southfront--2020-04-18--The Coronavirus Liability Craze: Holding China Accountable

Politicians , as any political class , will nurse their favourite prejudice .
And when there is a crisis , those prejudices will be fanned and praised to the heavens .
For some politicians , who find the whole business of lockdowns and business restrictions all too much , someone has to pay for COVID-19 .
Australian Senator Malcolm Roberts takes up the theme that is being pushed by assortment of talking heads across the pandemic infested world : “ Should China pay compensation for unleashing COVID19 on the world ?
” The answer is implicit in the question ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States , Missouri Republican Senator Josh Hawley and New York Republican Representative Elise Stefanik introduced a bicameral resolution in March demanding a “ full , international investigation ” .
The resolution found “ that the Government of the People ’ s Republic of China should be held accountable for the impact , of its decision to hide the emergence and spread of COVID-19 , on the lives and livelihoods of the people of the United States and other nations.
” With an arrogance that tends to accompany the aggrieved , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such investigation to be led by public health officials drawn from the US and “ other affected nations ” .
Not that any conflict of interest was at stake : the US and allies were there to lecture the PRC about matters of liability .
“ Simply put , ” raged Congresswoman Stefanik , “ China must , and will be , held accountable.
” President Donald Trump ’ s former deputy assistant secretary for policy and economic development is even more gung ho .
“ Based on China ’ s culpability , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump and Steven Mnuchin should immediately extract reimbursement , starting with the $ 1.1 trillion in US Treasury Department bonds Communist China currently holds.
” In the land of the lawsuit , courts are already being busied by claims about Chinese impropriety and bungling .
A class action complaint was lodged in Florida last month “ for damages suffered as a result of the Coronavirus epidemic ” .
The accusation : that China and its various arms of government “ knew that COVID-19 was dangerous and capable of causing a pandemic , yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the sand , and/or covered it up for their own economic self-interest.
” Such conduct had caused “ incalculable harm ” and injury “ and will continue to cause personal injuries and deaths , as well as other damages.
” This brings that old hoary chestnut of sovereignty into play , and even those sympathetic to the argument that Chinese officials have behaved abominably find little room to overcome it .
The Foreign Immunities Act of 1976 protects , in the words of a federal court decision , “ foreign sovereigns from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost and aggravation of discovery.
” As the well-cited Queen ’ s Bench case of put it , a sovereign could never waive immunity except through submitting to the jurisdiction of the court “ by appearance to a writ.
” The Florida class action suit attempts to sidestep the obstacle of sovereign immunity by claiming an exception for commercial activities and for death and harm “ caused by the tortious act or omission of that foreign state or of any official or employee of that foreign state while acting within the scope of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is even more adventurous , and one floated by Israeli-based attorney Nitsana Darshan-Leitner : the fanciful argument that China ’ s conduct amounted to “ support for terrorism ” .
Deliberate concealment of “ a deadly medical crisis ” and concerted cover-ups were not among “ the protected acts of a sovereign state or of responsible leaders.
” The neoconservative British-based Henry Jackson Society has taken an interest in the whole question of PRC liability , putting the claim in a report that China ’ s balance sheet of damages comes in at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The People ’ s Republic of China ( PRC ) was bound by international law , in the form of International Health Regulations ( 2005 ) , to report timely , accurate and detailed public health information.
” The PRC failed to do this throughout December 2019 and January 2020 .
“ In fact , it appears at least possible that this was a deliberate act of mendacity.
” ( The authors seem to cast aside those common historical tendencies : negligence through error ; damage caused by complacence . )
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : had the detection and sharing of accurate information taken place in good time , “ the infection would not have left China.
” How this affected Britain is keenly felt .
“ Inadequate and inaccurate information ” from the PRC hampered the UK ’ s response .
Reliance was placed upon World Health Organization reports drawing upon faulty Chinese data claiming , at that point , that “ there were no cases of medics contracting the diseases ” .
Much of this is undeniable , but the authors are desperate to find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stand up and shoulder the blame .
The report , having reduced the issue of claimed Chinese malfeasance and the pandemic to a matter of Us and Them , err on the matter of “ the rules-based international system ” , always cited when things do not go the way of Western industrialised states .
Forgotten in such enthusiastic exhortations is the sense that such a rules-based system was imposed by the imperialist ’ s gun and statute book .
To preserve that system “ and to protect taxpayers from punitive liabilities , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ action against the PRC for the breaches of international law and their consequences.
” The report fits the current mood among a good number of British Conservatives who see China as needing a good clipping , wings and all .
A number of senior Tories , with former Deputy Prime Minister Damian Green leading a call , badgered Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a letter worried about the “ damage to the rules-based system caused by China ’ s non-compliance with international treaties.
” As with the Henry Jackson Society , the letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regulations [ that ] require states to provide full information on all potential pandemics.
” China , the petitioners claim , failed to abide by them , a grave omission that “ allowed the disease to spread throughout with extraordinary serious consequences in terms of global health and the economy.
” Green was already ripe for persuasion , having suggested the adoption of an attitude towards the PRC “ similar ” to that towards Russia “ in the more peaceful stages of the Cold War.
” A reconsideration of relations was required .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ any Western government is handling the crisis it is clear that a deeper look at the long-term interdependence of Western capitalism and Chinese communism will take place.
” Compensation claims of this sort tread in murky waters .
Historical wrongs will be revisited and Chinese responses to such accusations and urgings are already being heavily referenced by Britain ’ s own ruinous exploits during what is termed the “ Century of Humiliation ” .
“ Cool , great , you just pay us back for the Opium Wars , ” came a Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As put it in 2017 , “ Britain and China see each other through a narcotic haze ” , but it was a haze very much forced upon China at its moment of weakness .
That same year , President Xi Jinping , in an address in Hong Kong , that last outpost of British Empire , referred to a poisoned legacy that enfeebled a state .
“ After the Opium War , China has been repeatedly defeated by countries which were smaller and less populous.
” There is little basis to assume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , let alone be defeated by , the even smaller courts of those countries .
Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College , Cambridge .
He lectures at RMIT University , Melbourne .
Email : bkampmark @ gmail.com

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Submitted by Dr. Binoy Kampmark
Politicians, as any political class, will nurse their favourite prejudice. And when there is a crisis, those prejudices will be fanned and praised to the heavens. For some politicians, who find the whole business of lockdowns and business restrictions all too much, someone has to pay for COVID-19.
Australian Senator Malcolm Roberts takes up the theme that is being pushed by assortment of talking heads across the pandemic infested world: “Should China pay compensation for unleashing COVID19 on the world?” The answer is implicit in the question; intention and causality are assumed.
In the United States, Missouri Republican Senator Josh Hawley and New York Republican Representative Elise Stefanik introduced a bicameral resolution in March demanding a “full, international investigation”. The resolution found “that the Government of the People’s Republic of China should be held accountable for the impact, of its decision to hide the emergence and spread of COVID-19, on the lives and livelihoods of the people of the United States and other nations.” With an arrogance that tends to accompany the aggrieved, the drafters of the resolution also wished any such investigation to be led by public health officials drawn from the US and “other affected nations”. Not that any conflict of interest was at stake: the US and allies were there to lecture the PRC about matters of liability. “Simply put,” raged Congresswoman Stefanik, “China must, and will be, held accountable.”
President Donald Trump’s former deputy assistant secretary for policy and economic development is even more gung ho. “Based on China’s culpability,” writes Gavin Clarkson, “President Trump and Steven Mnuchin should immediately extract reimbursement, starting with the $1.1 trillion in US Treasury Department bonds Communist China currently holds.”
In the land of the lawsuit, courts are already being busied by claims about Chinese impropriety and bungling. A class action complaint was lodged in Florida last month “for damages suffered as a result of the Coronavirus epidemic”. The accusation: that China and its various arms of government “knew that COVID-19 was dangerous and capable of causing a pandemic, yet slowly acted, proverbially put their head in the sand, and/or covered it up for their own economic self-interest.” Such conduct had caused “incalculable harm” and injury “and will continue to cause personal injuries and deaths, as well as other damages.”
This brings that old hoary chestnut of sovereignty into play, and even those sympathetic to the argument that Chinese officials have behaved abominably find little room to overcome it. The Foreign Immunities Act of 1976 protects, in the words of a federal court decision, “foreign sovereigns from the burdens of litigation, including the cost and aggravation of discovery.” As the well-cited Queen’s Bench case of Mighell v Sultan of Johore (1894) put it, a sovereign could never waive immunity except through submitting to the jurisdiction of the court “by appearance to a writ.”
The Florida class action suit attempts to sidestep the obstacle of sovereign immunity by claiming an exception for commercial activities and for death and harm “caused by the tortious act or omission of that foreign state or of any official or employee of that foreign state while acting within the scope of his or her employment.” Another ground is even more adventurous, and one floated by Israeli-based attorney Nitsana Darshan-Leitner: the fanciful argument that China’s conduct amounted to “support for terrorism”. Deliberate concealment of “a deadly medical crisis” and concerted cover-ups were not among “the protected acts of a sovereign state or of responsible leaders.”
The neoconservative British-based Henry Jackson Society has taken an interest in the whole question of PRC liability, putting the claim in a report that China’s balance sheet of damages comes in at £3.2 trillion from G7 countries alone. “The People’s Republic of China (PRC) was bound by international law, in the form of International Health Regulations (2005), to report timely, accurate and detailed public health information.” The PRC failed to do this throughout December 2019 and January 2020. “In fact, it appears at least possible that this was a deliberate act of mendacity.” (The authors seem to cast aside those common historical tendencies: negligence through error; damage caused by complacence.) The report’s central sentiment is resentment: had the detection and sharing of accurate information taken place in good time, “the infection would not have left China.”
How this affected Britain is keenly felt. “Inadequate and inaccurate information” from the PRC hampered the UK’s response. Reliance was placed upon World Health Organization reports drawing upon faulty Chinese data claiming, at that point, that “there were no cases of medics contracting the diseases”. Much of this is undeniable, but the authors are desperate to find a guilty culprit, one who will stand up and shoulder the blame.
The report, having reduced the issue of claimed Chinese malfeasance and the pandemic to a matter of Us and Them, err on the matter of “the rules-based international system”, always cited when things do not go the way of Western industrialised states. Forgotten in such enthusiastic exhortations is the sense that such a rules-based system was imposed by the imperialist’s gun and statute book. To preserve that system “and to protect taxpayers from punitive liabilities, the world should seek to take legal action against the PRC for the breaches of international law and their consequences.”
The report fits the current mood among a good number of British Conservatives who see China as needing a good clipping, wings and all. A number of senior Tories, with former Deputy Prime Minister Damian Green leading a call, badgered Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a letter worried about the “damage to the rules-based system caused by China’s non-compliance with international treaties.” As with the Henry Jackson Society, the letter underlined those “Legally binding international healthcare regulations [that] require states to provide full information on all potential pandemics.” China, the petitioners claim, failed to abide by them, a grave omission that “allowed the disease to spread throughout with extraordinary serious consequences in terms of global health and the economy.”
Green was already ripe for persuasion, having suggested the adoption of an attitude towards the PRC “similar” to that towards Russia “in the more peaceful stages of the Cold War.” A reconsideration of relations was required. “Whatever your view of how well any Western government is handling the crisis it is clear that a deeper look at the long-term interdependence of Western capitalism and Chinese communism will take place.”
Compensation claims of this sort tread in murky waters. Historical wrongs will be revisited and Chinese responses to such accusations and urgings are already being heavily referenced by Britain’s own ruinous exploits during what is termed the “Century of Humiliation”. “Cool, great, you just pay us back for the Opium Wars,” came a Twitter comment, and not without merit. As The Economist put it in 2017, “Britain and China see each other through a narcotic haze”, but it was a haze very much forced upon China at its moment of weakness. That same year, President Xi Jinping, in an address in Hong Kong, that last outpost of British Empire, referred to a poisoned legacy that enfeebled a state. “After the Opium War, China has been repeatedly defeated by countries which were smaller and less populous.” There is little basis to assume that the PRC intends to acknowledge those, let alone be defeated by, the even smaller courts of those countries.
Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He lectures at RMIT University, Melbourne. Email: bkampmark@gmail.com
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southfront--2020-04-18--Karrar Main Battle Tank (Infographics)

Karrar Main Battle Tank (Infographics)

Certainly cheaper than importing it from Russia , I wouldn ’ t expect their version to equal Uralvagonzavod ’ s @ @ @ @ @ engineered model of the T-90M/MS is still a valuable tank to keep in their arsenal @ @ @ @ @ for them to not allow it to fall into enemy hands if they ever decide @ @ @ @ @ military operations beyond Iranian borders .

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The Karrar is an Iranian main battle tank announced on March 12, 2017. During the announcement, Iran claimed that it possessed an electro-optical fire control system, a laser rangefinder, ballistic computer and could fire at both stationary and mobile targets in day or night.
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southfront--2020-04-18--CCTV Shows Alleged Israeli Strike On Hezbollah Personnel In Syria

On April 17 , Lebanese sources shared a video showing the moment of the alleged Israeli strike on an SUV supposedly carrying Hezbollah personnel in the Syrian town of Jdaidit Yabws on the border with Lebanon .
The video shows three men leaving the SUV ahead of the strike .
The men can be seen retrieving several bags from the vehicle seconds before it explodes .
Several Arab sources claimed that the strike was carried out by an Israeli combat drone .
Many of these sources said that the targeted SUV was carrying “ high-ranking commanders ” of Hezbollah .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a statement on the incident , which took place on April 15 .
Furthermore , the new video doesn ’ t confirm that the SUV was targeted by an Israeli combat drone .
The explosion could have been caused by an explosive device .
On several occasions , Hezbollah vowed to respond to any attack by Israel on its fighters and commanders in Lebanon , Syria or elsewhere .
More details about Jdaidit Yabws incident will likely be revealed in the next few days .
As for now , most of the available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ON THIS TOPIC :

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On April 17, Lebanese sources shared a video showing the moment of the alleged Israeli strike on an SUV supposedly carrying Hezbollah personnel in the Syrian town of Jdaidit Yabws on the border with Lebanon.
The video shows three men leaving the SUV ahead of the strike. The men can be seen retrieving several bags from the vehicle seconds before it explodes.
Several Arab sources claimed that the strike was carried out by an Israeli combat drone. Many of these sources said that the targeted SUV was carrying “high-ranking commanders” of Hezbollah.
Nevertheless, Hezbollah is yet to release a statement on the incident, which took place on April 15. Furthermore, the new video doesn’t confirm that the SUV was targeted by an Israeli combat drone. The explosion could have been caused by an explosive device.
On several occasions, Hezbollah vowed to respond to any attack by Israel on its fighters and commanders in Lebanon, Syria or elsewhere.
More details about Jdaidit Yabws incident will likely be revealed in the next few days. As for now, most of the available information have not been verified.
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southfront--2020-04-18--U.S.-led Coalition Conducts Live-Fire Drills In Syria’s Deir Ezzor (Photos)

On April 16 , the U.S.-led coalition conducted live-fire drills with heavy weapons in the eastern Syrian governorate of Deir Ezzor .
The Deir Ezzor Media Center , an outlet affiliated with the self-administration in the northeastern region , said the drills took place in the Omar oil fields and Jadeed Ekedat in Deir Ezzor ’ s southeastern countryside .
Several photos of the live-fire drills , which were held at night , show coalition forces firing M777 155 mm towed howitzers .
The coalition deployed several howitzers of this type in northeast Syria last month .
A day after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Political Directors held a virtual meeting , during which it reaffirmed its commitment to “ fight ISIS and maintain unity of purpose and cohesiveness in Iraq and Syria.
” “ The Political Directors agreed to maintain maximum pressure on Daesh/ISIS despite the several and multifaceted challenges , including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in order to achieve the enduring defeat of the terrorist group in Iraq and Syria , and to remain vigilant against the threat of Daesh/ ISIS around the world , ” the statement , which was released on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report by the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) revealed that the U.S.-led coalition is working to strengthen its influence in northeast Syria .
The live-fire drills in Deir Ezzor were apparently meant to deter U.S. opponents in the northeast in order to solidify the coalition ’ s grip on the region .
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On April 16, the U.S.-led coalition conducted live-fire drills with heavy weapons in the eastern Syrian governorate of Deir Ezzor.
The Deir Ezzor Media Center, an outlet affiliated with the self-administration in the northeastern region, said the drills took place in the Omar oil fields and Jadeed Ekedat in Deir Ezzor’s southeastern countryside.
Several photos of the live-fire drills, which were held at night, show coalition forces firing M777 155 mm towed howitzers. The coalition deployed several howitzers of this type in northeast Syria last month.
A day after the drills, the U.S.-led coalition’s Political Directors held a virtual meeting, during which it reaffirmed its commitment to “fight ISIS and maintain unity of purpose and cohesiveness in Iraq and Syria.”
“The Political Directors agreed to maintain maximum pressure on Daesh/ISIS despite the several and multifaceted challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in order to achieve the enduring defeat of the terrorist group in Iraq and Syria, and to remain vigilant against the threat of Daesh/ ISIS around the world,” the statement, which was released on April 16, reads.
A recent report by the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) revealed that the U.S.-led coalition is working to strengthen its influence in northeast Syria.
The live-fire drills in Deir Ezzor were apparently meant to deter U.S. opponents in the northeast in order to solidify the coalition’s grip on the region.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Prominent TOW Operator Killed In Recent Drone Strikes On Syria’s Greater Idlib

A prominent tank-hunter was killed in the recent mysterious drone strikes on the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib , Syrian opposition sources revealed on April 17 .
The sources said Maher Kojak was killed in one of the drone strikes which targeted the town of al-Enkawi in northwest Hama on April 16 morning .
At least nine Turkish-backed militants were killed or injured in the strikes .
Known by his nom de guerre “ Maher Tow , ” Kojak was among the first militants to be trained on the usage of U.S.-made TOW anti-tank guided missiles ( ATGMs ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ destroyed upwards of 150 fortified positions and vehicles of pro-government forces using TOW missiles as well as other types of ATGMs , including Fagot , Kornet and Konkurs .
Kojak was fighting in the ranks of the 2nd Coastal Division , a northern Lattakia-based Turkish-backed group .
Opposition sources said Kojak also used to take part in operations carried out by other groups .
The Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) killed Kojak ’ s two brothers during previous battles in the northern countryside of Lattakia , where several terrorist groups are known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the recent drone strikes were carried out by Russia , while others said it was Iran .
Regardless of the perpetrator , the killing of Kojak was without a doubt a blow to the remaining militants in Greater Idlib .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Turkish-Backed Militants Used Children In ISIS-Style Suicide Attack On SDF ( Photos )

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A prominent tank-hunter was killed in the recent mysterious drone strikes on the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib, Syrian opposition sources revealed on April 17.
The sources said Maher Kojak was killed in one of the drone strikes which targeted the town of al-Enkawi in northwest Hama on April 16 morning. At least nine Turkish-backed militants were killed or injured in the strikes.
Known by his nom de guerre “Maher Tow,” Kojak was among the first militants to be trained on the usage of U.S.-made TOW anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs).
According to opposition activists, Kojak destroyed upwards of 150 fortified positions and vehicles of pro-government forces using TOW missiles as well as other types of ATGMs, including Fagot, Kornet and Konkurs.
Kojak was fighting in the ranks of the 2nd Coastal Division, a northern Lattakia-based Turkish-backed group. Opposition sources said Kojak also used to take part in operations carried out by other groups.
The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) killed Kojak’s two brothers during previous battles in the northern countryside of Lattakia, where several terrorist groups are known to be present.
Some activists claim that the recent drone strikes were carried out by Russia, while others said it was Iran. Regardless of the perpetrator, the killing of Kojak was without a doubt a blow to the remaining militants in Greater Idlib.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Navy Reports Alarming ‘Stealth Transmission’ Rate: 60% Of Infected Carrier Crew Symptom-Free

In an extremely worrisome development signaling the coronavirus peak in the United States could last longer than expected , the US Navy has found that most COVID-19 cases aboard the virus-stricken aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt are among sailors who are asymptomatic .
“ Sweeping testing of the entire crew of the coronavirus-stricken U.S. aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt may have revealed a clue about the pandemic : The majority of the positive cases so far are among sailors who are asymptomatic , officials say , ” Reuters reports .
This suggests the virus could be spreading more frequently by stealth mode @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more people than is known walking around walking around with the disease unawares .
At least 655 Roosevelt sailors have now tested positive , including one death and multiple hospitalizations , out of a total crew of a about 4,800 .
It ’ s startling that the Navy has found that out of over 600 COVID-19 infected sailors , the have displayed no symptoms .
Testing is about 95 % complete on the entire crew since the ship was diverted to Guam last month amid a spiraling crisis on board .
“ With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ learning that stealth in the form of asymptomatic transmission is this adversary ’ s secret power , ” Rear Admiral Bruce Gillingham , surgeon general of the Navy , told reporters .
The Navy specified that 60 % of the Roosevelt ’ s positive cases “ so far have not shown symptoms ” .
Crucially , Reuters points out that the “ figure is higher than the 25 % to 50 % range offered on April 5 by Dr. Anthony Fauci ” .
This is likely due the fact that enlisted military ranks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their 20 ’ s and early 30 ’ s .
The carrier crew also provides a key active case study given the isolation of nearly 5,000 people apart from broader society , and the young , fit demographic .
Defense Secretary Mark Esper told NBC ’ s on Thursday that the conclusions regarding asymptomatic spread aboard the ship conclusions are “ disconcerting ” .
Esper said , “ It has revealed a new dynamic of this virus : that it can be carried by normal , healthy people who have no idea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Esper said .
While this is not a new revelation , the case of the Roosevelt carrier and its crew provides shocking and clear confirmation that this reality is likely playing out on a much broader scale than previously thought .

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
In an extremely worrisome development signaling the coronavirus peak in the United States could last longer than expected, the US Navy has found that most COVID-19 cases aboard the virus-stricken aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt are among sailors who are asymptomatic.
“Sweeping testing of the entire crew of the coronavirus-stricken U.S. aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt may have revealed a clue about the pandemic: The majority of the positive cases so far are among sailors who are asymptomatic, officials say,” Reuters reports.
This suggests the virus could be spreading more frequently by stealth mode in the broader population, with many more people than is known walking around walking around with the disease unawares.
Nuclear aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, via AP/VOA
At least 655 Roosevelt sailors have now tested positive, including one death and multiple hospitalizations, out of a total crew of a about 4,800. It’s startling that the Navy has found that out of over 600 COVID-19 infected sailors, the majority have displayed no symptoms. Testing is about 95% complete on the entire crew since the ship was diverted to Guam last month amid a spiraling crisis on board.
“With regard to COVID-19, we’re learning that stealth in the form of asymptomatic transmission is this adversary’s secret power,” Rear Admiral Bruce Gillingham, surgeon general of the Navy, told reporters.
The Navy specified that 60% of the Roosevelt’s positive cases “so far have not shown symptoms”. Crucially, Reuters points out that the “figure is higher than the 25% to 50% range offered on April 5 by Dr. Anthony Fauci”.
This is likely due the fact that enlisted military ranks tend to be already very healthy individuals in their 20’s and early 30’s. The carrier crew also provides a key active case study given the isolation of nearly 5,000 people apart from broader society, and the young, fit demographic.
Defense Secretary Mark Esper told NBC’s Today on Thursday that the conclusions regarding asymptomatic spread aboard the ship conclusions are “disconcerting”. Esper said, “It has revealed a new dynamic of this virus: that it can be carried by normal, healthy people who have no idea whatsoever that they are carrying it,” Esper said.
While this is not a new revelation, the case of the Roosevelt carrier and its crew provides shocking and clear confirmation that this reality is likely playing out on a much broader scale than previously thought.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Chaos In Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado As ISIS Threat Grows

The threat of ISIS in Mozambique ’ s northern Cabo Delagdo province continues to grow , as government forces are facing troubles with taking the situation under their control .
The terrorist group resumed its attacks in the province in March , capturing the village of Quissanga .
The group even managed to temporarily seize the town of Mocimboa de Praia , which is located near a $ 60bn gas project led by France ’ s Total .
This month , ISIS pushed further , capturing the villages of Menquelewa and Muidumbe from government forces , which withdrew without showing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ successes , the group ’ s fighters appeared in a new video , unmasked , vowing to establish their caliphate in the gas-rich province .
The ISIS branch in Mozambique , known as the Islamic State in Central Africa Province ( ISCAP ) , has been operating in Cabo Delagdo , since October 2017 .
Government forces have failed to contain the terrorist group ’ s attacks in the province .
Many locals are also suffering from of the strict measures being enforced by security forces .
On April 15 , a bus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , where Total ’ s gas project is taking place , came under fire on a road near the village of Palma .
The bus was targeted by security forces by mistake after overtaking another vehicle on the road .
No casualties were reported .
The situation in Cabo Delagdo could take a bad turn , if government forces fail to counter the ISIS expansion .
The terrorist group ’ s fighters appear to be gaining more confident after their recent attacks which saw no real resistance from government forces .
MORE ON @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ISIS Terrorists Strom Another Town In Northern Mozambique

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The threat of ISIS in Mozambique’s northern Cabo Delagdo province continues to grow, as government forces are facing troubles with taking the situation under their control.
The terrorist group resumed its attacks in the province in March, capturing the village of Quissanga. The group even managed to temporarily seize the town of Mocimboa de Praia, which is located near a $60bn gas project led by France’s Total.
This month, ISIS pushed further, capturing the villages of Menquelewa and Muidumbe from government forces, which withdrew without showing any real resistance.
After their recent successes, the group’s fighters appeared in a new video, unmasked, vowing to establish their caliphate in the gas-rich province.
“We want everyone here to apply Islamic law,” a field commander said in the video that was taken in Mocimboa da Praia, according to AFP, adding “We don’t want a government from unbelievers, we want a government from Allah.”
The ISIS branch in Mozambique, known as the Islamic State in Central Africa Province (ISCAP), has been operating in Cabo Delagdo, since October 2017.
Government forces have failed to contain the terrorist group’s attacks in the province. Many locals are also suffering from of the strict measures being enforced by security forces.
On April 15, a bus taking workers to the nearby Afungi Peninsula, where Total’s gas project is taking place, came under fire on a road near the village of Palma. The bus was targeted by security forces by mistake after overtaking another vehicle on the road. No casualties were reported.
The situation in Cabo Delagdo could take a bad turn, if government forces fail to counter the ISIS expansion. The terrorist group’s fighters appear to be gaining more confident after their recent attacks which saw no real resistance from government forces.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Money Losing Value In COVID-19 Crisis

Money Losing Value In COVID-19 Crisis

Money can no more buy safety .
On April 17 , Russia recorded 32,008 coronavirus cases , including a record 4,070 in the last 24 hours , as President Vladimir Putin warned of “ very high ” risks , particularly in some regions of the county .
According to the president , the regions fail to adopt all the funds allocated by the government in the framework of the special programs to support the medical infrastructure , citizens and businesses amid the COVID-19 crisis .
In late March , the federal government allocated 33.4 billion rubles to increase the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fight against coronavirus .
Also in early April , the Cabinet of Ministers distributed 5.1 billion rubles among regions for payments to health workers .
Later for the same purpose , the authorities sent another 45.6 billion rubles .
On April 15 , Putin proposed transferring additional assistance of 200 billion rubles to the regions .
In particular , Vladimir Oblast ( Region ) governor Vladimir Sipyagin said his region of 1.36 million only has 71 ventilators and half the needed resuscitation experts .
The region also lacks personal protective equipment for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the purchase of suits , glasses , respirators and medical equipment , Sipyagin added .
According to him , the hydroxychlorin , which the authorities allowed to use in COVID-19 cases , Vladimir Oblast receives only 50 people .
At the same time , the situation in Russia ’ s regions demonstrates that in the conditions of the global crisis the allocating of large sums of money is not enough to settle appearing difficulties and crisis tendencies .
The important role is being played by the political will of the federal government as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support in the task of using the provided amounts .
Earlier , the similar problem appeared in the United States , where different states were openly competing for medical equipment and other key features needed to contain the COVID-19 outbreak .
The New York governor , Andrew Cuomo , spoke out against the current bidding wars over ventilators , as each of the 50 US states and the Federal Emergency Management Agency were purchasing essential equipment separately : The United States federal government allocates even larger sums than the Russian one to contain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the lockdown .
However , this also appears to be not enough .
The unemployment rate in the US reached the new peak with over 22 million U.S. citizens lost their jobs in the last four weeks .
Additional factors that contribute to the current situation is the decision of many countries to de-facto close their borders and the regionalization of the global economy .
This leads to the creation of separate economic clusters , the slowing down of global trade and the destruction ( at least changes in ) of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into account the fact that the mechanisms of international control mostly do not work in the current situation , he will easily find out that the outflow of investments , the instability of financial markets and currencies also contribute to the inability of the governments to react properly to the challenges appearing in the crisis times .
The global financial system is crumbling .
In the conditions of the global crisis , countries that relied on the ‘ post-industrial ’ ( or even ‘ non-industrial ’ ) concept of the economy ( relying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , tourism and other services , as well as directly selling natural resources ) appear to be less stable than their counterparts that kept the industrial potential .
The dominance on the financial market is no more the only and key resource allowing to keep the global leadership .
The world has changed .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Moscow Labels All People With Respiratory Symptoms As COVID-19 Suspected

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Money can no more buy safety.
On April 17, Russia recorded 32,008 coronavirus cases, including a record 4,070 in the last 24 hours, as President Vladimir Putin warned of “very high” risks, particularly in some regions of the county.
“The risks surrounding the epidemic’s spread are still very high, not just in Moscow but in many other Russian regions,” Putin said during a televised video-conference with regional governors.
According to the president, the regions fail to adopt all the funds allocated by the government in the framework of the special programs to support the medical infrastructure, citizens and businesses amid the COVID-19 crisis.
In late March, the federal government allocated 33.4 billion rubles to increase the number of places in hospitals as part of the fight against coronavirus. Also in early April, the Cabinet of Ministers distributed 5.1 billion rubles among regions for payments to health workers. Later for the same purpose, the authorities sent another 45.6 billion rubles. On April 15, Putin proposed transferring additional assistance of 200 billion rubles to the regions.
In particular, Vladimir Oblast (Region) governor Vladimir Sipyagin said his region of 1.36 million only has 71 ventilators and half the needed resuscitation experts. The region also lacks personal protective equipment for doctors, and there are difficulties with the purchase of suits, glasses, respirators and medical equipment, Sipyagin added. According to him, the hydroxychlorin, which the authorities allowed to use in COVID-19 cases, Vladimir Oblast receives only 50 people.
Putin responded that governors’ commenting on the situation that they “are sitting there in order to overcome challenges”.
At the same time, the situation in Russia’s regions demonstrates that in the conditions of the global crisis the allocating of large sums of money is not enough to settle appearing difficulties and crisis tendencies. The important role is being played by the political will of the federal government as well as the provided administrative and organizational support in the task of using the provided amounts.
Earlier, the similar problem appeared in the United States, where different states were openly competing for medical equipment and other key features needed to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.
The New York governor, Andrew Cuomo, spoke out against the current bidding wars over ventilators, as each of the 50 US states and the Federal Emergency Management Agency were purchasing essential equipment separately:
The United States federal government allocates even larger sums than the Russian one to contain the COVID-19 outbreak and the economic consequences of the lockdown. However, this also appears to be not enough. The unemployment rate in the US reached the new peak with over 22 million U.S. citizens lost their jobs in the last four weeks.
Additional factors that contribute to the current situation is the decision of many countries to de-facto close their borders and the regionalization of the global economy. This leads to the creation of separate economic clusters, the slowing down of global trade and the destruction (at least changes in) of the existing economic relations.
If one takes into account the fact that the mechanisms of international control mostly do not work in the current situation, he will easily find out that the outflow of investments, the instability of financial markets and currencies also contribute to the inability of the governments to react properly to the challenges appearing in the crisis times.
The global financial system is crumbling. In the conditions of the global crisis, countries that relied on the ‘post-industrial’ (or even ‘non-industrial’) concept of the economy (relying on the selling of financial, informational, tourism and other services, as well as directly selling natural resources) appear to be less stable than their counterparts that kept the industrial potential.
The dominance on the financial market is no more the only and key resource allowing to keep the global leadership. The world has changed.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Turkish-Backed Militants Used Children In ISIS-Style Suicide Attack On SDF (Photos)

Turkish-backed militants have used children suicide bombers in an attack on the Syrian Democratic Forces ( SDF ) in the northern Raqqa countryside , the Hawar News Agency ( ANHA ) revealed on April 16 .
According to the Kurdish-Syrian agency , two children entered the SDF-held town of al-Kaltah on April 14 coming from the Turkish-occupied part of northern Raqqa .
Both children were disguised as shepherds .
After entering the town , one of the children blew himself up , injuring the other .
The child was identified as 15-year old Ali Emo al-Abd , a Homs native @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The militants forced the child to wear the explosive belt and sent him to target an SDF gathering in al-Kaltah .
However , the belt prematurely exploded .
Earlier this week , al-Quds al-Arabi revealed that former ISIS commanders met in northern Raqqa to form a new faction .
Activists told the London-based newspaper that the terrorists will likely plot attacks against the SDF with support from Turkey .
The attack in al-Kaltah was likely plotted by radical militants within Turkey ’ s proxies in northeastern Syria .
Ankara is doing very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
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Turkish-backed militants have used children suicide bombers in an attack on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northern Raqqa countryside, the Hawar News Agency (ANHA) revealed on April 16.
According to the Kurdish-Syrian agency, two children entered the SDF-held town of al-Kaltah on April 14 coming from the Turkish-occupied part of northern Raqqa. Both children were disguised as shepherds. After entering the town, one of the children blew himself up, injuring the other.
“After examining the remains of the child, it was found that he was wearing an explosive belt, which exploded,” the ANHA’s report read.
The child was identified as 15-year old Ali Emo al-Abd, a Homs native who was allegedly recruited by Turkish-backed militants. The militants forced the child to wear the explosive belt and sent him to target an SDF gathering in al-Kaltah. However, the belt prematurely exploded.
Earlier this week, al-Quds al-Arabi revealed that former ISIS commanders met in northern Raqqa to form a new faction. Activists told the London-based newspaper that the terrorists will likely plot attacks against the SDF with support from Turkey.
The attack in al-Kaltah was likely plotted by radical militants within Turkey’s proxies in northeastern Syria. Ankara is doing very little to limit the influence of radicals.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Mysterious Drones Kill Militants In Greater Idlib

On April 16 , airstrikes destroyed two vehicles of Jaysh al-Nasir and the 1st Coastal Division in the town of al-Enkawi on the contact line in northwestern Hama .
According to local sources , 3 militants were killed and 3 others were injured in the strikes .
Some opposition sources claimed that the strikes were conducted by an Iranian unmanned combat aerial vehicle , while others said the drone was Russian .
In the past several years , opposition sources repeatedly speculated that the Russian military was testing Kalashnikov KUB-BLA loitering munitions in Syria .
On April 15 , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a prominent field commander of the Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation ( NFL ) , in a rocket strike on the town of Maarbalit in southern Idlib .
Both Jaysh al-Nasir and the 1st Coastal Division are also parts of the NFL .
A large explosion rocked the Turkish-occupied village of al-Ahras in the northern part of al-Hasakah province .
The car bomb , which exploded just near a joint position of the Turkish Army and Turkish-backed militants , reportedly killed and injured several Turkish personnel .
Following the incident , Turkish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ village detaining several civilians .
Over the past months , there have been dozens of IED and car bomb attacks within the Turkish-occupied part of Syria .
Turkish sources often blame Kurdish armed groups for these attacks , but provide no evidence to confirm these claims .
At the same time , ISIS cells are also active in the area .
A group of former ISIS commanders met in the town of Tell Abyad in northern Raqqa under the protection of Turkish-backed forces , according to media reports .
ISIS members reportedly cooperate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army .
The town is reportedly filled with graffiti supporting the terrorist group .
Local sources speculate that former ISIS members will be employed by Turkish intelligence to stage terrorist attacks and provocations against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian Army .
On the morning of April 16 , patriotic civilians and Syrian Army members intercepted a convoy of the U.S.-led coalition and forced it to withdraw near the village of Tell Hamis in al-Hasakah province .
This became the fifth such incident in the past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had repeatedly blocked movement of the Syrian Army and the Russian Military Police in the province .
Now , they are passing through a similar experience .
Unknown militants ambushed a vehicle of the Syrian Army on the road between the villages of Izraa and Buser al-Harir in the province of Daraa .
At least 3 soldiers were killed and 2 others were injured .
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack , yet .
ISIS cells are known to be active in Daraa , especially in the governorate ’ s northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporters of radical Idlib armed groups are still active in this part of the country .

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On April 16, airstrikes destroyed two vehicles of Jaysh al-Nasir and the 1st Coastal Division in the town of al-Enkawi on the contact line in northwestern Hama. According to local sources, 3 militants were killed and 3 others were injured in the strikes.
Some opposition sources claimed that the strikes were conducted by an Iranian unmanned combat aerial vehicle, while others said the drone was Russian. In the past several years, opposition sources repeatedly speculated that the Russian military was testing Kalashnikov KUB-BLA loitering munitions in Syria.
On April 15, the Syrian Army eliminated Abu al-Walid Tell Hadya, a prominent field commander of the Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation (NFL), in a rocket strike on the town of Maarbalit in southern Idlib. Both Jaysh al-Nasir and the 1st Coastal Division are also parts of the NFL.
A large explosion rocked the Turkish-occupied village of al-Ahras in the northern part of al-Hasakah province. The car bomb, which exploded just near a joint position of the Turkish Army and Turkish-backed militants, reportedly killed and injured several Turkish personnel. Following the incident, Turkish troops carried out a raid in the village detaining several civilians.
Over the past months, there have been dozens of IED and car bomb attacks within the Turkish-occupied part of Syria. Turkish sources often blame Kurdish armed groups for these attacks, but provide no evidence to confirm these claims. At the same time, ISIS cells are also active in the area.
A group of former ISIS commanders met in the town of Tell Abyad in northern Raqqa under the protection of Turkish-backed forces, according to media reports. ISIS members reportedly cooperate with the al-Shamiya Front, a faction of the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army. The town is reportedly filled with graffiti supporting the terrorist group.
Local sources speculate that former ISIS members will be employed by Turkish intelligence to stage terrorist attacks and provocations against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian Army.
On the morning of April 16, patriotic civilians and Syrian Army members intercepted a convoy of the U.S.-led coalition and forced it to withdraw near the village of Tell Hamis in al-Hasakah province. This became the fifth such incident in the past few weeks. Earlier, US forces had repeatedly blocked movement of the Syrian Army and the Russian Military Police in the province. Now, they are passing through a similar experience.
Unknown militants ambushed a vehicle of the Syrian Army on the road between the villages of Izraa and Buser al-Harir in the province of Daraa. At least 3 soldiers were killed and 2 others were injured. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, yet. ISIS cells are known to be active in Daraa, especially in the governorate’s northern and eastern countryside. Furthermore, some supporters of radical Idlib armed groups are still active in this part of the country.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Two Radical Militants Eliminated After Assassinating Syrian Officer In Daraa

Late on April 16 , radical militants assassinated an officer of the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) in the western countryside of Daraa .
Local sources said Lt. Hussein Fawaz Ramadan was shot and killed in the town of Khirbet Qeis by two militants riding a motorcycle .
The victim was a Daraa native and was reportedly serving in the ranks of the SAA ’ s 15th Division .
According to Halab Today , a pro-opposition news channel , a unit of the Military Intelligence Directorate ( MID ) chased the assailants and managed to kill both of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soldiers were killed or injured when they fell into an ambush on the Izraa-Buser al-Harir road in northern Daraa .
Another ambush targeted Syrian troops on a road linking the towns of al-Sourah and Naamer .
ISIS claimed responsibility for both attacks in a statement released by its news agency , Amaq .
The assassination of Lt. Ramadan was very likely carried out by operatives of the terrorist group .
By carrying out such attacks in Daraa , ISIS is working to destabilize southern Syria .
The group likely seeks to strengthen its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ON THIS TOPIC :

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Late on April 16, radical militants assassinated an officer of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) in the western countryside of Daraa.
Local sources said Lt. Hussein Fawaz Ramadan was shot and killed in the town of Khirbet Qeis by two militants riding a motorcycle. The victim was a Daraa native and was reportedly serving in the ranks of the SAA’s 15th Division.
According to Halab Today, a pro-opposition news channel, a unit of the Military Intelligence Directorate (MID) chased the assailants and managed to kill both of them.
“One of them [the assailants] was identified as Mohamad Atah al-Saytari, while the other remain unidentified as for now,” the channel’s reporter said.
A day earlier, four Syrian soldiers were killed or injured when they fell into an ambush on the Izraa-Buser al-Harir road in northern Daraa. Another ambush targeted Syrian troops on a road linking the towns of al-Sourah and Naamer.
ISIS claimed responsibility for both attacks in a statement released by its news agency, Amaq. The assassination of Lt. Ramadan was very likely carried out by operatives of the terrorist group.
By carrying out such attacks in Daraa, ISIS is working to destabilize southern Syria. The group likely seeks to strengthen its influence there through these actions.
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southfront--2020-04-18--New Drone Strikes Target Greater Idlib Militants

Late on April 16 , mysterious combat drones carried out a new series of strikes on the northwestern Syrian region @ @ @ @ @ strikes targeted militants ’ positions and equipment in the town of al-Enkawi in northwest Hama @ @ @ @ @ Aweed in Idlib ’ s southern countryside .
According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for @ @ @ @ @ , the strikes didn ’ t result in any casualties .
On April 16 morning @ @ @ @ @ militants ’ vehicles in al-Enkawi .
Three Turkish-backed militants were killed and at least six @ @ @ @ @ activists claimed that the strikes were carried out by Iranian or Russian drones .
Both @ @ @ @ @ such capabilities .
However , these claims are yet to be verified .
These repeated @ @ @ @ @ the mounting tensions in Greater Idlib .
The region is slowly moving to a new @ @ @ @ @ the Syrian Arab Army .
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Late on April 16, mysterious combat drones carried out a new series of strikes on the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib.
The strikes targeted militants’ positions and equipment in the town of al-Enkawi in northwest Hama and the town of Kafar Aweed in Idlib’s southern countryside. According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the strikes didn’t result in any casualties.
On April 16 morning, two drone strikes targeted militants’ vehicles in al-Enkawi. Three Turkish-backed militants were killed and at least six others were injured.
Opposition activists claimed that the strikes were carried out by Iranian or Russian drones. Both countries are known to have such capabilities. However, these claims are yet to be verified.
These repeated strikes are a testimony to the mounting tensions in Greater Idlib. The region is slowly moving to a new confrontation between Turkish forces and the Syrian Arab Army.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Cuba’s Interferon Saves Lives

Cuba’s Interferon Saves Lives

Cuba ’ s interferon is saving the lives of patients with coronavirus on the island encircled by the United States , while also preparing vaccines against the disease , as will be explained later .
Meanwhile , Donald Trump plunges his own people into a tragedy of biblical proportions because of his negligence in the confrontation with Covid-19 .
His legacy during this crisis will go down as a crime against humanity .
He has now cut off funds to the World Health Organization , blocks and threatens countries like Venezuela and refuses to cooperate in the international effort against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China and Cuba .
While the world is cooperating on many levels to defeat the pandemic the US stands alone in its isolation and counter-productivity .
To the now established strategic resource of social isolation , the island ’ s scientific community has geared up its powerful institutions to maximum capacity , to provide the best protection to the people with a non-specific vaccine during this phase and also working hard to achieve a specific vaccine , in the medium term .
Faithful to its tradition of solidarity , of heroic inspiration and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has done since the beginning of the epidemic , will always make its human resources and scientific findings available to other peoples .
Interferon is a product that acts directly to make the immune system respond and activate the mechanisms of viral inhibition .
It has been used in previous epidemics , says Dr. Eduardo Martínez Díaz , president of the large scientific-business conglomerate BioCubaFarma .
“ Normally the number of patients with Covid-19 who go into a serious or critical state is 20 percent .
In Cuba , the number that reaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the indicators at the international level .
Our country ’ s death rate is 2.7 percent , which indicates that the way Cuban doctors treat patients , as well as our protocols , are being effective in the treatment of the disease .
We think that interferon ( INF ) is responsible for what we are seeing in practice .
He points out that Cuba produces the necessary INF for local use , as well as meeting the growing number of international requests .
Dr. Vicente Vérez Bencomo , director of the Finlay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We all dream of a specific vaccine that will solve the Covid-19 problem in one fell swoop , but there will be no solution like that this year .
In the meantime , he says , there is a transitional one that does not immunize against the coronavirus but provides the so-called natural or innate immunity , which we all have , although not with the same competence .
The virus doesn ’ t kill us , what kills is the excessive immune reaction that results from this , he says .
Part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what is responsible for the balance presented in the asymptomatic patient , who manages to control the virus .
So it ’ s important to understand what that balance depends on.
” In the same line of thought , Dr. Gerardo Guillén Nieto , director of Biomedical Research at the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology ( CIGB ) , explains the steps already being taken for the immediate development in Cuba of a vaccine capable of activating innate immunity .
He clarifies that it is not just a CIGB project but one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ integration of Cuban research centers .
It details that , in conjunction with the Ministry of Public Health and its regulatory agencies , on March 26 it approved the clinical study of the vaccine and on March 27 the first volunteers were already available to test it .
It is a nasal vaccine and sublingual application , which allows stimulating the immunity at a local level , where the virus is found in the body .
Already in blood samples and tonsil and sublingual scrapings that have shown how the molecules on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the innate immune system related to viruses are stimulated .
Guillén Nieto said that they are working on 16 lines of research , to magnify the success and be able to contribute to the control of the epidemic .
According to Dr. Martinez Diaz , asymptomatic patients are the fundamental cause of the spread of the virus .
Hence the importance of doing massive research to detect them , isolate them and stop the spread .
It is in this case that the so-called rapid tests can make an important contribution since they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the evaluation of which can be refined with the most reliable PCR and the clinical survey in the community .
As I was finishing writing these lines , Prensa Latina reports the arrival in Qatar of a brigade of 200 Cuban doctors and health personnel , who will reinforce the 500 Cuban doctors who have been permanently in the emirate since 2012 in the fight against the coronavirus .
More than 16 countries have been reached in recent weeks by Cuban solidarity to confront Covid 19 .

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Originally appeared at La Jornada; Translated by Resumen Latinoamericano, North America bureau
Cuba’s interferon is saving the lives of patients with coronavirus on the island encircled by the United States, while also preparing vaccines against the disease, as will be explained later. Meanwhile, Donald Trump plunges his own people into a tragedy of biblical proportions because of his negligence in the confrontation with Covid-19. His legacy during this crisis will go down as a crime against humanity. He has now cut off funds to the World Health Organization, blocks and threatens countries like Venezuela and refuses to cooperate in the international effort against the pandemic, as do Russia, China and Cuba. While the world is cooperating on many levels to defeat the pandemic the US stands alone in its isolation and counter-productivity.
To the now established strategic resource of social isolation, the island’s scientific community has geared up its powerful institutions to maximum capacity, to provide the best protection to the people with a non-specific vaccine during this phase and also working hard to achieve a specific vaccine, in the medium term. Faithful to its tradition of solidarity, of heroic inspiration and loyalty, the island, as it has done since the beginning of the epidemic, will always make its human resources and scientific findings available to other peoples.
Interferon is a product that acts directly to make the immune system respond and activate the mechanisms of viral inhibition. It has been used in previous epidemics, says Dr. Eduardo Martínez Díaz, president of the large scientific-business conglomerate BioCubaFarma. “Normally the number of patients with Covid-19 who go into a serious or critical state is 20 percent. In Cuba, the number that reaches that stage is half, compared to the indicators at the international level. Our country’s death rate is 2.7 percent, which indicates that the way Cuban doctors treat patients, as well as our protocols, are being effective in the treatment of the disease. We think that interferon (INF) is responsible for what we are seeing in practice. He points out that Cuba produces the necessary INF for local use, as well as meeting the growing number of international requests.
Dr. Vicente Vérez Bencomo, director of the Finlay Institute of Vaccines, says, “We all dream of a specific vaccine that will solve the Covid-19 problem in one fell swoop, but there will be no solution like that this year. In the meantime, he says, there is a transitional one that does not immunize against the coronavirus but provides the so-called natural or innate immunity, which we all have, although not with the same competence. The virus doesn’t kill us, what kills is the excessive immune reaction that results from this, he says. Part of the questioning we are doing is what is responsible for the balance presented in the asymptomatic patient, who manages to control the virus. So it’s important to understand what that balance depends on.”
In the same line of thought, Dr. Gerardo Guillén Nieto, director of Biomedical Research at the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), explains the steps already being taken for the immediate development in Cuba of a vaccine capable of activating innate immunity. He clarifies that it is not just a CIGB project but one that exemplifies the capacity for cooperation and integration of Cuban research centers. It details that, in conjunction with the Ministry of Public Health and its regulatory agencies, on March 26 it approved the clinical study of the vaccine and on March 27 the first volunteers were already available to test it.
It is a nasal vaccine and sublingual application, which allows stimulating the immunity at a local level, where the virus is found in the body. Already in blood samples and tonsil and sublingual scrapings that have shown how the molecules on the cell surface that mark the activation of the innate immune system related to viruses are stimulated.
Guillén Nieto said that they are working on 16 lines of research, to magnify the success and be able to contribute to the control of the epidemic.
According to Dr. Martinez Diaz, asymptomatic patients are the fundamental cause of the spread of the virus. Hence the importance of doing massive research to detect them, isolate them and stop the spread. It is in this case that the so-called rapid tests can make an important contribution since they act as an indicator of infected areas, the evaluation of which can be refined with the most reliable PCR and the clinical survey in the community.
As I was finishing writing these lines, Prensa Latina reports the arrival in Qatar of a brigade of 200 Cuban doctors and health personnel, who will reinforce the 500 Cuban doctors who have been permanently in the emirate since 2012 in the fight against the coronavirus. More than 16 countries have been reached in recent weeks by Cuban solidarity to confront Covid 19.
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southfront--2020-04-18--ISIS Cells Target Three Armored Vehicles In Egypt’s Sinai

On April 18 morning , ISIS cells in the Sinai Peninsula attacked a convoy of the Egyptian military in the region ’ s northern part .
Local sources told the UK-based New Arab that the convoy , which consisted of several Humvee armored vehicles , was targeted with improvised explosive devices ( IEDs ) near the town of Tufaha , south of Bir al-Abd city .
ISIS confirmed its responsibility for the attack in a statement released by its news agency , Amaq .
The terrorist group claimed that two Humvees were destroyed and several Egyptian service members were killed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed these claims .
A day earlier , a similar IED attack targeted a Humvee of the Egyptian military near the historical town of Qasrawet , west of Bir al-Abd .
According to Amaq , the vehicle was damaged and several soldiers were injured .
ISIS cells in Sinai intensified their attacks on government forces in recent weeks .
These attacks were likely a response to recent security operations , which inflicted heavy losses on the terrorist group ’ s remnants in the region .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • The Armed @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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On April 18 morning, ISIS cells in the Sinai Peninsula attacked a convoy of the Egyptian military in the region’s northern part.
Local sources told the UK-based New Arab that the convoy, which consisted of several Humvee armored vehicles, was targeted with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) near the town of Tufaha, south of Bir al-Abd city.
ISIS confirmed its responsibility for the attack in a statement released by its news agency, Amaq. The terrorist group claimed that two Humvees were destroyed and several Egyptian service members were killed. The New Arab’s sources confirmed these claims.
“The [IEDs’] explosion caused significant material damage to the military vehicles, while ambulances transported the bodies of the victims,” the New Arab quoted its sources as saying.
A day earlier, a similar IED attack targeted a Humvee of the Egyptian military near the historical town of Qasrawet, west of Bir al-Abd. According to Amaq, the vehicle was damaged and several soldiers were injured.
ISIS cells in Sinai intensified their attacks on government forces in recent weeks. These attacks were likely a response to recent security operations, which inflicted heavy losses on the terrorist group’s remnants in the region.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Turkish-backed Forces Claim They Captured 102 LNA Soldiers In Attack On Tarhunah (Videos)

Forces loyal to the Government of National Accord ( GNA ) announced on April 18 that they had captured 102 soldiers of the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) during their ongoing attack on the town of Tarhunah .
GNA forces launched the attack on Tarhunah , which is located to the southeast of the country ’ s capital , Tripoli , in the morning with a direct support from Turkey .
Turkish-backed Syrian militants and allegedly Turkish drones are supporting the attack .
Pro-GNA operations room , Volcano of Anger , claimed that ten vehicles , four battle tanks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LNA .
A video released by the operations room shows one of the captured battle tanks , a Soviet T-55 .
GNA forces have clearly inflicted heavy losses on the LNA around Tarhunah .
Nevertheless , some of their claims have not been verified , yet .
A source in the LNA told Sputnik that the attack on Tarhunah was repelled , claiming that 25 GNA fighters were captured .
In spite of these claims , clashes are reportedly still ongoing around the town Earlier this week , GNA forces captured several towns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backed by Turkey .
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Forces loyal to the Government of National Accord (GNA) announced on April 18 that they had captured 102 soldiers of the Libyan National Army (LNA) during their ongoing attack on the town of Tarhunah.
GNA forces launched the attack on Tarhunah, which is located to the southeast of the country’s capital, Tripoli, in the morning with a direct support from Turkey. Turkish-backed Syrian militants and allegedly Turkish drones are supporting the attack.
Pro-GNA operations room, Volcano of Anger, claimed that ten vehicles, four battle tanks and a howitzer were captured from the LNA. A video released by the operations room shows one of the captured battle tanks, a Soviet T-55.
#عملية_بركان_الغضب: مشاهد تُظهر سيطرة قواتنا البطلة على احدى الدبابات التابعة لميليشيات حفتر الارهابية خلال تقدمها و مطاردة الفلول الهاربة بعد ان قبضت على 102 عنصر منهم حتى الان#عاصفة_السلام#العدوان_على_طرابلس#حفتر_كورونا_ليبيا#لن_نعود_للقيود #تبديد_وهم_المتمرد #ليبيا pic.twitter.com/Sm2wzbX4zS — المركز الاعلامي لعملية بركان الغضب (@BurkanLy) April 18, 2020
GNA forces have clearly inflicted heavy losses on the LNA around Tarhunah. Nevertheless, some of their claims have not been verified, yet.
A source in the LNA told Sputnik that the attack on Tarhunah was repelled, claiming that 25 GNA fighters were captured. In spite of these claims, clashes are reportedly still ongoing around the town
Earlier this week, GNA forces captured several towns in northern Libya in a large attack backed by Turkey.
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southfront--2020-04-18--GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (Infographics)

The GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb ( SDB ) is a 110 kg precision-guided glide bomb designed to provide aircraft with the ability to carry a higher number of precision strike weapons .
It allows US Air Force aircraft to carry a pack of four GBU-39 SDBs in place of a single ( 907 kg bomb .
The video below was originally released by SouthFront in April 2019 : …The prime striking weapon used by the IAF is the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb ( SDB ) .
Vestiges of these bombs are often being found on sites of the Israeli strikes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employed on March 28 when the IAF targeted supposed Iranian targets in Aleppo city .
The GBU-39 SDB is precision-guided glide bomb developed to provide aircraft with the ability to carry a higher number of more accurate bombs .
The GBU-39 , which was first introduced by Boeing in 2006 , has a standoff range of more than 110km due to its pop-out wings .
The 250lb ( 113.6kg ) bomb uses an inertial navigation system ( INS ) and GPS to hit static targets with high accuracy , although it has only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is its stealthy signature .
The bomb has a length of 1.8m and a diameter of 0.19m , but its radar cross section of 0.015m2 only .
This creates additional difficulties for enemy air defense systems in the event of a massive strike with the usage of GBU-39 bombs .
In September 2008 , Israel receives approval from the US Congress to purchase 1,000 bombs .
Israel was the first country outside of the US to receive the weapon .
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The GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) is a 110 kg precision-guided glide bomb designed to provide aircraft with the ability to carry a higher number of precision strike weapons. It allows US Air Force aircraft to carry a pack of four GBU-39 SDBs in place of a single (907 kg bomb.
The video below was originally released by SouthFront in April 2019:
…The prime striking weapon used by the IAF is the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB). Vestiges of these bombs are often being found on sites of the Israeli strikes. In particular, GBU-39 SDBs were employed on March 28 when the IAF targeted supposed Iranian targets in Aleppo city. The GBU-39 SDB is precision-guided glide bomb developed to provide aircraft with the ability to carry a higher number of more accurate bombs. The GBU-39, which was first introduced by Boeing in 2006, has a standoff range of more than 110km due to its pop-out wings. The 250lb (113.6kg) bomb uses an inertial navigation system (INS) and GPS to hit static targets with high accuracy, although it has only 22.7kg of explosives. Another GBU-39 advantage is its stealthy signature. The bomb has a length of 1.8m and a diameter of 0.19m, but its radar cross section of 0.015m2 only. This creates additional difficulties for enemy air defense systems in the event of a massive strike with the usage of GBU-39 bombs. In September 2008, Israel receives approval from the US Congress to purchase 1,000 bombs. Israel was the first country outside of the US to receive the weapon.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Locals Block U.S. Military Convoy Near Syria’s Al-Qamishli

On April 18 , locals blocked a convoy of U.S. forces in the countryside of the city of al-Qamishli in northern al-Hasakah , according to the Syrian Arab News Agency ( SANA ) .
“ The residents of Qamishli countryside ’ s villages confronted four armored vehicles belonging to American occupation forces , which came from the village of Abu Qasayeb in Tell Hamis district in Qamishli countryside , and forced them to retreat , ” the agency ’ s reporter in al-Hasakah said .
According to the state-run agency , warplanes of the U.S.-led coalition carried out sorties over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second such incident this week .
On April 16 , locals blocked a U.S. convoy near the towns of Abu Qasayeb and al-Rahayah al-Sawda in northern al-Hasakah .
Around 500 U.S. service members are currently deployed near oil fields in al-Hasakah and Deir Ezzor , supposedly to “ guard ” them from ISIS .
Locals have managed to restrict U.S. forces ’ movement in northern al-Hasakah , apparently with support from the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) .
However , U.S. forces are still moving freely in Deir Ezzor , where they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • In Photo : Russian Military Police Increased Presence Around Qamishly City Amid Tensions Between SDF And Syrian Troops

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On April 18, locals blocked a convoy of U.S. forces in the countryside of the city of al-Qamishli in northern al-Hasakah, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).
“The residents of Qamishli countryside’s villages confronted four armored vehicles belonging to American occupation forces, which came from the village of Abu Qasayeb in Tell Hamis district in Qamishli countryside, and forced them to retreat,” the agency’s reporter in al-Hasakah said.
According to the state-run agency, warplanes of the U.S.-led coalition carried out sorties over al-Qamishli’s countryside..
This was the second such incident this week. On April 16, locals blocked a U.S. convoy near the towns of Abu Qasayeb and al-Rahayah al-Sawda in northern al-Hasakah.
Around 500 U.S. service members are currently deployed near oil fields in al-Hasakah and Deir Ezzor, supposedly to “guard” them from ISIS.
Locals have managed to restrict U.S. forces’ movement in northern al-Hasakah, apparently with support from the Syrian Arab Army (SAA). However, U.S. forces are still moving freely in Deir Ezzor, where they held live-fire drills earlier this week.
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southfront--2020-04-18--GNA Forces Shot Down Russian-Made Drone Near Libya’s Ain Zara (Photos)

On April 16 , forces loyal to the Government of National Accord ( GNA ) shot down a Russian-made ZALA @ @ @ @ @ UAV ) near the town of Ain Zara to the south of the capital , @ @ @ @ @ , a spokesman for GNA forces , claimed that the Libyan National Army was operating @ @ @ @ @ to the spokesman , the UAV was on a target acquisition mission over Ain Zara @ @ @ @ @ developed by the ZALA Aero Group , a subsidiary of Russia ’ a defense giant @ @ @ @ @ , which uses an electric motor , has a range of 50 km and an @ @ @ @ @ hours .
The UAV downed near Ain Zara was equipped with the Z-16ВКHD or the @ @ @ @ @ made by Zala Aero Group .
In the last few years , several Russian-made drones @ @ @ @ @ .
GNA sources claim that the UAE is buying these drones from Russia and shipping @ @ @ @ @ However , this is yet to be confirmed .
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On April 16, forces loyal to the Government of National Accord (GNA) shot down a Russian-made ZALA 421-16Е2 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) near the town of Ain Zara to the south of the capital, Tripoli.
Col. Muhammad Quanguo, a spokesman for GNA forces, claimed that the Libyan National Army was operating the downed UAV. According to the spokesman, the UAV was on a target acquisition mission over Ain Zara.
#Libya– some more photos of the ZALA 421-16E UAV that was downed near Ain Zara pic.twitter.com/WJHF41cqsG — Oded Berkowitz (@Oded121351) April 18, 2020
The ZALA 421-16Е2 was developed by the ZALA Aero Group, a subsidiary of Russia’a defense giant Kalashnikov Concern. The UAV, which uses an electric motor, has a range of 50 km and an endurance of up to 3 hours.
The UAV downed near Ain Zara was equipped with the Z-16ВКHD or the Z-16IK35 electro-optical systems, also made by Zala Aero Group.
In the last few years, several Russian-made drones were shot down over Libya. GNA sources claim that the UAE is buying these drones from Russia and shipping them to the LNA. However, this is yet to be confirmed.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Iran Announces Mass Delivery Of Combat Drones To MIlitary

Iran ’ s defense ministry has made mass delivery of new combat and surveillance drones , including a jet-powered multipurpose UAV ( unmanned aerial vehicle ) to Army ’ s Air force and Air Defense Force .
The event took place during an official ceremony at the Iran Aviation Industries Organization ( IAIO ) in Isfahan with the presence of Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami and other senior military officials , a day after Iran ’ s Army Day .
Speaking during the ceremony , Hatami said that the multipurpose jet-powered UAV could travel at speeds of 900 kmph @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12 kilometers .
He added that the drone can fly for up to 180 minutes and have a range of 1000 kilometers .
During the ceremony , a large contingent of Ababil 3 and Karar drones was also delivered to the Air force .
Speaking about the Ababil-3 drone , Hatami said that the drone is a medium-range surveillance craft capable of conducting airstrikes within a 150 kilometer radius .
He also said that the Karar drone is a strategic combat drone which can deliver payloads comparable to manned aircraft .
He added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and can be used in suicide attacks .
Iran has taken great strides seeking to attain self-sufficiency in producing essential military equipment and defense systems in the face of decades-long US sanctions and arms embargoes on the country .
Earlier this month , Iran announced that it is planning to produce a 6,000 ton destroyer later this year .
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صبح امروز با حضور وزیر دفاع، ۳ نوع پهپاد شناسایی و رزمی به نیروی هوایی و پدافند ارتش تحویل شد که در این میان یک پهپاد با برد ۱۰۰۰ کیلومتر نیز وجود دارد. pic.twitter.com/D90DY2S5LC — خبرگزاری فارس (@FarsNews_Agency) April 18, 2020
Iran’s state-run TV channel Press TV reports (source):
Iran’s defense ministry has made mass delivery of new combat and surveillance drones, including a jet-powered multipurpose UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) to Army’s Air force and Air Defense Force.
The event took place during an official ceremony at the Iran Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO) in Isfahan with the presence of Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami and other senior military officials, a day after Iran’s Army Day.
Speaking during the ceremony, Hatami said that the multipurpose jet-powered UAV could travel at speeds of 900 kmph and conduct operations at an altitude of 12 kilometers.
He added that the drone can fly for up to 180 minutes and have a range of 1000 kilometers.
Mass delivery of Ababil 3 and Karar drones
During the ceremony, a large contingent of Ababil 3 and Karar drones was also delivered to the Air force.
Speaking about the Ababil-3 drone, Hatami said that the drone is a medium-range surveillance craft capable of conducting airstrikes within a 150 kilometer radius.
He also said that the Karar drone is a strategic combat drone which can deliver payloads comparable to manned aircraft.
He added that the drone has pin-point attack capability and can be used in suicide attacks.
Iran has taken great strides seeking to attain self-sufficiency in producing essential military equipment and defense systems in the face of decades-long US sanctions and arms embargoes on the country.
Earlier this month, Iran announced that it is planning to produce a 6,000 ton destroyer later this year.
According to a statement by Iran’s Navy commander last week, Iran is also considering the development of nuclear-powered submarines.
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southfront--2020-04-18--In Photo: Russian Military Police Increased Presence Around Qamishly City Amid Tensions Between SDF

In Photo: Russian Military Police Increased Presence Around Qamishly City Amid Tensions Between SDF And Syrian Troops

Units of the Russian Military Police have reportedly increased their presence in the area of Qamishly city following the recent @ @ @ @ @ forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces ( SDF ) in the area .
Late @ @ @ @ @ checkpoint of the SDF security forces , Asayish , in northern al-Hasakah was attacked with @ @ @ @ @ of the grenades exploded inside the checkpoint .
The second one was defused by Asayish @ @ @ @ @ killed .
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Units of the Russian Military Police have reportedly increased their presence in the area of Qamishly city following the recent increase of tensions between pro-government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the area.
Late on April 16, a checkpoint of the SDF security forces, Asayish, in northern al-Hasakah was attacked with two hand grenades. One of the grenades exploded inside the checkpoint. The second one was defused by Asayish. No SDF member was killed.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham Postpones Plan To Open Crossing With Government-held Area After Backlash

Al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS ) has postponed a plan to open a crossing with the government-held area after a backlash from opposition supporters and hardliners in Greater Idlib .
HTS ’ Salvation Government planned to open the crossing near the government-held town of Saraqib in southeast Idlib on April 18 morning .
The plan to open the Saraqib crossing was met with a backlash from many in Greater Idlib .
They opposed HTS ’ idea for different reasons .
Imad Al-Din Mujahid , HTS ’ public relations director , claimed that the opening of the Saraqib @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Idlib and benefit the locals there .
While some opposition activists saw the crossing as a recognition of the Damascus government , hardliners saw it as a betrayal of dozens of militants who were killed in the Saraqib battle .
HTS ’ plan was also rejected by some local medical organizations , which claimed that the crossing could facilitate the spread of novel coronavirus .
At least 38 COVID-19 cases were reported in government-held area as of April 18 .
The opponents of the crossing released many statements smearing HTS and even calling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response , the terrorist group placed its forces in the area on high-alert .
HTS ’ plan to open the crossing has damaged the terrorist group ’ s public image among Greater Idlib hardliners .
Aside from this , the group could face financial difficulties , if it fails to turn this plan into reality .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Several Killed In Car Bomb Explosion In Afrin City ( Video , Photos )

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Al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has postponed a plan to open a crossing with the government-held area after a backlash from opposition supporters and hardliners in Greater Idlib.
HTS’ Salvation Government planned to open the crossing near the government-held town of Saraqib in southeast Idlib on April 18 morning. The plan to open the Saraqib crossing was met with a backlash from many in Greater Idlib. They opposed HTS’ idea for different reasons.
Imad Al-Din Mujahid, HTS’ public relations director, claimed that the opening of the Saraqib crossing could ease the recession in Greater Idlib and benefit the locals there.
“Many merchants asked to open the commercial crossing through the Sarmin-Saraqib area,” Mujahid said, adding “the large population bloc in Idlib governorate does not live on an island cut off from the means of life and its needs.”
While some opposition activists saw the crossing as a recognition of the Damascus government, hardliners saw it as a betrayal of dozens of militants who were killed in the Saraqib battle.
HTS’ plan was also rejected by some local medical organizations, which claimed that the crossing could facilitate the spread of novel coronavirus. At least 38 COVID-19 cases were reported in government-held area as of April 18.
The opponents of the crossing released many statements smearing HTS and even calling for a sit-in near Saraqib. In response, the terrorist group placed its forces in the area on high-alert.
HTS’ plan to open the crossing has damaged the terrorist group’s public image among Greater Idlib hardliners. Aside from this, the group could face financial difficulties, if it fails to turn this plan into reality.
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southfront--2020-04-18--At Least 11 Philippine Soldiers Killed In Clashes With ISIS-linked Militants

At least 11 Philippine troops were killed and 14 others were wounded in clashes with ISIS-linked militants in the country @ @ @ @ @ Mindanao .
According to regional military commander Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana , the army scout @ @ @ @ @ assault when they engaged about 40 Abu Sayyaf fighters ( the group is linked with @ @ @ @ @ mountains off Danag village in Patikul town in Sulu province .
The battle continued for @ @ @ @ @ .
The army used mortars and smalll arms to engage them .
Filed commanders Radulan @ @ @ @ @ reportedly led the militants .
These persons are blamed for kidnappings for ransom and beheadings @ @ @ @ @ The military claimed that a number of militants were killed or injured in the attack @ @ @ @ @ :

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At least 11 Philippine troops were killed and 14 others were wounded in clashes with ISIS-linked militants in the country’s southern island of Mindanao.
According to regional military commander Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, the army scout rangers were manoeuvring for an assault when they engaged about 40 Abu Sayyaf fighters (the group is linked with ISIS) in the forested mountains off Danag village in Patikul town in Sulu province.
The battle continued for an hour before militants withdrew. The army used mortars and smalll arms to engage them.
Filed commanders Radulan Sahiron and Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan reportedly led the militants. These persons are blamed for kidnappings for ransom and beheadings in the southern Philippines.
The military claimed that a number of militants were killed or injured in the attack.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Kalashnikov Kamikaze Drone ‘KUB-BLA’ Battle-Tested In Syria

Over the past week , pro-militant sources have repeatedly reported some ‘ mysterious ’ drone strikes on their positions in Syria ’ s Greater Idlib .
Some sources claim that they were carried out by Iranian combat drones , while others speculate that these were the Russian combat drones .
The factor is that officially Russia does not have unmanned combat aerial vehicles in service .
However , for years , Idlib sources have been speculating that Russia has been testing Kalashnikov loitering munitions in Syria .
The analysis below was originally released by SouthFront in February 2019 ( source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kalashnikov Concern , named after one of the most famous small-arms designers of all time , is now producing kamikaze drones designed to destroy remote ground targets .
The “ high-precision unmanned aerial system ” KUB-BLA was for the first time showcased at the International Exhibition of Arms and Military Equipment 2019 in Abu Dhabi .
The drone delivers an explosive charge on the coordinates of the target , which are set manually or can be acquired automatically by uploading image of the target into the guidance system .
The KUB-BLA has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 minutes , and a 80-130-kilometer-per-hour speed .
It measures 1210mm wide by 950mm long and 165mm high .
Typically , the payload is apparently a high-explosive charge .
Kalashnikov Concern says that the advantages of the system are “ hidden launch , high accuracy of the shot , noiselessness and ease of handling ” .
Furthermore , it seems that the KUB-BLA has already been battle-tested in Syria .
On October 19 , 2015 , a swarm of five mysterious suicide drones attacked a military position of the Ahrar al-Sham Movement near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Syrian province of Idlib .
A few hours after the attack , the local SMART News Agency interviewed the fighters who survived the attack .
They all seemed to be shocked and terrified by the “ Wunderwaffe ” that killed one of their comrades and destroyed most of their equipment .
Back then , nobody was able to identify these drones .
Some sources suggested that these were the ZALA 421-16E .
However , this drone has no offensive capabilities and the vestiges of the employed suicide UAVs showed little match with its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the KUB-BLA appeared to be similar , even in small details , to the mysterious suicide drones , which hit the Ahrar al-Sham position .
Another factor is the location of the attack .
Maar Shamarin is 27km north of Morek , the stronghold of Syrian government forces back in 2015 .
Taking into account the declared characteristics of the KUB-BLA , the kamikaze drone should be capable of hitting targets in the range of about 40km .
This range was more than enough to reach the Ahrar al-Sham position even if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind the frontline .
This was not the first time when the Russians Defense Ministry used Syria as a test-ground for its modern weapons and equipment .
According to official data , Russia tested over 300 types of weapons and equipment , including the Su-57 fifth generation fighter jet , the Uran-9 unmanned combat ground vehicle and the Terminator-2 armored fighting vehicle , in Syrian since the start of its anti-terrorist operation in the war-torn county in 2015 .
However , the October 19 event is the first case ever when it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the Russian side employed an attack drone of any kind during the conflict .
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Over the past week, pro-militant sources have repeatedly reported some ‘mysterious’ drone strikes on their positions in Syria’s Greater Idlib. Some sources claim that they were carried out by Iranian combat drones, while others speculate that these were the Russian combat drones. The factor is that officially Russia does not have unmanned combat aerial vehicles in service. However, for years, Idlib sources have been speculating that Russia has been testing Kalashnikov loitering munitions in Syria.
The analysis below was originally released by SouthFront in February 2019 (source):
A Russian defense contractor, Kalashnikov Concern, named after one of the most famous small-arms designers of all time, is now producing kamikaze drones designed to destroy remote ground targets.
The “high-precision unmanned aerial system” KUB-BLA was for the first time showcased at the International Exhibition of Arms and Military Equipment 2019 in Abu Dhabi. The drone delivers an explosive charge on the coordinates of the target, which are set manually or can be acquired automatically by uploading image of the target into the guidance system.
The KUB-BLA has a 3-kilogram payload, a flying time of 30 minutes, and a 80-130-kilometer-per-hour speed. It measures 1210mm wide by 950mm long and 165mm high. Typically, the payload is apparently a high-explosive charge. Kalashnikov Concern says that the advantages of the system are “hidden launch, high accuracy of the shot, noiselessness and ease of handling”.
Furthermore, it seems that the KUB-BLA has already been battle-tested in Syria.
On October 19, 2015, a swarm of five mysterious suicide drones attacked a military position of the Ahrar al-Sham Movement near the town of Maar Shamarin in the Syrian province of Idlib. A few hours after the attack, the local SMART News Agency interviewed the fighters who survived the attack. They all seemed to be shocked and terrified by the “Wunderwaffe” that killed one of their comrades and destroyed most of their equipment.
Back then, nobody was able to identify these drones. Some sources suggested that these were the ZALA 421-16E. However, this drone has no offensive capabilities and the vestiges of the employed suicide UAVs showed little match with its design.
In turn, the design of the KUB-BLA appeared to be similar, even in small details, to the mysterious suicide drones, which hit the Ahrar al-Sham position. Another factor is the location of the attack. Maar Shamarin is 27km north of Morek, the stronghold of Syrian government forces back in 2015. Taking into account the declared characteristics of the KUB-BLA, the kamikaze drone should be capable of hitting targets in the range of about 40km. This range was more than enough to reach the Ahrar al-Sham position even if the drone was launched from the area behind the frontline.
This was not the first time when the Russians Defense Ministry used Syria as a test-ground for its modern weapons and equipment. According to official data, Russia tested over 300 types of weapons and equipment, including the Su-57 fifth generation fighter jet, the Uran-9 unmanned combat ground vehicle and the Terminator-2 armored fighting vehicle, in Syrian since the start of its anti-terrorist operation in the war-torn county in 2015. However, the October 19 event is the first case ever when it is reasonable to assume with a high probability that the Russian side employed an attack drone of any kind during the conflict.
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southfront--2020-04-18--Several Killed In Car Bomb Explosion In Afrin City (Video, Photos)

On April 18 , a car bomb exploded in the Turkish-occupied town of Afrin in northeastern Syria .
According to @ @ @ @ @ were killed and injured in the attack .
Pro-Turkish sources immediately blamed the Kurdistan Workers @ @ @ @ @ the Kurdish Peoples Protection Units ( YPG ) for the attack .
Nonetheless , there @ @ @ @ @ these claims .
YPG- and PKK-affilated cells regularly conduct attacks on Turkish-led forces in the @ @ @ @ @ aimed at military targets only .
At the same time , it ’ s likely @ @ @ @ @ are being conducted by ISIS cells , which are also active in the area .
@ @ @ @ @

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On April 18, a car bomb exploded in the Turkish-occupied town of Afrin in northeastern Syria. According to pro-Turkish sources, several people were killed and injured in the attack.
Ypgpkk #Afrin‘de bomba yüklü bir araç patlatıltı pic.twitter.com/eFj3ESxjd6 — Emrah Kaptan (@Dr_yahyakaptan) April 18, 2020
Pro-Turkish sources immediately blamed the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and the Kurdish Peoples Protection Units (YPG) for the attack. Nonetheless, there is no evidence to confirm these claims. YPG- and PKK-affilated cells regularly conduct attacks on Turkish-led forces in the area, but they are aimed at military targets only. At the same time, it’s likely that attacks on civilian targets are being conducted by ISIS cells, which are also active in the area.
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southfront--2020-04-18--ISIS Cells Assassinate Two High-Ranking Syrian Officers In Daraa

Early on April 18 , ISIS members in the southern Syrian governorate of Daraa assassinated two high-ranking officers of the @ @ @ @ @ ) .
The terrorist group said in a statement released by the Amaq news agency @ @ @ @ @ and killed Brig .
Gen. Hamed Makhlouf and Col. Mahmoud Habib , near the town @ @ @ @ @ .
Brig .
Gen. Hamed Makhlouf was Chief of Staff of the army ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Mahmoud Habib was the brigade ’ s Regulatory Officer .
A day earlier , two @ @ @ @ @ the SAA in the town of Khirbet Qeis in Daraa ’ s countryside .
The @ @ @ @ @ assailants .
Prior to that , ISIS claimed responsibility for two attacks on military vehicles @ @ @ @ @ two soldiers were killed in the attacks .
ISIS is intensifying its attacks in southern @ @ @ @ @ attention is drawn to several other fronts in the northwestern and central parts of the @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC :

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Early on April 18, ISIS members in the southern Syrian governorate of Daraa assassinated two high-ranking officers of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA).
The terrorist group said in a statement released by the Amaq news agency that its members had ambushed and killed Brig. Gen. Hamed Makhlouf and Col. Mahmoud Habib, near the town of al-Hrak in eastern Daraa.
“This morning, the Islamic State’s fighters targeted a vehicle carrying two Syrian army officers with machine guns near al-Hrak in the eastern Daraa countryside, which damaged the car and killed the two officers who were aboard it,” the statement reads.
Brig. Gen. Hamed Makhlouf was Chief of Staff of the army’s 52nd Brigade, while Col. Mahmoud Habib was the brigade’s Regulatory Officer.
A day earlier, two militants assassinated a lieutenant of the SAA in the town of Khirbet Qeis in Daraa’s countryside. The Syrian intelligence immediately eliminated the assailants.
Prior to that, ISIS claimed responsibility for two attacks on military vehicles in Daraa. At least two soldiers were killed in the attacks.
ISIS is intensifying its attacks in southern Syria as government forces’ attention is drawn to several other fronts in the northwestern and central parts of the country.
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