Turkish troops enter northern Syria in new operation

International Desk: Turkish troops travelling in a convoy of 12 armoured vehicles have entered northern Syria in a new military operation.

Turkish news media reported that the vehicles carrying the troops crossed into Idlib province late on Thursday.

The development came after Turkey said it was sending troops into Syria to enforce a de-escalation zone in Idlib.

The de-escalation zone forms part of an agreement reached between Turkey, which backs forces battling the government of President Bashar al-Assad, and Iran and Russia, which support his government.

Turkish media sources said the convoy included about 80 soldiers.

While their destination was not clear, local sources said the troops were headed towards the western part of Aleppo province.

Civilians there have been living in fear of potential clashes between Turkish-backed opposition Free Syrian Army fighters and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an alliance of armed groups that controls Idlib.

A military build-up has taken place of late along Turkey's border with Syria, with the Turkish government supporting a campaign to secure opposition control over Idlib province.

Source: Agencies


risingbd/Oct 13, 2017/Mukul