damascus. Despite Assad's ever-stronger position against rebels since Russia's entry into the war in 2015 brought a string of battlefield victories, the involvement of numerous regional and global powers threatens to inflame the war further. Nobody has claimed responsibility for the missile attacks that struck several bases near Hama and Aleppo overnight, causing large explosions, and the Syrian army has blamed only "aggression" by its enemies. However, Israel has previously carried out strikes in Syria to stop Assad's ally Iran getting stronger there or transferring weapons to the Lebanese group Hezbollah, and there is widespread speculation in Israel that it was behind the attack. Israel's Intelligence Minister Israel Katz would not comment on the strikes, but added that Israel "has made it unequivocally clear at all levels that it will not allow an Iranian front in Syria to be established". A spokesman for Israel's military said it would not comment on foreign reports. But Amos Yadlin, a former head of Israeli military intelligence, said Israel was likely behind the strikes. "Israel has to decide: 'are we confronting Iran in Syria before they have the full advanced weapons capabilities' ... or do we wait ... let them build a huge military capability in Syria and meet them in a future war and pay a very high price?" Diplomats have warned of a possible major escalation between Israel and Iran in Syria as Assad and his allies take more territory from rebels. The United States, Jordan and Assad's main ally Russia have declared a ceasefire zone in southwest Syria, near the border with Israel, and on Monday Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington's strategy there "remains unchanged". The Observatory said at least 26 people - mostly Iranians and members of an Iran-backed Iraqi militia - were killed in Sunday's strikes, and that dozens more people were missing. Speaking in Israel on Sunday, Pompeo said the United States was "deeply concerned about Iran's dangerous escalation of threats towards Israel and the region" and said it was critical for the two allies to work together to stop it. Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency said no Iranian base had been hit or Iranians killed. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a senior Iranian member of parliament met Assad on Monday and said Iran would keep its military advisers in Syria until the war ended. Tehran and its allies blamed Israel for an April 9 air strike on the Tiyas air base in Syria, in which several Iranian military personnel were killed, and Iran has warned it would not go "without response". ASSAULT The Syrian army's assault on the pocket between Homs and Hama - the most populous remaining besieged area in Syria - included air strikes and artillery, said the Britain-based Observatory. Reinforcements arrived in government-held areas before the bombardment, which targeted Rastan, the biggest town in the pocket, and several nearby villages, the Observatory said. Syrian rebels hold large swathes of both northwest and southwest Syria. An alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by the United States holds large parts of northern and eastern Syria after an offensive against Islamic State last year. The pocket in southern Damascus is split between areas held by Islamic State and rebel groups. It has been the focus of a massive bombardment and intense fighting since the Syrian army recaptured eastern Ghouta earlier this month. Late on Sunday, state media reported that one of the rebel groups there, the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which includes Syria's former al-Qaeda affiliate, had agreed to withdraw to opposition-held Idlib province in northern Syria. Footage on state television on Monday showed what it said was preparations for that withdrawal, along with the departure of buses in northern Syria to evacuate civilians from two government-held villages besieged by insurgents. The surrender deal for Tahrir al-Sham in south Damascus was part of a deal to allow about 5,000 people to leave the two government-held Shi'ite villages, al-Foua and Kefraya, it said. However, SANA state news agency reported continued intensive bombardment of al-Hajar al-Aswad, another area in the south Damascus pocket where Islamic State fighters are based.

Missiles strike Syrian Army sites, speculation is that Israel might be responsible

The Syrian army began an intense bombardment of a rebel enclave near Homs on Monday, a war monitor said, as President Bashar al-Assad pushed to recapture all the remaining areas his forces have besieged.

The attack comes as Syrian state television broadcast footage of work to clear roads into part of a pocket in south Damascus where fighting had raged, to allow some rebels there to withdraw in a surrender deal, it said.

Late on Sunday, the Syrian army said missiles had struck bases in northern Syria, describing it as a "new aggression" by its enemies. A war monitor said the strikes had targeted a rocket cache and killed Iranians and Iraqi fighters.

Israel's military, which has previously used air strikes in Syria to target a growing Iranian presence there, said it did not comment on such reports and had no information on the attack.

The Syrian army's assault on the pocket between Homs and Hama - the most populous remaining besieged area in Syria - included both air strikes and artillery, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the war monitor.

Reinforcements had arrived in government-held areas before the bombardment, which targeted Rastan, the biggest town in the pocket, and several nearby villages, the Observatory said.

Syrian rebels hold large swathes of both northwest and southwest Syria. An alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by the United States holds large parts of northern and eastern Syria after an offensive against Islamic State last year.

On Sunday, that alliance, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said it had recaptured several villages that pro-government forces had seized from it in eastern Syria.

The pocket in southern Damascus is split between areas held by Islamic State and rebel groups. It has been the focus of a massive bombardment and intense fighting since the Syrian army recaptured eastern Ghouta earlier this month.

Late on Sunday, state media reported that one of the rebel groups there, the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which includes Syria's former al-Qaeda affiliate, had agreed to withdraw to opposition-held Idlib province in northern Syria.

Footage on state television on Monday showed what it said was preparations for that withdrawal, along with the departure of buses in northern Syria to evacuate civilians from two government-held villages besieged by insurgents.

The surrender deal for Tahrir al-Sham in south Damascus was part of a deal to allow people to leave the two government-held Shi'ite villages, al-Foua and Kefraya, it said.

However, SANA state news agency reported continued intensive bombardment of al-Hajar al-Aswad, another area in the south Damascus pocket where Islamic State fighters are based.

Late on Sunday, the Syrian army said missiles had struck bases in northern Syria, describing it as a 'new aggression' by its enemies

The Syrian army began an intense bombardment of a rebel enclave near Homs on Monday, a war monitor said, as President Bashar al-Assad pushed to recapture all the remaining areas his forces have besieged. The attack comes as Syrian state television broadcast footage of work to clear roads into part of a pocket in south Damascus where fighting had raged, to allow some rebels there to withdraw in a surrender deal, it said. Late on Sunday, the Syrian army said missiles had struck bases in northern Syria, describing it as a "new aggression" by its enemies. A war monitor said the strikes had targeted a rocket cache and killed Iranians and Iraqi fighters. Israel's military, which has previously used air strikes in Syria to target a growing Iranian presence there, said it did not comment on such reports and had no information on the attack. The Syrian army's assault on the pocket between Homs and Hama - the most populous remaining besieged area in Syria - included both air strikes and artillery, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the war monitor. Reinforcements had arrived in government-held areas before the bombardment, which targeted Rastan, the biggest town in the pocket, and several nearby villages, the Observatory said. Syrian rebels hold large swathes of both northwest and southwest Syria. An alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by the United States holds large parts of northern and eastern Syria after an offensive against Islamic State last year. On Sunday, that alliance, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said it had recaptured several villages that pro-government forces had seized from it in eastern Syria. The pocket in southern Damascus is split between areas held by Islamic State and rebel groups. It has been the focus of a massive bombardment and intense fighting since the Syrian army recaptured eastern Ghouta earlier this month. Late on Sunday, state media reported that one of the rebel groups there, the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which includes Syria's former al-Qaeda affiliate, had agreed to withdraw to opposition-held Idlib province in northern Syria. Footage on state television on Monday showed what it said was preparations for that withdrawal, along with the departure of buses in northern Syria to evacuate civilians from two government-held villages besieged by insurgents. The surrender deal for Tahrir al-Sham in south Damascus was part of a deal to allow people to leave the two government-held Shi'ite villages, al-Foua and Kefraya, it said. However, SANA state news agency reported continued intensive bombardment of al-Hajar al-Aswad, another area in the south Damascus pocket where Islamic State fighters are based.

Syrian army renews push on besieged areas

Syrian troops on Sunday tightened the noose around a major Palestinian refugee camp held by Islamic State militants in southern Damascus where hundreds of civilians face an uncertain future, state media, witnesses and residents said.

Nearly two weeks into a campaign to capture the last area near the capital outside government control that has left many parts of the once teeming Yarmouk camp in ruins, state media announced al Qadm neighbourhood next to the camp was retaken.

Opposition sources said the army was now engaged in fierce fighting with militants on the outskirts of Yarmouk camp where an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 militants are now encircled.

The militants who are besieged in an ever shrinking area have repelled successive raids to enter their heavily defended stronghold.

The Yarmouk campaign is part of a wider-Russian backed offensive to regain the last pocket in opposition hands around the capital after retaking eastern Ghouta this month.

It has shown no sign of letting up since Western countries launched air strikes on April 14 to punish the government for a suspected poison gas attack.

The fate of hundreds of Palestinians, mostly sick and elderly women and children still in the camp that was once the largest in Syria is uncertain. UNRWA, the UN body responsible for Palestinian refugees has called on warring parties to spare civilians.

"There are some families that have been buried under the rubble and no one is able to retrieve their bodies," said Abu Osama, a resident who fled the camp two days ago to nearby Yalda, joining thousands of others seeking relative safety there since the start of the latest offensive.

"The regime is just burning and destroying ... and then trying to advance on several fronts," Rami al Sayed, a former resident of Yarmouk who is now on its outskirts, said.

The camp, which has been under siege by the army since rebels captured it in 2012, was home to some 160,000 Palestinians before the Syrian conflict began in 2011, refugees from the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and their descendents.

Amaq, a news agency affiliated to Islamic State, said its fighters had repelled the latest attacks on their positions in al Qadam and Hay al Tadamon, killing at least 17 army fighters killed in sniper attacks.

The ultra-hardline Sunni militants also pushed overnight into some positions in the southern Damascus pocket where mainly mainstream rebels operating under the umbrella of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) are in control, opposition sources said. 
 
A deal was reached overnight under Russian auspices to evacuate those FSA rebels who are based in the towns of Yalda, Babila and Beit Sahem that adjoin Islamic State-held areas to opposition held areas in northern Syria, a rebel source said confirming leaks in state media.

Those rebels who have in the past fought both the militants and the Syrian army have also been targeted by the army in an attempt to force them to capitulate.

Nearly two weeks into a campaign to capture the last area near the capital outside government control that has left many parts of the once teeming Yarmouk camp in ruins, state media announced al Qadm neighbourhood next to the camp was retaken

Syrian troops on Sunday tightened the noose around a major Palestinian refugee camp held by Islamic State militants in southern Damascus where hundreds of civilians face an uncertain future, state media, witnesses and residents said. Nearly two weeks into a campaign to capture the last area near the capital outside government control that has left many parts of the once teeming Yarmouk camp in ruins, state media announced al Qadm neighbourhood next to the camp was retaken. Opposition sources said the army was now engaged in fierce fighting with militants on the outskirts of Yarmouk camp where an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 militants are now encircled. The militants who are besieged in an ever shrinking area have repelled successive raids to enter their heavily defended stronghold. The Yarmouk campaign is part of a wider-Russian backed offensive to regain the last pocket in opposition hands around the capital after retaking eastern Ghouta this month. It has shown no sign of letting up since Western countries launched air strikes on April 14 to punish the government for a suspected poison gas attack. The fate of hundreds of Palestinians, mostly sick and elderly women and children still in the camp that was once the largest in Syria is uncertain. UNRWA, the UN body responsible for Palestinian refugees has called on warring parties to spare civilians. "There are some families that have been buried under the rubble and no one is able to retrieve their bodies," said Abu Osama, a resident who fled the camp two days ago to nearby Yalda, joining thousands of others seeking relative safety there since the start of the latest offensive. "The regime is just burning and destroying ... and then trying to advance on several fronts," Rami al Sayed, a former resident of Yarmouk who is now on its outskirts, said. The camp, which has been under siege by the army since rebels captured it in 2012, was home to some 160,000 Palestinians before the Syrian conflict began in 2011, refugees from the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and their descendents. Amaq, a news agency affiliated to Islamic State, said its fighters had repelled the latest attacks on their positions in al Qadam and Hay al Tadamon, killing at least 17 army fighters killed in sniper attacks. The ultra-hardline Sunni militants also pushed overnight into some positions in the southern Damascus pocket where mainly mainstream rebels operating under the umbrella of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) are in control, opposition sources said. A deal was reached overnight under Russian auspices to evacuate those FSA rebels who are based in the towns of Yalda, Babila and Beit Sahem that adjoin Islamic State-held areas to opposition held areas in northern Syria, a rebel source said confirming leaks in state media. Those rebels who have in the past fought both the militants and the Syrian army have also been targeted by the army in an attempt to force them to capitulate.

Syrian army tightens noose around Palestinian camp

The Syrian army on Sunday seized a string of villages from US aided army, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), near the border with Iraq.

The villages have been captured from US-backed SDF east of the Euphrates river near the border.

The US-backed proxy forces are campaigning in the area since 2017 to drive out the Islamic State.

The SDF are promoted by Kurdish YPG militia.&nbspThe forces have taken much of the territory east of the Euphrates in Deir al-Zor province.

The Russian-backed Syrian army avoids clashes with SDF in its fight against Islamist State. It also distances itself from the east of Euphrates.&nbsp

An elaborate " deconfliction lines" separates the US-led forces from Russian and Iranian backed forces.&nbsp

The SDF had claimed earlier that they were engaged in heavy clashes with Syrian army troops on the outskirts of the village near the Euphrates.&nbsp

&nbsp

The US-backed proxy forces are campaigning in the area since 2017 to drive out the Islamic State

The Syrian army on Sunday seized a string of villages from US aided army, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), near the border with Iraq. The villages have been captured from US-backed SDF east of the Euphrates river near the border. The US-backed proxy forces are campaigning in the area since 2017 to drive out the Islamic State. The SDF are promoted by Kurdish YPG militia.&nbspThe forces have taken much of the territory east of the Euphrates in Deir al-Zor province. The Russian-backed Syrian army avoids clashes with SDF in its fight against Islamist State. It also distances itself from the east of Euphrates. An elaborate " deconfliction lines" separates the US-led forces from Russian and Iranian backed forces. The SDF had claimed earlier that they were engaged in heavy clashes with Syrian army troops on the outskirts of the village near the Euphrates.

Seized villages from US-backed forces: Syrian army

Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help Syria's government clear its country of terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday during a trilateral meeting in Moscow with his counterparts from Turkey and Iran.

"I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," said Lavrov.

"I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," noted Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif.

"I agree with Javad Zarif that best solution is the political solution and any military solution is illegal and unsustainable,"&nbsp;said Turkey's Foreign Minister Melvut Cavusoglu.

Turkish Foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu added that any military solution in Syria would be illegal and unsustainable. Cavusoglu said the three countries could work together to help the Syrian people and there needed to be a new push to reach a political solution.

Declarations of some Syrian opposition figures are damaging efforts to inject new life into Geneva peace process, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei&nbsp;Lavrov said, adding that there can be no preconditions for Geneva talks.

Russia, Iran and Turkey agreed that Syria peace process must continue despite Western missile strikes,&nbsp;Lavrov&nbsp;said after meeting his Iranian and Turkish counterparts in Moscow.

"This attack (on Syria by U.S., Great Britain and France) of course has thrown back the efforts to advance in the political process. Nevertheless, today we have firmly confirmed that these efforts must be continued, we agreed on concrete steps which all three of our countries will take both collectively and individually to return all of us to the path of stable progress towards the goals of Resolution 2254," Lavrov noted.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Russia, Iran and Turkey need to work in coordination with the United Nations to ensure the legitimacy of any political solution in Syria.

"We need to convene and launch the constitutional committee in the near future. We discussed how we should work with the United Nations in this respect to legitimize the political process. We talked with the UN special envoy on Syria and we need to work closer with him and to involve the United Nations more actively," Cavusoglu added.

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday that demands by US President Donald Trump to change Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers were unacceptable.

Trump has said that unless European allies fix the "terrible flaws" in the Iran nuclear deal by May 12, he will refuse to extend US&nbsp;sanctions relief for oil-producing Iran.

Turkish Foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu added that any military solution in Syria would be illegal and unsustainable

Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help Syria's government clear its country of terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday during a trilateral meeting in Moscow with his counterparts from Turkey and Iran. "I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," said Lavrov. "I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," noted Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif. "I agree with Javad Zarif that best solution is the political solution and any military solution is illegal and unsustainable," said Turkey's Foreign Minister Melvut Cavusoglu. Turkish Foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu added that any military solution in Syria would be illegal and unsustainable. Cavusoglu said the three countries could work together to help the Syrian people and there needed to be a new push to reach a political solution. Declarations of some Syrian opposition figures are damaging efforts to inject new life into Geneva peace process, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said, adding that there can be no preconditions for Geneva talks. Russia, Iran and Turkey agreed that Syria peace process must continue despite Western missile strikes, Lavrov said after meeting his Iranian and Turkish counterparts in Moscow. "This attack (on Syria by U.S., Great Britain and France) of course has thrown back the efforts to advance in the political process. Nevertheless, today we have firmly confirmed that these efforts must be continued, we agreed on concrete steps which all three of our countries will take both collectively and individually to return all of us to the path of stable progress towards the goals of Resolution 2254," Lavrov noted. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Russia, Iran and Turkey need to work in coordination with the United Nations to ensure the legitimacy of any political solution in Syria. "We need to convene and launch the constitutional committee in the near future. We discussed how we should work with the United Nations in this respect to legitimize the political process. We talked with the UN special envoy on Syria and we need to work closer with him and to involve the United Nations more actively," Cavusoglu added. Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday that demands by US President Donald Trump to change Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers were unacceptable. Trump has said that unless European allies fix the "terrible flaws" in the Iran nuclear deal by May 12, he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief for oil-producing Iran.

Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help clear Syria of terrorists: Russian Foreign Minister

Civilians can no longer flee fighting and bombing raids in Syria because borders are so tightly controlled and neighbouring countries are overwhelmed by refugees, creating some of the worst sufferings in modern times, a top UN&nbspagency chief said.

UN&nbspHigh Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi was warning of a new disaster if the rebel-controlled Syrian city of Idlib was the next target of the Syrian military.

"The country is becoming a trap, in some places a death trap for civilians," Grandi told Reuters during a donor conference for Syria.

"There is an entire population out there that cannot bear its refugees anymore, that is suffering from one of the worse ordeals in modern history."

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based war monitor, said last month about 511,000 people had been killed in the war since it began in March 2011.

Some 5.5 million Syrians are living as refugees in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey, and now account for a quarter of Lebanon's population. Another 6.1 million people are still in Syria but have been forced to flee their homes.

Grandi is hoping to raise $5.6 billion from international donors for emergency humanitarian aid for Syrian refugees this year, but that money is not for Syria itself, instead of going to help host countries such as Jordan, Iraq, Egypt and Lebanon.

Meanwhile, the United Nations estimates that more than 400,000 civilians trapped in besieged areas throughout Syria.

That the number could rise dramatically because 2 million people live in northwestern Idlib region, the largest populated area of Syria in the hands of insurgents fighting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government in Damascus.

Some aid agencies are predicting suffering on an even greater scale than during the siege of Aleppo last year and in eastern Ghouta and Raqqa this year if the Syrian army and its Russian and Iranian backers turn their full fire on Idlib.

Tens of thousands of fighters and civilians have fled to the area from parts of the country which the army has recaptured with the help of Russia and Iran.

"Idlib is where an area where a lot of fighters have transferred," Grandi said. "If fighting moves more decisively to that area, it could be very dangerous for civilians."

However, Grandi and other aid agencies predict they will have nowhere to flee to because Turkey's southern border with Syria at Gaziantep is tightly controlled, mainly letting aid supplies through to Idlib, forcing refugees deeper into Syria.

"I think we are going to lose not only a generation but a population," Grandi said.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi was warning of a new disaster if the rebel-controlled Syrian city of Idlib was the next target of the Syrian military

Civilians can no longer flee fighting and bombing raids in Syria because borders are so tightly controlled and neighbouring countries are overwhelmed by refugees, creating some of the worst sufferings in modern times, a top UN&nbspagency chief said. UN&nbspHigh Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi was warning of a new disaster if the rebel-controlled Syrian city of Idlib was the next target of the Syrian military. "The country is becoming a trap, in some places a death trap for civilians," Grandi told Reuters during a donor conference for Syria. "There is an entire population out there that cannot bear its refugees anymore, that is suffering from one of the worse ordeals in modern history." The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based war monitor, said last month about 511,000 people had been killed in the war since it began in March 2011. Some 5.5 million Syrians are living as refugees in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey, and now account for a quarter of Lebanon's population. Another 6.1 million people are still in Syria but have been forced to flee their homes. Grandi is hoping to raise $5.6 billion from international donors for emergency humanitarian aid for Syrian refugees this year, but that money is not for Syria itself, instead of going to help host countries such as Jordan, Iraq, Egypt and Lebanon. Meanwhile, the United Nations estimates that more than 400,000 civilians trapped in besieged areas throughout Syria. That the number could rise dramatically because 2 million people live in northwestern Idlib region, the largest populated area of Syria in the hands of insurgents fighting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government in Damascus. Some aid agencies are predicting suffering on an even greater scale than during the siege of Aleppo last year and in eastern Ghouta and Raqqa this year if the Syrian army and its Russian and Iranian backers turn their full fire on Idlib. Tens of thousands of fighters and civilians have fled to the area from parts of the country which the army has recaptured with the help of Russia and Iran. "Idlib is where an area where a lot of fighters have transferred," Grandi said. "If fighting moves more decisively to that area, it could be very dangerous for civilians." However, Grandi and other aid agencies predict they will have nowhere to flee to because Turkey's southern border with Syria at Gaziantep is tightly controlled, mainly letting aid supplies through to Idlib, forcing refugees deeper into Syria. "I think we are going to lose not only a generation but a population," Grandi said.

Syria is death trap for civilians, UN refugee chief warns

Russia plans to deliver new air defence systems to Syria in the near future, Russian defence ministry said on Wednesday.

The ministry added it plans to study a US Tomahawk cruise missile captured by Syrian forces in a recent attack, in order to improve Russia's own missiles.

"Russian force group is ready to rebut strikes by any air attack weapons. Yesterday Russian air defence system detected and destroyed two rebels' unmanned aerial vehicles at a distance of 10 km from Hmeymim air base," Colonel General Sergei Rudskoi said.

Colonel-general Sergei Rudskoi also said Russian servicemen captured two UAVs which he said belonged to the rebels.

"Russian experts will continue teaching Syrian servicemen and will also provide assistance in mastering new air defence systems which will be delivered," Rudskoi declared.

The ministry added it plans to study a US Tomahawk cruise missile captured by Syrian forces in a recent attack

Russia plans to deliver new air defence systems to Syria in the near future, Russian defence ministry said on Wednesday. The ministry added it plans to study a US Tomahawk cruise missile captured by Syrian forces in a recent attack, in order to improve Russia's own missiles. "Russian force group is ready to rebut strikes by any air attack weapons. Yesterday Russian air defence system detected and destroyed two rebels' unmanned aerial vehicles at a distance of 10 km from Hmeymim air base," Colonel General Sergei Rudskoi said. Colonel-general Sergei Rudskoi also said Russian servicemen captured two UAVs which he said belonged to the rebels. "Russian experts will continue teaching Syrian servicemen and will also provide assistance in mastering new air defence systems which will be delivered," Rudskoi declared.

Russia to deliver new air defence systems to Syria: Defence Ministry

Iran and Israel traded blame on Sunday for an unprecedented, weeks-long surge in hostilities between their forces over Syria but played down prospects of a spillover into war.

A showdown between the arch-foes has loomed since Feb. 10, when Israel said an armed Iranian drone launched from a Syrian base penetrated its territory. Israel downed the drone and, during a reprisal raid, lost an F-16 jet to Syrian ground fire.

On April 9, an air strike killed seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps members at the Syrian base. Tehran blamed Israel and vowed unspecified retaliation, drawing Israeli counter-threats to broaden attacks on Iranian military assets in Syria.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a U.S. television interview that further Israeli sorties in Syria would have "consequences". But he deemed major escalation as unlikely.

"I do not believe that we are headed towards regional war but I do believe that unfortunately, Israel has continued its violations with international law, hoping to be able to do it with impunity because of the U.S. support and trying to find smokescreens to hide behind," Zarif told CBS News.

"The easiest answer would be to stop - to stop these acts of aggression, to stop these incursions."

Iran, Lebanon's Hezbollah militia and Russia have been reinforcing Damascus against a 7-year-old Syrian rebellion. The Israelis worry that Iran's garrison will remain, linking with Hezbollah to form a broad Syrian-Lebanese front against them.

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman reiterated his government's policy of preventing Iranian entrenchment in Syria.

"No matter the price, we will not allow a noose to form around us," he told Israel Radio in an interview.

DETERRENCE

But asked if that meant war was imminent, he said: "I hope not. I think that our primary role is prevent war, and that requires concrete, real deterrence as well as readiness to act."

Israel Katz, the Israeli intelligence minister, suggested world powers might intervene to curb Iranian activity in Syria.

Israel is "not interested" in escalation, Katz told the Ynet news site. But Israeli power-projection, he said, "can challenge the Iranians, can clarify to the Russians, who seek stability, that it is worth it for them to apply their influence, and the same goes for the United States, for France and all the others".

The Syria face-off comes as the Trump administration mulls reimposing U.S. economic sanctions against Tehran by May 12, a move that could deal a blow to an international 2015 deal under which the Iranians capped their nuclear projects.

Zarif said Iran might respond to any unravelling of the deal by "resuming at a much greater speed our nuclear activities".

Israel has savaged the deal and encouraged a U.S. review, but Katz appeared to acknowledge the outcome could be costly.

"The United States is changing policy. Israel is determined to prevent this (Iranian nuclear) red-line, a crossing of this red-line," he said. "These are testing times for us. I hope that we won't pay prices."

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hints-it-could-hit-irans-air-force-in-syria-132058"> Israel hints it could hit Iran's 'air force' in Syria</a>

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said however deemed major escalation as unlikely

Iran and Israel traded blame on Sunday for an unprecedented, weeks-long surge in hostilities between their forces over Syria but played down prospects of a spillover into war. A showdown between the arch-foes has loomed since Feb. 10, when Israel said an armed Iranian drone launched from a Syrian base penetrated its territory. Israel downed the drone and, during a reprisal raid, lost an F-16 jet to Syrian ground fire. On April 9, an air strike killed seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps members at the Syrian base. Tehran blamed Israel and vowed unspecified retaliation, drawing Israeli counter-threats to broaden attacks on Iranian military assets in Syria. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a U.S. television interview that further Israeli sorties in Syria would have "consequences". But he deemed major escalation as unlikely. "I do not believe that we are headed towards regional war but I do believe that unfortunately, Israel has continued its violations with international law, hoping to be able to do it with impunity because of the U.S. support and trying to find smokescreens to hide behind," Zarif told CBS News. "The easiest answer would be to stop - to stop these acts of aggression, to stop these incursions." Iran, Lebanon's Hezbollah militia and Russia have been reinforcing Damascus against a 7-year-old Syrian rebellion. The Israelis worry that Iran's garrison will remain, linking with Hezbollah to form a broad Syrian-Lebanese front against them. Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman reiterated his government's policy of preventing Iranian entrenchment in Syria. "No matter the price, we will not allow a noose to form around us," he told Israel Radio in an interview. DETERRENCE But asked if that meant war was imminent, he said: "I hope not. I think that our primary role is prevent war, and that requires concrete, real deterrence as well as readiness to act." Israel Katz, the Israeli intelligence minister, suggested world powers might intervene to curb Iranian activity in Syria. Israel is "not interested" in escalation, Katz told the Ynet news site. But Israeli power-projection, he said, "can challenge the Iranians, can clarify to the Russians, who seek stability, that it is worth it for them to apply their influence, and the same goes for the United States, for France and all the others". The Syria face-off comes as the Trump administration mulls reimposing U.S. economic sanctions against Tehran by May 12, a move that could deal a blow to an international 2015 deal under which the Iranians capped their nuclear projects. Zarif said Iran might respond to any unravelling of the deal by "resuming at a much greater speed our nuclear activities". Israel has savaged the deal and encouraged a U.S. review, but Katz appeared to acknowledge the outcome could be costly. "The United States is changing policy. Israel is determined to prevent this (Iranian nuclear) red-line, a crossing of this red-line," he said. "These are testing times for us. I hope that we won't pay prices." Also read: Israel hints it could hit Iran's 'air force' in Syria

Further Israeli sorties in Syria will have consequences: Iran

French President Emmanuel Macron's three-day visit to the United States will begin tomorrow,&nbsp;April 23. A day before Macron is scheduled to arrive in the US, a leading American news channel aired an interview wherein the French President spoke about rebuilding Syria.

Macron noted that United States, France and other allies will have a "very important" role in rebuilding Syria after they defeat Islamic State militants.

The French president noted that even after the war against ISIS is won, the Assad-led government will fuel new terrorists and wage a new war which will require fresh efforts from the United States, France and other allies in order to create a new Syria.&nbsp;

"The day we will have finished this war against ISIS, if we leave, definitely and totally, even from a political point of view, we will leave the floor to the Iranian regime, Bashar al-Assad and these guys. And they will prepare the new war. They will fuel the new terrorists," Macron shared

Although Trump wants US forces to leave Syria as quickly as possible, Macron had warned against Iran's efforts to overrun Syria if the countries exit too quickly.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qbh7cBHtl2A" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

"It's not automatically US&nbsp;Forces, but that's US&nbsp;diplomacy and that's your presence. We will have to build a new Syria after the war. And that's why I think the US&nbsp;role is very important to play. Why? I will be very blunt.... So my point is to say, even after the end of the war against ISIS, the US., France, our allies, all the countries of the region, even Russia and Turkey, will have a very important role to play in order to create this new Syria and ensure Syrian people to decide for the future," Macron explained

Macron's arrival in Washington on Monday will see bilateral talks with his American counterpart. Both the leaders will discuss the Iran nuclear agreement at the White House on Tuesday, a senior US&nbsp;administration official said on Friday.

Trump and Macron will also discuss the joint military strike on Syria this month following a suspected chemical weapons attack near Damascus.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Macron noted that even after the war against ISIS is won, the Assad-led government will fuel new terrorists and wage a new war

French President Emmanuel Macron's three-day visit to the United States will begin tomorrow, April 23. A day before Macron is scheduled to arrive in the US, a leading American news channel aired an interview wherein the French President spoke about rebuilding Syria. Macron noted that United States, France and other allies will have a "very important" role in rebuilding Syria after they defeat Islamic State militants. The French president noted that even after the war against ISIS is won, the Assad-led government will fuel new terrorists and wage a new war which will require fresh efforts from the United States, France and other allies in order to create a new Syria. "The day we will have finished this war against ISIS, if we leave, definitely and totally, even from a political point of view, we will leave the floor to the Iranian regime, Bashar al-Assad and these guys. And they will prepare the new war. They will fuel the new terrorists," Macron shared Although Trump wants US forces to leave Syria as quickly as possible, Macron had warned against Iran's efforts to overrun Syria if the countries exit too quickly. "It's not automatically US Forces, but that's US diplomacy and that's your presence. We will have to build a new Syria after the war. And that's why I think the US role is very important to play. Why? I will be very blunt.... So my point is to say, even after the end of the war against ISIS, the US., France, our allies, all the countries of the region, even Russia and Turkey, will have a very important role to play in order to create this new Syria and ensure Syrian people to decide for the future," Macron explained Macron's arrival in Washington on Monday will see bilateral talks with his American counterpart. Both the leaders will discuss the Iran nuclear agreement at the White House on Tuesday, a senior US administration official said on Friday. Trump and Macron will also discuss the joint military strike on Syria this month following a suspected chemical weapons attack near Damascus. (With inputs from Reuters)

US, France have 'very important' role to play after end of Syrian war: Emmanuel Macron

Iraq today said that its air strike in Syria on April 19 has killed 36 terrorists from the Islamic State group. Those killed included senior IS members as well.&nbsp

Iraqi warplanes had attacked an Islamic State explosives factory and other positions inside Syria on Thursday, a rare air assault across the border.

The Iraqi raids are believed to have been carried by F-16 fighter jets and targetted a meeting of terrorist leaders near the Hajin town in the eastern Syrian province of Deir Ezzor.

Iraqi warplanes had attacked an Islamic State explosives factory and other positions inside Syria on Thursday

Iraq today said that its air strike in Syria on April 19 has killed 36 terrorists from the Islamic State group. Those killed included senior IS members as well. Iraqi warplanes had attacked an Islamic State explosives factory and other positions inside Syria on Thursday, a rare air assault across the border. The Iraqi raids are believed to have been carried by F-16 fighter jets and targetted a meeting of terrorist leaders near the Hajin town in the eastern Syrian province of Deir Ezzor.

Iraq's April 19 air strike in Syria killed 36 'IS terrorists'

Experts from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Saturday visited one of the sites in Douma, Syria, where a chemical attack allegedly took place on April 7 to collect samples for analysis.

In a statement, the OPCW said it would now evaluate and consider whether the team needs to make a second visit to Douma. 
Samples will be transported back to the Netherlands and onward to the organisation's network of designated labs for analysis. 
Based on the analysis of the sample results as well other information and materials collected by the team, the mission would compile a report and submit it to the organisation`s member states, the statement said.

The OPCW has been investigating the use of toxic chemicals in Syria`s civil war since 2014. Inspectors had been trying to reach Douma for several days but were delayed after an advance security detail was fired upon on April 17.

The OPCW team will attempt to determine whether chemical weapons were used and if so, which. It is not mandated to conclude which side in the conflict used them.

The town of Douma was, at the time of the attack, under rebel control and facing a ferocious government air and ground assault. Militants gave up the town days after the alleged attack, which killed more than 40 people.&nbsp;

The US, France, and Britain blamed the Syrian government and struck suspected Syrian chemical weapons facilities one week later.&nbsp;

Images that emerged from Douma in the hours after the attack showed lifeless bodies collapsed in crowded rooms, some with foam around their noses and mouths. Thousands of people — rebels and civilians — left Douma on buses to north Syria in the days afterwards, believing they could not reconcile with the government after it took over the town. North Syria is divided between opposition, Turkish, and al-Qaida control.

The evacuations were the latest in a string of population transfers around the Syrian capital that have displaced more than 60,000 people as the government reconsolidates control after seven years of civil war.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

International chemical weapons experts have finally inspected the site of a suspected attack near Damascus which caused an international crisis.

Experts from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Saturday visited one of the sites in Douma, Syria, where a chemical attack allegedly took place on April 7 to collect samples for analysis. In a statement, the OPCW said it would now evaluate and consider whether the team needs to make a second visit to Douma. Samples will be transported back to the Netherlands and onward to the organisation's network of designated labs for analysis. Based on the analysis of the sample results as well other information and materials collected by the team, the mission would compile a report and submit it to the organisation`s member states, the statement said. The OPCW has been investigating the use of toxic chemicals in Syria`s civil war since 2014. Inspectors had been trying to reach Douma for several days but were delayed after an advance security detail was fired upon on April 17. The OPCW team will attempt to determine whether chemical weapons were used and if so, which. It is not mandated to conclude which side in the conflict used them. The town of Douma was, at the time of the attack, under rebel control and facing a ferocious government air and ground assault. Militants gave up the town days after the alleged attack, which killed more than 40 people. The US, France, and Britain blamed the Syrian government and struck suspected Syrian chemical weapons facilities one week later. Images that emerged from Douma in the hours after the attack showed lifeless bodies collapsed in crowded rooms, some with foam around their noses and mouths. Thousands of people — rebels and civilians — left Douma on buses to north Syria in the days afterwards, believing they could not reconcile with the government after it took over the town. North Syria is divided between opposition, Turkish, and al-Qaida control. The evacuations were the latest in a string of population transfers around the Syrian capital that have displaced more than 60,000 people as the government reconsolidates control after seven years of civil war. (With inputs from Agencies)

Chemical weapon experts of OPCW visit site of alleged chemical attack in Syria's Douma

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold a summit in China's Wuhan city from April 27 to 28 for a "heart-to-heart" chat to explore a new paradigm for India-China ties and find ways to address the contentious issues like the border dispute.

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The death toll from Sunday's blast in the Afghan capital Kabul rose to 48, with 112 others wounded, a public health officer said. The attack follows several weeks of relative calm in Kabul.&nbsp;

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Israel released details on Tuesday about what it described as an Iranian "air force" deployed in neighbouring Syria, including civilian planes suspected of transferring arms, a signal that these could be attacked should tensions with Tehran escalate.

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Subramanian Swamy on Sunday claimed that he has often been ignored by party chief Amit Shah who, he said, has often did not allow his programmes to take place.

.

Modi-Xi to chart a new course for India-China ties at Wuhan summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold a summit in China's Wuhan city from April 27 to 28 for a "heart-to-heart" chat to explore a new paradigm for India-China ties and find ways to address the contentious issues like the border dispute. Kabul suicide blast: Death toll reaches 48 The death toll from Sunday's blast in the Afghan capital Kabul rose to 48, with 112 others wounded, a public health officer said. The attack follows several weeks of relative calm in Kabul. Congress may move court if impeachment notice rejected As the Congress awaits the decision of Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on an impeachment notice moved by it and other parties against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, it is considering moving the Supreme Court if the petition is rejected, party leaders said. Israel hints it could hit Iran's 'air force' in Syria Israel released details on Tuesday about what it described as an Iranian "air force" deployed in neighbouring Syria, including civilian planes suspected of transferring arms, a signal that these could be attacked should tensions with Tehran escalate. Subramanian Swamy accuses Amit Shah of ignoring him, but won't quit BJP Subramanian Swamy on Sunday claimed that he has often been ignored by party chief Amit Shah who, he said, has often did not allow his programmes to take place. .

News brief: Big stories of the day

Air strikes pounded a jihadist-held area near Damascus on Sunday, footage broadcast by Syrian state TV stations showed, as the Syrian government stepped up efforts to wipe out the insurgency's last foothold near the capital.

Thick clouds of smoke rose from the al-Hajar al-Aswad area and the sound of jets could be heard in broadcasts from the area just south of Damascus that is controlled by insurgents from the Islamic State and Nusra Front groups.

UNRWA, the UN&nbspagency that cares for Palestinians, said two Palestinian refugee civilians - a father and son - had been killed in their home in the adjacent Palestinian camp of Yarmouk.

Thousands of homes had been destroyed in Yarmouk in the last four days of fighting, Chris Gunness, UNRWA spokesman, said.

"There must be safe passage for the sick and the wounded and the dying civilians," he said. "Yarmouk has been transformed into a death camp, like one of the lower regions of hell."

The jihadist-held enclave is adjoined by a pocket held by other rebel groups fighting under the Free Syrian Army banner.

President Bashar al-Assad, backed by Iran and Russia, is seeking to crush the last few besieged rebel enclaves, building on the defeat of insurgents in the eastern Ghouta region, which was the rebels' last major stronghold near the capital.

Rebel fighters on Saturday began to withdraw from an enclave they held northeast of Damascus in the eastern Qalamoun region in a surrender agreement with the government. They are being transported to opposition-held territory at the Turkish border.

Although the conquest of eastern Qalamoun and the enclave south of Damascus will leave just one remaining besieged rebel enclave, north of the city of Homs, large parts of Syria at the borders with Jordan, Israel, Turkey and Iraq remain outside Assad's control.

Anti-Assad rebels hold a chunk of territory in the southwest and the northwest, and Kurdish-led militias, backed by the United States, control an expanse of northern and eastern Syria.

Thick clouds of smoke rose from the al-Hajar al-Aswad area and the sound of jets could be heard in broadcasts from the area just south of Damascus

Air strikes pounded a jihadist-held area near Damascus on Sunday, footage broadcast by Syrian state TV stations showed, as the Syrian government stepped up efforts to wipe out the insurgency's last foothold near the capital. Thick clouds of smoke rose from the al-Hajar al-Aswad area and the sound of jets could be heard in broadcasts from the area just south of Damascus that is controlled by insurgents from the Islamic State and Nusra Front groups. UNRWA, the UN&nbspagency that cares for Palestinians, said two Palestinian refugee civilians - a father and son - had been killed in their home in the adjacent Palestinian camp of Yarmouk. Thousands of homes had been destroyed in Yarmouk in the last four days of fighting, Chris Gunness, UNRWA spokesman, said. "There must be safe passage for the sick and the wounded and the dying civilians," he said. "Yarmouk has been transformed into a death camp, like one of the lower regions of hell." The jihadist-held enclave is adjoined by a pocket held by other rebel groups fighting under the Free Syrian Army banner. President Bashar al-Assad, backed by Iran and Russia, is seeking to crush the last few besieged rebel enclaves, building on the defeat of insurgents in the eastern Ghouta region, which was the rebels' last major stronghold near the capital. Rebel fighters on Saturday began to withdraw from an enclave they held northeast of Damascus in the eastern Qalamoun region in a surrender agreement with the government. They are being transported to opposition-held territory at the Turkish border. Although the conquest of eastern Qalamoun and the enclave south of Damascus will leave just one remaining besieged rebel enclave, north of the city of Homs, large parts of Syria at the borders with Jordan, Israel, Turkey and Iraq remain outside Assad's control. Anti-Assad rebels hold a chunk of territory in the southwest and the northwest, and Kurdish-led militias, backed by the United States, control an expanse of northern and eastern Syria.

Air strikes pound insurgent enclave close to Damascus

Israel released details on Tuesday about what it described as an Iranian "air force" deployed in neighbouring Syria, including civilian planes suspected of transferring arms, a signal that these could be attacked should tensions with Tehran escalate.

Iran, along with Damascus and its big-power backer Russia, blamed Israel for an April 9 air strike on a Syrian air base, T-4, that killed seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) members. Iranian officials have promised unspecified reprisals.

Israeli media ran satellite images and a map of five Syrian air bases allegedly used to field Iranian drones or cargo aircraft, as well as the names of three senior IRGC officers suspected of commanding related projects, such as missile units.

The information came from the Israeli military, according to a wide range of television and radio stations and news websites. Israel's military spokesman declined to comment.

However, an Israeli security official seemed to acknowledge the leak was sanctioned, telling Reuters that it provided details about "the IRGC air force (which) the Israeli defence establishment sees as the entity that will try to attack Israel, based on Iranian threats to respond to the strike on T-4."

The official, who requested anonymity, would not elaborate.

Israel’s Army Radio reported that, given tensions with Iran over Syria, the Israeli air force cancelled plans to send F-15 fighter jets to take part in the U.S.-hosted exercise Red Flag, which begins on April 30.

'Exposed'

Roni Daniel, military editor for The Israeli News Company, said the disclosure was a signal to Iran that its deployments in Syria "are totally exposed to us, and if you take action against us to avenge (the T-4 strike) these targets will be very severely harmed".

According to Daniel, Israel was bracing for a possible Iranian missile salvo or armed drone assault from Syria.

There was no immediate response from the IRGC or Syria.

The Iranian death toll in T-4 was unusually high. "It was the first time we attacked live Iranian targets - both facilities and people," the New York Times on Sunday quoted an Israeli military source as saying.

Iran, Israel's arch-foe, has cast its military personnel in Syria as reinforcements helping President Bashar al-Assad battle a seven-year-old insurgency. The Iranians have also described their cargo flights to Syria as carrying humanitarian aid only.

An Israeli-Iranian showdown over Syria has loomed since Feb. 10, when Israel said an armed drone launched from T-4 penetrated its air space. Israel blew up the drone and carried out a raid on Syrian air defences in which one of its F-16 jets was downed.

"Israel is headed for escalation," Yaacov Amidror, former national security adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, told Tel Aviv radio station 103 FM. "There could be a very big belligerent incident with Iran and Hezbollah."

While not claiming responsibility for the T-4 strike, Israel has restated a policy of preventing Iran setting up a Syrian garrison. Scores of previous such raids went unanswered but Israel worries that changing conditions may now embolden Iran.

Russia, which long turned a blind eye to Israeli actions in Syria while serving as a brake on retaliation by Iran or its Lebanese Hezbollah guerrilla allies, is now at loggerheads with Western powers over accusations, denied by Syria's government, that it has used chemical weaponry in fighting.

Israeli media ran satellite images and a map of five Syrian air bases allegedly used to field Iranian drones or cargo aircraft

Israel released details on Tuesday about what it described as an Iranian "air force" deployed in neighbouring Syria, including civilian planes suspected of transferring arms, a signal that these could be attacked should tensions with Tehran escalate. Iran, along with Damascus and its big-power backer Russia, blamed Israel for an April 9 air strike on a Syrian air base, T-4, that killed seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) members. Iranian officials have promised unspecified reprisals. Israeli media ran satellite images and a map of five Syrian air bases allegedly used to field Iranian drones or cargo aircraft, as well as the names of three senior IRGC officers suspected of commanding related projects, such as missile units. The information came from the Israeli military, according to a wide range of television and radio stations and news websites. Israel's military spokesman declined to comment. However, an Israeli security official seemed to acknowledge the leak was sanctioned, telling Reuters that it provided details about "the IRGC air force (which) the Israeli defence establishment sees as the entity that will try to attack Israel, based on Iranian threats to respond to the strike on T-4." The official, who requested anonymity, would not elaborate. Israel’s Army Radio reported that, given tensions with Iran over Syria, the Israeli air force cancelled plans to send F-15 fighter jets to take part in the U.S.-hosted exercise Red Flag, which begins on April 30. 'Exposed' Roni Daniel, military editor for The Israeli News Company, said the disclosure was a signal to Iran that its deployments in Syria "are totally exposed to us, and if you take action against us to avenge (the T-4 strike) these targets will be very severely harmed". According to Daniel, Israel was bracing for a possible Iranian missile salvo or armed drone assault from Syria. There was no immediate response from the IRGC or Syria. The Iranian death toll in T-4 was unusually high. "It was the first time we attacked live Iranian targets - both facilities and people," the New York Times on Sunday quoted an Israeli military source as saying. Iran, Israel's arch-foe, has cast its military personnel in Syria as reinforcements helping President Bashar al-Assad battle a seven-year-old insurgency. The Iranians have also described their cargo flights to Syria as carrying humanitarian aid only. An Israeli-Iranian showdown over Syria has loomed since Feb. 10, when Israel said an armed drone launched from T-4 penetrated its air space. Israel blew up the drone and carried out a raid on Syrian air defences in which one of its F-16 jets was downed. "Israel is headed for escalation," Yaacov Amidror, former national security adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, told Tel Aviv radio station 103 FM. "There could be a very big belligerent incident with Iran and Hezbollah." While not claiming responsibility for the T-4 strike, Israel has restated a policy of preventing Iran setting up a Syrian garrison. Scores of previous such raids went unanswered but Israel worries that changing conditions may now embolden Iran. Russia, which long turned a blind eye to Israeli actions in Syria while serving as a brake on retaliation by Iran or its Lebanese Hezbollah guerrilla allies, is now at loggerheads with Western powers over accusations, denied by Syria's government, that it has used chemical weaponry in fighting.

Israel hints it could hit Iran's 'air force' in Syria

The aftermath of US and its ally's action of claiming to have targeted Syrian Chemical weapon related establishments, and taught a lesson to Syria is full of contradictions and conflicting news from its intent to actions.

The US President may claim it to be a 'Mission Accomplished' but was it an accomplishment of any sort, without UN sanction or a debate in US Congress? Was it an effort of concerned players to show Russia and Syria in poor light, besides threatening them?

The US President may find it difficult to convince its Congressmen, opposing citizens and rest of the world. Controversies like Mattis wanted Congress to be informed before strikes, but was over-ruled, Nikki Haley wanted tougher sanctions on Russia but it was not implemented, indicate that all were not on the same page regarding this action.

Was it a plan executed by US President to divert domestic attention from the controversy over alleged Russian meddling in US elections to favor him? How could two specific US allies agree to President Trump's plan knowing well that neither Assad will quit nor Russia will give a walk over only by missile strikes?

If missile attack in 2017 on Syria did not achieve anything, then how US and allies were convinced that it will achieve anything in 2018? There is also a wide variation in the description of damages inflicted by US and Syrians.

On the other side also there are many controversies, which will find answers in times to come. Did Syria actually use chemical weapons against its countrymen or was it a story built over a period by the US and its allies, who want to change Assad regime and push Russia out of the region?

Was the double agent killed by nerve agent of Russia or planted by someone else? If chemical weapons/nerve agents were used then the culprit nation/organisation is shame on humanity and needs to be condemned by the global community.

The controversy is that Assad denies the use of chemical weapons based on simple logic that there was no need for Syria to use chemical agents when they were already nearing victory in that area? Similarly, Russians also deny any such attack because nothing very much was at stake in a besieged dilapidated township with militants holed up.

At the same time, the US and its allies are very confident of possession and use of chemical weapons by Syria. The recent media reports of three Belgium companies accused of supplying heavy amount of chemicals, which can be used for manufacturing deadly sarin nerve agent is a new revelation, to which Assad was quick to blame anti-government groups of such possible involvement/use of chemical weapons.

While the US and allies hold Syria and Russia for a delay in investigations and allege that the evidences would have been tampered by them, whereas Russia blames untimely US attack as the cause of the delay. With such controversies, the question is that can OPCW findings be relied upon or can they be manipulated?

Even some of the Russian actions seem controversial. How did such a magnitude of attack not cause a single casualty to Russians troops or equipment, if the US claims it did not inform Russians in advance? If Russians were informed, it is likely that they would have informed the Syrians, because they also claim not to have lost any troops or equipment, and claim that the attacks caused damage to few buildings and civilian casualties, then the whole operation raises a doubt about its credibility in the mind of an analyst?

If this operation was like a Hollywood drama as commented by some, then how could Russia and Syria agree to it? Russians knew it fully well that any UNSC resolution against the three participating countries having veto powers who took part in operations had to be defeated, still went for it.

Was it to convince that they explored all peaceful means of retaliation before going in for some other means in current spectrum of warfare, which is not limited to only conventional domain only? Does Russian and Iranian threat to retaliate is eyewash or it has some potential to make subsequent events dangerous.

There is another angle to read this event. After the release of National Security Strategy of US, which indirectly brands Russia, China, Iran and North Korea as a threat, the signaling to embarrass Russia can be a messaging for China and North Korea prior to the meeting of Kim. Notwithstanding the claims and counterclaims few points which emerge out are:-

-The action did not help innocents in Syria in any way. The action continues to be marred by controversies.

-It would have given joy to ISIS and other militants, observing countries who were chasing them fighting amongst each other and are diverting from goal to get into their power-politics in the region.

-It does not guarantee non-use of chemical agents unless it is established who the culprit was, and was the use accidental or deliberate?

-The attackers may not be able to avoid criticism and suspicions even in the domestic constituency.

-Russia may have additional pressure to prove the credibility of its threat, before being branded as fading power, if they were not part of this suspected drama. It may show its strength in cyber or other domains.

-The use of chemical weapons is inhumane, but the reality is that such stockpiles exist and can be used. Its proliferation to militants is easier than nukes hence the world has another dimension of terrorism to worry.

-The countries not involved in this power-play like India will like the grip of militants like IS should not be loosened and humanity must be protected from chemical weapons, besides calling for peaceful resolution of the controversy.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How did such a magnitude of attack not cause a single casualty to Russians troops or equipment, if the US claims it did not inform Russians in advance?

The aftermath of US and its ally's action of claiming to have targeted Syrian Chemical weapon related establishments, and taught a lesson to Syria is full of contradictions and conflicting news from its intent to actions. The US President may claim it to be a 'Mission Accomplished' but was it an accomplishment of any sort, without UN sanction or a debate in US Congress? Was it an effort of concerned players to show Russia and Syria in poor light, besides threatening them? The US President may find it difficult to convince its Congressmen, opposing citizens and rest of the world. Controversies like Mattis wanted Congress to be informed before strikes, but was over-ruled, Nikki Haley wanted tougher sanctions on Russia but it was not implemented, indicate that all were not on the same page regarding this action. Was it a plan executed by US President to divert domestic attention from the controversy over alleged Russian meddling in US elections to favor him? How could two specific US allies agree to President Trump's plan knowing well that neither Assad will quit nor Russia will give a walk over only by missile strikes? If missile attack in 2017 on Syria did not achieve anything, then how US and allies were convinced that it will achieve anything in 2018? There is also a wide variation in the description of damages inflicted by US and Syrians. On the other side also there are many controversies, which will find answers in times to come. Did Syria actually use chemical weapons against its countrymen or was it a story built over a period by the US and its allies, who want to change Assad regime and push Russia out of the region? Was the double agent killed by nerve agent of Russia or planted by someone else? If chemical weapons/nerve agents were used then the culprit nation/organisation is shame on humanity and needs to be condemned by the global community. The controversy is that Assad denies the use of chemical weapons based on simple logic that there was no need for Syria to use chemical agents when they were already nearing victory in that area? Similarly, Russians also deny any such attack because nothing very much was at stake in a besieged dilapidated township with militants holed up. At the same time, the US and its allies are very confident of possession and use of chemical weapons by Syria. The recent media reports of three Belgium companies accused of supplying heavy amount of chemicals, which can be used for manufacturing deadly sarin nerve agent is a new revelation, to which Assad was quick to blame anti-government groups of such possible involvement/use of chemical weapons. While the US and allies hold Syria and Russia for a delay in investigations and allege that the evidences would have been tampered by them, whereas Russia blames untimely US attack as the cause of the delay. With such controversies, the question is that can OPCW findings be relied upon or can they be manipulated? Even some of the Russian actions seem controversial. How did such a magnitude of attack not cause a single casualty to Russians troops or equipment, if the US claims it did not inform Russians in advance? If Russians were informed, it is likely that they would have informed the Syrians, because they also claim not to have lost any troops or equipment, and claim that the attacks caused damage to few buildings and civilian casualties, then the whole operation raises a doubt about its credibility in the mind of an analyst? If this operation was like a Hollywood drama as commented by some, then how could Russia and Syria agree to it? Russians knew it fully well that any UNSC resolution against the three participating countries having veto powers who took part in operations had to be defeated, still went for it. Was it to convince that they explored all peaceful means of retaliation before going in for some other means in current spectrum of warfare, which is not limited to only conventional domain only? Does Russian and Iranian threat to retaliate is eyewash or it has some potential to make subsequent events dangerous. There is another angle to read this event. After the release of National Security Strategy of US, which indirectly brands Russia, China, Iran and North Korea as a threat, the signaling to embarrass Russia can be a messaging for China and North Korea prior to the meeting of Kim. Notwithstanding the claims and counterclaims few points which emerge out are:- -The action did not help innocents in Syria in any way. The action continues to be marred by controversies. -It would have given joy to ISIS and other militants, observing countries who were chasing them fighting amongst each other and are diverting from goal to get into their power-politics in the region. -It does not guarantee non-use of chemical agents unless it is established who the culprit was, and was the use accidental or deliberate? -The attackers may not be able to avoid criticism and suspicions even in the domestic constituency. -Russia may have additional pressure to prove the credibility of its threat, before being branded as fading power, if they were not part of this suspected drama. It may show its strength in cyber or other domains. -The use of chemical weapons is inhumane, but the reality is that such stockpiles exist and can be used. Its proliferation to militants is easier than nukes hence the world has another dimension of terrorism to worry. -The countries not involved in this power-play like India will like the grip of militants like IS should not be loosened and humanity must be protected from chemical weapons, besides calling for peaceful resolution of the controversy. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Aftermath of US missiles attack on Syria — Is it really 'mission accomplished'?

Chemical weapons watchdog Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) had its team visit Douma&nbsp;today&nbsp;to collect site samples in connection with the alleged chemical attack carried out on April 7.&nbsp;

OPCW's Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) collected samples from one of the sites in Douma, Syria today. The team will evaluate if another possible visit to the site would be necessary.

The collected samples will be sent to the OPCW Laboratory in Rijswijk, Netherlands. Further investigations at OPCW’s designated labs will also be carried out.&nbsp;

"Based on the analysis of the sample results as well other information and materials collected by the team, the FFM will compile their report for submission to the States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention for their consideration," read the official release on OPCW's website.&nbsp;

US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert on Friday stated OPCW team's&nbsp;inability to get access to Douma even after 12 days.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y3DLV5pLTqg" width="560"></iframe>

"We confirm that the OPCW team has not been able to enter Douma, it is now 12 days since the attack took place... We have credible information that indicates that Russian officials are working with the Syrian regime to deny and to delay these inspectors from gaining access to Douma," she said.

Nauert&nbsp;also noted that Russia and Syria have been working together to sanitise the site, removing evidence of chemical weapon use.

"We believe it is an effort to conduct their own staged investigations. Russian officials with Syrian regime are working to sanitise the locations of the suspected attacks and remove incriminating evidence of chemical weapons use," Nauert stated on Friday.&nbsp;

The collected samples will be sent to the OPCW Laboratory in Rijswijk, Netherlands

Chemical weapons watchdog Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) had its team visit Douma today to collect site samples in connection with the alleged chemical attack carried out on April 7. OPCW's Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) collected samples from one of the sites in Douma, Syria today. The team will evaluate if another possible visit to the site would be necessary. The collected samples will be sent to the OPCW Laboratory in Rijswijk, Netherlands. Further investigations at OPCW’s designated labs will also be carried out. "Based on the analysis of the sample results as well other information and materials collected by the team, the FFM will compile their report for submission to the States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention for their consideration," read the official release on OPCW's website. US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert on Friday stated OPCW team's inability to get access to Douma even after 12 days. "We confirm that the OPCW team has not been able to enter Douma, it is now 12 days since the attack took place... We have credible information that indicates that Russian officials are working with the Syrian regime to deny and to delay these inspectors from gaining access to Douma," she said. Nauert also noted that Russia and Syria have been working together to sanitise the site, removing evidence of chemical weapon use. "We believe it is an effort to conduct their own staged investigations. Russian officials with Syrian regime are working to sanitise the locations of the suspected attacks and remove incriminating evidence of chemical weapons use," Nauert stated on Friday.

OPCW team enters Douma, collects site samples for investigation

Syrian rebels began withdrawing from an enclave northeast of Damascus on Saturday and will go to northern Syria, state TV and a rebel official said, in a surrender agreement that marks another victory for President Bashar al-Assad.

The withdrawal will restore state control over the eastern Qalamoun enclave, some 40 km (25 miles) from Damascus.&nbsp

Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, is seeking to wipe out the last few rebel enclaves near Damascus, building on momentum from the defeat of the insurgency in eastern Ghouta, which was the last major opposition stronghold near the capital.

State TV said rebel fighters and their families would be transported from eastern Qalamoun to Idlib and Jarablus, a rebel-held territory at the border with Turkey, with 3,200 militants and their families expected to leave on Saturday.

The spokesman for one of the rebel groups in eastern Qalamoun said the insurgents had agreed to the deal after intensified Russian shelling killed six people in areas near the town of al-Ruhaiba earlier this week.

"This made the Free (Syrian) Army factions sit at the negotiating table with the Russian side and an agreement was reached the most important articles of which are the surrender of heavy weapons and the departure of fighters to the north," Said Seif of the Ahmad Abdo Martyr brigade said.&nbsp

A first convoy of 10 buses had left Ruhaiba and was being searched in a nearby area before continuing to the north.&nbsp

Humanitarian situation

Meanwhile, the Syrian military and its allies pressed the bombardment of a besieged enclave south of Damascus.&nbsp

State TV footage showed clouds of smoke rising from the al-Hajar al-Aswad district, part of an enclave including the Palestinian Yarmouk camp that is held by Islamic State and other jihadist groups.

A commander in the regional military alliance that fights in support of Assad said jihadist positions were being targeted with all types of weapons. "Daesh positions are being targeted by Syrian army helicopters," the commander added, using an acronym for Islamic State.

UNRWA, the UN&nbspagency that cares for Palestinian refugees, has said it is deeply concerned about the fate of civilians including some 12,000 Palestinian refugees in Yarmouk and the surrounding areas.

"Displacement continues with people moving to the neighbouring area of Yalda ... to escape the fighting. Some families are staying in Yarmouk, either because they cannot move due to the intensity of fighting or because they choose to remain," UNRWA spokesman Chris Gunness said.

"We don't have any numbers on how many people have moved but the humanitarian situation of those in both Yarmouk and Yalda is intolerable."

Although the conquest of eastern Qalamoun and the enclave south of Damascus will leave just one remaining besieged rebel enclave, north of the city of Homs, large parts of Syria at the borders with Jordan, Israel, Turkey and Iraq remain outside Assad's control, however.&nbsp

Anti-Assad rebels hold a chunk of territory in the southwest and the northwest, and Kurdish-led militias, backed by the United States, control an expanse of northern and eastern Syria.&nbsp 
&nbsp

Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, is seeking to wipe out the last few rebel enclaves near Damascus

Syrian rebels began withdrawing from an enclave northeast of Damascus on Saturday and will go to northern Syria, state TV and a rebel official said, in a surrender agreement that marks another victory for President Bashar al-Assad. The withdrawal will restore state control over the eastern Qalamoun enclave, some 40 km (25 miles) from Damascus. Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, is seeking to wipe out the last few rebel enclaves near Damascus, building on momentum from the defeat of the insurgency in eastern Ghouta, which was the last major opposition stronghold near the capital. State TV said rebel fighters and their families would be transported from eastern Qalamoun to Idlib and Jarablus, a rebel-held territory at the border with Turkey, with 3,200 militants and their families expected to leave on Saturday. The spokesman for one of the rebel groups in eastern Qalamoun said the insurgents had agreed to the deal after intensified Russian shelling killed six people in areas near the town of al-Ruhaiba earlier this week. "This made the Free (Syrian) Army factions sit at the negotiating table with the Russian side and an agreement was reached the most important articles of which are the surrender of heavy weapons and the departure of fighters to the north," Said Seif of the Ahmad Abdo Martyr brigade said. A first convoy of 10 buses had left Ruhaiba and was being searched in a nearby area before continuing to the north. Humanitarian situation Meanwhile, the Syrian military and its allies pressed the bombardment of a besieged enclave south of Damascus. State TV footage showed clouds of smoke rising from the al-Hajar al-Aswad district, part of an enclave including the Palestinian Yarmouk camp that is held by Islamic State and other jihadist groups. A commander in the regional military alliance that fights in support of Assad said jihadist positions were being targeted with all types of weapons. "Daesh positions are being targeted by Syrian army helicopters," the commander added, using an acronym for Islamic State. UNRWA, the UN&nbspagency that cares for Palestinian refugees, has said it is deeply concerned about the fate of civilians including some 12,000 Palestinian refugees in Yarmouk and the surrounding areas. "Displacement continues with people moving to the neighbouring area of Yalda ... to escape the fighting. Some families are staying in Yarmouk, either because they cannot move due to the intensity of fighting or because they choose to remain," UNRWA spokesman Chris Gunness said. "We don't have any numbers on how many people have moved but the humanitarian situation of those in both Yarmouk and Yalda is intolerable." Although the conquest of eastern Qalamoun and the enclave south of Damascus will leave just one remaining besieged rebel enclave, north of the city of Homs, large parts of Syria at the borders with Jordan, Israel, Turkey and Iraq remain outside Assad's control, however. Anti-Assad rebels hold a chunk of territory in the southwest and the northwest, and Kurdish-led militias, backed by the United States, control an expanse of northern and eastern Syria.

Syrian rebels withdraw from enclave northeast of Damascus

An official spokesperson of Indian Foreign ministry said on Saturday that India forbids the use of chemical weapons on anyone, by anybody under any circumstances.&nbsp

Raveesh Kumar, while addressing a conference in New Delhi made the remarks referring to reports of an alleged chemical poison gas attack on April 07 (Saturday) on the suburb of Douma in Syria which killed around 70. According to a report from World Health Organization, the victims showed symptoms, of being exposed to highly toxic chemicals, like redness in eyes, breathing problems, and white foam coming out of their mouths and nostrils.

A statement to this effect was made by India's Ambassador to The Netherlands and Permanent Representative of India to OPCW Venu Rajamony at the 58th Meeting of the Executive Council of the OPCW that was convened last week to discuss allegations regarding the use of chemical weapons in Douma, Syria.

He said any use of chemical weapons is in complete disregard of humanity and is reprehensible and contrary to the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention as well as accepted international norms.

He commended the OPCW for its prompt deployment of the Fact Finding Mission to Douma and expressed appreciation to the Director General and OPCW staff for their commitment to the aims and work of the organization often in challenging circumstances.

US and its western allies are discussing possible military action to rid Syria of dictator Bashar-al Assad for a suspected poison gas attack on a rebel-held town that long had held out against government forces. However, both Russia and Assad have denied any such attacks made by either of them.

When asked about the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Putin amid the Mideast crisis, Kumar said that all matters of mutual interest were discussed on the phone call on Wednesday (April 11).

Meanwhile, India is also looking forward to arrest billionaire diamond trader, Nirav Modi, key accused of a $2 billion bank loan fraud. Kumar said that the accused has been located in Hong Kong and India is awaiting the response of its neighbour government over his arrest. India and Hong Kong had signed an agreement on the arrest of fugitive offenders in 1997.

(With inputs from Reuters) 
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US and its western allies are discussing possible military action to rid Syria of dictator Bashar-al Assad for a suspected poison gas attack on a rebel-held town that long had held out against government forces

An official spokesperson of Indian Foreign ministry said on Saturday that India forbids the use of chemical weapons on anyone, by anybody under any circumstances. Raveesh Kumar, while addressing a conference in New Delhi made the remarks referring to reports of an alleged chemical poison gas attack on April 07 (Saturday) on the suburb of Douma in Syria which killed around 70. According to a report from World Health Organization, the victims showed symptoms, of being exposed to highly toxic chemicals, like redness in eyes, breathing problems, and white foam coming out of their mouths and nostrils. A statement to this effect was made by India's Ambassador to The Netherlands and Permanent Representative of India to OPCW Venu Rajamony at the 58th Meeting of the Executive Council of the OPCW that was convened last week to discuss allegations regarding the use of chemical weapons in Douma, Syria. He said any use of chemical weapons is in complete disregard of humanity and is reprehensible and contrary to the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention as well as accepted international norms. He commended the OPCW for its prompt deployment of the Fact Finding Mission to Douma and expressed appreciation to the Director General and OPCW staff for their commitment to the aims and work of the organization often in challenging circumstances. US and its western allies are discussing possible military action to rid Syria of dictator Bashar-al Assad for a suspected poison gas attack on a rebel-held town that long had held out against government forces. However, both Russia and Assad have denied any such attacks made by either of them. When asked about the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Putin amid the Mideast crisis, Kumar said that all matters of mutual interest were discussed on the phone call on Wednesday (April 11). Meanwhile, India is also looking forward to arrest billionaire diamond trader, Nirav Modi, key accused of a $2 billion bank loan fraud. Kumar said that the accused has been located in Hong Kong and India is awaiting the response of its neighbour government over his arrest. India and Hong Kong had signed an agreement on the arrest of fugitive offenders in 1997. (With inputs from Reuters)

India against chemical weapons in any circumstances, says foreign ministry on Syria

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-coming-to-power-in-karnataka-will-prove-to-be-stepping-stone-for-rest-of-country-siddaramaiah-to-wion-131388">Lingayat religious issue not created by us: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to WION</a>

With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S. Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/repeating-a-lie-doesnt-turn-it-into-the-truth-says-pak-on-pm-modis-surgical-strike-statement-131390">'Repeating a lie doesn't turn it into the truth,' says Pak on PM Modi's surgical strike statement</a>

After PM Modi said the surgical strikes against Pakistan in September 2016 were a 100 per cent success, the Pakistan foreign office said today that "by continuously repeating a lie, it doesn't turn into the truth."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/3-belgian-companies-face-heat-over-chemical-exports-to-syria-131430">3 Belgian companies face heat over chemical exports to Syria</a>

According to reports, three Belgian countries have been accused of exporting chemicals to Syria. The trial date has already been set by a Belgian court. Chemicals exported include isopropanol which is also known to be used for producing nerve gas.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/air-force-carried-out-strikes-on-islamic-state-targets-inside-syria-iraq-pm-131409">Air Force carried out strikes on Islamic State targets inside Syria: Iraq PM</a>

PM Haider al-Abadi's said Iraqi Air Force carried out air strikes on Islamic State(IS) installations inside Syria. The prime minister's office said the "deadly air strikes" were launched from the Iraqi side of the border.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-bangladesh-model-mosques-will-be-open-for-women--131408">Bangladesh's billion-dollar 'model' mosques will be open for women</a>

Touted as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's flagship project, the plan aims to set up model mosques across the country to check radical ideologies and counter Islamist extremist. The preliminary work for the project has already been started. &nbsp;

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Lingayat religious issue not created by us: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to WION With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S. Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country. 'Repeating a lie doesn't turn it into the truth,' says Pak on PM Modi's surgical strike statement After PM Modi said the surgical strikes against Pakistan in September 2016 were a 100 per cent success, the Pakistan foreign office said today that "by continuously repeating a lie, it doesn't turn into the truth." 3 Belgian companies face heat over chemical exports to Syria According to reports, three Belgian countries have been accused of exporting chemicals to Syria. The trial date has already been set by a Belgian court. Chemicals exported include isopropanol which is also known to be used for producing nerve gas. Air Force carried out strikes on Islamic State targets inside Syria: Iraq PM PM Haider al-Abadi's said Iraqi Air Force carried out air strikes on Islamic State(IS) installations inside Syria. The prime minister's office said the "deadly air strikes" were launched from the Iraqi side of the border. Bangladesh's billion-dollar 'model' mosques will be open for women Touted as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's flagship project, the plan aims to set up model mosques across the country to check radical ideologies and counter Islamist extremist. The preliminary work for the project has already been started.

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