southfront--2020-04-24--BGM-7 TOW Anti-Tank Guided Missile (Infographics)

The Toophan ( Persian : طوفان “ Storm ” , rarely Toofan ) is an Iranian SACLOS upgraded anti-tank guided missile reverse-engineered from the American BGM-71 TOW missile .
The Toophan 1 , an unlicensed copy of the BGM-71A TOW missile , began mass production in 1988 and the Toophan 2 , a BGM-71C ITOW variant , was publicly shown in 2000 . ]
The Toophan comes in at least 11 variants , many of which are poorly documented due to lack of western intelligence on growing Iranian military capabilities , including variants with laser guidance , thermobaric warheads , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Toophan is manufactured jointly by the Aerospace Industries Organization of Iran and Iran Electronics Industries .
The Toophan is normally deployed from ground-based tripods , and can also be mounted on fighting vehicles and helicopters .
Like the BGM-71 TOW missile , the Toophan is a large , rugged , powerful , and reliable anti-tank guided missile deployed by small teams against tanks , armored vehicles , buildings , and other targets .
The Toophan forms the backbone of the Iranian Armed Forces ’ s extensive ATGM inventory and is procured in large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Toophan has been exported to the governments of Iraq and Syria and to a large number of non-state Iranian allies in the Middle East and Asia , and has been successfully used in the Iran–Iraq War , the 2006 Lebanon War and the Iraqi , Syrian , and Yemeni conflicts .

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The BGM-71 TOW (“Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided”) is an anti-tank guided missile developed for the United States military. First produced in 1970, TOW is one of the most widely used ATGMs. The US and its allies supplied a large number of TOW ATGMs to radical militant groups fighting againts the Damascus government in Syria.
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southfront--2020-04-24--Libya Map Update: Military Situation In Tripoli Countryside

I think the area around the al-Watiyya airbase in the Northwest is not fully controlled by both sides .
GNA @ @ @ @ @ a presence there .
I read reports that the GNA almost fully encircled the airbase @ @ @ @ @ map :

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This map provides a general look at the military situation in the countryside of Tripoli in northern Libya following the recent advances of the Turkish-backed Government of National Accord against the Libyan National Army.
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southfront--2020-04-24--Field Marshal Haftar Addresses The Nation As Opposing GNA Pumps Out Dubious Propaganda

In his speech , he held the Presidential Council fully responsible for losing the sovereignty of the country to Turkish invaders and terrorists and called for the complete rejection of the Libyan Political Agreement .
Below is the English translation of his entire statement : “ Operation Dignity ” was launched in 2014 , and today it has become a revolution due to the pivotal changes that have led to a better future .
Your Armed Forces have sacrificed everything to free your country from terrorism .
This has come at a cost of hundreds martyred and thousands injured .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ targeted what had remained of the Army and security forces in an attempt to control the country .
The terrorists committed the vilest of crimes , assassinating activists , journalists , lawyers and key social figures .
Our country lived in fear , horror and despair , its institutions failed , and the country became a huge catastrophe affecting all areas of life .
We have faced a lot of traitors , plots were planned against our officers and soldiers , many of them were assassinated , our weapons and vehicles were stolen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role as an army .
But we did not surrender , we decided to retreat , and as the heroes answered their country ’ s call we decided to confront the extremists under extremely difficult circumstances .
The Army , with the support of the Libyan people and the young men who gathered from all parts the country , announced it would fight the terrorists .
We defeated the terrorists in Benghazi , in the Oil Crescent , in Derna , and in Central and Southern Libya .
Stability was brought to these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live their normal lives .
Your Army today continues its war in Tripoli , the liberation of Tripoli will be the culmination of this long-fought struggle .
Your armed forces continue their battles today , but it has not turned away from rebuilding the Army .
We are proud of where we are today .
Our Army is professionally organised , well-equipped , and our officers and soldiers are as determined as ever .
We have managed to defeat terrorism , built an army capable of protecting the Libyan people in their cities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , oil fields and ports .
The political and economic situation of the country is dire .
This is due to the failure of the Presidential Council which has committed many crimes , they have committed treason .
Their legitimacy is fake , they lost Libya ’ s sovereignty , destroyed its economy and stole the Libyan people ’ s wealth , They decided to support extremist groups and financed them using Libya ’ s oil revenues .
Our brave soldiers liberated the oil fields with their blood .
The Presidential Council flooded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight our Army .
Their most serious act of treason was when they asked Turkey to invade and occupy Libya , along with the extremist militias in Tripoli .
Today , the Presidential Council welcomed the actions of the extremist militias in Surman and Sabratha who have committed violent crimes against its residents .
And it continues to support them , proving their direct relationship to terrorism and conspiracy against Libya .
We would like to let them know that this will end very soon .
To all the Libyan people , The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the people have reached their climax which leaves no choice for the Libyans except to clearly announce the rejection of the Political Agreement and all the institutions that originated from it .
We call on you to authorise the institution that you think is right one to lead the country during this time .
We need to work towards building a civil country that all Libyans can look forward to .
We call on you to make this historical decision , through your local councils , civil society organisations and various associations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back on track .
We promise to you that your Army will be ready to protect and support your decision and that we will continue to liberate the whole of Libya .
Glory to all our martyrs .
The traitors of our nation will continue to live in shame and disgrace.
” Following the address , there were videos showing Libyan citizens taking to the streets in many cities across the country to show their support for Haftar ’ s forces .
On the ground , the Libyan National Army appears to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numerous videos showing it capturing Syrian mercenaries transported by Turkey to Libya .
ISIS militants , fighting on behalf of the Government of National Accord ( GNA ) are also among those captured , as there is ample footage showing those individuals .
On the side of the GNA , the interior minister Fathi Bashagha himself admitted in an interview that power in Tripoli had been hijacked by militants , exactly as Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar had said .
The GNA , and pro-GNA media are also circulating a video , allegedly showing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Libya , after accusing it of carrying out nerve agent attacks on its forces , and then shooting them with sniper rifles .
Below , however , is a pro-LNA twitter account , which is also using a video to accuse the GNA of recruiting Russian mercenaries .
Essentially , both sides are accusing each other of the same thing .
Both sides are using the same exact video to accuse each other .
What is noteworthy from the video is that it essentially shows nothing , on top of the voices in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian .
The current level of propaganda , especially the one that ’ s began since Turkey joined in the fray is similar to that in Syria , but currently at an even lower level than that .
A GNA attack was repelled by the LNA in Southern Tripoli , in Ain Zara and in Casirma .
A Turkish UAV was also downed , adding to the dozens already downed by the LNA .
On the international scene , Germany announced that it would deploy up to 300 of its soldiers to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at enforcing the UN weapons embargo on Libya .
This mostly impedes Turkey , which has been primarily using its navy ’ s ships to deliver mercenaries and weapons .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Turkey Deploys More Syrian Militants In Libya As Many Return In Coffins

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On April 23rd, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar addressed the Libyan Nation.
In his speech, he held the Presidential Council fully responsible for losing the sovereignty of the country to Turkish invaders and terrorists and called for the complete rejection of the Libyan Political Agreement.
Below is the English translation of his entire statement:
“To all the Libyan people,
“Operation Dignity” was launched in 2014, and today it has become a revolution due to the pivotal changes that have led to a better future. Your Armed Forces have sacrificed everything to free your country from terrorism. This has come at a cost of hundreds martyred and thousands injured.
Terrorism spread throughout the country, they targeted what had remained of the Army and security forces in an attempt to control the country. The terrorists committed the vilest of crimes, assassinating activists, journalists, lawyers and key social figures.
Our country lived in fear, horror and despair, its institutions failed, and the country became a huge catastrophe affecting all areas of life. We have faced a lot of traitors, plots were planned against our officers and soldiers, many of them were assassinated, our weapons and vehicles were stolen as the extremists worked on diminishing our role as an army. But we did not surrender, we decided to retreat, and as the heroes answered their country’s call we decided to confront the extremists under extremely difficult circumstances.
The Army, with the support of the Libyan people and the young men who gathered from all parts the country, announced it would fight the terrorists. We defeated the terrorists in Benghazi, in the Oil Crescent, in Derna, and in Central and Southern Libya. Stability was brought to these areas and residents are now able to live their normal lives.
Your Army today continues its war in Tripoli, the liberation of Tripoli will be the culmination of this long-fought struggle. Your armed forces continue their battles today, but it has not turned away from rebuilding the Army.
We are proud of where we are today. Our Army is professionally organised, well-equipped, and our officers and soldiers are as determined as ever. We have managed to defeat terrorism, built an army capable of protecting the Libyan people in their cities and towns, whilst securing governmental institutions, oil fields and ports.
The political and economic situation of the country is dire. This is due to the failure of the Presidential Council which has committed many crimes, they have committed treason. Their legitimacy is fake, they lost Libya’s sovereignty, destroyed its economy and stole the Libyan people’s wealth, They decided to support extremist groups and financed them using Libya’s oil revenues. Our brave soldiers liberated the oil fields with their blood.
The Presidential Council flooded Libya with mercenaries in an attempt to fight our Army. Their most serious act of treason was when they asked Turkey to invade and occupy Libya, along with the extremist militias in Tripoli.
Today, the Presidential Council welcomed the actions of the extremist militias in Surman and Sabratha who have committed violent crimes against its residents. And it continues to support them, proving their direct relationship to terrorism and conspiracy against Libya. We would like to let them know that this will end very soon.
To all the Libyan people,
The tragic situation in Libya and the suffering of the people have reached their climax which leaves no choice for the Libyans except to clearly announce the rejection of the Political Agreement and all the institutions that originated from it. We call on you to authorise the institution that you think is right one to lead the country during this time.
We need to work towards building a civil country that all Libyans can look forward to. We call on you to make this historical decision, through your local councils, civil society organisations and various associations in your cities, to get Libya back on track. We promise to you that your Army will be ready to protect and support your decision and that we will continue to liberate the whole of Libya.
Glory to all our martyrs. The traitors of our nation will continue to live in shame and disgrace.”


southfront--2020-04-24--In Video: Russian Aerospace Forces Received 2 Modernized Tu-160 Strategic Bombers

The Russian Aerospace Forces have received two modernized Tupolev Tu-160M2 strategic bombers ( Ivan Yarygin and Vasily Reshetnikov ) , the Defense Ministry reported .
The modernized mobmbers successfully passed ground and flight tests .
The modernization of strategic missile carriers to the Tu-160M2 variant is ongoing at the Kazan Aviation Plant .
The Tupolev Tu-160 ( NATO codename : Blackjack ) is a long range , supersonic , variable geometry wing , strategic bomber -designed to penetrate sophisticated air defense systems at low altitude and supersonic speed .
It is the Soviet counterpart to the US Air Force B-1B @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear short range and long-range cruise missiles ) is carried inside two weapons bays located at the middle of the fuselage .
The Tu-160M2 is a further development of the Tu-160 strategic bomber with state-of-the-art sensors and weapons .
In all , the Tu-160M2 is a highly upgraded version featuring detection reduction coatings , new more powerful and efficient engines giving it greater operational range , new avionics , electronics , glass cockpit , communications & control systems , a number of weapons , as well as improved thrust and unrefueled range .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ new defensive system protecting it from missiles .
It will boast four new Kuznetsov NK-32 engines .
The Kuznetsov NK-32 is an afterburning , three-spool , low bypass , turbofan jet engine , the largest and most powerful engine ever fitted on a combat aircraft .
In maximum afterburner it produces 245 kN of thrust ( 55,000 lbf ) .
It is expected that the Tu-160M2 will be armed with long-range standoff cruise missiles , including the Kh-101/Kh-102 ( nuclear variant ) air-launched cruise missile and the Kh-55 subsonic air-launched cruise missile .

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The Russian Aerospace Forces have received two modernized Tupolev Tu-160M2 strategic bombers (Ivan Yarygin and Vasily Reshetnikov), the Defense Ministry reported.
The modernized mobmbers successfully passed ground and flight tests. The modernization of strategic missile carriers to the Tu-160M2 variant is ongoing at the Kazan Aviation Plant.
The Tupolev Tu-160 (NATO codename: Blackjack) is a long range, supersonic, variable geometry wing, strategic bomber -designed to penetrate sophisticated air defense systems at low altitude and supersonic speed. It is the Soviet counterpart to the US Air Force B-1B Lancer strategic bomber.
Armament (typically nuclear short range and long-range cruise missiles) is carried inside two weapons bays located at the middle of the fuselage.
The Tu-160M2 is a further development of the Tu-160 strategic bomber with state-of-the-art sensors and weapons.
In all, the Tu-160M2 is a highly upgraded version featuring detection reduction coatings, new more powerful and efficient engines giving it greater operational range, new avionics, electronics, glass cockpit, communications & control systems, a number of weapons, as well as improved thrust and unrefueled range. It will also be equipped with a new defensive system protecting it from missiles.
It will boast four new Kuznetsov NK-32 engines. The Kuznetsov NK-32 is an afterburning, three-spool, low bypass, turbofan jet engine, the largest and most powerful engine ever fitted on a combat aircraft. In maximum afterburner it produces 245 kN of thrust (55,000 lbf).
It is expected that the Tu-160M2 will be armed with long-range standoff cruise missiles, including the Kh-101/Kh-102 (nuclear variant) air-launched cruise missile and the Kh-55 subsonic air-launched cruise missile.


southfront--2020-04-24--Russian Military Delegation Meets Prominent Tribal Leader In Northeast Syria (Photos)

On April 20 , a delegation of the Russian Military Police and the Syrian military held a meeting with Sheikh Mahmod al- ‘ Akub , leader of the al-Harb tribe , near the city of al-Qamishli in northern al-Hasakah .
Local sources said Sheikh al- ‘ Akub invited the delegation to the meeting .
The two sides held lengthy talks .
However , no statement was released .
Al-Harb is one of the biggest Arab tribes in al-Qamishli countryside .
Sheikh Mahmod al- ‘ Akub is known for his ties with Damascus .
Last year , al- ‘ Akub was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , allegedly to coordinate against U.S. forces in northeast Syria .
The meeting with the Russian delegation provoked some opposition supporters from the al-Harb tribe , who issued a statement condemning it .
In the last few months , locals in al-Qamishli countryside began working to restrict the movement of U.S. forces in the region .
The locals intercepted many U.S. convoys in cooperation with the Syrian military .
The Russian meeting with al-Harb tribe ’ s leader was likely meant to solidify bilateral relations .
It is logical for Arabs in northeast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counter weight for U.S. forces , which are partnered with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces ( SDF ) .
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On April 20, a delegation of the Russian Military Police and the Syrian military held a meeting with Sheikh Mahmod al-‘Akub, leader of the al-Harb tribe, near the city of al-Qamishli in northern al-Hasakah.
Local sources said Sheikh al-‘Akub invited the delegation to the meeting. The two sides held lengthy talks. However, no statement was released.
Al-Harb is one of the biggest Arab tribes in al-Qamishli countryside. Sheikh Mahmod al-‘Akub is known for his ties with Damascus. Last year, al-‘Akub was among a tribal delegation which visited Tehran, allegedly to coordinate against U.S. forces in northeast Syria.
The meeting with the Russian delegation provoked some opposition supporters from the al-Harb tribe, who issued a statement condemning it.
In the last few months, locals in al-Qamishli countryside began working to restrict the movement of U.S. forces in the region. The locals intercepted many U.S. convoys in cooperation with the Syrian military.
The Russian meeting with al-Harb tribe’s leader was likely meant to solidify bilateral relations. It is logical for Arabs in northeast Syria to see Russian presence as a counter weight for U.S. forces, which are partnered with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
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southfront--2020-04-24--KH-47M2 Kinzhal Nuclear-Capable Air-Launched Ballistic Missile (Infographics)

Leave the big cities .
Virtually all Governments are corrupt , all are run by rich criminals .
There is @ @ @ @ @ do , faced with an overabundance of useless serfs , and the political risk they @ @ @ @ @ wide economy with their absurd policies .
Personally I think they have long since decided @ @ @ @ @ War III , to cover up all their crimes .
Divide & Conquer , order @ @ @ @ @ .
The flip side of this is to believe there will never be another full @ @ @ @ @ powers on Earth , for all eternity .
For this war not to happen , @ @ @ @ @ that we are now in the era of eternal peace , with only some minor @ @ @ @ @ out soon .

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The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal (from Russian: “Dagger”) is a nuclear-capable air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM). It has the range of over 2,000 km, the speed of ~Mach 10 speed, and is capable to perform evasive maneuvers at every stage of its flight. The missile can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. The main carriers of the missile are MiG-31K fighter jets and Tu-22M3 long-range bombers. The Su-57 fifth generation fighter jet is also set to be capable to use the weapon. The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal was put on the experimental combat duty at air bases in Russia’s Southern Military District.
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southfront--2020-04-24--Militants Stole Valuable Artifacts From Historical Site In Greater Idlib – Report

Militants have stolen gold and stone artifacts from the ancient city of Ebla in the southeastern part of the so-called Greater Idlib region , the director of Hama ’ s department of culture , Hazer Aylu , told RIA Novosti on April 21 .
Ebla , the capital of an influential state that existed in the III-II millennia BC , fell under militnats ’ control in the early years of the Syrian conflict .
According to Aylu , militants may have occupied the ancient city upon orders from artifacts ’ traffickers interested in looting the ruins .
“ We think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to occupy the ancient city by themselves .
Someone sent them there .
Most likely , they were traders of ancient artifacts .
They arrived and began to purposefully search for the tomb of the rulers of Ebla , they wanted to find jewelry .
Dozens of golden and stone artifacts were stolen , ” Aylu said , adding “ The militants inflicted huge damage on the city.
” Starting as a small settlement in the Early Bronze Age , Ebla developed into a trading empire controlling much of northern and eastern Syria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Egypt and as far as Afghanistan were recovered from the city ’ s palaces .
The Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) liberated Ebla , located near Tell Mardikh , earlier this year .
There , the army found that the militants established a military camp right on the ruins of the ancient city .
“ There was a base , headquarters , a training ground and shelters for equipment .
A whole military camp for 1,500 people .
They also buried armored vehicles and pickups under the ground .
They chose this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides by ramparts and here you can hide , ” an SAA officer told RIA Novosti .
Aylu hoped that Russian specialists could help restore the ancient city .
A unit of Russian sappers will soon set off to clear the city from war remnants .
The looting of archaeological sites and artifacts trafficking is a main source of income for militants in Syria .
Terrorist groups and Turkish-backed factions have been involved in such criminal activities for years now .
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Militants have stolen gold and stone artifacts from the ancient city of Ebla in the southeastern part of the so-called Greater Idlib region, the director of Hama’s department of culture, Hazer Aylu, told RIA Novosti on April 21.
Ebla, the capital of an influential state that existed in the III-II millennia BC, fell under militnats’ control in the early years of the Syrian conflict.
According to Aylu, militants may have occupied the ancient city upon orders from artifacts’ traffickers interested in looting the ruins.
“We think that the militants didn’t decide to occupy the ancient city by themselves. Someone sent them there. Most likely, they were traders of ancient artifacts. They arrived and began to purposefully search for the tomb of the rulers of Ebla, they wanted to find jewelry. Dozens of golden and stone artifacts were stolen,” Aylu said, adding “The militants inflicted huge damage on the city.”
Starting as a small settlement in the Early Bronze Age, Ebla developed into a trading empire controlling much of northern and eastern Syria. Artifacts from Sumer, Cyprus, Egypt and as far as Afghanistan were recovered from the city’s palaces.
The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) liberated Ebla, located near Tell Mardikh, earlier this year. There, the army found that the militants established a military camp right on the ruins of the ancient city.
“There was a base, headquarters, a training ground and shelters for equipment. A whole military camp for 1,500 people. They also buried armored vehicles and pickups under the ground. They chose this place because it was closed on all sides by ramparts and here you can hide,” an SAA officer told RIA Novosti.
Aylu hoped that Russian specialists could help restore the ancient city. A unit of Russian sappers will soon set off to clear the city from war remnants.
The looting of archaeological sites and artifacts trafficking is a main source of income for militants in Syria. Terrorist groups and Turkish-backed factions have been involved in such criminal activities for years now.
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southfront--2020-04-24--9M113 Konkurs Anti-Tank Guided Missile (Infographics)

Click to see the full-size image The 9M113 Konkurs is a Soviet/Russian SACLOS ( semi-automatic command to line of sight @ @ @ @ @ The missile entered service in 1974 and since then it has been widely used in @ @ @ @ @ ON THE TOPIC :

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The 9M113 Konkurs is a Soviet/Russian SACLOS (semi-automatic command to line of sight) wire-guided anti-tank missile. The missile entered service in 1974 and since then it has been widely used in various local conflicts.
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southfront--2020-04-24--Iraqi Attack Helicopters Eliminate Several ISIS Terrorists In Eastern Iraq

On April 23 , the Iraqi military eliminated several ISIS terrorists during a special operation in the eastern province of @ @ @ @ @ statement , the Security Media Cell said the operation targeted a hideout of the terrorist @ @ @ @ @ al-Khalawia .
Iraqi forces were supported by several attack helicopters , which played a crucial @ @ @ @ @ the operation .
Last week , Iraqi Air Force ( IQAF ) warplanes carried out @ @ @ @ @ ISIS ’ hideouts in the northern province of Saladin .
At least 13 terrorists were @ @ @ @ @ the airstrikes .
ISIS cells intensified their attacks on government forces and civilians throughout Iraq @ @ @ @ @ .
Dozens of people were killed .
The IQAF is playing an important role in @ @ @ @ @ .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Attacks By “ Defeated ” ISIS Left 82 @ @ @ @ @ First Four Months Of 2020

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On April 23, the Iraqi military eliminated several ISIS terrorists during a special operation in the eastern province of Diyala.
In an official statement, the Security Media Cell said the operation targeted a hideout of the terrorist group in the area of al-Khalawia. Iraqi forces were supported by several attack helicopters, which played a crucial role in the success of the operation.
“Army troops clashed with gunmen of the group [ISIS], who attempted to escape, however Iraqi attack helicopters targeted them, killing seven of them,” the statement reads.
Last week, Iraqi Air Force (IQAF) warplanes carried out a series of airstrikes on ISIS’ hideouts in the northern province of Saladin. At least 13 terrorists were killed as a result of the airstrikes.
ISIS cells intensified their attacks on government forces and civilians throughout Iraq in the last few months. Dozens of people were killed.
The IQAF is playing an important role in operations against the terrorist group.
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southfront--2020-04-24--What War between the United States and Iran Could Look Like

The US-Iranian standoff in the Persian Gulf has once again entered an acute phase .
On April 22 , US President Donald Trump announced that he had ordered the US Navy to “ shoot down and destroy ” Iranian gunboats that follow or harass US ships .
In response , Commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps , Major General Hossein Salami declared on April 23 that Iran will provide a swift , “ decisive ” and “ effective ” response to US forces if they threaten Iranian “ vessels or warships ” .
One of the reasons behind the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rhetoric of the White House as a part of Trump ’ s presidential campaign .
Another driving force of the US actions is likely the sharpening global economic crisis and the turmoil on the energy market that has led to the dramatic collapse of oil prices .
Indeed , a new conflict in the Persian Gulf could theoretically return the oil prices to $ 50-60 per barrel .
In the current situation , Iran is not interested in an escalation of the conflict with the United States .
The escalation could , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : • A warship or a group of warships could enter Iranian territorial waters ; • US forces could block for Iran the civilian maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz , or detain an Iranian oil tanker ; • Warships of the US Navy could imitate an attack on an Iranian submarine ; Iranian forces would have to respond to such a provocation .
Thus , a military confrontation could start .
After initiating a localized military incident , the White House would accuse Iran of aggressive actions against US forces and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrative missile strike on a target or several targets inside Iran .
Such an attack would prompt an Iranian response that would involve both its regular and irregular warfare capabilities .
The IRGC Navy doctrine reflects irregular warfare principles that include the use of surprise , deception , speed , flexibility and adaptability , decentralization and highly mobile and maneuverable units , all of which are used at sea .
These include hit-and-run style surprise attacks or the amassing of large numbers of means and measures to overwhelm the enemies ’ defenses .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ might be described as a mosquito-like swarm of small boats using their size and maneuverability to track and hunt down enemy warships .
The IRGCN ’ s mosquito-fleet concept enables rapid formation of tactical groups of small crafts to carry out a surprise strike at any given time from different directions in a particular area of the offshore zone .
Such groups can deploy in attack formation immediately prior to reaching the area of the attack .
Crafts from the formation reach their assault line position either independently or in small groups .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ would employ the swarm concept .
It is important to note the high motivation and ideological training of the mariners involved , who well understand the high level of threat to them personally in the event of the employment of this tactical scheme .
IRGCN personnel are motivated and ready to accomplish any feat to defend their homeland .
This factor ( the high motivation of the personnel ) makes a mosquito-fleet armed with missile , torpedo and anti-air weapons especially dangerous to naval forces of the US .
Th aircraft carriers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would become the main priority target of the Iranian response .
In the event that the Iranian attack succeeds , the US would have to carry out a massive strike on Iranian infrastructure objects or political and military command centers .
Teheran would have either to accept their defeat in this limited confrontation or to respond with another attack on US forces in the region .
Current US military doctrine dictates the prior employment of mobile interoperable forces , unmanned and robotized systems , as well as massive strikes with high precision weapons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electronic warfare and information warfare .
If the confrontation develops further the US would be forced to conduct a limited landing operation on key parts of the Iranian coast .
The success of such a limited operation under the likely condition of a strong Iranian military response is improbable .
Furthermore , the move would be hampered by the weak psychological condition of US service members caused by current developments inside the US .
The US military would have to either retreat or venture on to a large-scale military operation in the Persian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forces involved does not allow Washington to deliver a devastating blow to Iran within 1-2 weeks , China or Russia could intervene in some form likely turning the military standoff into a frozen conflict .
It is likely that despite all difficulties , the US would be able to create an occupation zone inside Iran , likely in the coastal area near the Strait of Hormuz .
The Iranian oil trade would be fully blocked and the US shale industry would be rescued .
At the same time , Washington would have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occupied area .
Another possible scenario is the defeat of the United States in this limited conflict because of significant losses in warships , aviation and service members of the involved interoperable forces .
In this case , US influence in the region would be drastically undermined and the White House would start drawing up plans of revenge .

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The US-Iranian standoff in the Persian Gulf has once again entered an acute phase. On April 22, US President Donald Trump announced that he had ordered the US Navy to “shoot down and destroy” Iranian gunboats that follow or harass US ships. In response, Commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, Major General Hossein Salami declared on April 23 that Iran will provide a swift, “decisive” and “effective” response to US forces if they threaten Iranian “vessels or warships”.
One of the reasons behind the escalation is the consistent and strengthening anti-Iranian rhetoric of the White House as a part of Trump’s presidential campaign. Another driving force of the US actions is likely the sharpening global economic crisis and the turmoil on the energy market that has led to the dramatic collapse of oil prices. Indeed, a new conflict in the Persian Gulf could theoretically return the oil prices to $50-60 per barrel.
In the current situation, Iran is not interested in an escalation of the conflict with the United States. The escalation could, however, be instigated by the US military:
A warship or a group of warships could enter Iranian territorial waters;
A US military aircraft could violate Iranian airspace;
US forces could block for Iran the civilian maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, or detain an Iranian oil tanker;
Warships of the US Navy could imitate an attack on an Iranian submarine;
Iranian forces would have to respond to such a provocation. Thus, a military confrontation could start. After initiating a localized military incident, the White House would accuse Iran of aggressive actions against US forces and the US navy could carry out a demonstrative missile strike on a target or several targets inside Iran. Such an attack would prompt an Iranian response that would involve both its regular and irregular warfare capabilities.
The IRGC Navy doctrine reflects irregular warfare principles that include the use of surprise, deception, speed, flexibility and adaptability, decentralization and highly mobile and maneuverable units, all of which are used at sea. These include hit-and-run style surprise attacks or the amassing of large numbers of means and measures to overwhelm the enemies’ defenses. In this scenario the employed naval forces might be described as a mosquito-like swarm of small boats using their size and maneuverability to track and hunt down enemy warships.
The IRGCN’s mosquito-fleet concept enables rapid formation of tactical groups of small crafts to carry out a surprise strike at any given time from different directions in a particular area of the offshore zone. Such groups can deploy in attack formation immediately prior to reaching the area of the attack.
Crafts from the formation reach their assault line position either independently or in small groups. This is the way the Iranian Navy would employ the swarm concept. It is important to note the high motivation and ideological training of the mariners involved, who well understand the high level of threat to them personally in the event of the employment of this tactical scheme. IRGCN personnel are motivated and ready to accomplish any feat to defend their homeland. This factor (the high motivation of the personnel) makes a mosquito-fleet armed with missile, torpedo and anti-air weapons especially dangerous to naval forces of the US.
Th aircraft carriers and large warships of the US naval group would become the main priority target of the Iranian response. In the event that the Iranian attack succeeds, the US would have to carry out a massive strike on Iranian infrastructure objects or political and military command centers. Teheran would have either to accept their defeat in this limited confrontation or to respond with another attack on US forces in the region.
Current US military doctrine dictates the prior employment of mobile interoperable forces, unmanned and robotized systems, as well as massive strikes with high precision weapons in conjunction with the maximum usage of electronic warfare and information warfare. If the confrontation develops further the US would be forced to conduct a limited landing operation on key parts of the Iranian coast. The success of such a limited operation under the likely condition of a strong Iranian military response is improbable. Furthermore, the move would be hampered by the weak psychological condition of US service members caused by current developments inside the US.
The US military would have to either retreat or venture on to a large-scale military operation in the Persian Gulf region. If the number of forces involved does not allow Washington to deliver a devastating blow to Iran within 1-2 weeks, China or Russia could intervene in some form likely turning the military standoff into a frozen conflict.
It is likely that despite all difficulties, the US would be able to create an occupation zone inside Iran, likely in the coastal area near the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian oil trade would be fully blocked and the US shale industry would be rescued. At the same time, Washington would have to deal with a permanent insurgency in the occupied area.
Another possible scenario is the defeat of the United States in this limited conflict because of significant losses in warships, aviation and service members of the involved interoperable forces. In this case, US influence in the region would be drastically undermined and the White House would start drawing up plans of revenge.
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southfront--2020-04-24--Turkey Deployed Over 2,800 Military Vehicles In Syria’s Greater Idlib: Monitoring Group

Turkey is “ OFFICIALLY ” a member of NATO .
But the new Turkey is not the Turkey that Joined NATO decades ago .
We all saw what happened between Turkey and NATO in February .
Turkey requested aid from NATO , but it never came .
The U.S refused to deploy Patriot missile batteries even when Turkey made an official request .
It is you who is wrong my friend .
NATO is no longer what it was As a good example , have you witnessed any coordination between the so-called NATO member countries against the Corona virus ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for one another .
I am not saying there is no more coordination between NATO member countries .
All I am saying is , this coordination is not as strong as it used to be .
Have you wondered why the U.S/NATO planned a coup to unseat Erdogan in 2016 ?
There are very wide cracks everywhere within NATO for those who can see .
Regarding Turkey being used to influence the Muslim world on behalf of the U.S , you are also wrong .
the Wahabi Bastards in Saudi Arabi and U.A.E @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
America ’ s control of Saudi Arabia gives it great influence over the Muslim world .
Turkey , under Erdogan , is a staunch enemy of Israel .
Israel attacked Turkey ’ s ships delivering aid to Palestine a few years ago years ago , killing about eight people .
Erdogan is one of the most vocal Muslim presidents against Israel .
Forget the fact that Turkey recently shipped some medical aids to Israel .
even the U.S offered the same to Iran , only that Iran rejected the offer .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But there would be so much at stake if Putin were to attempt to protect the Syrian regime 100 % .
It is likely to ignite a war with the U.S/Israel/NATO/Saudi Arabia/U.A.E .
Why I say Putin is not being straightforward is due to the Libyan issue .
He is on the same side as NATO/Saudi/U.A.E/Israel in Libya .
I wonder why .
But regarding Syria , I think he is playing it right .
The next most important step he must take in Syria to end the war is win Turkey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll mean addressing the legitimate rights of the Indigenous Syrian opposition .
It ’ s my bet he ’ ll soon do this .

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The Turkish military has deployed 2,810 vehicles in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib since the ceasefire became active on March 5, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) revealed on April 24.
According to the UK-based monitoring group, a total of 10,300 Turkish service members have been sent to Greater Idlib since last February. The troops are stationed in more than 50 posts throughout the Syrian region.
On April 24 only, a convoy consisting of dozens of Turkish military vehicles entered Greater Idlib. The convoy reinforced several Turkish observation posts.
Aside from a ceasefire, the March 5 agreement between Russia and Turkey includes a set of measures meant to de-escalate tension in Greater Idlib. The reopening of the M4 highway, which links the cities of Lattakia and Aleppo, is the key measure.
Ankara, which is apparently busy with solidifying its military presence in Greater Idlib, is yet to fulfill its promises and reopen the M4.
The Turkish military buildup in Greater Idlib indicates that Ankara is preparing for a battle against the Syrian Army rather than to implement the March 5 agreement. In these conditions, the Syrian military and its allies may soon find themselves forced to resume operations in the region.
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southfront--2020-04-24--U.S.-Affiliated Activist Confirms Al-Tanaf Militants Steal Aid To Al-Rukban Refugees

The U.S.-backed Revolutionary Commando Army ( MaT ) are stealing the UN aid to the refugees in the al-Rukban Camp , Mzahem Alsaloum , the former spokesman for the defunct U.S.-backed New Syrian Army ( SNA ) , revealed on April 24 .
In a series of tweets , Alsaloum said MaT commanders plotted to steal a new batch of aid by establishing a committee loyal to them and presenting it to the UN as the “ elderly ” of the al-Rukban Camp .
The fake elderly committee submitted a list filled with fake names of refugees , demanding the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be sent to the camp .
Alsaloum confirmed that the MaT plot was uncovered by the Russian side , which temporary blocked the delivery of aid to the refugee camp .
The coordination headquarters of Russia and Syria first revealed the plot in a statement released earlier this week .
According to Alsaloum , MaT commander Uqbah al-Batah , who is also the head of the supplying department in the U.S.-occupied 55 km zone , is responsible for selling UN aid and selling it to ISIS cells in the nearby Homs desert .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ two thirds of the aid sent to the 55 km zone to ISIS as well as of being involved in the sale of U.S.-supplied weapons and drugs to the terrorist group and Iranian forces .
Al-Batah was reportedly a commander in ISIS .
Prior to that , he worked with an al-Qaeda-affiliated faction .
The U.S.-led coalition expelled the commander a few years ago after discovering that he previously planned an attack on American troops and was involved in war crimes .
However , the coalition appointed a new command for al-Tanaf , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information revealed by Alsaloum , who worked with U.S.-led coalition forces in al-Tanf , are not a surprise .
Russia and Damascus have been warning from U.S.-backed militants in the region for years now .
As for now , the al-Rukban Camp , which hosts around 40,000 civilians , remain under the control of these militants who are protected and supported by the U.S. military .
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The U.S.-backed Revolutionary Commando Army (MaT) are stealing the UN aid to the refugees in the al-Rukban Camp, Mzahem Alsaloum, the former spokesman for the defunct U.S.-backed New Syrian Army (SNA), revealed on April 24.
In a series of tweets, Alsaloum said MaT commanders plotted to steal a new batch of aid by establishing a committee loyal to them and presenting it to the UN as the “elderly” of the al-Rukban Camp.
The fake elderly committee submitted a list filled with fake names of refugees, demanding the UN to double the aid set to be sent to the camp.
Alsaloum confirmed that the MaT plot was uncovered by the Russian side, which temporary blocked the delivery of aid to the refugee camp. The coordination headquarters of Russia and Syria first revealed the plot in a statement released earlier this week.
“The humanitarian crisis of Rukban Camp has been exacerbated by the corrupted leaders of the U.S.-backed MaT,” the activist acknowledged in one of his tweet.
According to Alsaloum, MaT commander Uqbah al-Batah, who is also the head of the supplying department in the U.S.-occupied 55 km zone, is responsible for selling UN aid and selling it to ISIS cells in the nearby Homs desert.
Alsaloum also accused the commander of smuggling two thirds of the aid sent to the 55 km zone to ISIS as well as of being involved in the sale of U.S.-supplied weapons and drugs to the terrorist group and Iranian forces.
Al-Batah was reportedly a commander in ISIS. Prior to that, he worked with an al-Qaeda-affiliated faction. The U.S.-led coalition expelled the commander a few years ago after discovering that he previously planned an attack on American troops and was involved in war crimes. However, the coalition appointed a new command for al-Tanaf, which allowed al-Batah to return.
The information revealed by Alsaloum, who worked with U.S.-led coalition forces in al-Tanf, are not a surprise. Russia and Damascus have been warning from U.S.-backed militants in the region for years now.
As for now, the al-Rukban Camp, which hosts around 40,000 civilians, remain under the control of these militants who are protected and supported by the U.S. military.
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southfront--2020-04-24--In Photos: Test Flights Of Su-57 Fifth-Generation Fighter Jets

It surely has a much higher radar signatur then the F35 , just look at the intakes and the ailerons @ @ @ @ @ but at least it´s a probably a very capable fighter jet .
As the Russians @ @ @ @ @ own stationary radar capabilites are high – which comes along when not occupying foreign countries @ @ @ @ @ close might be the F22 .
Which the US has in very little numbers and @ @ @ @

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The Russian Defense Ministry has released photos of test flights involving Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets.
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southfront--2020-04-24--ISIS Assassinates SDF’s Fuel Official In Deir Ezzor

On April 23 , ISIS cells assassinated Hamad al-Mahmoud al-Sheikh , Deir Ezzor fuel official in the Administration of North @ @ @ @ @ ) , the administrative wing of the Syrian Democratic Forces ( SDF ) .
The @ @ @ @ @ outlet , said al-Sheikh was shot and killed inside the town of Shheell in the @ @ @ @ @ A man who was accompanying al-Sheikh was injured in the attack .
In an official @ @ @ @ @ news agency , the terrorist group claimed that al-Sheikh was a “ spy ” of @ @ @ @ @ local sources , al-Sheikh was not only the NES ’ fuel official in Deir Ezzor @ @ @ @ @ of the town of al-Jurazi .
ISIS cells in Deir Ezzor are targeting SDF members @ @ @ @ @ basis .
The Kurdish-led group and its main ally , the U.S.-led coalition , are @ @ @ @ @ efforts to crop the growing influence of the terrorist group in Deir Ezzor .
MORE @ @ @ @

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On April 23, ISIS cells assassinated Hamad al-Mahmoud al-Sheikh, a Deir Ezzor fuel official in the Administration of North and East Syria (NES), the administrative wing of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The Euphrates Post, a local outlet, said al-Sheikh was shot and killed inside the town of Shheell in the southeastern Deir Ezzor countryside. A man who was accompanying al-Sheikh was injured in the attack.
In an official statement released by the Amaq news agency, the terrorist group claimed that al-Sheikh was a “spy” of the SDF.
“A spy of the PKK [the Kurdistan Workers’’ Party, ISIS term for the SDF], known as Hamad al-Sheikh, was shot and killed by Islamic State fighters,” the statement reads.
According to local sources, al-Sheikh was not only the NES’ fuel official in Deir Ezzor, but also the mayor of the town of al-Jurazi.
ISIS cells in Deir Ezzor are targeting SDF members and affiliates on a regular basis. The Kurdish-led group and its main ally, the U.S.-led coalition, are yet to take any serious efforts to crop the growing influence of the terrorist group in Deir Ezzor.
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southfront--2020-04-24--SF Needs Your Help Now!

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southfront--2020-04-24--Syrian Army Clashes With ISIS Cells In Eastern Hama

On April 23 , heavy clashes broke out between the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) and ISIS remnants in @ @ @ @ @ .
According to pro-government sources , army units destroyed a vehicle of the terrorist group @ @ @ @ @ east of the city of Salamiyah .
At least two fighters of the group were @ @ @ @ @ The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) reported that a Syrian service @ @ @ @ @ the clashes .
However , this is yet to be verified .
ISIS cells increased @ @ @ @ @ regions of eastern Hama over the last year .
The terrorists may be moving from @ @ @ @ @ of Hama .
The region is known to be the group ’ s last stronghold @ @ @ @ @ forces are now conducting a large-scale combing operation around the Homs desert .
The operation @ @ @ @ @ include areas in western Deir Ezzor and eastern Hama .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : @ @ @ @ @ One its Syrian Proxy Groups For Refusing To Send Fighters To Libya

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On April 23, heavy clashes broke out between the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and ISIS remnants in the eastern countryside of Hama.
According to pro-government sources, army units destroyed a vehicle of the terrorist group near Sad Abu Fayad, east of the city of Salamiyah. At least two fighters of the group were killed as a result.
The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported that a Syrian service member was also killed in the clashes. However, this is yet to be verified.
ISIS cells increased their activists in the mountainous regions of eastern Hama over the last year. The terrorists may be moving from the Homs desert, southeast of Hama. The region is known to be the group’s last stronghold in Syria.
Syrian government forces are now conducting a large-scale combing operation around the Homs desert. The operation will likely be developed to include areas in western Deir Ezzor and eastern Hama.
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southfront--2020-04-24--Turkey Suspends Support To One its Syrian Proxy Groups For Refusing To Send Fighters To Libya

Turkey has suspended support to Faylaq al-Rahman , one of its proxy groups in Syria , for refusing to send militants to Libya , the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) reported on April 24 .
According to the UK-based monitoring group , the so-called Syrian National Army ( SNA ) , an umbrella group for Turkish proxies , ordered Faylaq al-Rahman to prepare lists of militants willing to go fight for the Government of National Accord ( GNA ) in Libya more than two months ago .
However , Faylaq al-Rahman ’ s commanders didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responded by halting all support for the group .
The SOHR noted that few militants of Faylaq al-Rahman went to fight for the GNA in Libya , despite the rejection of their commanders .
Faylaq al-Rahman was one of the largest groups operating around the capital , Damascus .
The group , which received support from the U.S , is infamous for its radical views .
Up until its defeat by the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) in 2018 , the group was allied with al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ militants in Libya last year to support GNA forces , which are facing a large-scale attack by the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) .
So far , a total of 199 Syrian militants have been killed in Libya .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Turkey Deploys More Syrian Militants In Libya As Many Return In Coffins

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Turkey has suspended support to Faylaq al-Rahman, one of its proxy groups in Syria, for refusing to send militants to Libya, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported on April 24.
According to the UK-based monitoring group, the so-called Syrian National Army (SNA), an umbrella group for Turkish proxies, ordered Faylaq al-Rahman to prepare lists of militants willing to go fight for the Government of National Accord (GNA) in Libya more than two months ago.
However, Faylaq al-Rahman’s commanders didn’t fulfill the order. The SNA quickly responded by halting all support for the group.
“The SNA’s response was to halt salaries for Faylaq al-Raman [fighters] two months ago, food and ammunition shares were also reduced,” the SOHR’s report reads.
The SOHR noted that few militants of Faylaq al-Rahman went to fight for the GNA in Libya, despite the rejection of their commanders.
Faylaq al-Rahman was one of the largest groups operating around the capital, Damascus. The group, which received support from the U.S, is infamous for its radical views. Up until its defeat by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) in 2018, the group was allied with al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Turkey began deploying Syrian militants in Libya last year to support GNA forces, which are facing a large-scale attack by the Libyan National Army (LNA). So far, a total of 199 Syrian militants have been killed in Libya.
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southfront--2020-04-24--As COVID-19 Infection Rate Slows, Europe Mulls Easing Of Restrictions

Throughout Europe in recent days the COVID-19 infection rate has been steadily going down , while numbers of active infections remain relatively high .
Regardless , this is seen as a good sign and prompts some countries into mulling possible reduction of some anti-COVID-19 measures .
Austria as of April 14th began relaxing some of its lockdown measures .
Non-essential stores under 400 square meters were allowed to open their doors along with hardware stores and garden centers .
Shopping malls and hairdressers will open up on May 1st .
People will be required to wear masks in stores and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will remain closed until mid-May , and no public events can be held until June .
As of April 24th , Austria has 15,071 total infected , 522 fatalities , and only 2,677 remaining active cases .
In Belgium , on April 22nd , an expert panel tasked with drawing up the country ’ s plan to ease the lockdown restrictions recommended reopening shops and business on May 4th .
The panel also recommended a partial return to school on May 18th .
The proposals include keeping social distancing measures , masks worn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out per day on people with suspected symptoms .
The panel also recommended to allow gatherings of up to 10 people on weekends – among close friends and relatives – but always with the same people each week .
Belgium , as of April 24th , has a total number of cases sitting at 44,293 , 6,679 fatalities and the active cases sit at 27,492 .
In France , on April 15th , President Emmanuel Macron announced that on May 11th , restrictions would start being lifted .
Quarantine will be “ gradually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ K-12 schools , and some shops .
As of April 24th , it sits at 158,183 total cases , 21,856 fatalities and 94,239 active cases .
The Czech Republic began easing its restrictions on April 20th , with a five-stage plan .
Under its plan , Czech authorities reopened farmers ’ markets , car dealerships , and other small businesses before slowly allowing residents to return to some form of normalcy .
In the final stage of the plan , tentatively scheduled for June 8 , all businesses would be allowed to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hotels .
This is not set in stone , since a resurgence in cases could push the date back .
As of April 24th , it has 7,188 total cases , 213 fatalities , and 4,789 active cases .
On April 14th , children in Denmark returned to school .
Some businesses were allowed to reopen just a few days later , including hairdressers , which saw a rush of appointments and visits .
Other places allowed to open include tattoo parlors , physiotherapists and dentists .
The opened businesses must follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ animal parks will reopen May 1st , while other restrictions remain in place .
As of April 24th , Denmark has 8,210 total cases , 394 fatalities and 2,432 active cases .
Germany , took the decision to ease some restrictions on April 20th , allowing shops with an area of less than 800 square meters to open , along with car and bicycle dealers , and bookstores to reopen .
Social distancing and new health rules remained in effect .
German Chancellor Angela Merkel struck a deal with local governments in each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regulations depending on the situation .
Restrictions nationwide are to remain until May 3rd , while schools are planned to open on May 4th .
Germany , as of April 24th , has 153,393 cases , 5,575 fatalities , and 41,018 active cases .
In Italy , the prime minister said on April 21st that any reduction in measures will be cautious and calculated .
While the full lockdown is set to end May 4 , bookshops , laundries , children ’ s clothing stores reopened in some regions , while forestry workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As of April 24th , Italy has 189,973 active cases , 25,549 fatalities and 106,848 active cases .
In Norway , on April 20th , restrictions were lifted “ little by little ” by opening kindergartens before moving on to higher grades “ before summer.
” However , citizens are will required to work from home and the ban on sports and festivals remained in place until at least June 15th .
As of April 24th , Norway sits at 7,401 total cases , 194 fatalities , and 7,175 active cases .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ by COVID-19 , while the lockdown is expected to stay in place until at least May 3rd , the government began easing its restrictions on residents on April 13th by allowing some non-essential workers to return to their jobs .
On April 20th , Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that he would allow children to go outside since the lockdown began .
As of April 24th , it has 219,764 total cases , 22,524 fatalities , and 104,885 active cases .
Switzerland , announced a three-stage lifting of the lockdown starting on April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopening some non-essential businesses such as hairdressers , physiotherapists , medical and dental offices , while grocery stores and supermarkets also will be able to sell non-essential products again .
Wearing masks outside will be mandatory .
The second phase of the plan , which is set to begin on May 11th , will see schools for children of compulsory school age reopen .
All stores and markets will also reopen on that date .
The final phase , set for June 8th , will see the reopening of upper secondary schools , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of restrictions on entertainment and cultural events .
As of April 24th , it has 28,677 total cases , 1,551 fatalities and 6,526 active cases .
Sweden , still has no COVID-19 lockdown , and it appears to be dealing with the situation fine .
Most recently , on April 21st , Anders Tegnell , an epidemiologist at Sweden ’ s Public Health Agency said that closing of borders was “ absurd ” in his view .
His philosophy is the following : As a result , Swedish citizens weren ’ t prohibited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was based on voluntarism .
As of April 24th , it sits at 16,755 total cases , 2,021 deaths and 14,184 active cases .
Finland , on March 16th , the Finnish Government , jointly with the President of Finland , declared a state of emergency due to COVID-19 .
• All schools will be closed , not including early education .
• Most government-run public facilities ( theatres , libraries , museums etc . )
will be shut down .
• Critical personnel will be exempted from the Working Hours Act and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ private and public sector .
• At most 10 people can participate in a public meeting , and people over the age of 70 should avoid human contact if possible .
• Outsiders are forbidden from entering healthcare facilities and hospitals , excluding relatives of critically ill people and children .
• The capacity of social and healthcare will be increased in the private and public sector , while less critical activity will be decreased .
• Preparations for the shutdown of borders will start , and citizens or permanent residents returning to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quarantine .
As of April 22nd , Finland said that it planned to lift the lockdown with a hybrid strategy .
Many of Finland ’ s countrywide restrictions will remain in place until May .
Schools and public libraries are set to reopen on May 13 .
Restaurants are to remain shuttered until late in the month , while large gatherings of more than 500 people are prohibited until the end of July .
As of April 24th , Finland sits at 4,395 total cases , 172 fatalities , and 2,223 active cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Accusations Against China And Its Wuhan Biolab Pile Up • UN COVID-19 Declaration Blocked Because U.S. Adversaries Need To Remain Sanctioned

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Throughout Europe in recent days the COVID-19 infection rate has been steadily going down, while numbers of active infections remain relatively high.
Regardless, this is seen as a good sign and prompts some countries into mulling possible reduction of some anti-COVID-19 measures.
These include:
Austria as of April 14th began relaxing some of its lockdown measures. Non-essential stores under 400 square meters were allowed to open their doors along with hardware stores and garden centers. Shopping malls and hairdressers will open up on May 1st.
People will be required to wear masks in stores and on public transportation.
Restaurants and hotels will remain closed until mid-May, and no public events can be held until June.
As of April 24th, Austria has 15,071 total infected, 522 fatalities, and only 2,677 remaining active cases.
In Belgium, on April 22nd, an expert panel tasked with drawing up the country’s plan to ease the lockdown restrictions recommended reopening shops and business on May 4th.
The panel also recommended a partial return to school on May 18th.
The proposals include keeping social distancing measures, masks worn in busy places and 40,000 tests carried out per day on people with suspected symptoms.
The panel also recommended to allow gatherings of up to 10 people on weekends – among close friends and relatives – but always with the same people each week.
Belgium, as of April 24th, has a total number of cases sitting at 44,293, 6,679 fatalities and the active cases sit at 27,492.
In France, on April 15th, President Emmanuel Macron announced that on May 11th, restrictions would start being lifted.
Quarantine will be “gradually” lifted, starting with nurseries, K-12 schools, and some shops.
As of April 24th, it sits at 158,183 total cases, 21,856 fatalities and 94,239 active cases.
The Czech Republic began easing its restrictions on April 20th, with a five-stage plan. Under its plan, Czech authorities reopened farmers’ markets, car dealerships, and other small businesses before slowly allowing residents to return to some form of normalcy.
In the final stage of the plan, tentatively scheduled for June 8, all businesses would be allowed to reopen, including bars, cafes, restaurants and hotels.
This is not set in stone, since a resurgence in cases could push the date back.
As of April 24th, it has 7,188 total cases, 213 fatalities, and 4,789 active cases.
On April 14th, children in Denmark returned to school. Some businesses were allowed to reopen just a few days later, including hairdressers, which saw a rush of appointments and visits. Other places allowed to open include tattoo parlors, physiotherapists and dentists.
The opened businesses must follow new health guidelines. Zoological gardens and animal parks will reopen May 1st, while other restrictions remain in place.
“In this situation, it is very important that there is increased awareness to avoid infection in the population,” the Danish Health Authority said. “The spread of infection has been greatly reduced, and we have therefore started to open up the society gradually.”
As of April 24th, Denmark has 8,210 total cases, 394 fatalities and 2,432 active cases.
Germany, took the decision to ease some restrictions on April 20th, allowing shops with an area of less than 800 square meters to open, along with car and bicycle dealers, and bookstores to reopen. Social distancing and new health rules remained in effect.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel struck a deal with local governments in each state are allowed to ease or tighten regulations depending on the situation. Restrictions nationwide are to remain until May 3rd, while schools are planned to open on May 4th.
Germany, as of April 24th, has 153,393 cases, 5,575 fatalities, and 41,018 active cases.
In Italy, the prime minister said on April 21st that any reduction in measures will be cautious and calculated.
While the full lockdown is set to end May 4, bookshops, laundries, children’s clothing stores reopened in some regions, while forestry workers and IT manufacturers were back to work.
“I wish I could say: let’s reopen everything. Immediately. We start tomorrow morning…But such a decision would be irresponsible,” Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said.
As of April 24th, Italy has 189,973 active cases, 25,549 fatalities and 106,848 active cases.
In Norway, on April 20th, restrictions were lifted “little by little” by opening kindergartens before moving on to higher grades “before summer.”
However, citizens are will required to work from home and the ban on sports and festivals remained in place until at least June 15th.
As of April 24th, Norway sits at 7,401 total cases, 194 fatalities, and 7,175 active cases.
Spain is the hardest-hit country in Europe by COVID-19, while the lockdown is expected to stay in place until at least May 3rd, the government began easing its restrictions on residents on April 13th by allowing some non-essential workers to return to their jobs.
On April 20th, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that he would allow children to go outside since the lockdown began.
As of April 24th, it has 219,764 total cases, 22,524 fatalities, and 104,885 active cases.
Switzerland, announced a three-stage lifting of the lockdown starting on April 27th.
The first phase will include reopening some non-essential businesses such as hairdressers, physiotherapists, medical and dental offices, while grocery stores and supermarkets also will be able to sell non-essential products again.
Wearing masks outside will be mandatory.
The second phase of the plan, which is set to begin on May 11th, will see schools for children of compulsory school age reopen. All stores and markets will also reopen on that date.
The final phase, set for June 8th, will see the reopening of upper secondary schools, universities as well as the possible lift of restrictions on entertainment and cultural events.
As of April 24th, it has 28,677 total cases, 1,551 fatalities and 6,526 active cases.
Sweden, still has no COVID-19 lockdown, and it appears to be dealing with the situation fine. Most recently, on April 21st, Anders Tegnell, an epidemiologist at Sweden’s Public Health Agency said that closing of borders was “absurd” in his view.
His philosophy is the following:
“This is not a disease that can be stopped or eradicated, at least until a working vaccine is produced. We have to find long-term solutions that keeps the distribution of infections at a decent level. What every country is trying to do is to keep people apart, using the measures we have and the traditions we have to implement those measures. And that’s why we ended up doing slightly different things.”
As a result, Swedish citizens weren’t prohibited or required to do anything, everything was based on voluntarism.
As of April 24th, it sits at 16,755 total cases, 2,021 deaths and 14,184 active cases.
Finland, on March 16th, the Finnish Government, jointly with the President of Finland, declared a state of emergency due to COVID-19.
All schools will be closed, not including early education.
Most government-run public facilities (theatres, libraries, museums etc.) will be shut down.
Critical personnel will be exempted from the Working Hours Act and Annual Holidays Act, both in the private and public sector.
At most 10 people can participate in a public meeting, and people over the age of 70 should avoid human contact if possible.
Outsiders are forbidden from entering healthcare facilities and hospitals, excluding relatives of critically ill people and children.
The capacity of social and healthcare will be increased in the private and public sector, while less critical activity will be decreased.
Preparations for the shutdown of borders will start, and citizens or permanent residents returning to Finland will be placed under a 2-week quarantine.
As of April 22nd, Finland said that it planned to lift the lockdown with a hybrid strategy.
Many of Finland’s countrywide restrictions will remain in place until May. Schools and public libraries are set to reopen on May 13. Restaurants are to remain shuttered until late in the month, while large gatherings of more than 500 people are prohibited until the end of July.
As of April 24th, Finland sits at 4,395 total cases, 172 fatalities, and 2,223 active cases.
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southfront--2020-04-25--Unknown Gunmen Attack Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham Headquarters In Idlib City

Late on April 24 , unknown gunmen attacked a headquarters of al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS ) @ @ @ @ @ center .
According to pro-government sources , the gunmen threw several hand grenades at the @ @ @ @ @ 107 , in the district of al-Qusur in the city ’ s center .
The @ @ @ @ @ orchestrated by operatives of the Syrian intelligence because it was first reported by pro-government sources @ @ @ @ @ attack on HTS personnel in Idlib city this month .
On April 19 an improvised @ @ @ @ @ ripped through a van of the terrorist group near the al-Abrar mosque , claiming the @ @ @ @ @ al-Hamui , ” a security personal .
HTS created many foes while working to dominate @ @ @ @ @ few years .
Now , the terrorist group ’ s grip on the region appears @ @ @ @ @ THIS TOPIC :

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Late on April 24, unknown gunmen attacked a headquarters of al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in Idlib’s city center.
According to pro-government sources, the gunmen threw several hand grenades at the headquarters, known as Branch 107, in the district of al-Qusur in the city center.
“A fighter [of HTS] guarding the entrance [of the headquarters] was killed, a van was also burned, others, including commanders, were injured,” a post on a pro-government Facebook page reads.
The daring attack may have been orchestrated by operatives of the Syrian intelligence because pro-government sources were first to report the attack.
This was the second attack on HTS members in Idlib city this month. On April 19 an improvised explosive device (IED) ripped through a van of the terrorist group near the al-Abrar mosque, claiming the life of “Abu Abulrahman al-Hamui,” a security officer of the group.
HTS got many foes while it was working to strengthen its grup over Greater Idlib in the last few years. Now, the terrorist group’s grip on the region appears to loosen.
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southfront--2020-04-25--Military Situation In Libya On April 25, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Libya : • According to reports @ @ @ @ @ in Libya to help the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) in its battle against @ @ @ @ @ • LNA warplanes struck an armoured vehicle of Turkish-backed forces in Ghaduwwa ; • Turkish-backed @ @ @ @ @ positions in the Qasr ibn Ghashir and Ain Zara ; • Warplanes of the Turkish-backed @ @ @ @ @ GNA ) struck Watiyah Airbase .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Libya:
According to reports, more Sudanese fighters deployed in Libya to help the Libyan National Army (LNA) in its battle against Turkish-backed fores near Tripoli;
LNA warplanes struck an armoured vehicle of Turkish-backed forces in Ghaduwwa;
Turkish-backed forces’ artillery shelled LNA positions in the Qasr ibn Ghashir and Ain Zara;
Warplanes of the Turkish-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) struck Watiyah Airbase.
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southfront--2020-04-25--Military Situation In Afghanistan On April 25, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Afghanistan : • At least 13 @ @ @ @ @ a Taliban attack on their outpost in the vicinity of Qala-e-Naw city , the center @ @ @ @ @ April 23 evening .
10 more pro-government fighters are missing ; • The Defense Ministry @ @ @ @ @ were killed , 70 were wounded and 10 are missing as a result of Taliban @ @ @ @ @ April 18 to April 24 ; • The Taliban says that 3 government troops surrendered @ @ @ @ @ Alasay district of Kapisa province ; • 23 government troops have surrendered to the Tabliban @ @ @ @ @ past month , the group claims .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Afghanistan:
At least 13 pro-government fighters were killed in a Taliban attack on their outpost in the vicinity of Qala-e-Naw city, the center of Badghis province, on April 23 evening. 10 more pro-government fighters are missing;
The Defense Ministry says that 98 service members were killed, 70 were wounded and 10 are missing as a result of Taliban attacks in the period from April 18 to April 24;
The Taliban says that 3 government troops surrendered to the Taliban in the Alasay district of Kapisa province;
23 government troops have surrendered to the Tabliban in Kunduz city over the past month, the group claims.
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southfront--2020-04-25--Military Situation In Yemen On April 25, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen : • Clashes between Ansar @ @ @ @ @ reported in the Mukayris area ; • Clashes between Ansar Allah and Saudi-led forces were @ @ @ @ @ ; • Ansar Allah secured the area recently captured from Saudi-led forces near the Labanat @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC :

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A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen:
Ceasefire violations were reported in al-Hudaydah;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Mukayris area 3 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Sarwah area 9 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Majzar area 15 times;
Clashes between Ansar Allah and Saudi-led forces were reported in the Mukayris area;
Clashes between Ansar Allah and Saudi-led forces were reported in the Majzar area;
Ansar Allah secured the area recently captured from Saudi-led forces near the Labanat base.
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southfront--2020-04-25--Military Situation In Syria On April 25, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria : • ISIS claimed that @ @ @ @ @ “ sorcerer ” in al-Sabhah ; • The Afrin Liberation Forces claim that they carried @ @ @ @ @ forces in AFrin on April 15 , 17 and 18 ; • Turkey reportedly suspended @ @ @ @ @ refusing to send militants to Libya ; • Clashes between the Syrian Army and ISIS @ @ @ @ @ , east of Salamiyah ; • ISIS assassinated an SDF member responsible for fuel operations @ @ @ @ @ incident happened near Shheell ; • US-backed militants steal humanitarian aid sent to refugees in @ @ @ @ @ The Turkish military has reportedly deployed 2,810 military equipment pieces in Greater Idlib since the @ @ @ @ @ on March 5 .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Military Situation In Syria And @ @ @ @ @ 2020 ( Map Update )

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A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria:
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southfront--2020-04-25--In Video: Russia Checks Combat Readiness Of Bastion Coastal Defense Systems In Arctic

The drills were held with the help of the computer generated simulation of the tactical situation without physical launches and @ @ @ @ @ whether the Bastion combat teams were complying with the required time procedures for deploying the @ @ @ @ @ low temperatures , the Fleet ’ s press office specified .
The Bastion coastal defense @ @ @ @ @ supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles are in service with the Northern Fleet ’ s Arctic units @ @ @ @ @ and Kotelny islands .
The Bastion coastal defense system with the standardized Yakhont ( Oniks @ @ @ @ @ missile is designated to strike various types of surface ships operating as part of amphibious @ @ @ @ @ surface action and carrier strike groups , and also sole ships and radar-contrast land targets @ @ @ @ @ counter-measures .

The drills were held with the help of the computer generated simulation of the tactical situation without physical launches and were primarily aimed at checking whether the Bastion combat teams were complying with the required time procedures for deploying the launchers in the Arctic under low temperatures, the Fleet’s press office specified.
The Bastion coastal defense missile systems armed with Oniks supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles are in service with the Northern Fleet’s Arctic units stationed on the Alexandra Land and Kotelny islands.
The Bastion coastal defense system with the standardized Yakhont (Oniks) supersonic homing anti-ship cruise missile is designated to strike various types of surface ships operating as part of amphibious assault formations, convoys, surface action and carrier strike groups, and also sole ships and radar-contrast land targets under intensive fire and electronic counter-measures.


southfront--2020-04-25--9M113 Konkurs Anti-Tank Guided Missile (Infographics)

The 9M113 Konkurs is good missile and its Iranian production is line is called Tosan , It is not as @ @ @ @ @ and deadlier Russian family of Kornet or the Khryzantema ATGM .
However , in skilled @ @ @ @ @ has devastated Americunt and Zionist tanks .

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The 9M113 Konkurs is a Soviet/Russian SACLOS (semi-automatic command to line of sight) wire-guided anti-tank missile. The missile entered service in 1974 and since then it has been widely used in various local conflicts.
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southfront--2020-04-25--Iraqi Attack Helicopters Eliminate Several ISIS Terrorists In Eastern Iraq

On April 23 , the Iraqi military eliminated several ISIS terrorists during a special operation in the eastern province of @ @ @ @ @ statement , the Security Media Cell said the operation targeted a hideout of the terrorist @ @ @ @ @ al-Khalawia .
Iraqi forces were supported by several attack helicopters , which played a crucial @ @ @ @ @ the operation .
Last week , Iraqi Air Force ( IQAF ) warplanes carried out @ @ @ @ @ ISIS ’ hideouts in the northern province of Saladin .
At least 13 terrorists were @ @ @ @ @ the airstrikes .
ISIS cells intensified their attacks on government forces and civilians throughout Iraq @ @ @ @ @ .
Dozens of people were killed .
The IQAF is playing an important role in @ @ @ @ @ .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Attacks By “ Defeated ” ISIS Left 82 @ @ @ @ @ First Four Months Of 2020

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On April 23, the Iraqi military eliminated several ISIS terrorists during a special operation in the eastern province of Diyala.
In an official statement, the Security Media Cell said the operation targeted a hideout of the terrorist group in the area of al-Khalawia. Iraqi forces were supported by several attack helicopters, which played a crucial role in the success of the operation.
“Army troops clashed with gunmen of the group [ISIS], who attempted to escape, however Iraqi attack helicopters targeted them, killing seven of them,” the statement reads.
Last week, Iraqi Air Force (IQAF) warplanes carried out a series of airstrikes on ISIS’ hideouts in the northern province of Saladin. At least 13 terrorists were killed as a result of the airstrikes.
ISIS cells intensified their attacks on government forces and civilians throughout Iraq in the last few months. Dozens of people were killed.
The IQAF is playing an important role in operations against the terrorist group.
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southfront--2020-04-25--What War between the United States and Iran Could Look Like

The US-Iranian standoff in the Persian Gulf has once again entered an acute phase .
On April 22 , US President Donald Trump announced that he had ordered the US Navy to “ shoot down and destroy ” Iranian gunboats that follow or harass US ships .
In response , Commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps , Major General Hossein Salami declared on April 23 that Iran will provide a swift , “ decisive ” and “ effective ” response to US forces if they threaten Iranian “ vessels or warships ” .
One of the reasons behind the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rhetoric of the White House as a part of Trump ’ s presidential campaign .
Another driving force of the US actions is likely the sharpening global economic crisis and the turmoil on the energy market that has led to the dramatic collapse of oil prices .
Indeed , a new conflict in the Persian Gulf could theoretically return the oil prices to $ 50-60 per barrel .
In the current situation , Iran is not interested in an escalation of the conflict with the United States .
The escalation could , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : • A warship or a group of warships could enter Iranian territorial waters ; • US forces could block for Iran the civilian maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz , or detain an Iranian oil tanker ; • Warships of the US Navy could imitate an attack on an Iranian submarine ; Iranian forces would have to respond to such a provocation .
Thus , a military confrontation could start .
After initiating a localized military incident , the White House would accuse Iran of aggressive actions against US forces and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrative missile strike on a target or several targets inside Iran .
Such an attack would prompt an Iranian response that would involve both its regular and irregular warfare capabilities .
The IRGC Navy doctrine reflects irregular warfare principles that include the use of surprise , deception , speed , flexibility and adaptability , decentralization and highly mobile and maneuverable units , all of which are used at sea .
These include hit-and-run style surprise attacks or the amassing of large numbers of means and measures to overwhelm the enemies ’ defenses .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ might be described as a mosquito-like swarm of small boats using their size and maneuverability to track and hunt down enemy warships .
The IRGCN ’ s mosquito-fleet concept enables rapid formation of tactical groups of small crafts to carry out a surprise strike at any given time from different directions in a particular area of the offshore zone .
Such groups can deploy in attack formation immediately prior to reaching the area of the attack .
Crafts from the formation reach their assault line position either independently or in small groups .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ would employ the swarm concept .
It is important to note the high motivation and ideological training of the mariners involved , who well understand the high level of threat to them personally in the event of the employment of this tactical scheme .
IRGCN personnel are motivated and ready to accomplish any feat to defend their homeland .
This factor ( the high motivation of the personnel ) makes a mosquito-fleet armed with missile , torpedo and anti-air weapons especially dangerous to naval forces of the US .
Th aircraft carriers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would become the main priority target of the Iranian response .
In the event that the Iranian attack succeeds , the US would have to carry out a massive strike on Iranian infrastructure objects or political and military command centers .
Teheran would have either to accept their defeat in this limited confrontation or to respond with another attack on US forces in the region .
Current US military doctrine dictates the prior employment of mobile interoperable forces , unmanned and robotized systems , as well as massive strikes with high precision weapons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electronic warfare and information warfare .
If the confrontation develops further the US would be forced to conduct a limited landing operation on key parts of the Iranian coast .
The success of such a limited operation under the likely condition of a strong Iranian military response is improbable .
Furthermore , the move would be hampered by the weak psychological condition of US service members caused by current developments inside the US .
The US military would have to either retreat or venture on to a large-scale military operation in the Persian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forces involved does not allow Washington to deliver a devastating blow to Iran within 1-2 weeks , China or Russia could intervene in some form likely turning the military standoff into a frozen conflict .
It is likely that despite all difficulties , the US would be able to create an occupation zone inside Iran , likely in the coastal area near the Strait of Hormuz .
The Iranian oil trade would be fully blocked and the US shale industry would be rescued .
At the same time , Washington would have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occupied area .
Another possible scenario is the defeat of the United States in this limited conflict because of significant losses in warships , aviation and service members of the involved interoperable forces .
In this case , US influence in the region would be drastically undermined and the White House would start drawing up plans of revenge .

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The US-Iranian standoff in the Persian Gulf has once again entered an acute phase. On April 22, US President Donald Trump announced that he had ordered the US Navy to “shoot down and destroy” Iranian gunboats that follow or harass US ships. In response, Commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, Major General Hossein Salami declared on April 23 that Iran will provide a swift, “decisive” and “effective” response to US forces if they threaten Iranian “vessels or warships”.
One of the reasons behind the escalation is the consistent and strengthening anti-Iranian rhetoric of the White House as a part of Trump’s presidential campaign. Another driving force of the US actions is likely the sharpening global economic crisis and the turmoil on the energy market that has led to the dramatic collapse of oil prices. Indeed, a new conflict in the Persian Gulf could theoretically return the oil prices to $50-60 per barrel.
In the current situation, Iran is not interested in an escalation of the conflict with the United States. The escalation could, however, be instigated by the US military:
A warship or a group of warships could enter Iranian territorial waters;
A US military aircraft could violate Iranian airspace;
US forces could block for Iran the civilian maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, or detain an Iranian oil tanker;
Warships of the US Navy could imitate an attack on an Iranian submarine;
Iranian forces would have to respond to such a provocation. Thus, a military confrontation could start. After initiating a localized military incident, the White House would accuse Iran of aggressive actions against US forces and the US navy could carry out a demonstrative missile strike on a target or several targets inside Iran. Such an attack would prompt an Iranian response that would involve both its regular and irregular warfare capabilities.
The IRGC Navy doctrine reflects irregular warfare principles that include the use of surprise, deception, speed, flexibility and adaptability, decentralization and highly mobile and maneuverable units, all of which are used at sea. These include hit-and-run style surprise attacks or the amassing of large numbers of means and measures to overwhelm the enemies’ defenses. In this scenario the employed naval forces might be described as a mosquito-like swarm of small boats using their size and maneuverability to track and hunt down enemy warships.
The IRGCN’s mosquito-fleet concept enables rapid formation of tactical groups of small crafts to carry out a surprise strike at any given time from different directions in a particular area of the offshore zone. Such groups can deploy in attack formation immediately prior to reaching the area of the attack.
Crafts from the formation reach their assault line position either independently or in small groups. This is the way the Iranian Navy would employ the swarm concept. It is important to note the high motivation and ideological training of the mariners involved, who well understand the high level of threat to them personally in the event of the employment of this tactical scheme. IRGCN personnel are motivated and ready to accomplish any feat to defend their homeland. This factor (the high motivation of the personnel) makes a mosquito-fleet armed with missile, torpedo and anti-air weapons especially dangerous to naval forces of the US.
Th aircraft carriers and large warships of the US naval group would become the main priority target of the Iranian response. In the event that the Iranian attack succeeds, the US would have to carry out a massive strike on Iranian infrastructure objects or political and military command centers. Teheran would have either to accept their defeat in this limited confrontation or to respond with another attack on US forces in the region.
Current US military doctrine dictates the prior employment of mobile interoperable forces, unmanned and robotized systems, as well as massive strikes with high precision weapons in conjunction with the maximum usage of electronic warfare and information warfare. If the confrontation develops further the US would be forced to conduct a limited landing operation on key parts of the Iranian coast. The success of such a limited operation under the likely condition of a strong Iranian military response is improbable. Furthermore, the move would be hampered by the weak psychological condition of US service members caused by current developments inside the US.
The US military would have to either retreat or venture on to a large-scale military operation in the Persian Gulf region. If the number of forces involved does not allow Washington to deliver a devastating blow to Iran within 1-2 weeks, China or Russia could intervene in some form likely turning the military standoff into a frozen conflict.
It is likely that despite all difficulties, the US would be able to create an occupation zone inside Iran, likely in the coastal area near the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian oil trade would be fully blocked and the US shale industry would be rescued. At the same time, Washington would have to deal with a permanent insurgency in the occupied area.
Another possible scenario is the defeat of the United States in this limited conflict because of significant losses in warships, aviation and service members of the involved interoperable forces. In this case, US influence in the region would be drastically undermined and the White House would start drawing up plans of revenge.
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southfront--2020-04-25--Turkey Deployed Over 2,800 Military Vehicles In Syria’s Greater Idlib: Monitoring Group

I think the UN is completely beholden to the US , conjoined twins even , and the US is the bigger twin that drags the smaller one around .
I couldn ’ t find the article from SANA that I wanted , but in the interview 2018/19 Assad claimed a lot of the refugee numbers are inflated , especially the internal refugee numbers , and he even went on to say that Erdogan was deceptively hiding African migrant refugee numbers by adding them to the Syrian war refugee numbers to get more money from the EU , he even went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to the liberated areas of Syria and see for themselves just how many people were still living in Syria and going back to a normal life .
Syrian population 2009 , 21.21 million .
Syrian population 2010 , 21.36 million .
Syrian population 2011 , 21.08 million .
Syrian population 2012 , 20.44 million .
Syrian population 2013 , 19.58 million .
Syrian population 2014 , 18.72 million .
Syrian population 2015 , 18.00 million .
Syrian population 2016 , 17.45 million .
Syrian population 2017 , 17.07 million .
Syrian population @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 , hidden for some reason , I wonder why lol .
And currently , That ’ s only 3.53 million less than 9 years ago , In 2011 when the war began the population was 21.08 mill and now it ’ s 17.55 mill , so how can there be anywhere between 8 and 13 million refugees living out of Syria now , the numbers don ’ t even close to adding up , someone ’ s lying aren ’ t they .
So in essence only 3.53 million overseas Syrian refugees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an election , all the rest would be children born after the exodus from Syria , and 4 million people can ’ t turn into 8 to 13 million people in less than 10 years , IT ’ S IMPOSSIBLE .
and I ’ ll never forget or forgive Russia and Iran for conspiring with Erdogan to force Assad into accepting resolution 2254 , which all 3 of them drafted and proposed to the UN and it was passed unanimously , of course Assad wisely refused to accept that offer for nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UN made him a better offer last year and he accepted it the same day they made it , 5 years of saying no the Russian and Iran and one day to say yes to the UN .
So the UN actually did Assad one huge favour and I ’ ll give them credit for that , and they did do a deal with Russia and China which resulted in the UN deciding to end aid deliveries to the terrorists in Idlib , they even announced the closure of 2 of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be closed within 6 months as well , THAT WAS A BRILLIANT , but sadly after the Russians and Iranians blew the hell out of Erdogan ’ s Turkmen in Aleppo , the UN has reneged on the deals they made with the Russians and Chinese .
Idlib does have 3 million internally displaced civilians though , but half of them are terrorists or terrorist sympathizers , so I don ’ t know how they fit into the equation , since they ’ re the people responsible for the civilian displacement in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t think you can add that 1.5 million and call them displaced refugees .

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The Turkish military has deployed 2,810 vehicles in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib since the ceasefire became active on March 5, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) revealed on April 24.
According to the UK-based monitoring group, a total of 10,300 Turkish service members have been sent to Greater Idlib since last February. The troops are stationed in more than 50 posts throughout the Syrian region.
On April 24 only, a convoy consisting of dozens of Turkish military vehicles entered Greater Idlib. The convoy reinforced several Turkish observation posts.
Aside from a ceasefire, the March 5 agreement between Russia and Turkey includes a set of measures meant to de-escalate tension in Greater Idlib. The reopening of the M4 highway, which links the cities of Lattakia and Aleppo, is the key measure.
Ankara, which is apparently busy with solidifying its military presence in Greater Idlib, is yet to fulfill its promises and reopen the M4.
The Turkish military buildup in Greater Idlib indicates that Ankara is preparing for a battle against the Syrian Army rather than to implement the March 5 agreement. In these conditions, the Syrian military and its allies may soon find themselves forced to resume operations in the region.
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