Jump to content

Battle of al-Bab

Coordinates: 36°22′21″N 37°31′04″E / 36.3725°N 37.5178°E / 36.3725; 37.5178
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from Battle of al-Bab (2016))
Battle of al-Bab
Part of the Operation Euphrates Shield and the Syrian Civil War

Map of the wider Turkish-led operations and the wider campaigns in northern Aleppo
  Syrian Armed Forces and allied groups
  Syrian Democratic Forces
  Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
  FSA groups and Turkish troops in Northern Syria
Date6 November 2016 – 23 February 2017
(3 months, 2 weeks and 3 days)
Location
Al-Bab District, Aleppo Governorate, Syria
Result

Turkish and SNA victory

Belligerents
 Turkey
Syrian opposition Syrian National Army
Support:
Russia (against ISIL only; since 29 Dec. 2016)[1]
 United States (against ISIL only, since 17 Jan. 2017)[2]		  Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant

Syrian Democratic Forces (until 27 November 2016)

Syrian Arab Republic[4]

Hezbollah[5][6] Syrian National Resistance[4][7]
Syrian Resistance[8]

Support:
Russia (against ISIL only)[9]
Commanders and leaders

Turkey Lt. Gen. Zekai Aksakallı[25]
(Operations chief commander)
Turkey Lt. Gen. İsmail Metin Temel[26][27]
(Second Army commander)
Syrian opposition Col. Ahmed Othman[28]
(Sultan Murad Division commander)
Syrian opposition Fehim İsa (Sultan Murad Division commander)[29]
Mahmoud Abu Hamza[30] (Descendants of Saladin Brigade commander)
Syrian opposition Capt. Yussuf Shibli[31] (Qabasin Military Council commander)
Capt. Abdel Salam Abdel Razaq[30] (Nour al-Din al-Zenki Movement commander)
Capt. Mohammed Abu Mustafa[32]
(Sham Legion commander)
Abu Jafer[33] (Brigade of Conquest commander)

Syrian opposition Zakariya Wali[34] (WIA)
(Mehmed the Conqueror Brigade military commander)

Islamic State Abu Khalid al-Urduni † (ISIL Governor of al-Bab)[35]
Islamic State Abu Husen Tunisi †[36]
(ISIL emir)
Islamic State Abu Ansari †[37]
(ISIL emir)

Islamic State Jonathan Jeffrey (a.k.a. Abu Ibrahim Al-Francy)  (POW)[38][39]
(French ISIL leader in al-Bab)		 Adnan Abu Amjad[40] (Manbij Military Council & Northern Sun Battalion commander)
Anwar Khabat[41] (Euphrates Liberation Brigade commander)
Units involved

Turkey Turkish Armed Forces

Syrian opposition Hawar Kilis Operations Room

Other Syrian rebels:

Military of ISIL

Syrian Democratic Forces

Syrian Armed Forces

Kafr Saghir Martyrs Brigade[4][57]
Strength
Turkey 1,300–4,000 soldiers[58][59][60][61]
40 tanks originally, 10 reinforcements[62]
15+ APCs[63]
Syrian opposition 2,000–3,000 rebel fighters[61][64]		 3,000–5,000 militants[61][65]

Unknown

Syria 10,000 soldiers[citation needed]
Casualties and losses
Turkey 59 killed[66]
8-10 Leopard 2 tanks destroyed, at least 2 captured.[67]
Syrian opposition 500+ killed[68]		 1,348+ killed (Turkish and SAA claims)[69]

46 killed[70]

Syria 13+ killed[71]
444 civilians killed[72]
30,000+ civilians fled[citation needed]

The Battle of al-Bab was a battle for the city of al-Bab in the Aleppo Governorate that included a military offensive launched by Syrian rebel groups (including groups affiliated with the Free Syrian Army) and the Turkish Armed Forces north of al-Bab, a separate Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) offensive east and west of the city, and another Syrian Army offensive from the south of the city. The northern Turkish-led forces intended to capture al-Bab from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), as part of the Turkish military intervention in Syria. By the end of the battle, the Turkish-led forces had captured al-Bab, Qabasin, and Bizaah, while the Syrian Army captured Tadef and other areas further south, with the SDF making gains further to the east and the west.

The battle was concurrent with the other anti-ISIL operations, including the Raqqa campaign launched by the SDF, the Battle of Mosul launched by the Iraqi forces, and the Palmyra offensive, which was successfully conducted by ISIL against Syrian government forces. It was also claimed by Kurds to be the result of an "Aleppo for al-Bab" agreement between the Syrian government and Turkey, with Turkey withdrawing its support to rebels in Aleppo in exchange to laisser-faire up to al-Bab, thus cutting short the possibility of an East-West Kurdish corridor.[73]

Background

[edit]
Main articles: Northern al-Bab offensive (September 2016), Western al-Bab offensive (September 2016), 2016 Dabiq offensive, and Western al-Bab offensive (October–November 2016)

After the western al-Bab offensive during the previous month, the rebels moved their focus from the western countryside of al-Bab so to avoid confrontation with the Syrian Democratic Forces, and launched an assault against the Islamic State north of al-Bab.[74]

The offensive

[edit]

Northern rebel attack repelled

[edit]
Map of the battle up to December 1

Between 6 and 14 November 2016, the rebels captured 36 villages,[11][12] putting them within two kilometers of al-Bab.[75] Meanwhile, the Syrian Democratic Forces captured seven villages east of al-Bab in an attempt to besiege the town of Arima.[12][17][18]

On 14 November, rebel forces managed to enter the northern outskirts of al-Bab, but were facing stiff resistance, with fighting raging at a livestock market two kilometers north of the town.[76] By this point, al-Bab was surrounded from the north and northwest, with the only retreat route remaining for ISIL to the southeast towards Raqqa, through the ISIL-held town of Dayr Hafir.[75] In the evening, the rebels established fire control over the Jafirah Roundabout and seized several adjacent buildings in the northern part of al-Bab, leaving them in control of less than 5 percent of the city.[18] However, the next day, the rebels were forced to withdraw one kilometer to the north of al-Bab. Meanwhile, the rebels took control of the town of Qabasin, northeast of al-Bab.[13]

The Turkish military stated on 18 November that the FSA had captured five villages in the Karadağ area of al-Rai district.[77]

On 19 November, ISIL recaptured Qabasin, as well as one nearby village. This marked the fourth time the town had changed hands in the previous four days.[78] On 20 November, the rebels launched two counter-attacks against Qabasin, with both being repelled. The next day, the rebels redirected their assault from al-Bab to the Kurdish-held village of Sheikh Nassir, managing to seize the village in the early morning hours, but losing it in an SDF counter-attack in the afternoon.[79] Between 22 and 23 November, Qabasin changed hands two more times, ultimately remaining under ISIL control.[80][81][82]

Western and eastern encirclement of al-Bab

[edit]

On 23 November, the SDF captured Arima. In response, Turkish artillery shelled the SDF-held villages in the area.[20][82][83]

On 24 November, according to the Turkish military, the Syrian Arab Air Force conducted an airstrike against Turkish Special Forces and Turkish Free Syrian Army (TFSA) aligned Turkish-backed rebels north of al-Bab, killing three Turkish soldiers and injuring ten.[84][85] Turkish officials initially stated the casualties were due to an ISIL attack, before blaming the Syrian Air Force. However, the pro-opposition activist group the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) disputed it was an air strike and stated it was in fact an ISIL suicide attack. ISIL confirmed it conducted a suicide attack in the area.[86][87] Later, the Turkish Prime Minister's office issued a gag order on reporting about the airstrike,[85][88] while the main Turkish opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu called on the Turkish government to "act with common sense".[88] In the evening, the Syrian Air Force officially denied it or the Russian Air Force had conducted an air strike against Turkish forces.[89] The same day, the SDF, with support from government forces, captured three villages from ISIL west of al-Bab, coming within 10 kilometers of the city.[90][91] The rebels also took two villages east of al-Bab, reaching the main road between al-Bab and Manbij for the first time.[92]

Between 25 and 27 November, the SDF captured two villages from ISIL west of al-Bab, while the rebels took three to the east. Additionally, the rebels launched an attack on two SDF-held villages east of the city, with unclear results. At the same time, pro-government forces also advanced, taking control of four villages from ISIL to the west of al-Bab.[93]

On 28 November, the Syrian Army captured a village from the Turkish-backed rebels west of al-Bab, coming within 5 kilometers of the city.[94] On 29 November, ISIL claimed it had captured two Turkish soldiers and their Turkmen translator near al-Dana village, west of al-Bab. The Turkish military confirmed it had lost contact with two soldiers, but didn't confirm that ISIL had captured them.[95][96]

Offensive slows

[edit]
Map of the battle up to January 1

On 2 December, the rebels were ordered not to advance on the center of the city for the time being.[97] The wider offensive had also slowed down, with no progress being achieved by the rebels during the following two days.[98]

The rebels captured two villages west of al-Bab in a fresh assault on 9 December, in addition to part of the highway between al-Bab and Manbij. Meanwhile, 300 Turkish commandos were sent as reinforcement.[63] On 10 December, the rebels captured several areas including some in the Aqil Mountains to the west of al-Bab.[99] The next day, the rebels entered the city from the northwest after heavy clashes.[100]

The Turkish military dropped leaflets on al-Bab on 12 December, urging civilians to seek shelter as the rebels advanced.[101] Still, the rebel advance soon slowed down due to ditches, mines and explosives left by ISIL.[102] Despite this, Numan Kurtulmuş, the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey, stated that preparations for a final operation on al-Bab were underway.[103] On 17 December, the rebels captured a village in the area.[104]

Turkish-led attack from the west repelled

[edit]

On 21 December, the rebels gained control of a part of the highway between Al-Bab and Aleppo.[105] Nonetheless, the day soon became the deadliest thus far for Turkish forces in Syria.[106] According to the Turkish government, 16 Turkish soldiers were killed in suicide bomb attacks and clashes, while 33 were wounded. It also claimed 138 ISIL fighters were killed in Turkish airstrikes on 67 ISIL targets. ISIL meanwhile claimed to have killed more than 70 Turkish soldiers, while capturing two Leopard 2 tanks.[107][108] The fighting started when rebels and Turkish forces captured the hospital area of the town, as well as the Aqil Mountains. However, an ISIL counterattack recaptured both the hospital and the mountains,[109] repelling the Turkish-led attack.[110] Another attack was launched by the rebels on 22 December.[111] SOHR reported that 72 civilians were killed in Turkish airstrikes during the day, with another 23 killed on the next day.[112][113]

Despite the losses, President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated on 23 December that the operation to capture al-Bab was almost complete and that the FSA would capture the city soon.[114] The same day, the Turkish Defence Minister Fikri Işık stated that the Aqil Mountains had been cleared of ISIL.[115] The Turkish-backed rebels also later captured the Al-Farouq hospital. However, an ISIL counterattack in the early hours of 25 December, once again recaptured the hospital and Aqil Mountains.[116] Meanwhile, 30 civilians trying to flee the city were reportedly killed by explosives planted by ISIL.[117]

Russian air support for Turkey

[edit]

On 26 December, pro-Syrian government sources reported that the Russian Air Force directly backed the Turkish Army for the first time since the start of the Russian intervention in Syria. However, despite Su-24 and Su-34 bombers carrying out airstrikes against ISIL fighters, Turkish-backed rebel forces were unable to maintain control over newly captured areas.[118] Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Kurtulmuş denied the reports that the Russian Air Force was assisting the Turks in the battle,[119] while an additional 1,000 Turkish commandos and 2,000 rebel reinforcements arrived on 27 December.[59]

A Turkish official stated on 29 December, that the Russian Air Force had hit ISIL in al-Bab for the first time, carrying out airstrikes against it in the southern part of the city. He also added that Turkish forces were assaulting the northern and western parts of the city.[120] Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu confirmed the airstrikes but stated that there was no joint operation between Russia and Turkey.[1] On 31 December, the Turkish-backed rebels managed to capture another village to the west of al-Bab, while Syrian Democratic Forces entered the villages of Mura'naz and Kuljabreen, clashing with the Turkish-backed rebels there.[121][122]

Between 2 and 3 January, both Turkish and Russian airstrikes hit ISIL targets in the al-Bab area.[123][124] United States Department of Defense spokesman Peter Cook meanwhile stated that it had assisted Turkish forces by providing it with air cover a week earlier, but did not carry out any airstrikes.[125] On 4 January, ISIL was reported to have withdrawn its senior fighters to defend Raqqa and Mosul, leaving less experienced members to defend al-Bab.[126] Both Turkish President Erdoğan and the rebels stated that the offensive to capture the town would be finished soon.[127][126] However, two days later, Turkish Defence Minister Işık stated that the Turkish-backed rebels were fighting street battles against ISIL in al-Bab but had slowed down their advance in order to avoid civilian casualties.[128]

Turkish-backed rebel assault from the east and Syrian Army assault from the south

[edit]
Map of the battle up to February 1

After failing to penetrate al-Bab from the north or west, rebel and Turkish forces started assaults from the east.[129] On 8 January, Turkish-backed rebels captured Um Adasa and Makri Hill near Bizaah.[130] The next day, the rebels once again advanced near Bizaah, capturing Zammar and Asfar Tepe.[131] With these advances, the rebels were attempting to flank al-Bab from the east.[132] Still, in the period between 1 and 14 January, the rebels made eight attempts to capture the nearby village of Al-Suflaniyah, with all of them being repelled.[133][134] At one point, on 13 January, the rebels managed to capture Suflaniyah temporarily,[135] but had to retreat from it after an ISIL counter-attack.[citation needed]

A local media activist claimed the Syrian Army and its allies launched an offensive to take al-Bab on 15 January, using the Kuweires Military Airbase as a launch pad for attacks on Tadef and Abu Jabaar to the south of the city.[136] However, a pro-government source reported preparations were still being made for the offensive.[137] Meanwhile, the Turkish military had reportedly prepared a new plan to capture the city.[138]

On 17 January, the Syrian Army launched an assault led by its Tiger Forces (capturing a village to the south of the city),[citation needed] the United States Armed Forces stated that they had carried out airstrikes against ISIL near al-Bab,[2] and Russia and Turkey carried out their first joint airstrikes against ISIL, targeting it in the suburbs of al-Bab.[139] The SAA captured three more villages to the south of the city within the next two days.[citation needed] The Syrian Army captured another village to the south of the city on 20 January.[citation needed] The Turkish-backed rebels later recaptured Suflaniyah. Five Turkish soldiers were killed in an ISIL attack later on the village.[140]

The Syrian Army and its allies captured seven villages to the southwest of al-Bab between 22 and 23 January.[141][142] Suflaniyah changed hands twice, ultimately remaining under rebel control.[143][144] However, some Turkish activists claimed the village was never recaptured by ISIL.[145] On 23 January, Turkish-backed rebels were reported to have captured Tel Rehal and Kharabishah villages.[146] However, Tel Rehal was later reported to have been captured by the SAA, who also took three other villages.[147] On the same day, Turkish deputy prime minister Numan Kurtulmuş denied claims that Turkey would hand over al-Bab to the Syrian Army.[148] The Turkish-backed rebels recaptured Suflaniyah after having lost it earlier.[149]

On 25 January, the Syrian Army captured Shaalah village, as well as the Shaalah radar base.[citation needed] On the next day, the SDF repelled an ISIL attack on their positions east of al-Bab.[150] The Syrian Army captured three villages to the south during the same day as well as al-Mamoun University.[151] The SAA captured a strategic hill during a midnight assault.[152] On 28 January, the Syrian Army seized two more villages[153] and another two the next day,[154] while the rebels captured two hills in the region.[155] On 30 January, the Syrian Army seized two more villages, as well as a hill.[156]

On 1 February, the Turkish-backed rebels captured 2 villages to the southwest of al-Bab, cutting the main road between the city and Aleppo from another side in front of the recent advances by pro-Syrian government forces who had come with 7 kilometres (4.3 mi). Meanwhile, SAA also captured a village to the south of Kuweires airbase.[157] The rebels captured a village, a hill, 2 farms and 4 settlements to the east of Bizaah.[158]

On 3 February, UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujjaric estimated that around 30,000 civilians had fled al-Bab, and that 10,000 still remained inside of the city.[citation needed]

On 4 February, the rebels captured Bizaah[159] though ISIL recaptured it later.[160] Meanwhile, SAA captured a town to the south of al-Bab.[161] On the next day, the SAA, with support from Hezbollah and Russian artillery, captured a village to the south of Kuweires Airbase,[160] and another village to the south of al-Bab,[6] as well as Tal Uwayshiya hill, which overlooks the main supply route to al-Bab. The SAA advance effectively cut off the last main supply route to the city, putting it under a siege.[162][163] Meanwhile, the Turkish military stated that Abu Khalid al-Urduni, ISIL's governor of al-Bab, was killed in clashes.[35] The rebels recaptured Bizaah on the next day.[164] On 7 February, ISIL recaptured Bizaah.[165] The SAA and Hezbollah, meanwhile, captured 3 villages and a nearby hill to the south of Al-Bab.[5][166] They later captured a hill and many other sites to the south of the Kuweires airbase, extending their control over Sabkhat al-Jabbul and fully securing the road near it.[167][168] Later on the same day, it was reported that the rapid Syrian Army advances had nearly encircled 5,000 ISIL militants within Al-Bab and its environs.[65]

Turkish-backed forces enter al-Bab, Syrian Army reaches southern outskirts

[edit]
Map of the final advances, up to 23 February.

During the night of 7 February, Turkish forces and rebels launched an assault at Al-Bab, capturing several strategic hills and breaking into the city.[169][170] The rebels captured several other sites including Aqil Mount, the nearby hospital, a youth housing area and a local roundabout in the west of the city.[171] On 9 February, the Syrian Army captured two villages to the south of al-Bab, putting them within 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) of the city[172][173] On the same day, three Turkish soldiers were killed while 11 others were injured in an unintentional airstrike on a building near al-Bab by the Russian Air Force, who said they believed it was occupied by ISIL fighters. Russian President Vladimir Putin offered condolences to Turkish President Erdoğan for the incident and blamed it on poor co-ordination between Turkish and Russian forces.[174] During the same day, Turkish-backed rebels assaulted ISIL positions inside the city after breaking through their defences.[175] The rebels also stated that they had clashed with the Syrian Army for the first time in the battle, in a village to the southwest of the city.[176] Turkish troops and rebels were also reported to have captured Qabasin and Bizaah, by Turkish media as well as rebel groups. These advances haven't been independently verified.[177] The BBC stated that the towns were surrounded, with clashes ongoing.[178]

The al-Bab military council declares on 10 February that it would soon capture al-Bab.

On 10 February, the Syrian Army captured Abu Taltal village to the south of the city, putting them within 1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) of the city.[179] On 11 February clashes were reported in the town of Tadef, less than 2 kilometres from Al-Bab, between Tiger Forces together with National Defense Forces fighting against ISIL.[citation needed] On the same day, Russian media reported that Tadef had been taken by the Syrian Army.[180] The rebels also managed to capture several important points in al-Bab after an assault on the city, according to SOHR as well as rebel sources. The advance put one-tenth of the city under their control.[181] They later recaptured Qabasin from ISIL.[182] Later on the same day, it was reported that Turkish-backed forces had captured the Tadef roundabout, to the northwest of the town of Tadef, effectively cutting off the Syrian Army from Al-Bab.

On 12 February, Turkish President Erdogan said that Turkish troops and their allies had entered the centre of al-Bab and had captured the most important point, the hospital hill. He added that establishing full control of the town was a "matter of time".[183][184] According to pro-government sources, the rebels lost Qabasin again and failed in several attempts to recapture it, as well as Bizaah, but captured the Al-Rai and Al-Shehabi Farms at the northern entrance of al-Bab.[185][186]

On 12 February, the Syrian Army redirected its efforts from al-Bab into an offensive northeast of Kuweires airbase.[187]

Between 13 and 17 February, Turkish sources made multiple claims of large advances within al-Bab itself. According to a report by Hürriyet Daily News, the Turkish-backed rebels had captured 40% of al-Bab's city centre,[188] while the Turkish Prime Minister claimed that al-Bab was largely under the control of Turkish-backed forces[189] at the same time as the rebels lost territory inside al-Bab.[190] On 17 February, Turkey's military claimed that it was close to capturing al-Bab. However, the SOHR disputed this, and cited local sources that stated that 90 percent of the city was still under the control of ISIL.[191] The same day, ISIL recaptured some territory in al-Bab after a counter-attack.[192]

Turkish-backed forces capture al-Bab

[edit]
A rebel FNSS ACV-15 enters the town of Bizaah on 4 February 2017

The rebels, backed by Turkish forces, launched another attack on 20 February, advancing in the western part of the city.[193][194] During the clashes, they captured French ISIL leader Jonathan Jeffrey, also known by his alias Abu Ibrahim al-Francy, who is accused of planning attacks in European cities and recruiting young Europeans.[38][39]

On 23 February 2017, Turkish and rebel forces launched another attack on al-Bab and reportedly seized most of the city, with Turkish Defence Minister Fikri Işık announcing they were in near complete control. However, street battles were still ongoing with SOHR stating ISIL still controlled more than half of the city.[195] The Turkish-backed rebels later took full control of the city, which was then confirmed by SOHR.[196][197] They also captured Qabasin and Bizaah after ISIL withdrew to the south.[198][199]

Aftermath

[edit]
See also: East Aleppo offensive (January–April 2017)

On 24 February, an ISIL suicide-bomber killed over 50 people and wounded 70 more, in the village of Sosyan, to the northwest of Al-Bab. Later in the day another explosion was heard in the same village, with casualties rising to at least 68.[200][201][202] Soon after Turkish-backed rebel forces captured Al-Bab, Turkish forces began shelling ISIL forces in the town of Tadef, to the south of Al-Bab.[203]

Meanwhile, between 24 and 25 February, Syrian Government forces continued their advances southeast of Al-Bab, capturing multiple villages.[204][205][206] Later on 25 February, ISIL had withdrawn most of its fighters from Tadef, although at the time it was unknown whether the town would come under the control of the Syrian Army or Turkish-backed forces.[207] On the next day, the SAA captured the town, after clashing with the remaining ISIL fighters.[208][209] After Syrian Army forces secured Tadef, the Free Syrian Army forces began attacking the Syrian Army near the town, reportedly killing 22 SAA soldiers.[210] However, a Syrian Government correspondent said that the claims of the number of SAA soldiers killed were grossly exaggerated. Syrian Army forces stationed at Tadef may also potentially use it as a launching pad to capture Al-Bab from the Turkish-led forces.[211] On 27 February, it was reported that Russia had mediated another ceasefire between SAA and FSA forces in the area.[citation needed]

After the end of the battle, some of the remaining civilians reported that ISIL had moved people around in the city as human shields, that ISIL had set up checkpoints and turned back anyone who tried to leave, and that they often chased people out of their homes in order to hide there. They also reported that they didn't leave because they feared the ISIL forces, and because ISIL had mined the city before they left.[212]

In late September 2018, Jaysh al-Islam fighters deported from East Ghouta announced a massive reorganization of the group as well as plans to begin construction of a new neighborhood in al-Bab for people exiled from East Ghouta.[213]

Use of Leopard 2 tanks

[edit]

Initially, three of the Turkish Leopard 2A4s operating in Syria were destroyed or damaged by ISIS using anti-tank missile systems (possibly Fagot or Konkurs anti-tank guided missiles obtained from Syrian or Iraqi Army captured stocks).[citation needed] In mid-December 2016, two 2A4 tanks were captured by ISIS near al-Bab city in Syria during Euphrates Shield operations; Amaq News Agency posted video of the captured vehicles.[214] By late December 2016, Islamic State had captured or incapacitated 10 Leopard 2A4s. Some of the 10 were damaged by IEDs, while the rest were damaged by anti-tank weapons. This is the largest number of Leopard 2A4 tanks to have been incapacitated in any one conflict.[215] Additional ISIS propaganda images and video depicting several completely destroyed Leopards, some with their turrets blown off, were published in January 2017.[216] Tanks which suffered the worst damage may have been destroyed by air strikes in order to prevent capture but sources generally state that the damage was caused solely with anti-tank missiles or car bombs driven by a suicide bomber (also known as suicide vehicle borne improvised explosive devices or SVBIED).[217][218]

In January 2017, the German newspaper Die Welt reported that ISIL fighters used 9M133 Kornet anti-tank missiles to destroy six Leopard 2 tanks used by the Turkish military in Syria.[219]

At least eight Leopard 2 MBT have been destroyed according to photographic reports.[220]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Russia bombs IS-held town in Syria, aids Turkish advance". Middle East Eye. 29 December 2016. Retrieved 29 December 2016.
  2. ^ a b "U.S. carries out strikes near Syria's al-Bab after Turkish criticism". Reuters. 17 January 2017. Retrieved 17 January 2017.
  3. ^ @Syria_Rebel_Obs (17 November 2016). "RARE PIC" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  4. ^ a b c d Chris Tomson (29 November 2016). "Syrian Army captures first village from Turkish-backed rebels on the outskirts of al-Bab". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 29 November 2016.
  5. ^ a b "Tiger groups and Hezbollah's elite reinforce their siege on al-Bab and reach a distance of less than 5 kilometers away in the southeastern area of the city". 2017-02-07. Retrieved 2017-02-07.
  6. ^ a b "After new advance in it countryside... hundreds of meters separates the regime forces from completing the siege on al-Bab city and its vicinity with support from Hezbollah and Russian artillery". SOHR. 5 February 2017. Retrieved 5 February 2017.
  7. ^ ""المقاومة السورية" إلى جانب الجيش: "الباب" أقرب".
  8. ^ "Ivan Sidorenko on Twitter". Archived from the original on 22 February 2017. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  9. ^ Fadel, Leith (23 January 2017). "Syrian Army closes-on ISIS stronghold in east Aleppo: map". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 26 January 2017.
  10. ^ "El Bab son durum harita (11 Aralık)".
  11. ^ a b "After reaching the edges of al-Bab city... the 'Euphrates Shield' factions expand their controlled areas in the vicinity of the city and its countryside". 14 November 2016.
  12. ^ a b c Tomson, Chris (7 November 2016). "Syrian rebels seize seven villages in major advance towards ISIS stronghold of al-Bab". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 8 November 2016.
  13. ^ a b Tomson, Chris (15 November 2016). "Turkish-backed rebels overrun another ISIS-held town near al-Bab". Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 16 November 2016.
  14. ^ "فصائل "درع الفرات" تسيطر على تلة الـ500 وقرى الغجران والعواصي واللواحجة والحساني بريف حلب الشرقي".
  15. ^ Antonopoulos, Paul (23 February 2017). "Reports: ISIS surrenders Al-Bab to Turkish-led forces". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  16. ^ Tomson, Chris (23 February 2017). "ISIS in full-scale retreat as the Turkish Army seizes two large towns neighboring Al-Bab". Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  17. ^ a b "The Syria Democratic Forces are trying to besiege al-Arima and factions of 'Euphrates Shield' advance in the vicinity of al-Bab with clashes on its frontiers". 13 November 2016.
  18. ^ a b c Tomson, Chris (15 November 2016). "Syrian rebels storm ISIS stronghold of al-Bab in northern Aleppo - Map". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 16 November 2016.
  19. ^ Tomson, Chris (16 November 2016). "US-backed Kurds seize 9 villages from ISIS while Turkish-backed rebels attack both". Archived from the original on 4 February 2019. Retrieved 16 November 2016.
  20. ^ a b "A large number of injuries in the continued "Turkish Shelling" on the control areas of Manbij Military Council". Syria HR. 23 November 2016. Archived from the original on 2 December 2016.
  21. ^ "More advancement by the regime forces put the 'Islamic State' organization at al-Bab between the jaws of pliers of the regime and Turks". 29 January 2017.
  22. ^ Fadel, Leith (8 February 2017). "Race for Al-Bab continues as Syrian government forces liberate new village". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 8 February 2017.
  23. ^ "The regime forces advance in the southwest of al-Bab city and violent attack by the Turkish forces and the 'Euphrates Shield' in the north of the city".
  24. ^ Antonopoulos, Paul (10 February 2017). "Al-Bab battle heat up as the Syrian Army reaches its southern gates". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 10 February 2017.
  25. ^ "Turkish Special Forces: From stopping a coup to the frontline of the ISIL fight". Hürriyet Daily News – World News. 24 August 2016. Retrieved 2021-12-15.
  26. ^ Nick Tattersall; Humeyra Pamuk (26 August 2016). "Turkey signals no quick end to Syria incursion as truck bomb kills police". Reuters.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  27. ^ "Korgeneral İsmail Metin Temel Cerablus'ta". Hürriyet Daily News. 26 August 2016.
  28. ^ "Turkish Forces and Rebels Storm Into Syria, Taking IS Stronghold of Jarablus". VOA. 24 August 2016.
  29. ^ "SULTAN MURAT TÜMENİ KOMUTANI FEHİM İSA TATHAMUS TÜRKMEN KÖYÜNÜN DEAŞ TERÖR ÖRGÜTÜNDEN TEMİZLENDİĞİNİ AÇIKLADI". 24 August 2016.
  30. ^ a b "Turkish-backed FSA rebels set their sights on last IS Aleppo stronghold after border victory". Syria:direct. 5 September 2016. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 13 November 2016.
  31. ^ "LCC Qabasin rejects Qabasin MC". Yallasouriya. 13 November 2016.
  32. ^ "ÖSO komutanlarından Türkiye'ye teşekkür". 25 August 2016.
  33. ^ "41K Turkish soldiers ready to support operation Al Bab". Yeni Şafak. 22 September 2016. Archived from the original on 23 September 2016. Retrieved 22 September 2016.
  34. ^ "السلطان محمدالفاتح (@loaasltanfateh)" – via Twitter.
  35. ^ a b "33 Daesh terrorists killed, 4 injured by Turkish airstrikes, shelling in northern Syria". Daily Sabah. 5 February 2017. Retrieved 5 February 2017.
  36. ^ "ISIL 'emir' killed in Turkish air strike in Syria: Sources - MIDEAST". Retrieved 13 January 2017.
  37. ^ "TSK açıkladı! DAEŞ'ın kritik ismi öldürüldü". Archived from the original on 10 May 2017. Retrieved 13 January 2017.
  38. ^ a b "WATCH: First video emerges of captive French ISIS militant". Al-Arabiya. 2017-02-20. Retrieved 2017-02-20.
  39. ^ a b "Update: French ISIS leader captured by Free Syrian Army near Al-Bab". Al-Masdar News. 2017-02-20. Archived from the original on 2017-09-24. Retrieved 2017-02-20.
  40. ^ "Turkey calls on US, allies to reconsider Syria no-fly zone". AP. 21 November 2016.
  41. ^ Hassan Ridha [@sayed_ridha] (2 October 2016). "250 fighters graduated from Abu Leyla academy in Manbij forming Liwa Tahrir al-Furat led by Anwar Khabat, they have..." (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  42. ^ "Syria Euphrates Shiel Hawar Kilis operation room". Yalla Souriya. 20 September 2016.
  43. ^ Hassan Ridha [@sayed_ridha] (14 October 2016). "Liwa Jund al-Islam merges with Sham Front #Aleppo" (Tweet). Retrieved 24 February 2017 – via Twitter.
  44. ^ Hassan Ridha [@sayed_ridha] (27 January 2017). "جيش الشمال بريف حلب الشمالي يعلن فك ارتباطه بحركة نور الدين الزنكي" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  45. ^ ‏كودي روش [@badly_xeroxed] (22 February 2017). "#FSA Jaysh al-Ahfad in front of al-Bab City Hospital #EuphratesShield #Aleppo" (Tweet) – via Twitter.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  46. ^ a b "Новости Абхазия on Twitter". Archived from the original on 22 February 2017. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  47. ^ Susan Fraser; Philip Issa (24 August 2016). "U.S. warplanes support Turkish tanks attacking Islamic State forces in Syria". Military Times.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  48. ^ fouad sarkis [@el_sarkis] (20 September 2016). "Ahrar al sham entered officially #EuphratesShield battle #Aleppo" (Tweet). Retrieved 26 September 2016 – via Twitter.
  49. ^ MuntasırBillahTümeni [@MuntasrBillahTR] (5 December 2016). "#Türkmen #Muntasır_Billah Fırat Kalkanında Türk Ordusu ile birlikte, Işid ve PYD'ye kan kusturan yiğitlerimizi..." (Tweet). Retrieved 13 January 2017 – via Twitter.
  50. ^ "The Tel Rifaat Military Council shells Tel Rifaat with a mortar • r/syriancivilwar". 13 February 2017. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  51. ^ الفوج الأول (14 February 2017). "أشتباكات عنيفة تخوضها قوات الجيش السوري الحر ضد تنظيم داعش داخل مدينة الباب بريف حلب الشرقي". Retrieved 24 February 2017 – via YouTube.
  52. ^ Hassan Ridha [@sayed_ridha] (19 February 2017). "US/Jordanian-backed group 'Authenticity and Development Front' has arrived at al-Bab front" (Tweet). Retrieved 24 February 2017 – via Twitter.
  53. ^ a b c d e f g h i Chris Tomson (26 November 2016). "Turkish-backed rebels, Syrian Army and Kurdish forces all advance in race to al-Bab". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 29 November 2016.
  54. ^ Genevieve Casagrande (22 November 2016). "The Road to ar-Raqqah: Background on the Syrian Democratic Forces" (PDF). Institute for the Study of War. Retrieved 20 September 2017.
  55. ^ "Shahba forces". RUMAF. 1 December 2016.
  56. ^ "Afrin buries a fighter from the Arab component". Afrin Canton (in Arabic). 29 December 2016. Archived from the original on 15 February 2018. Retrieved 28 June 2017.
  57. ^ @SY_newsagency (26 November 2016). "HUGE GAINS for the newly formed Protection unit !" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  58. ^ Şafak, Yeni (5 January 2017). "8 bin asker emir bekliyor". Retrieved 13 January 2017.
  59. ^ a b "Turkish commandos enter al-Bab". Yeni Şafak. 27 December 2016. Retrieved 27 December 2016.
  60. ^ @RudawEnglish (25 December 2016). "500 Turkish special forces have joined Al-Bab operation — Turkish media outlets report" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  61. ^ a b c "Turkey bogged down in Syria as it realigns with Russia". Associated Press. AP. 11 January 2017. Retrieved 13 January 2017.
  62. ^ "Turkey sends military reinforcements to Syria as fight for al-Bab rages". ARA News. 26 December 2016. Archived from the original on 26 December 2016. Retrieved 26 December 2016.
  63. ^ a b Humeyra Pamuk (9 December 2016). "Turkey-backed rebels say launch fresh assault on Syria's al-Bab". Reuters. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
  64. ^ "Why Turkey has been taking so long to capture al-Bab". www.rudaw.net. Retrieved 2021-12-15.
  65. ^ a b "MINA Breaking News - Syrian Army surrounds 5,000 ISIS fighters in Al Bab". Macedonia online. Archived from the original on 9 October 2017. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  66. ^ 71 soldiers reported killed since the start of the intervention "El Bab'da 2 asker şehit oldu - POLİTİKA haberleri" [2 soldiers killed in El-Bab]. www.dha.com.tr (in Turkish). Archived from the original on 2021-12-15. Retrieved 2021-12-15.
    of which 12 died up until the Battle of al-Bab,[1] Archived 2017-06-07 at the Wayback Machine leaving 59 to have died during the battle
  67. ^ "Turkey's Leopard 2 Tanks Are Getting Crushed in Syria". The National Interest. 9 November 2019.
  68. ^ Free Syrian Army leader says they will fight Syrian Army, Kurdish YPG in rural Aleppo Archived 2019-06-17 at the Wayback Machine, Al-Masdar News
  69. ^ "El Bab'da 'temizlik' son aşamada". www.aa.com.tr. Retrieved 2021-12-15.
  70. ^ 26 killed (against rebels & Turkey; 13 Nov.–28 Dec.),"El Bab'da 'temizlik' son aşamada". www.aa.com.tr. Retrieved 2021-12-15. 19 killed (against ISIL; 21–29 Nov.),[2]"A large number of injuries in the continued "Turkish Shelling" on the control areas of Manbij Military Council | Syrian Observatory for Human Rights". Archived from the original on 2016-12-02. Retrieved 2016-11-30."In 48 hours... the Syria Democratic Forces held funerals for 20 of their fighters who were killed in fronts of Raqqah and Aleppo | Syrian Observatory for Human Rights". Archived from the original on 2016-12-20. Retrieved 2017-02-13. total of 45 reported killed
  71. ^ The Inside Source [@InsideSourceInt] (6 February 2017). "#Syria // #Aleppo // 13 SAA confirmed KIA in clashes near Al-Bab in past 48 hours" (Tweet). Retrieved 24 February 2017 – via Twitter.
  72. ^ "Turkey ends the Federal in Syria after 6 months of entering the Syrian lands and leaving 3700 casualties between civilians • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 2017-02-24. Retrieved 2021-12-15.
  73. ^ Çandar, Cengiz (2016), Turkey's entanglement in Syria sparks violence, assassination at home, Al Monitor
  74. ^ Julian Röpcke [@JulianRoepcke] (8 November 2016). "#NewsMap Seemingly in a move to avoid #YPG troops, #EuphratesShield forces advance on #ISIS-held al-Bab from the no..." (Tweet). Retrieved 8 November 2016 – via Twitter.
  75. ^ a b "Turkey-backed Syria rebels 'just two kilometres' from IS bastion". The New Arab. 13 November 2016.
  76. ^ "Syria Direct". Syria Direct.
  77. ^ Paksoy, Yunus (18 November 2016). "PKK's Syrian wing YPG attacking FSA to disrupt anti-Daesh al-Bab offensive". Daily Sabah. Retrieved 18 November 2016.
  78. ^ Tomson, Chris (19 November 2016). "ISIS retakes town near al-Bab during deadly ambush on Turkish-backed rebels". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 9 October 2018. Retrieved 19 November 2016.
  79. ^ Tomson, Chris (21 November 2016). "Turkish-backed rebels pause battle for al-Bab to launch huge attack on Kurdish forces". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 22 November 2016. Retrieved 21 November 2016.
  80. ^ "Rebels backed by Turkish forces advance over IS in Aleppo countryside". 22 November 2016.
  81. ^ Tomson, Chris (22 November 2016). "Turkish-backed rebels recapture Qabasin town in northern Aleppo". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 22 November 2016.
  82. ^ a b Tomson, Chris (23 November 2016). "Huge three-way battle unfolds near al-Bab as all parties seize territory in the same day". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  83. ^ "Human losses in Turkish forces and in aerial bombardment on al-Arima". Syrian Observatory of Human Rights. 24 November 2016.
  84. ^ "Three Turkish soldiers killed in regime attack in Syria: Military". Hurriyet Daily News. 24 November 2016.
  85. ^ a b "Turkish soldiers killed by Syrian air strike: Military". Al Jazeera. 24 November 2016.
  86. ^ "Turkish army blames Syrian government for killing its soldiers - The National". 24 November 2016.
  87. ^ "IS conflict: Turkish soldiers killed in Syria attack". BBC News. 24 November 2016.
  88. ^ a b "CHP warns of 'perilous process' after Syrian regime air strike hits Turkish troops". Hurriyet Daily News. 24 November 2016.
  89. ^ Fadel, Leith (25 November 2016). "Syrian Air Force denies bombing Turkish Army in east Aleppo". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 22 January 2018. Retrieved 25 November 2016.
  90. ^ "The Syria Democratic Forces approaching from the west of al-Bab city and control several villages". 24 November 2016.
  91. ^ Fadel, Leith (24 November 2016). "Syrian Army, Kurdish forces liberate several villages in east Aleppo: map". Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  92. ^ Tomson, Chris (24 November 2016). "Turkish-backed rebels seize two villages east of al-Bab during outflanking manuever". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  93. ^ "Inside the final push against Isis". Independent. 28 November 2016.
  94. ^ Tomson, Chris (29 November 2016). "Syrian Army captures first village from Turkish-backed rebels on the outskirts of al-Bab". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 29 November 2016.
  95. ^ Ece Toksabay; Ali Abdelaty; Orhan Coskun (29 November 2016). "Turkish military says contact lost with 2 soldiers in northern Syria". Reuters.
  96. ^ Gurcan, Metin (2 December 2016). "As risk rises, will Turkey persist in quest for al-Bab?". Reuters.
  97. ^ "Ankara-backed FSA on hold for al-Bab offensive". Daily Sabah. 2 December 2016. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
  98. ^ "Turkey's Syria offensive slows down outside ISIS-held al-Bab". Rudaw. 5 December 2016. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
  99. ^ "UPDATED: Turkish-backed forces reportedly enter al-Bab". Rudaw. 10 December 2016. Retrieved 10 December 2016.
  100. ^ "Turkish army, allies enter IS Syrian bastion Al-Bab: Monitor". Al-Ahram. 10 December 2016. Retrieved 10 December 2016.
  101. ^ "Turkish army urges Syrians to seek safety as rebels push on al-Bab". Reuters. 12 December 2016. Retrieved 12 December 2016.
  102. ^ Sevil Erkuş (12 December 2016). "1,000 ditches, booby traps in al-Bab slow down Euphrates Shield operation". Hürriyet Daily News. Retrieved 12 December 2016.
  103. ^ "Preparations for final operation on Syria's al-Bab underway: Turkish Deputy PM". Hürriyet Daily News. 13 December 2016. Retrieved 14 December 2016.
  104. ^ "Clashes in the Eastern Ghouta and continuous shelling targets al-Bab city". 17 December 2016. Retrieved 17 December 2016.
  105. ^ "Turkish military says Syria's al-Bab to Aleppo highway under full control". Reuters. 21 December 2016. Retrieved 21 December 2016.
  106. ^ "Jihadists Kill 16 Troops in Turkey's Deadliest Day in Syria". Bloomberg. 21 December 2016. Retrieved 13 January 2017 – via www.bloomberg.com.
  107. ^ "Battle for Syria's al-Bab intensifies, 14 Turkish soldiers killed: army". Reuters. 21 December 2016. Retrieved 21 December 2016.
  108. ^ "Turkish troops killed in clashes with ISIL in Syria". 22 December 2016. Retrieved 24 December 2016.
  109. ^ "al-Furat Shield factions advance over IS in al-Bab city".
  110. ^ "Turkish warplanes commit a massacre in al-Bab city after 24 hours of losing a battle in the area". 22 December 2016.
  111. ^ "With the international community being busy in the displacement process in Aleppo... 120 were killed and tens were wounded within 48 hours of military operations in al-Bab city and its vicinity". 22 December 2016.
  112. ^ "'Dozens of civilians killed' by Turkish airstrikes in Syria". Euronews. 23 December 2016. Retrieved 23 December 2016.
  113. ^ "At least 95 persons were killed including about 40 children and citizen women in al-Bab massacres which were carried out by Turkish warplanes within 24 hours • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 2016-12-24. Retrieved 2021-12-15.
  114. ^ "Turkey's Erdogan says operation to capture Syria's al-Bab almost complete". Ynetnews. 23 December 2016. Retrieved 23 December 2016.
  115. ^ "Strategic area around al-Bab hospital cleared of Daesh terrorists, defense minister says". Daily Sabah. 23 December 2016. Retrieved 23 December 2016.
  116. ^ "ISIS pushes back against Turkish Army to reclaim territory in Aleppo's Al-Bab". Al-Masdar News. 25 December 2016. Archived from the original on 10 August 2020. Retrieved 26 December 2016.
  117. ^ "Daesh kills 30 civilians fleeing Al-Bab: Turkish army". Anadolu Agency. 26 December 2016. Retrieved 26 December 2016.
  118. ^ "Russian jets carry out airstrikes to aid Turkish Army in Aleppo's Al-Bab". Al-Masdar News. 26 December 2016. Archived from the original on 10 October 2017. Retrieved 26 December 2016.
  119. ^ "FSA fighters evacuated from Aleppo to boost fight in al-Bab". Daily Sabah. 27 December 2016. Retrieved 27 December 2016.
  120. ^ "Russian jets strike Daesh targets in Syria's al-Bab for first time". Daily Sabah. 29 December 2016. Retrieved 29 December 2016.
  121. ^ Fadel, Leith (2016-12-31). "Kurdish-led forces advance in northern Aleppo". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 2017-01-01. Retrieved 2017-01-01.
  122. ^ ""Euphrates Shield" forces advance west of al-Bab city after heavy shelling and clashes against the "Islamic State"". 31 December 2016.
  123. ^ "Turkey, Russia airstrikes destroy Daesh targets in al-Bab, 22 terrorists killed". Anadolu Agency. Daily Sabah. 2 January 2016. Retrieved 2 January 2016.
  124. ^ "No letup in Turkish-Russian fight against Daesh in al-Bab, 18 terrorists killed". Daily Sabah. 3 January 2016. Retrieved 3 January 2016.
  125. ^ "U.S.-led coalition carried out flights to support Turkish forces in Syria". Reuters. 3 January 2016. Retrieved 4 January 2016.
  126. ^ a b "Syria: Turkey takes fight to Isis in assault on western base of al-Bab". The Guardian. 4 January 2016. Retrieved 5 January 2016.
  127. ^ "Turkey's Erdogan says offensive on Syria's al-Bab to be finished soon". Reuters. 4 January 2016. Retrieved 5 January 2016.
  128. ^ "Turkish-backed forces fighting street battles in Syria's al-Bab: defence minister". Reuters. 6 January 2016. Retrieved 6 January 2016.
  129. ^ "IS reinforces positions in Syria's al-Bab". 23 January 2017.
  130. ^ "Fırat Kalkanı Harekatı'nda kritik iki bölge ele geçirildi". Star (in Turkish). 8 January 2017. Retrieved 12 January 2017.
  131. ^ "Fırat Kalkanı Harekatı'nda Zammar ve Asfar Tepe'si ele geçirildi". Star (in Turkish). 9 January 2017. Retrieved 12 January 2017.
  132. ^ "Turkish forces inch closer to ISIS stronghold in east Aleppo: map". Al-Masdar News. 9 January 2017. Archived from the original on 30 October 2020. Retrieved 15 January 2017.
  133. ^ Fadel, Leith (10 January 2017). "Battle for northern Aleppo heats up as Turkish forces make another push at Al-Bab: map". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 17 January 2017. Retrieved 15 January 2017.
  134. ^ Fadel, Leith (15 January 2017). "ISIS stops Turkish Army advance into key east Aleppo city". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 29 October 2020. Retrieved 15 January 2017.
  135. ^ "Suflaniyah köyü DEAŞ'tan temizlendi". Takvim (in Turkish). 13 January 2017. Retrieved 14 January 2017.
  136. ^ "Syrian regime, allied militias join battle for al-Bab to impede Turkey's progress". ARA News. 16 January 2017. Archived from the original on January 17, 2017. Retrieved 17 January 2017.
  137. ^ Fadel, Leith (16 January 2017). "Russian, Syrian jets rain airstrikes over east Aleppo". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 30 October 2020. Retrieved 17 January 2017.
  138. ^ "Turkish military mulls 3-tier plan to liberate al-Bab". Daily Sabah. 16 January 2017. Retrieved 17 January 2017.
  139. ^ "Syria conflict: Russia and Turkey 'in first joint air strikes on IS'". BBC. 18 January 2017. Retrieved 19 January 2017.
  140. ^ "Son dakika haberi: El Bab'da bomba yüklü araçla saldırı.. TSK'dan flaş açıklama". Hürriyet (in Turkish). 20 January 2017. Retrieved 20 January 2017.
  141. ^ "Syrian army nears Turkey-backed rebels in new advance". Reuters. 22 January 2017. Retrieved 22 January 2017.
  142. ^ "The regime forces continue advancing and control more villages heading towards the southwest al-Bab and reconnaissance drone dropped in the countryside of Hama". 23 January 2017. Retrieved 23 January 2017.
  143. ^ "ISIS recaptured Seflaniye village, East to Al Bab". Liveuamap. 20 January 2017. Retrieved 22 January 2017.
  144. ^ "FSA and Turkish army again seized Suflaniye after heavy artillery strikes on ISIS". Liveuamap. 22 January 2017. Retrieved 22 January 2017.
  145. ^ "Turkish activists are reporting the Free Syrian Army are still in control of the village of Seflaniye and that it was never regained by IS today, while some other sources report that Seflaniye was swiftly regained after heavy artillery shelling by Turkish forces on IS positions in the village forcing IS to retreat, northern Aleppo, Syria". Liveuamap. 22 January 2017. Retrieved 22 January 2017.
  146. ^ "ÖSO, Esed güçlerinin sınırına dayandı". Akşam (in Turkish). 23 January 2017. Retrieved 24 January 2017.
  147. ^ ""Tiger Forces" lead the regime forces to further advancement towards the southwestern area of al-Bab city". SOHR. 23 January 2017. Retrieved 24 January 2017.
  148. ^ "Turkey will not hand over al-Bab to Syrian government forces - deputy PM". Reuters. 24 January 2017. Archived from the original on 31 January 2017. Retrieved 24 January 2017.
  149. ^ "The regime forces continue advancing and control more villages east of Aleppo". SOHR. 25 January 2017. Retrieved 25 January 2017.
  150. ^ "The Syria Democratic Forces regain control of positions they lost in today's attack in the countryside of Manbij and injuries in explosion at the countryside of Al-Raqqah". SOHR. 26 January 2017. Retrieved 26 January 2017.
  151. ^ "The regime forces led by the "Tiger Groups" advance towards al-Bab city once again and control the 18th area in the operation's 9th da". SOHR. 27 January 2017. Retrieved 27 January 2017.
  152. ^ "Rocket shelling targets the western and northern countryside of Aleppo and the regime forces control a hill in the eastern countryside of Aleppo". SOHR. 27 January 2017. Retrieved 27 January 2017.
  153. ^ "Continued clashes in Homs and Aleppo countrysides". SOHR. 28 January 2017. Retrieved 28 January 2017.
  154. ^ "More advancement by the regime forces put the "Islamic State" organization at al-Bab between the jaws of pliers of the regime and Turks". SOHR. 29 January 2017. Retrieved 29 January 2017.
  155. ^ "تقدم لقوات النظام ولقوات "درع الفرات" نحو أكبر معاقل تنظيم "الدولة الإسلامية" بريف حلب". SOHR (in Arabic). 29 January 2017. Retrieved 29 January 2017.
  156. ^ "The regime dominates several villages in al-Bab". ANHA. 30 January 2017. Archived from the original on 31 January 2017. Retrieved 30 January 2017.
  157. ^ "Turkish forces and the "Euphrates Shield" control villages southwest of al-Bab city to stop the regime forces' advancement in these areas". SOHR. 1 February 2017. Retrieved 4 February 2017.
  158. ^ "TAfter closing the road of advancement in the regime's face southwest of al-Bab, Turkish forces advance to complete the siege on the city, and control the largest strongholds of the "Islamic State" organization in Aleppo alone". SOHR. 2 February 2017. Retrieved 4 February 2017.
  159. ^ "Turkish-Backed Forces Capture IS-Held Town Near Al-Bab". Storyful. Yahoo! Finance. 4 February 2017. Retrieved 4 February 2017.
  160. ^ a b "Continuous fight between the "Islamic State" organization, "Euphrates Shield" and the regime forces on various fronts in Aleppo province". SOHR. 5 February 2017. Retrieved 5 February 2017.
  161. ^ "U.S.-backed Syrian force in new phase of Raqqa assault". Reuters. 4 February 2017. Retrieved 4 February 2017.
  162. ^ "Syria conflict: Army cuts IS supply route into al-Bab". BBC. 6 February 2017. Retrieved 6 February 2017.
  163. ^ "Syrian troops, Turkey-backed forces surround 'IS' stronghold al-Bab". Deutsche-Welle. 6 February 2017. Retrieved 6 February 2017.
  164. ^ "Bza'a TSK ve ÖSO'nun kontrolüne geçti". TGRT Haber (in Turkish). 2017-02-06. Retrieved 2017-02-06.
  165. ^ "The "Islamic State" organization re-advances in Bzaah and shelling targets the southern countryside of Idlib". SOHR. 6 February 2017. Retrieved 6 February 2017.
  166. ^ Charkatli, Izat (2017-02-07). "Syrian Army two villages from Al-Bab after swift new advance: Map Update". Al-Masdar. Archived from the original on 2017-02-08. Retrieved 2017-02-07.
  167. ^ "تنظيم "الدولة الإسلامية" يخسر المزيد من المناطق في ريف حلب وقوات النظام تتمكن من السيطرة على سبخة الجبول جنوب مطار كويرس العسكري" (in Arabic). SOHR. 2017-02-07. Retrieved 2017-02-07.
  168. ^ Tomson, Chris (2017-02-07). "Syrian Army secures main road along Jabbul Lake as ISIS pulls out of eastern Aleppo". Al-Masdar. Archived from the original on 2019-05-01. Retrieved 2017-02-07.
  169. ^ Pamuk, Humeyra; Perry, Tom (2017-02-08). "Turkish army and Syrian rebels close in on Islamic State town". Reuters. Retrieved 2017-02-08.
  170. ^ "Turkish-backed forces break into Islamic State's al-Bab from the west in overnight assault". Syria Direct. 2017-02-08. Archived from the original on 2017-10-19. Retrieved 2017-02-08.
  171. ^ "Violent clashes continue on the western outskirts of al-Bab city and the news about the enter of Turkish forces and the "Euphrates Shield" into the center of the city are false". SOHR. 2017-02-08. Retrieved 2017-02-08.
  172. ^ "The regime forces advance in the southwest of al-Bab city and violent attack by the Turkish forces and the "Euphrates Shield" in the north of the city". SOHR. 2017-02-09. Retrieved 2017-02-09.
  173. ^ "بدعم من نخبة حزب الله والمدفعية الروسية..قوات النظام تتقدم في جنوب غرب الباب وتجبر تنظيم "الدولة الإسلامية" على الانكفاء إلى تادف والباب" (in Arabic). SOHR. 2017-02-09. Retrieved 2017-02-09.
  174. ^ "Syria war: Russian 'friendly fire' kills Turkish soldiers". BBC News. 2017-02-09. Retrieved 2017-02-09.
  175. ^ "Turkish-led rebels attack IS posts inside Syria's al-Bab". Middle East Eye. 2017-02-09. Retrieved 2017-02-09.
  176. ^ "Russian bombing in Syria mistakenly kills three Turkish soldiers". Russia. 2017-02-09. Retrieved 2017-02-09.
  177. ^ "Turkish-led rebels attack IS posts inside al-Bab city: rebels". 2017-02-09. Retrieved 2017-02-09.
  178. ^ "Syria conflict: What is at stake in the battle of al-Bab?". 2017-02-11. Retrieved 2017-02-11.
  179. ^ "Kremlin: Turkey gave target for mistaken Syria strike". Al Jazeera. 2017-02-10. Retrieved 2017-02-10.
  180. ^ "Сирийские войска при поддержке ВКС России освободили населенный пункт Тадеф". 11 February 2017. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  181. ^ "Marginal progress for Turkish-backed forces in north Syria". 2017-02-11. Archived from the original on 2017-02-12. Retrieved 2017-02-11.
  182. ^ "المعارضة السورية تقصف مواقع لداعش بالمدفعية الثقيلة فى ريف دعا". 2017-02-11. Retrieved 2017-02-12.
  183. ^ "Turkey has no intention of staying in Syria: President Erdoğan - MIDEAST". Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  184. ^ "Erdogan: Turkish army will press on to ISIL-held Raqqa". Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  185. ^ Fadel, Leith (12 February 2017). "Turkish forces fail to advance against ISIS in east Al-Bab". Al-Masdar. Archived from the original on 15 February 2017. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  186. ^ Fadel, Leith (12 February 2017). "Turkish forces seize northern entrance of Al-Bab". Al-Masdar. Archived from the original on 15 February 2017. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  187. ^ Fadel, Leith (12 February 2017). "Syrian Army liberates two villages northeast of Kuweires Airport". Al-Masdar. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 12 February 2017.
  188. ^ "Son dakika: El Bab'da merkezin yüzde 40'ı ele geçirildi". Hürriyet (in Turkish). 13 February 2017. Retrieved 13 February 2017.
  189. ^ "Syria's al-Bab largely under control of Turkey-backed rebels, Turkish PM says". Reuters. 14 February 2017. Retrieved 14 February 2017.
  190. ^ "Updated map of the military situation in Al-Bab, Aleppo". Al-Masdar News. 14 February 2017. Archived from the original on 15 February 2017. Retrieved 14 February 2017.
  191. ^ McDowall, Tulay Karadeniz (17 February 2017). "Turkey says almost taken Syria's Bab, war monitor cites heavy toll". Reuters. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  192. ^ [hthtps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkish-forces-lose-ground-isils-counter-offensive-begins-al-bab/ "Turkish forces lose ground as ISIL's counter-offensive begins in Al-Bab"]. Al-Masdar News. 2017-02-17. Retrieved 2017-02-20.
  193. ^ "11 family members dead in rebel push on IS Syria bastion". Associated France-Presse. Business Standard. 2017-02-20. Retrieved 2017-02-20.
  194. ^ "After failing to advance for days... Turkish forces and "Euphrates shield" advance in the western part of al-Bab city". SOHR. 2017-02-20. Retrieved 2017-02-20.
  195. ^ "Turkey-backed rebels in 'near full control' of Al Bab". Al-Jazeera. 2017-02-23. Retrieved 2017-02-23.
  196. ^ Loveluck, Louisa; Sly, Liz (2017-02-23). "Turkey-backed rebels seize Islamic State's al-Bab stronghold in Syria". The Washington Post. Retrieved 2017-02-23.
  197. ^ Srivastava, Mehul; Solomon, Erika (2017-02-23). "Turkey recaptures strategic Syrian town of al-Bab from Isis". Financial Times. Retrieved 2017-02-23.
  198. ^ "The "Islamic State" organization withdraws from Bzaah and Qabasin and inspection operations continue in al-Bab city and kill 7 fighters in mine explosion". SOHR. 2017-02-23. Retrieved 2017-02-23.
  199. ^ "ISIS in full-scale retreat as the Turkish Army seizes two large towns neighboring Al-Bab". Al-Masdar News. 23 February 2017. Archived from the original on 24 December 2018. Retrieved 23 February 2017.
  200. ^ Fadel, Leith (2017-02-24). "[Graphic content 18+] Over 50 Turkish-backed forces killed in east Aleppo". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 2017-02-24. Retrieved 2017-02-24.
  201. ^ "Syria: 'Car bomb kills 51' near al-Bab after IS defeat". BBC News. 2017-02-24. Retrieved 2017-02-24.
  202. ^ "Car Bombs Near Syria's Al-Bab, Recently Freed from ISIS, Kill at Least 68". Time. Archived from the original on February 24, 2017. Retrieved 2017-02-24.
  203. ^ Pamuk, Angus Mcdowall (24 February 2017). "Islamic State car bomb kills more than 50 in northwest Syria". Reuters. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  204. ^ Fadel, Leith (2017-02-24). "Tiger Forces liberate new village from ISIS in east Aleppo: map". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 2017-10-22. Retrieved 2017-02-24.
  205. ^ Tomson, Chris (2017-02-24). "ISIS on the run as the Syrian Army liberates two more villages in eastern Aleppo". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 2017-10-22. Retrieved 2017-02-24.
  206. ^ Antonopoulos, Paul (2017-02-25). "Syrian Army continues impressive offensive against ISIS in rural Aleppo". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 2017-02-26. Retrieved 2017-02-25.
  207. ^ "The "Islamic State" organization retreats its members from Tedef and breaks down in the southeastern countryside of al-Bab and great advancement for the regime forces supported by the Hezbollah's elite and Russian artillery". 25 February 2017.
  208. ^ "BREAKING: Syrian Army liberates ISIS-held town neighboring Al-Bab". Al-Masdar News. 26 February 2017. Archived from the original on 8 March 2021. Retrieved 26 February 2017.
  209. ^ "Syria: Loyalist Forces Advance Into Areas South Of Al-Bab".
  210. ^ "22 regime soldiers killed near Syria's al-Bab".
  211. ^ Tomson, Chris (26 February 2017). "Syrian Army liberates two villages near Al-Bab amid clashes with the Turkish Army". Al-Masdar. Archived from the original on 30 August 2017. Retrieved 27 February 2017.
  212. ^ "People of Al-Bab tell of last days under Daesh". 27 February 2017.
  213. ^ "Jaish al-Islam 'reorganizing and rearming' | News , Middle East | THE DAILY STAR". www.dailystar.com.lb. Archived from the original on 2018-10-02. Retrieved 2018-10-02.
  214. ^ "Islamic State: We captured Turkish tanks in Syria battle". Middle East Eye. December 22, 2016. Archived from the original on 26 December 2016. Retrieved January 21, 2017.
  215. ^ "Er galt als unzerstörbar: In Syrien wird ein Panzer-Mythos zerstört". Focus (in German). January 12, 2017. Archived from the original on 13 January 2017. Retrieved January 21, 2017.
  216. ^ Leith Fadel (January 20, 2017). "Turkish Army suffers heavy casualties in failed east Aleppo offensive". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 20 January 2017. Retrieved January 21, 2017.
  217. ^ "The Battle for Al-Bab: Verifying Euphrates Shield Vehicle Losses - bellingcat". 12 February 2017. Archived from the original on 15 February 2017. Retrieved 18 February 2017.
  218. ^ "Loading..." defense-watch.com. Archived from the original on 18 February 2017. Retrieved 18 February 2017.
  219. ^ Hegmann, Gerhard (12 January 2017). "Syrien: Leopard-2-Verluste kratzen am deutschen Panzer-Mythos". Die Welt. Archived from the original on 16 January 2017. Retrieved 15 January 2017 – via www.welt.de.
  220. ^ "Germany's Leopard 2 Tank Was Considered One of the Best (Until It Went to Syria)". 28 January 2018. Archived from the original on 22 April 2019. Retrieved 6 May 2019.
[edit]

36°22′21″N 37°31′04″E / 36.3725°N 37.5178°E / 36.3725; 37.5178

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Battle_of_al-Bab&oldid=1256354077"