southfront--2020-09-05--U.S. Carries Out “Historical” B-25H Bomber Flight In Ukrainian Airspace Along Crimea And Eastern Ukr

U.S. Carries Out “Historical” B-25H Bomber Flight In Ukrainian Airspace Along Crimea And Eastern Ukraine

On September 4th , United States Air Force B-52H Stratofortress strategic bombers carried out a “ historical flight ” in Ukrainian airspace .
The strategic bombers were accompanied by Ukrainian Air Force Su-27s .
After arriving in Ukrainian airspace , the bombers orbited for an extended while along the borders of Crimea , and the Donetsk and Luhansk People ’ s Republics .
Three B-52Hs , with the call signs Julia 51 , 52 , and 53 departed RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom on Sept. 4 , 2020 .
There are conflicting reports about whether the third bomber took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but only two of them were ever visible on online flight tracking software .
In addition , a number of U.S. aerial intelligence , surveillance , and reconnaissance ( ISR ) assets , as well as those from the United Kingdom , were seen operating in the area at the time .
This included an Air Force RC-135V/W Rivet Joint spy plane , as well as an RAF Airseeker , which is derived from the Rivet Joint .
A RAF Sentinel R1 , a radar platform based on the Bombardier Global Express business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
Later on , it turned out that it wasn ’ t the first time in history that US bombers are in Ukraine , but rather – third .
It also follows a US B-25H Stratofortress strategic bombers flight above all 30 NATO member states in 1 day to testify to US commitment to defense of all members of the alliance .
In addition , as noted , in May 2020 , B-1 bombers also trained in the region together with Ukrainian fighter jets , including conducting mock anti-ship operations clearly meant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Russian Navy ’ s Black Sea Fleet .
Last year , a B-52 , also part of a detachment at Fairford for a short-term deployment , made a run in the Black Sea at Crimea that mirrored what one might expect to see in an actual strike on targets there involving the employment of air-launched cruise missiles , too .
U.S. European Command ( EUCOM ) has confirmed that three B-52 bombers took part in the mission over Ukraine , as did Ukrainian fighter jets , in a press release .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Three U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber aircraft from the 5th Bomb Wing , Minot Air Force Base , North Dakota , conducted vital integration training with Ukrainian fighters Friday inside Ukraine ’ s airspace .
Friday ’ s strategic bomber mission is part of the long-planned deployment of six B-52s to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire , England .
The mission provided partners valuable midair training .
In addition , the mission demonstrated how forward-located aircraft and crews , such as those in the B-52 units , enable collective defense capabilities and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partners strategic and operational breadth to deter Russia and assure Allies and partners.
” More than 200 related missions have been conducted since the Bomber Task Force launched operations in the European theater two years ago .
These ongoing bomber missions showcase the U.S. Air Force ’ s ability to continually execute flying missions , sustain readiness and support Allies and partners across Europe , regardless of external challenges to include the current global COVID-19 crisis response.
” MORE ON THE TOPIC : • US Plan To Establish Asia-Pacific ‘ NATO-type ’ Formal @ @ @

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On September 4th, United States Air Force B-52H Stratofortress strategic bombers carried out a “historical flight” in Ukrainian airspace.
The strategic bombers were accompanied by Ukrainian Air Force Su-27s.
After arriving in Ukrainian airspace, the bombers orbited for an extended while along the borders of Crimea, and the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics.
Three B-52Hs, with the call signs Julia 51, 52, and 53 departed RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom on Sept. 4, 2020. There are conflicting reports about whether the third bomber took part in the mission to Ukraine, but only two of them were ever visible on online flight tracking software.
First time in history that an USAF strategic bomber enters Ukrainian airspace. pic.twitter.com/22wvBg5rQt — Manu Gómez (@GDarkconrad) September 4, 2020
Ukrainian Su-27s overflying Odessa, possibly escorting the US B-52s earlier. pic.twitter.com/gmHPIrgoqy — Status-6 (@Archer83Able) September 4, 2020
In addition, a number of U.S. aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets, as well as those from the United Kingdom, were seen operating in the area at the time.
This included an Air Force RC-135V/W Rivet Joint spy plane, as well as an RAF Airseeker, which is derived from the Rivet Joint.
A RAF Sentinel R1, a radar platform based on the Bombardier Global Express business jet, was also present for a time.
This is the most intensive SIGINT bait I've seen in a while. At least two USAF RC-135V/W Rivet Joint SIGINT planes recording the Russian emissions (radar, comms etc.) from #Crimea and #Russia as a flight of B-52H bombers circle along the Azov coast in Ukrainian airspace. https://t.co/UGv8EukU3C — Petri Mäkelä (@pmakela1) September 4, 2020
USAF
B-52(H)
JULIA51
JULIA53
(NOW IN UKRAINE AIRSPACE) USAF
RC-135 RIVET JOINT
SALMA44
(BLACK SEA) RAF
SENTINEL R1
ZJ692
(BLACK SEA) USN
P-8A POSEIDON
NOREG
(BLACK SEA) LOCATIONS AT 08:50Z pic.twitter.com/1dTp7mOTtm — BlueSky (@AirSpecInt) September 4, 2020
Later on, it turned out that it wasn’t the first time in history that US bombers are in Ukraine, but rather – third.
Third.
B-52 (with B-1B and KC-10A Extender) already were in Poltava in 1994 and in B-1b were over Ukraine in May, 2020 pic.twitter.com/IY5MNG1Fmu — Sovinskiy (@_Sovinskiy) September 4, 2020
It also follows a US B-25H Stratofortress strategic bombers flight above all 30 NATO member states in 1 day to testify to US commitment to defense of all members of the alliance.
In addition, as noted, in May 2020, B-1 bombers also trained in the region together with Ukrainian fighter jets, including conducting mock anti-ship operations clearly meant to send a signal to the Kremlin and the Russian Navy’s Black Sea Fleet.
Last year, a B-52, also part of a detachment at Fairford for a short-term deployment, made a run in the Black Sea at Crimea that mirrored what one might expect to see in an actual strike on targets there involving the employment of air-launched cruise missiles, too.
U.S. European Command (EUCOM) has confirmed that three B-52 bombers took part in the mission over Ukraine, as did Ukrainian fighter jets, in a press release. The full release is as follows:
“Three U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber aircraft from the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, conducted vital integration training with Ukrainian fighters Friday inside Ukraine’s airspace. Friday’s strategic bomber mission is part of the long-planned deployment of six B-52s to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, England. The mission provided partners valuable midair training. In addition, the mission demonstrated how forward-located aircraft and crews, such as those in the B-52 units, enable collective defense capabilities and provide the U.S., NATO Allies and partners strategic and operational breadth to deter Russia and assure Allies and partners.” More than 200 related missions have been conducted since the Bomber Task Force launched operations in the European theater two years ago. These ongoing bomber missions showcase the U.S. Air Force’s ability to continually execute flying missions, sustain readiness and support Allies and partners across Europe, regardless of external challenges to include the current global COVID-19 crisis response.”
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southfront--2020-09-05--Kosovo And Serbia Sign Normalization Deal In U.S., Recognize Israel And More

On September 4th , US President Donald Trump issued a statement on the “ historic commitment ” of the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia .
The deal was signed in the White House .
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that “ this is a good agreement for Serbia , and it would sound triumphant if I said congratulations , but I am sincerely pleased , like all members of our delegation , with what we have achieved.
” The Serbian side considers the categorical refusal to recognize the “ republic ” as a special victory – after all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously stated that he was going to discuss only the issue of recognition of independence in Washington .
One of the key points of the agreement is the inclusion of Kosovo in the Balkan “ mini-Schengen ” , which will put an end to the anti-Serb trade provocations of Pristina , which previously imposed 100 % Duties on Serbian goods imported into the territory of the region .
It is also planned to build a number of highways and railways – in particular , railways through Kosovo to the Albanian port city of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promised to stop attempts to seize the property of the Serbian Orthodox Church and respect court decisions in her regard , and the United States promised to become the guarantor of the safety of Serbian shrines and clergy in Kosovo .
The US is using the chance to push some other agenda in the normalization of ties , these include : the participation of both sides in promoting the decriminalization of homosexuality , the recognition of Hezbollah as a terrorist organization and the ban on the use of 5G equipment from “ unreliable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China ) look rather strange .
Both sides agreed on the following points : • Implementation of the agreements on road and rail traffic between Belgrade ( as well as Niš ) and Pristina .
• Participation of Kosovo in the “ mini-Schengen ” , previously announced in the agreements between Serbia , Albania and North Macedonia .
• Diversification of energy supplies .
( what would that mean ?
is this a hint of Russian gas ? )
• A ban on the use of 5G equipment from “ unreliable suppliers ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company Huawei , which has already begun to deploy a network in Serbia ) .
• Implementation of court decisions regarding the Serbian Orthodox Church .
• Work with 69 countries that criminalize homosexuality to advance its decriminalization .
• Recognize Hezbollah as a fully terrorist organization and fully implement measures to contain its operations and financial activity .
• Pristina agrees to an annual moratorium on applications for membership in international organizations .
Serbia agrees to a year-long moratorium campaign to revoke the recognition of independence , and will refrain from formal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international organizations not to recognize Kosovo as an independent state .
A significant point in support of recent US foreign diplomacy is the support of Israel , recognizing Jerusalem as its capital , and approving of its annexations .
This is also a part of this normalization deal .
Serbia agreed to open a chamber of commerce office in Jerusalem on September 20 , 2020 , as well as move its embassy to Jerusalem by July 1 , 2020 .
Kosovo and Israel agreed to mutually recognize each other .
It is unknown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Jerusalem , but it should presumably happen sooner or later .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Europe ’ s True Last Dictator : Montenegro President Djukanovic ’ s Party May Fall After 30 Years Of Power • President Of Self-Proclaimed Republic Of Kosovo Claims Decision To Form Army Is Irreversible

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On September 4th, US President Donald Trump issued a statement on the “historic commitment” of the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
The deal was signed in the White House.
“After a violent and tragic history and years of failed negotiations, my Administration proposed a new way of bridging the divide. By focusing on job creation and economic growth, the two countries were able to reach a real breakthrough on economic cooperation across a broad range of issues.”
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that “this is a good agreement for Serbia, and it would sound triumphant if I said congratulations, but I am sincerely pleased, like all members of our delegation, with what we have achieved.”
The Serbian side considers the categorical refusal to recognize the “republic” as a special victory – after all, the Kosovar prime minister Avdulla Hotti previously stated that he was going to discuss only the issue of recognition of independence in Washington.
One of the key points of the agreement is the inclusion of Kosovo in the Balkan “mini-Schengen”, which will put an end to the anti-Serb trade provocations of Pristina, which previously imposed 100% Duties on Serbian goods imported into the territory of the region.
It is also planned to build a number of highways and railways – in particular, railways through Kosovo to the Albanian port city of Durres on the Adriatic coast. Pristina promised to stop attempts to seize the property of the Serbian Orthodox Church and respect court decisions in her regard, and the United States promised to become the guarantor of the safety of Serbian shrines and clergy in Kosovo.
The US is using the chance to push some other agenda in the normalization of ties, these include: the participation of both sides in promoting the decriminalization of homosexuality, the recognition of Hezbollah as a terrorist organization and the ban on the use of 5G equipment from “unreliable suppliers” (this obvious relates to China) look rather strange.
Both sides agreed on the following points:
Implementation of the agreements on road and rail traffic between Belgrade (as well as Niš) and Pristina.
Participation of Kosovo in the “mini-Schengen”, previously announced in the agreements between Serbia, Albania and North Macedonia.
Mutual recognition of diplomas and qualification certificates.
Diversification of energy supplies. (what would that mean? is this a hint of Russian gas?)
A ban on the use of 5G equipment from “unreliable suppliers” (an obvious allusion to the Chinese company Huawei, which has already begun to deploy a network in Serbia).
Implementation of court decisions regarding the Serbian Orthodox Church.
Work with 69 countries that criminalize homosexuality to advance its decriminalization.
Recognize Hezbollah as a fully terrorist organization and fully implement measures to contain its operations and financial activity.
Pristina agrees to an annual moratorium on applications for membership in international organizations. Serbia agrees to a year-long moratorium campaign to revoke the recognition of independence, and will refrain from formal or informal requests from any countries or international organizations not to recognize Kosovo as an independent state.
A significant point in support of recent US foreign diplomacy is the support of Israel, recognizing Jerusalem as its capital, and approving of its annexations.
This is also a part of this normalization deal.
Serbia agreed to open a chamber of commerce office in Jerusalem on September 20, 2020, as well as move its embassy to Jerusalem by July 1, 2020.
Kosovo and Israel agreed to mutually recognize each other. It is unknown if Kosovo would also open an embassy in Jerusalem, but it should presumably happen sooner or later.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
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southfront--2020-09-05--Will September 2020 Be A Historic Month For Afghanistan, Or Just More Of The Same?

After interminable delays , internal political stalemates and ruptures , all aggravated by the machinations of external powers – the US and NATO most drastically , but India and Pakistan are also heavily involved as well as many others - , as well as cycles of escalating violence and widespread military clashes associated primarily but by no means exclusively with the resolute Taliban insurgency , Afghanistan is heading into what could be one of the most important periods in its modern history – perhaps the most important since the times of the British invasion and the expulsion of the British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last official obstacle that has been blocking the start of the intra-Afghan peace dialogue has been removed notwithstanding a last minute complication .
The Taliban have released some additional Afghan security forces personnel , and the Afghan government has released almost all of the remaining Taliban prisoners that were to be released pursuant to the US-Taliban agreement signed in February of this year .
Less than a dozen Taliban prisoners remain to be released , the delay due to protests by the Australian and French governments .
Nonetheless , the greatest practical barrier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the armed protagonists – still plagues the country , as the military forces of both sides seem to be trying to make some final gains on the battlefield , presumably thinking this might somehow improve their negotiating positions or give them a psychological advantage as the commencement of dialogues appears to be imminent .
The Afghan people and international organizations have called on both sides to immediately declare a ceasefire to demonstrate that they are indeed committed to the peace process .
The final date for the dialogues to start still has not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to hold up the organization of the respective delegations that will spearhead the discussions to be held in Doha .
Since the US Taliban deal was concluded in February , the prisoner swap aspect of the deal has been presented by the Taliban and the Afghan government has the major obstacle blocking the initiation of direct dialogue .
The Taliban stated on many occasions that they were willing to start talks within a week once the remaining prisoners were released .
The Afghan government eventually released around 400 hundred prisoners , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around 70 ) that they claimed were ‘ extremely dangerous ’ and could constitute a security threat .
Afghan officials also claimed that the Taliban had not released all of their prisoners .
It later transpired that government officials were being pressured by Western countries participating in the military occupation of Afghanistan not to release Taliban members who killed some of their soldiers .
Last month , Afghan President Ashraf Ghani referred the final decision as to whether the remaining Taliban prisoners should be released to a traditional gathering known as a Loya @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders and tribal elders , which endorsed the release of the prisoners as a way to initiate peace and also called on all parties to stop blocking negotiations and establish an inclusive and comprehensive peace process with utmost urgency .
It appears that the prisoner-swap obstacle has finally been removed , and both sides are undertaking the final preparations to send their delegations to Doha for talks to commence .
The TOLO news outlet reported earlier today : “ Sources close to the Afghan government ’ s negotiating team said that their delegation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Suhail Shaheen , a spokesman for the Taliban ’ s political office in Doha , in a note to TOLOnews said that an exact date for the start of the intra-Afghan talks has not been set due to some technical issues .
Sources familiar with the Afghan peace process said one of the core issues for the delay is that the Taliban has so far not completed the members of their peace negotiating team in Doha .
Yesterday , Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in a cabinet meeting said all obstructions have been removed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , stating that the negotiations will kick off in near future .
“ We do not have any hostage with the Taliban from our commandos or others .
The Taliban is also confident that their hardcore prisoners were released , so there should be no more excuses , ” said Abdul Rahim Rahin , a former MP .
“ The Taliban ’ s delegation has so far not returned from Pakistan to Qatar .
Also , the seven Taliban prisoners against whom Australia and France expressed their reservations have not been transferred to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , ” said Sami Yousuzai , a freelance journalist in Doha.
” Two Taliban officials have confirmed that almost all of the remaining prisoners had been freed , but that those opposed by France and Australia were still in government custody .
The Afghan government and Taliban will go ahead with peace talks in Doha despite the fate of seven jailed insurgents remaining undecided because of objections to their release from France and Australia , officials said .
“ The issue of the seven prisoners is still being discussed within the involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the peace talks , ” said Shared Abdul Kabir Wasiq , deputy spokesman for the Office of National Security .
Australia and France had officially asked Kabul not to release Taliban prisoners convicted of killing their citizens .
“ Foreign forces occupying Afghanistan were killed in battles .
They were in Afghanistan illegally and we were fighting them .
We have not raised issues of violations and thousands of our people being killed by the foreigners because we want to turn over a new leaf and work towards bringing peace to Afghanistan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Taliban ’ s political office in Doha , told Al Jazeera last week .
“ If occupation powers insist on reviving old issues , it would hamper the peace process.
” There are many accounts of US , NATO and Australian soldiers and military officials having committed war crimes during their occupation of Afghanistan .
LINK1 , LINK2 , LINK3 The topic of war crimes committed by fighters and officials in the chain of command from all sides is one of the topics that the negotiations will have to tackle .
Abdullah @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for National Reconciliation which has official responsibility for efforts to reach a peace agreement with the Taliban , has stated that a ceasefire will top the agenda at the talks .
There has also been a lot of activity on the battlefields over the last few days .
Earlier this week at least three members of Afghan government forces were killed after Taliban fighters launched a complex attack on a military base in the eastern city of Gardez .
Abdul Rahman Mangal , spokesman for Paktia provincial authorities , said at least five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adding that security forces killed both attackers in a gun battle in the provincial capital .
In the attack , a suicide car bomber targeted the entrance gate of the base in Gardez , then two gunmen started shooting at the public protection forces – a paramilitary-style force funded by the government .
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack .
Earlier today , Afghan military officials claimed that at least 46 Taliban insurgents were killed and 37 others wounded in clashes with the Afghan security forces in the North of Afghanistan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cast a grave shadow over the prospects that substantive progress can be made in the dialogues , both sides continue to express they are making final preparations to send their delegations to Doha , possibly even later today or tomorrow .
The armed clashes therefore seem to be an effort to give a final boost to their field positions and public statements before talks begin in earnest .
Last week , the final list of members of the High Council for National Reconciliation were in a decree by President Ghani .
Based on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the High Council for National Reconciliation is to be an independent council , but its members must be officially approved by presidential decree .
It is not yet clear if the composition of the High Council is going to become the latest in a long series of political squabbles between Ghani and Abdullah since the disputed presidential election , squabbles that have prevented the formation of a unity government and the peace process for much of this year as each has sought to outmanoeuvre the other for control over political and administrative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ met with mixed reactions by major political parties and politicians .
Some of the people proposed on the official list , such as former president Hamid Karzai , have rejected their membership , while most others have readily accepted their membership of the council .
The council comprises 10 members with designated leadership roles , nine women members , nine senior government officials , and 19 members who include representatives of several major political factions and former mujahideen leaders .
The final composition listed in the decree would mean that Abdullah has seven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement he should have six deputies .
These include his two running mates in the 2019 presidential election .
Former president Hamid Karzai in a statement said he will continue his efforts for peace , but rejected his membership in the council , saying he would serve in no government institution .
Hizb-e-Islami , led by Gulbuddin Hekmatyar , called the membership of mujahideen and political leaders in the council symbolic and ineffective .
“ The formation of a powerful high council that does not have the nature of a government mission is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Hafiz-Ur-Rahman Naqi , the deputy head of Hizb-e-Islami .
Salahuddin Rabbani , former minister of foreign affairs , is also included in the 46-member list .
Rabbani in a statement said that he was not consulted about the inclusion of his name on the list ; therefore , he rejects his membership .
The decision also faced criticism by the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission .
“ No woman is leading any structure of peace that has been created by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan .
This is very concerning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commission Shahrzad Akbar said .
Former mujahideen leader Mohammad Ismail Khan , whose name is also on the list , said he has some considerations about the position of some figures in the council .
“ The list that was announced includes more important and more influential figures than in the past , but the important matter is the leadership of the High Council for National Reconciliation , ” he said .
“ They have included big names on the list who can not be there as members ( of the council ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the High Peace Council and a close aide to Abdullah , called this a list of “ Ghani ’ s favorites.
” Second Vice President Sarwar Danesh , meanwhile , called the council inclusive and an important step for peace in the country .
“ Let ’ s see whether the council will start its work , considering the difference among those whose names have been added ( to the list ) , ” Danesh said .
LINK Apart from the appointment of senior government figures to leadership roles on the council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again been left aside and voiceless as their future is being determined .
The political hacks apparently don ’ t think they have anything positive to contribute to the process .
According to another report : Other politicians said the list announced by the Presidential Palace requires some changes because some political figures , elders and youth should be added to it .
“ If there isn ’ t a change ( on the list ) and there will be the same figures who were against the Taliban their whole lives and fought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not want these individuals to be there again , ” said Sayed Ishaq Gailani , head of the National Solidarity Movement of Afghanistan .
“ There are internal and international pressures on the Presidential Palace .
Foreigners at the moment do not have the will for peace but are looking after their short-term interests , ” said Khan Kabuli , an analyst .
On Monday , Abdullah stated his opposition to President Ashraf Ghani ’ s list of council members , saying that according to the political agreement it is the authority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appoint its members .
Abdullah quoted the agreement signed in May , saying : “ The head of the High Council of National Reconciliation forms the council in consultation with the president , sides and political leaders , speakers of the houses of parliament , the civil society and elites of the country.
” Therefore , Abdullah said , there is no need for a presidential decree on the formation of the council , and the selection of members falls under the authority of the head of the High Council for National Reconciliation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of international security and humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan .
The current format , a US-led and commanded military operation with an agglomeration of NATO military forces plus a few other US allies and associates , must be replaced by a legitimate and transparent international mission , one that is not commanded and controlled by the US and NATO .
Ultimately , the need for and parameters of such an international mission would ideally by decided by the Afghans , in a manner that leaves no doubt that a large majority of the people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC : • US Pressures International Criminal Court Prosecutor In Attempt To Sabotage Investigation Of War Crimes In Afghanistan • US on again off again partial troop withdrawal from Iraq on again

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After interminable delays, internal political stalemates and ruptures, all aggravated by the machinations of external powers – the US and NATO most drastically, but India and Pakistan are also heavily involved as well as many others -, as well as cycles of escalating violence and widespread military clashes associated primarily but by no means exclusively with the resolute Taliban insurgency, Afghanistan is heading into what could be one of the most important periods in its modern history – perhaps the most important since the times of the British invasion and the expulsion of the British Empire in the mid-nineteenth century.
The last official obstacle that has been blocking the start of the intra-Afghan peace dialogue has been removed notwithstanding a last minute complication. The Taliban have released some additional Afghan security forces personnel, and the Afghan government has released almost all of the remaining Taliban prisoners that were to be released pursuant to the US-Taliban agreement signed in February of this year. Less than a dozen Taliban prisoners remain to be released, the delay due to protests by the Australian and French governments.
Nonetheless, the greatest practical barrier – the widespread violence and clashes between the armed protagonists – still plagues the country, as the military forces of both sides seem to be trying to make some final gains on the battlefield, presumably thinking this might somehow improve their negotiating positions or give them a psychological advantage as the commencement of dialogues appears to be imminent.
The Afghan people and international organizations have called on both sides to immediately declare a ceasefire to demonstrate that they are indeed committed to the peace process.
The final date for the dialogues to start still has not been finalized as logistical and technical problems continue to hold up the organization of the respective delegations that will spearhead the discussions to be held in Doha.
Prisoner swap
Since the US Taliban deal was concluded in February, the prisoner swap aspect of the deal has been presented by the Taliban and the Afghan government has the major obstacle blocking the initiation of direct dialogue. The Taliban stated on many occasions that they were willing to start talks within a week once the remaining prisoners were released.
The Afghan government eventually released around 400 hundred prisoners, but refused to release the remaining prisoners (around 70) that they claimed were ‘extremely dangerous’ and could constitute a security threat. Afghan officials also claimed that the Taliban had not released all of their prisoners. It later transpired that government officials were being pressured by Western countries participating in the military occupation of Afghanistan not to release Taliban members who killed some of their soldiers.
Last month, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani referred the final decision as to whether the remaining Taliban prisoners should be released to a traditional gathering known as a Loya Jirga — a grand assembly of Afghan leaders and tribal elders, which endorsed the release of the prisoners as a way to initiate peace and also called on all parties to stop blocking negotiations and establish an inclusive and comprehensive peace process with utmost urgency.
It appears that the prisoner-swap obstacle has finally been removed, and both sides are undertaking the final preparations to send their delegations to Doha for talks to commence. The TOLO news outlet reported earlier today:
“Sources close to the Afghan government’s negotiating team said that their delegation is likely to depart on Saturday. Suhail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban’s political office in Doha, in a note to TOLOnews said that an exact date for the start of the intra-Afghan talks has not been set due to some technical issues. Sources familiar with the Afghan peace process said one of the core issues for the delay is that the Taliban has so far not completed the members of their peace negotiating team in Doha. Yesterday, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in a cabinet meeting said all obstructions have been removed from the way of the peace talks, stating that the negotiations will kick off in near future. “We do not have any hostage with the Taliban from our commandos or others. The Taliban is also confident that their hardcore prisoners were released, so there should be no more excuses,” said Abdul Rahim Rahin, a former MP. “The Taliban’s delegation has so far not returned from Pakistan to Qatar. Also, the seven Taliban prisoners against whom Australia and France expressed their reservations have not been transferred to Qatar from Bagram (district in Afghanistan),” said Sami Yousuzai, a freelance journalist in Doha.”
Two Taliban officials have confirmed that almost all of the remaining prisoners had been freed, but that those opposed by France and Australia were still in government custody.
The Afghan government and Taliban will go ahead with peace talks in Doha despite the fate of seven jailed insurgents remaining undecided because of objections to their release from France and Australia, officials said.
“The issue of the seven prisoners is still being discussed within the involved parties but it is unlikely to delay the peace talks,” said Shared Abdul Kabir Wasiq, deputy spokesman for the Office of National Security.
Australia and France had officially asked Kabul not to release Taliban prisoners convicted of killing their citizens.
“Foreign forces occupying Afghanistan were killed in battles. They were in Afghanistan illegally and we were fighting them. We have not raised issues of violations and thousands of our people being killed by the foreigners because we want to turn over a new leaf and work towards bringing peace to Afghanistan,” Suhail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban’s political office in Doha, told Al Jazeera last week.
“If occupation powers insist on reviving old issues, it would hamper the peace process.”
There are many accounts of US, NATO and Australian soldiers and military officials having committed war crimes during their occupation of Afghanistan. LINK1, LINK2, LINK3
The topic of war crimes committed by fighters and officials in the chain of command from all sides is one of the topics that the negotiations will have to tackle.
Abdullah Abdullah, head of the High Council for National Reconciliation which has official responsibility for efforts to reach a peace agreement with the Taliban, has stated that a ceasefire will top the agenda at the talks.
Ongoing violence and clashes
There has also been a lot of activity on the battlefields over the last few days. Earlier this week at least three members of Afghan government forces were killed after Taliban fighters launched a complex attack on a military base in the eastern city of Gardez.
Abdul Rahman Mangal, spokesman for Paktia provincial authorities, said at least five other officers were wounded in the attack, adding that security forces killed both attackers in a gun battle in the provincial capital. In the attack, a suicide car bomber targeted the entrance gate of the base in Gardez, then two gunmen started shooting at the public protection forces – a paramilitary-style force funded by the government. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.
Earlier today, Afghan military officials claimed that at least 46 Taliban insurgents were killed and 37 others wounded in clashes with the Afghan security forces in the North of Afghanistan.
The 209 Shaheen corps said Friday in a statement that Taliban planned to set attacks on security forces in Qaisar district of Faryab, with a large numbers of fighters that the militants recruited in Badghis, Ghor, Baghlan, Kundoz and Helmand provinces. According to the statement, Mullah Nasiruddin, the commander of Red-Unit of the Taliban, Mullah Khalilullah, the Taliban commander for Qaisar and Mullah Norulhoda, a key Taliban commander were among the killed. “Several stations of the Taliban were destroyed,” the statement said. “Some weapons and ammunition as well as several vehicles were seized by the security forces.” LINK
While the armed clash continue to cast a grave shadow over the prospects that substantive progress can be made in the dialogues, both sides continue to express they are making final preparations to send their delegations to Doha, possibly even later today or tomorrow. The armed clashes therefore seem to be an effort to give a final boost to their field positions and public statements before talks begin in earnest.
The High Council for National Reconciliation
Last week, the final list of members of the High Council for National Reconciliation were in a decree by President Ghani. Based on the Ghani-Abdullah political agreement signed in May, the High Council for National Reconciliation is to be an independent council, but its members must be officially approved by presidential decree.
It is not yet clear if the composition of the High Council is going to become the latest in a long series of political squabbles between Ghani and Abdullah since the disputed presidential election, squabbles that have prevented the formation of a unity government and the peace process for much of this year as each has sought to outmanoeuvre the other for control over political and administrative appointments.
The membership of the council met with mixed reactions by major political parties and politicians. Some of the people proposed on the official list, such as former president Hamid Karzai, have rejected their membership, while most others have readily accepted their membership of the council.
The council comprises 10 members with designated leadership roles, nine women members, nine senior government officials, and 19 members who include representatives of several major political factions and former mujahideen leaders.
The final composition listed in the decree would mean that Abdullah has seven deputies, while based on the political agreement he should have six deputies. These include his two running mates in the 2019 presidential election. Former president Hamid Karzai in a statement said he will continue his efforts for peace, but rejected his membership in the council, saying he would serve in no government institution. Hizb-e-Islami, led by Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, called the membership of mujahideen and political leaders in the council symbolic and ineffective. “The formation of a powerful high council that does not have the nature of a government mission is the main principle for effective intra-Afghan negotiations,” said Hafiz-Ur-Rahman Naqi, the deputy head of Hizb-e-Islami. Salahuddin Rabbani, former minister of foreign affairs, is also included in the 46-member list. Rabbani in a statement said that he was not consulted about the inclusion of his name on the list; therefore, he rejects his membership. The decision also faced criticism by the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission. “No woman is leading any structure of peace that has been created by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. This is very concerning for me,” chairperson of the commission Shahrzad Akbar said. Former mujahideen leader Mohammad Ismail Khan, whose name is also on the list, said he has some considerations about the position of some figures in the council. “The list that was announced includes more important and more influential figures than in the past, but the important matter is the leadership of the High Council for National Reconciliation,” he said. “They have included big names on the list who cannot be there as members (of the council). Mohammad Karim Khalili, former head of the High Peace Council and a close aide to Abdullah, called this a list of “Ghani’s favorites.” Second Vice President Sarwar Danesh, meanwhile, called the council inclusive and an important step for peace in the country. “Let’s see whether the council will start its work, considering the difference among those whose names have been added (to the list),” Danesh said. LINK
Apart from the appointment of senior government figures to leadership roles on the council, Afghanistan’s youth has once again been left aside and voiceless as their future is being determined. The political hacks apparently don’t think they have anything positive to contribute to the process.
According to another report:
Other politicians said the list announced by the Presidential Palace requires some changes because some political figures, elders and youth should be added to it. “If there isn’t a change (on the list) and there will be the same figures who were against the Taliban their whole lives and fought against the Taliban, I think we will not want these individuals to be there again,” said Sayed Ishaq Gailani, head of the National Solidarity Movement of Afghanistan. “There are internal and international pressures on the Presidential Palace. Foreigners at the moment do not have the will for peace but are looking after their short-term interests,” said Khan Kabuli, an analyst. On Monday, Abdullah stated his opposition to President Ashraf Ghani’s list of council members, saying that according to the political agreement it is the authority of the head of the council to appoint its members. Abdullah quoted the agreement signed in May, saying: “The head of the High Council of National Reconciliation forms the council in consultation with the president, sides and political leaders, speakers of the houses of parliament, the civil society and elites of the country.” Therefore, Abdullah said, there is no need for a presidential decree on the formation of the council, and the selection of members falls under the authority of the head of the High Council for National Reconciliation.
A future multilateral peace force
Another crucial matter is the future of international security and humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan. The current format, a US-led and commanded military operation with an agglomeration of NATO military forces plus a few other US allies and associates, must be replaced by a legitimate and transparent international mission, one that is not commanded and controlled by the US and NATO.
Ultimately, the need for and parameters of such an international mission would ideally by decided by the Afghans, in a manner that leaves no doubt that a large majority of the people support the decision.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Hello, Nick! Lukashenko’s Scandalous Recordings Unveiled

On September 3 , President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko claimed at a meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that the statements on the poisoning of politician Alexey Navalny with a substance from the Novichok group were falsification .
Lukashenko stated that , a few days earlier , the Belarusian intelligence service had intercepted a conversation between Germany and Poland , which proved that there was no poisoning of Navalny .
He promised to pass the recording to the the Federal Security Service of Russia .
On September 4 , the Belarusian telegram channel “ PoolPervogo ” , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ published a recording of this conversation .
Warsaw : Hello !
Good afternoon , Nick .
How are things going ?
Berlin : Everything seems to be going according to plan… The materials on Navalny are ready .
They will be transmitted to the Chancellor ’ s office .
We are waiting for her statement .
Warsaw : Is the poisoning confirmed for sure ?
Berlin : Look , Mike , it ’ s not that important in this case… There is a war going on… And all methods are good in war @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must discourage Putin from prying into the Belorussian affairs … The best way is to drown him in internal Russian problems , and there are a lot of them !
Especially , they have elections in the near future , voting day in the Russian regions .
Berlin : That ’ s what we ’ re doing .
How are things going in Belarus , in general ?
Warsaw : To be honest , not good enough .
President Lukashenko turned out to be a tough nut to crack .
They are professionals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Russia supports them .
Officials and the military are loyal to the President .
The rest is person , not on the phone .
Berlin : Yes , Yes , I understand , then see you later , bye .
The submitted materials caused a wave of criticism .
Apparently , Lukashenko hastened to publish the recordings without sufficient background technical data .
Several questions raise , such as Who are the callers ?
What communication channels the conversation was conducted on ?
Whether the conversation was encrypted ?
All this information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Lukashenko , who chose the path of rapid integration with Russia , had such a strong desire to please President Putin that he hastened and , as a result , neglected the quality of the provided information , having published the data without waiting for the examination of the Russian Federal Security Service .
In general , this conversation corresponds to the current international agenda .
One side claims to have found a substance from the Novichok group that had poisoned Navalny , without providing objective proofs to confirm its statements .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the “ irrefutable evidence ” provided by the other side .
Of course , both opponents , making such loud statements , pursues a common goal , to influence as much of the audience as possible .
It seems that the modern information society has moved to a format where there is no objective reality anymore .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • To Nobody ’ s Surprise , Navalny Was Allegedly Poisoned With Novichok

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On September 3, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko claimed at a meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that the statements on the poisoning of politician Alexey Navalny with a substance from the Novichok group were falsification. Lukashenko stated that, a few days earlier, the Belarusian intelligence service had intercepted a conversation between Germany and Poland, which proved that there was no poisoning of Navalny. He promised to pass the recording to the the Federal Security Service of Russia.
On September 4, the Belarusian telegram channel “PoolPervogo”, which is close to the Presidential press service, published a recording of this conversation.
Warsaw: Hello! Good afternoon, Nick. How are things going? Berlin: Everything seems to be going according to plan… The materials on Navalny are ready. They will be transmitted to the Chancellor’s office. We are waiting for her statement. Warsaw: Is the poisoning confirmed for sure? Berlin: Look, Mike, it’s not that important in this case… There is a war going on… And all methods are good in war. Warsaw: I agree, we must discourage Putin from prying into the Belorussian affairs … The best way is to drown him in internal Russian problems, and there are a lot of them! Especially, they have elections in the near future, voting day in the Russian regions. Berlin: That’s what we’re doing. How are things going in Belarus, in general? Warsaw: To be honest, not good enough. President Lukashenko turned out to be a tough nut to crack. They are professionals and well organized. It is clear that Russia supports them. Officials and the military are loyal to the President. The rest is person, not on the phone. Berlin: Yes, Yes, I understand, then see you later, bye. Warsaw: Bye.
The submitted materials caused a wave of criticism. Apparently, Lukashenko hastened to publish the recordings without sufficient background technical data. Several questions raise, such as Who are the callers? What communication channels the conversation was conducted on? Whether the conversation was encrypted? All this information is not disclosed.
It is likely that Lukashenko, who chose the path of rapid integration with Russia, had such a strong desire to please President Putin that he hastened and, as a result, neglected the quality of the provided information, having published the data without waiting for the examination of the Russian Federal Security Service.
In general, this conversation corresponds to the current international agenda. One side claims to have found a substance from the Novichok group that had poisoned Navalny, without providing objective proofs to confirm its statements. At this time, many questions arise about the “irrefutable evidence” provided by the other side. Of course, both opponents, making such loud statements, pursues a common goal, to influence as much of the audience as possible. It seems that the modern information society has moved to a format where there is no objective reality anymore.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Chengdu J-10 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (Infographics)

Click to see the full-size image The Chengdu J-10 is a Chinese single-engine , lightweight multirole fighter aircraft .
The @ @ @ @ @ and canard design , with fly-by-wire flight controls .
It is produced by the Chengdu @ @ @ @ @ THE TOPIC :

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The Chengdu J-10 is a Chinese single-engine, lightweight multirole fighter aircraft. The warplane has a delta wing and canard design, with fly-by-wire flight controls. It is produced by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Peace Agreement Signed In Sudan

Peace Agreement Signed In Sudan

The government of Sudan announced on Wednesday that it has met with rebel leaders to begin implementing a deal that aims to end a war in which hundreds of thousands of people have been killed .
Rebel commanders from the Sudan Revolutionary Front ( SRF ) and the transitional government met face-to-face for the first time on Tuesday , one day after striking the deal .
The meeting held on Tuesday was the first joint meeting to be held after the finalization of the accord .
Alhadi Idris , the head of the SRF rebel coalition , stated to SUNA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matters relating to the agenda to be followed .
The agreement aims to put an end to 17 years of civil war and conflicts which in turn followed decades of intermittent conflict that have ravaged the country since the 1950s .
The SRF , founded in 2011 , is an alliance of five armed rebel groups and four political movements from the vast western region of Darfur , and the southern states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile .
The peace deal signed on Monday covers issues related to security , land ownership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the return of people who fled their homes because of fighting .
It also provides for the dismantling of rebel forces and the integration of the fighters into the national army .
Sudan ’ s transitional government , which took power after the April 2019 ouster of then President Omar al-Bashir , has made forging peace with rebel groups a priority .
Fighting in the Darfur conflict has killed approximately 300,000 people and displaced 2.5 million others , according to the UN .
The rebels groups are largely drawn from non-Arab minority populations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the national government based in Khartoum .
Sudan ’ s Revolutionary Front comprises four armed movements that have been fighting in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states in the south , and in Darfur , in the west .
The movements in Darfur include Sudan ’ s Liberation Army , spearheaded by Arko Minnawi , and the Justice and Equality Movement , led by Jibril Ibrahim , brother of founder Khalil Ibrahim , a former minister in Al-Bashir ’ s government .
The agreement proposes a federal system for Sudan and grants autonomy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regions .
According to the terms of the agreement , the Darfur region , which was split into five states , will be reunified into one area after seven months and have its own governor .
Revenues and resources of the two states shall be divided between the federal authority , which will receive 60 per cent , and local authorities , that will be given 40 per cent .
According to the agreement , Sudan ’ s Revolutionary Front shall be allocated 25 per cent of cabinet and parliamentary seats ( including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 300 members which is still yet to be established ) , and three seats in the 11-member Sovereign Council .
The country ’ s transitional period will be extended for 39 months starting 1 September , as per the accord , during which time the armed movements ’ forces should be disbanded and legally re-integrated as part of several security arrangements .
Sudan ’ s transitional period was originally scheduled to last for 39 months starting in the second half of 2019 , a few months after mass mobilizations and protests toppled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Al-Bashir in April of that year .
The pact follows 10 months of negotiations in Juba .
Absent from the accord , however , were the Sudan Liberation Army , led by Abdel-Wahed Mohamed Nour , which controls strategic locations in Darfur ’ s Marrah Mountains , and a faction of the Sudan People ’ s Liberation Movement-North , headed by Abdel-Aziz Al-Helw , whose forces are engaged in South Kordofan conflicts .
Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok said on Tuesday that the deal “ creates a new Sudanese state , and remedies all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appealed to the two holdout rebel movements who refused to take part to join the peace process .
LINK Comprehensive peace in Sudan has been the priority of Abdalla Hamdok ’ s government , which is now focused on resuming peace negotiations as soon as possible with the Sudan ’ s People ’ s Liberation Movement-North and the Sudan Liberation Movement .
The government ’ s reform programme strongly depends on spreading peace to all corners of Sudan so that reconstruction efforts can begin in earnest .
On Thursday , one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is joining the peace process .
Sudan ’ s government has reached an agreement with the group laying out conditions for the armed faction to recognize the peace deal signed with other rebel groups earlier this week .
Making Sudan a secular state is the core focus of the agreement signed on Thursday by Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and Abdul Aziz Alhilu , leader of the Sudan People ’ s Liberation Movement – North ( SPLM-N ) .
The agreement declares that Sudan ’ s constitution should be based on the principle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be geared towards ending discrimination in the country .
“ Sudan is a multi-racial , multi-ethnic , multi-religious and multi-cultural society .
Full recognition and accommodation of these diversities must be affirmed , ” reads the declaration seen by Anadolu Agency .
“ For Sudan to become a democratic country where the rights of all citizens are enshrined , the constitution should be based on the principle of ‘ separation of religion and state ’ in the absence of which the right to self-determination must be respected.
” “ Freedom of belief and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in full to all Sudanese citizens.
” “ The state shall not establish an official religion .
No citizen shall be discriminated against based on their religion.
” The understanding is expected to draw a strong reaction from many of former Sudanese ruler Omar al-Bashir ’ s supporters , who have held multiple protests against what they say is the transitional government ’ s failure and corruption .
LINK Previous peace accords in Sudan , including the Darfur Peace Agreement signed in Nigeria in 2006 and another signed in Qatar in 2010 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Sudan government and people need tangible support from the international community , especially influential countries and international financial institutions .
Regional powers , including Egypt and the Gulf , have promised their support for the peace accord and expressed their hope that it will contribute to Sudan ’ s stability and help Khartoum focus on pressing issues , foremost among which is the plummeting economy , and launch local development programmes , the absence of which has contributed to the lack of peace and stability .
LINK On Friday the UN Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the peace agreement between the government of Sudan and a faction of the North Sudan People ’ s Liberation Movement ( SPLM- N ) .
According to a press statement issued by his office , the UN remains fully committed to supporting all efforts for a sustainable peace in the country .
Guterres also called for the Sudan Liberation Movement , the last major rebel group holding off from signing the accord , to join the peace process and help find a comprehensive solution to the conflict in the territory .
LINK Sudan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the raging geopolitical conflicts in the region at a moment when it can least afford it .
It is facing strong pressure from the US and Israel to normalize relations with the latter , the former using the punitive economic and financial sanctions it imposed on the country years ago as a bargaining chip – unless Khartoum normalizes relations , it is unlikely that the Trump administration or the US Congress will lift the sanctions .
Western countries and analysts have also expressed concern over the fact that Russia has had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last few years .
Numerous detailed reports have accused Russia of supporting the ‘ regime of the day ’ , or of manipulating particular political factions and social sectors , against the interests of the Sudanese people in a cynical pursuit of power and resources .
LINK1 , LINK2 There are very few major international and regional actors that could not be accused of similar things .
The people of Sudan and the transitional government will have to tread very carefully and be vigilant as to the nature and objectives of all foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period .
Moreover , Sudan still has some of its troops deployed as mercenaries in the conflict in Yemen fighting under the command of the ‘ Saudi-led coalition ’ .
Although Sudan has significantly reduced the size of the military force deployed there , last reports suggested around 5,000 remain .
There have also been occasional reports that the UAE has been trying to persuade the military leadership to send troops to fight in Libya , invariably drawing vehement denials from official spokesmen .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • A reconsideration of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Libya • Sudan seeks tripartite agreement that includes Egypt prior to concluding agreement with Ethiopia on controversial dam project • Saudi-led blockade of Yemen how did it all start will it ever end

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The government of Sudan announced on Wednesday that it has met with rebel leaders to begin implementing a deal that aims to end a war in which hundreds of thousands of people have been killed. Rebel commanders from the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF) and the transitional government met face-to-face for the first time on Tuesday, one day after striking the deal.
The meeting held on Tuesday was the first joint meeting to be held after the finalization of the accord. Alhadi Idris, the head of the SRF rebel coalition, stated to SUNA news agency that the meeting considered preliminary matters relating to the agenda to be followed.
“We discussed in this meeting what will happen going forward,” Idris said, adding that there were “still issues related to the timeline to implement the deal”.
The agreement aims to put an end to 17 years of civil war and conflicts which in turn followed decades of intermittent conflict that have ravaged the country since the 1950s.
The SRF, founded in 2011, is an alliance of five armed rebel groups and four political movements from the vast western region of Darfur, and the southern states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile.
“Our priorities now are economic progress and humanitarian issues related to people displaced by the conflicts,” said Minni Minawi, who leads a faction of the Darfur-based Sudan Liberation Movement.
The peace deal signed on Monday covers issues related to security, land ownership, transitional justice, power sharing and the return of people who fled their homes because of fighting.
It also provides for the dismantling of rebel forces and the integration of the fighters into the national army.
Sudan’s transitional government, which took power after the April 2019 ouster of then President Omar al-Bashir, has made forging peace with rebel groups a priority. Fighting in the Darfur conflict has killed approximately 300,000 people and displaced 2.5 million others, according to the UN.
The rebels groups are largely drawn from non-Arab minority populations that long protested against Arab domination of the national government based in Khartoum. Sudan’s Revolutionary Front comprises four armed movements that have been fighting in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states in the south, and in Darfur, in the west.
The movements in Darfur include Sudan’s Liberation Army, spearheaded by Arko Minnawi, and the Justice and Equality Movement, led by Jibril Ibrahim, brother of founder Khalil Ibrahim, a former minister in Al-Bashir’s government.
The agreement proposes a federal system for Sudan and grants autonomy to the South Kordofan and Blue Nile regions. According to the terms of the agreement, the Darfur region, which was split into five states, will be reunified into one area after seven months and have its own governor.
Revenues and resources of the two states shall be divided between the federal authority, which will receive 60 per cent, and local authorities, that will be given 40 per cent.
According to the agreement, Sudan’s Revolutionary Front shall be allocated 25 per cent of cabinet and parliamentary seats (including 75 seats in the transitional legislative assembly of 300 members which is still yet to be established), and three seats in the 11-member Sovereign Council.
The country’s transitional period will be extended for 39 months starting 1 September, as per the accord, during which time the armed movements’ forces should be disbanded and legally re-integrated as part of several security arrangements.
Sudan’s transitional period was originally scheduled to last for 39 months starting in the second half of 2019, a few months after mass mobilizations and protests toppled the government headed by long-time president Omar Al-Bashir in April of that year.
The pact follows 10 months of negotiations in Juba. Absent from the accord, however, were the Sudan Liberation Army, led by Abdel-Wahed Mohamed Nour, which controls strategic locations in Darfur’s Marrah Mountains, and a faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, headed by Abdel-Aziz Al-Helw, whose forces are engaged in South Kordofan conflicts.
Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok said on Tuesday that the deal “creates a new Sudanese state, and remedies all injustices of the past”, and appealed to the two holdout rebel movements who refused to take part to join the peace process. LINK
Comprehensive peace in Sudan has been the priority of Abdalla Hamdok’s government, which is now focused on resuming peace negotiations as soon as possible with the Sudan’s People’s Liberation Movement-North and the Sudan Liberation Movement. The government’s reform programme strongly depends on spreading peace to all corners of Sudan so that reconstruction efforts can begin in earnest.
On Thursday, one of the two main holdout rebel groups announced that it is joining the peace process. Sudan’s government has reached an agreement with the group laying out conditions for the armed faction to recognize the peace deal signed with other rebel groups earlier this week.
Making Sudan a secular state is the core focus of the agreement signed on Thursday by Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and Abdul Aziz Alhilu, leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – North (SPLM-N).
The agreement declares that Sudan’s constitution should be based on the principle of separation of religion and state and be geared towards ending discrimination in the country.
“Sudan is a multi-racial, multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural society. Full recognition and accommodation of these diversities must be affirmed,” reads the declaration seen by Anadolu Agency. “For Sudan to become a democratic country where the rights of all citizens are enshrined, the constitution should be based on the principle of ‘separation of religion and state’ in the absence of which the right to self-determination must be respected.” “Freedom of belief and worship and religious practice shall be guaranteed in full to all Sudanese citizens.” “The state shall not establish an official religion. No citizen shall be discriminated against based on their religion.”
The understanding is expected to draw a strong reaction from many of former Sudanese ruler Omar al-Bashir’s supporters, who have held multiple protests against what they say is the transitional government’s failure and corruption. LINK
Previous peace accords in Sudan, including the Darfur Peace Agreement signed in Nigeria in 2006 and another signed in Qatar in 2010, have failed to resolve the conflict.
The Sudan government and people need tangible support from the international community, especially influential countries and international financial institutions. Regional powers, including Egypt and the Gulf, have promised their support for the peace accord and expressed their hope that it will contribute to Sudan’s stability and help Khartoum focus on pressing issues, foremost among which is the plummeting economy, and launch local development programmes, the absence of which has contributed to the lack of peace and stability. LINK
On Friday the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres welcomed the signing of the peace agreement between the government of Sudan and a faction of the North Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM- N).
According to a press statement issued by his office, the UN remains fully committed to supporting all efforts for a sustainable peace in the country. Guterres also called for the Sudan Liberation Movement, the last major rebel group holding off from signing the accord, to join the peace process and help find a comprehensive solution to the conflict in the territory. LINK
Sudan is however at risk of becoming embroiled in the raging geopolitical conflicts in the region at a moment when it can least afford it. It is facing strong pressure from the US and Israel to normalize relations with the latter, the former using the punitive economic and financial sanctions it imposed on the country years ago as a bargaining chip – unless Khartoum normalizes relations, it is unlikely that the Trump administration or the US Congress will lift the sanctions.
Western countries and analysts have also expressed concern over the fact that Russia has had a significant presence in the country over the last few years. Numerous detailed reports have accused Russia of supporting the ‘regime of the day’, or of manipulating particular political factions and social sectors, against the interests of the Sudanese people in a cynical pursuit of power and resources. LINK1, LINK2
There are very few major international and regional actors that could not be accused of similar things. The people of Sudan and the transitional government will have to tread very carefully and be vigilant as to the nature and objectives of all foreign actors in the country during this critical period.
Moreover, Sudan still has some of its troops deployed as mercenaries in the conflict in Yemen fighting under the command of the ‘Saudi-led coalition’. Although Sudan has significantly reduced the size of the military force deployed there, last reports suggested around 5,000 remain. There have also been occasional reports that the UAE has been trying to persuade the military leadership to send troops to fight in Libya, invariably drawing vehement denials from official spokesmen.
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southfront--2020-09-05--ISIS Shares Photos Of Recent Attack On Nigerian Army Base In Borno

On September 5 , ISIS ’ news agency , Amaq , released photos of a recent attack by the group ’ s terrorists on Nigerian army base in the northeastern state of Borno .
The attack targeted the town of Magumeri a few days ago .
ISIS terrorists occupied the town for several hours , during which they stormed a base of the Nigerian Armed Forces .
ISIS claimed that its terrorists killed ten Nigerian service members in the attack .
However , Amaq photos showed three bodies only .
The photos , however , prove that ISIS terrorists destroyed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Nigerian Armed Forces .
The terrorists also seized a pick-up truck and loads of light weapons and ammunition .
This was not the only recent attack by ISIS cell in Borno .
The group ’ s terrorists also ambushed a convoy of the Nigerian Armed Forces between the towns of Cross and Milefour .
Ten soldiers were allegedly killed .
ISIS in Nigeria , formerly known as “ Boko Haram , ” intensified its attacks in Borno State recently .
Government forces are making immense effort to counter the group .
MORE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Of War Against ISIS In Nigeria ’ s Borno ( Video )

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On September 5, ISIS’ news agency, Amaq, released photos of a recent attack by the group’s terrorists on Nigerian army base in the northeastern state of Borno.
The attack targeted the town of Magumeri a few days ago. ISIS terrorists occupied the town for several hours, during which they stormed a base of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
ISIS claimed that its terrorists killed ten Nigerian service members in the attack. However, Amaq photos showed three bodies only.
The photos, however, prove that ISIS terrorists destroyed an armored vehicle and a truck of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The terrorists also seized a pick-up truck and loads of light weapons and ammunition.
This was not the only recent attack by ISIS cell in Borno. The group’s terrorists also ambushed a convoy of the Nigerian Armed Forces between the towns of Cross and Milefour. Ten soldiers were allegedly killed.
ISIS in Nigeria, formerly known as “Boko Haram,” intensified its attacks in Borno State recently. Government forces are making immense effort to counter the group.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Another Joint Russian-Turkish Training In Syria’s Greater Idlib

The Russian Military Police and the Turkish Armed Forces had conducted a joint training in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib , deputy head of the coordination center in the de-escalation zone of Idlib , Yevgeny Polyakov , announced on September 5 .
According to Polyakov , the troops trained on emergency situations that they may face while conducting joint patrols on the M4 highway , which links Lattakia and Aleppo .
Russian and Turkish troops trained to improve coordination and cooperation during the patrols , to call for support in case of any attacks and to evacuate troops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint training between Russian and Turkish troops .
The first training took place in the town of Ternaba on August 31 and September 1 .
The Russian Military Police and the Turkish Armed Forces have conducted 25 patrols on the M4 highway in Greater Idlib since the signing of the ceasefire agreement on March 5 .
Jihadists targeted the patrols on several occasions , most recently on August 25 .
Russia and Turkey appear to be determined to secure the M4 highway .
This is the main term of the March 5 agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC :

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The Russian Military Police and the Turkish Armed Forces had conducted a joint training in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib, deputy head of the coordination center in the de-escalation zone of Idlib, Yevgeny Polyakov, announced on September 5.
“Training was held to repel attacks by armed groups on military convoys,” Polyakov said, according to RT.
According to Polyakov, the troops trained on emergency situations that they may face while conducting joint patrols on the M4 highway, which links Lattakia and Aleppo.
Russian and Turkish troops trained to improve coordination and cooperation during the patrols, to call for support in case of any attacks and to evacuate troops and equipment.
This was the second joint training between Russian and Turkish troops. The first training took place in the town of Ternaba on August 31 and September 1.
The Russian Military Police and the Turkish Armed Forces have conducted 25 patrols on the M4 highway in Greater Idlib since the signing of the ceasefire agreement on March 5. Jihadists targeted the patrols on several occasions, most recently on August 25.
Russia and Turkey appear to be determined to secure the M4 highway. This is the main term of the March 5 agreement on Greater Idlib.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Russian Forces Restored BTR-80 Damaged In Recent Attack On M4 Highway (Video)

The Russian military had restored a BTR-80 wheeled armored personnel carrier ( APC ) that was damaged in the July 14 suicide attack in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib , RusVesna revealed on September 5 .
The attack , which was carried out with a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device ( SVBIED ) , targeted a joint Russian-Turkish patrol on the M4 highway .
The SVBIED blew up a few meters away from the BTR-80 .
Nevertheless , the Russian APC sustained minimum damage .
Three of the crew were slightly injured .
After repairing the BTR-80 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armor , reading “ Несокрушимый , ” which translates to “ indestructible ” in English .
A second BTR-80 survived an attack on August 25 .
The APC was also taking part in a joint Russian-Turkish patrol on the M4 highway in Greater Idlib when it was targeted with a rocket-propelled grenade .
A mysterious jihadi group calling itself the “ Khattab al-Shishani Brigades ” claimed responsibility for both attacks on joint Russian-Turkish patrols .
The BTR-80 , which was developed in the Soviet Union in the 80s , has proven its capability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ version deployed by Russian forces in Syria is upgraded with a remotely-controlled tower with a 30 mm and a 7,62 mm machine guns .
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The Russian military had restored a BTR-80 wheeled armored personnel carrier (APC) that was damaged in the July 14 suicide attack in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib, RusVesna revealed on September 5.
The attack, which was carried out with a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED), targeted a joint Russian-Turkish patrol on the M4 highway.
The SVBIED blew up a few meters away from the BTR-80. Nevertheless, the Russian APC sustained minimum damage. Three of the crew were slightly injured.
After repairing the BTR-80, Russian personnel left a message on the armor, reading “Несокрушимый,” which translates to “indestructible” in English.
A second BTR-80 survived an attack on August 25. The APC was also taking part in a joint Russian-Turkish patrol on the M4 highway in Greater Idlib when it was targeted with a rocket-propelled grenade.
A mysterious jihadi group calling itself the “Khattab al-Shishani Brigades” claimed responsibility for both attacks on joint Russian-Turkish patrols.
The BTR-80, which was developed in the Soviet Union in the 80s, has proven its capability to operate in urban warfare. The version deployed by Russian forces in Syria is upgraded with a remotely-controlled tower with a 30 mm and a 7,62 mm machine guns.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Map Update: Saudi-led Forces Retreat From More Areas In Yemen’s Baydha, Marib

Click to see the full-size image The Houthis ( Ansar Allah ) continue their offensive operation against Saudi-led forces in @ @ @ @ @ and Baydha .
Over the past week , the Houthis have captured the al-Maheliyah district @ @ @ @ @ of the Saudi-led coalition and advanced on their positions in the al-Rahba district .
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The Houthis (Ansar Allah) continue their offensive operation against Saudi-led forces in the Yemeni provinces of Marib and Baydha. Over the past week, the Houthis have captured the al-Maheliyah district, Marib province from proxies of the Saudi-led coalition and advanced on their positions in the al-Rahba district.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Military Situation In Syria’s Greater Idlib On September 5, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria ’ s Greater Idlib : @ @ @ @ @ and Turkish-backed forces were reported in the Daghilbash area in the countryside of Al-Bab city @ @ @ @ @ SAA and Turkish-backed forces were reported in the al-Barah area , north of Hama .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria’s Greater Idlib:
Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham arrested notorious French jihadist Omar Diaby in Greater Idlib;
Clashes between the SDF and Turkish-backed forces were reported in the Daghilbash area in the countryside of Al-Bab city;
Clashes between the SAA and Turkish-backed forces were reported in the al-Barah area, north of Hama.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Undercover ISIS Cell Apprehended By Syrian, Iranian Forces In Deir Ezzor

On September 5 , Syrian and Iranian forces apprehended and undercovered ISIS cell in Deir Ezzor ’ s southern countryside , according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) .
The cell ’ s members were wearing Iranian military uniforms and driving a vehicle with pro-Iranian slogans in the city of al-Mayadin when they were arrested by a joint force of the Syrian Military Intelligence Directorate , the National Defense Forces and the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) .
The joint force arrested five members of the cell after stymieing them in al-Mayadin ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t show any resistance .
According to the SOHR , the same terrorists entered al-Mayadin before to buy supplies for their comrades in the Homs desert .
The Homs desert , which lays between Deir Ezzor and Homs , became a stronghold for ISIS cells in central Syria in the last few years .
Hundreds of terrorists are reportedly taking shelter there .
Over the last few months , ISIS terrorists launched dozens of attacks on government forces in Homs , Deir Ezzor , Hama and Raqqa from their hideouts in the Homs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Russian Aerospace Forces are now taking measures to contain the group ’ s threat .
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On September 5, Syrian and Iranian forces apprehended and undercovered ISIS cell in Deir Ezzor’s southern countryside, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
The cell’s members were wearing Iranian military uniforms and driving a vehicle with pro-Iranian slogans in the city of al-Mayadin when they were arrested by a joint force of the Syrian Military Intelligence Directorate, the National Defense Forces and the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The joint force arrested five members of the cell after stymieing them in al-Mayadin’s market. The terrorists didn’t show any resistance.
“There were an ISIS cell that came from al-Badiya [the Homs desert] disguised with the uniforms of the Iranian IRGC to buy food and some supplies from the market,” the SOHR’s report reads.
According to the SOHR, the same terrorists entered al-Mayadin before to buy supplies for their comrades in the Homs desert.
The Homs desert, which lays between Deir Ezzor and Homs, became a stronghold for ISIS cells in central Syria in the last few years. Hundreds of terrorists are reportedly taking shelter there.
Over the last few months, ISIS terrorists launched dozens of attacks on government forces in Homs, Deir Ezzor, Hama and Raqqa from their hideouts in the Homs desert. The Syrian Arab Army and the Russian Aerospace Forces are now taking measures to contain the group’s threat.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Ammo Depot Of Turkish-Backed Ahrar Al-Sham Exploded In Northern Aleppo (Videos)

On September 5 , a large ammo depot in the outskirts of the Turkish-occupied town of Azaz in the northern @ @ @ @ @ London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights , said the ammo depot , which was located @ @ @ @ @ and the nearby village of Kafr Kalbin , had belonged to the Turkish-backed Ahrar al-Sham @ @ @ @ @ oppositions armed groups , the Ahrar al-Sham is known for storing weapons and ammunition in @ @ @ @ @ , an ammunition depot of the Turkish-backed al-Shamiya Front located in the outskirt of the @ @ @ @ @ The depot ’ s explosion claimed the lives of three children and a woman at @ @ @ @ @ In the last few years , several reports claimed that Turkey would force its proxies @ @ @ @ @ from civilian areas .
However , nothing was done .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : @ @ @ @ @ Turkish-Backed Faction Killed , Injured In Northern Aleppo IED Attack ( Video )

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On September 5, a large ammo depot in the outskirts of the Turkish-occupied town of Azaz in the northern Aleppo countryside exploded.
The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said the ammo depot, which was located on a road between Azaz and the nearby village of Kafr Kalbin, had belonged to the Turkish-backed Ahrar al-Sham Movement.
“[The explosion] caused fires in houses surrounding the depot’s location, there is no information on any human losses,” the monitoring group said in a report.
Like many other oppositions armed groups, the Ahrar al-Sham is known for storing weapons and ammunition in civilian areas.
انفجار مستودع ذخيرة بمدينة إعزاز بريف حلب pic.twitter.com/GFyHGDCNp3 — Nagi N. Najjar (@NagiNajjar) September 5, 2020
Last July, an ammunition depot of the Turkish-backed al-Shamiya Front located in the outskirt of the town of Shamarin exploded. The depot’s explosion claimed the lives of three children and a woman at a nearby refugee camp.
In the last few years, several reports claimed that Turkey would force its proxies to remove their military installations from civilian areas. However, nothing was done.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Military Situation In Iraq On September 5, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Iraq : • The Basra Operations @ @ @ @ @ inspection operation in the Basra governorate , in which the Iraqi Army units , the @ @ @ @ @ Border Guard and the Emergency Police take part ; • 2 Iraqi soldiers were killed @ @ @ @ @ the Wadi Tharthar area , northwest of Baghdad ; • According to Iraqi MoD , @ @ @ @ @ in the Hamrin Mountain area .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Iraq:
The Basra Operations Command began a major security inspection operation in the Basra governorate, in which the Iraqi Army units, the Marine Corps Brigade, the Border Guard and the Emergency Police take part;
2 Iraqi soldiers were killed in an IED explosion in the Wadi Tharthar area, northwest of Baghdad;
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met with President Erdogan and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu;
According to Iraqi MoD, Iraqi F-16s targeted ISIS hideouts in the Hamrin Mountain area.
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southfront--2020-09-05--Lebanese Army Intelligence Arrested ISIS Cell Linked To Recent Attack

On September 5 , the Lebanese Armed Forces announced that its Intelligence Directorate had arrested the members of a terrorist cell linked to ISIS .
In an official statement , the armed forces said the cell ’ s members were arrested in a series of security operations in the North and Beqaa provinces .
The cell ’ s members received military training and gathered weapons , which were seized by the armed forces .
They also carried out a series of thefts to finance their operations .
The Lebanese Armed Forces revealed that the cell was led by none other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” who is still on the run .
Al-Talawi was reportedly involved the August 21 Kaftoun attack .
The son of the northern town ’ s mayor , Alaa Fares , and two police officers , Fadi Sarkis and George Sarkis were killed in the attack that was carried out by gunmen riding a car owned by al-Talawi .
The arrest of the cell will likely reveal new information on Kaftoun attack , which may have been carried out on ISIS orders .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Hezbollah Withdrew More Than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lebanon Erupts In Violent Protest As Political Factions Appoint New Prime Minister

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On September 5, the Lebanese Armed Forces announced that its Intelligence Directorate had arrested the members of a terrorist cell linked to ISIS.
In an official statement, the armed forces said the cell’s members were arrested in a series of security operations in the North and Beqaa provinces. The cell’s members received military training and gathered weapons, which were seized by the armed forces. They also carried out a series of thefts to finance their operations.
“The eradication of this cell comes in the framework of preemptive operations and permanent follow-up of terrorist organizations and cells associated with them,” the statement reads.
The Lebanese Armed Forces revealed that the cell was led by none other than wanted terrorist “Khaled Al-Talawi,” who is still on the run.
Al-Talawi was reportedly involved the August 21 Kaftoun attack. The son of the northern town’s mayor, Alaa Fares, and two police officers, Fadi Sarkis and George Sarkis were killed in the attack that was carried out by gunmen riding a car owned by al-Talawi.
The arrest of the cell will likely reveal new information on Kaftoun attack, which may have been carried out on ISIS orders.
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southfront--2020-09-06--Syrian Army Is Conducting Large Combing Operation In Central Region With Russian Support – Report

The Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) is conducting a new large-scale combing operation in the country ’ s central region , the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) reported on September 6 .
According to the UK-based monitoring group , the operation is covering eastern Homs , eastern Hama , southern Aleppo and southern Raqqa .
SAA troops are searching for ISIS cells and their hideouts .
The Russian Aerospace Forces ( VKS ) are supporting the SAA ’ s new operation .
VKS warplanes are conducting intense airstrikes on ISIS remnants in the region .
Hundreds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , are taking shelter in the Homs desert , in the heart of Syria ’ s central region .
The terrorists are reportedly receiving support from U.S.-backed fighters in the southeastern area of al-Tanaf .
Last month , Russian and Syrian forces conducted a large-scale operation in the desert .
As a result , 327 terrorists were eliminated .
The new operation could limit ISIS activities in the central region on the short term .
Only a large ground offensive could end the group ’ s presence in the region .
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The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) was conducting a new large-scale combing operation in the country’s central region, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported on September 6.
According to the UK-based monitoring group, the operation is covering eastern Homs, eastern Hama, southern Aleppo and southern Raqqa. SAA troops are searching for ISIS cells and their hideouts.
The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) are supporting the SAA’s new operation. VKS warplanes are conducting intense airstrikes on ISIS remnants in the region.
“[The operation] is an attempt to contain the escalating operations of the group, the combing operation also enjoys large Russian support and backing through intensive daily airstrikes by Russian warplanes,” the SOHR’s report reads.
Hundreds of ISIS terrorists, including senior commanders, are taking shelter in the Homs desert, in heart of Syria’s central region. The terrorists are reportedly receiving support from U.S.-backed fighters in the southeastern area of al-Tanaf.
Last month, Russian and Syrian forces conducted a large-scale operation in the desert. As a result, 327 terrorists were eliminated.
The new operation could limit ISIS activities in the central region in the short term. Only a large ground offensive could end the group’s presence in the region.
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southfront--2020-09-06--Military Situation In Syria On September 6, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria : • Turkish-backed militants ’ @ @ @ @ @ the villages of Kafr Nubl and Maarat Mukhis in the southern countryside of Idlib ; @ @ @ @ @ SAA ) artillery shelled Turkish-backed militants ’ positions near the villages of Safuhin , Kafr @ @ @ @ @ Russian police conducted a military patrol in the vicinity of the city of Al-Malikiyah ; @ @ @ @ @ a convoy of weapons and logistical supplies to Al-Shaddadi military base , south of Hasakah @ @ @ @ @ military convoy with heavy equipment entered Idlib through the Kafr Lusin checkpoint ; • Turkish-backed @ @ @ @ @ positions near the town of Tal Tamar ; • The Russian Military Police and the @ @ @ @ @ second joint training in Greater Idlib .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria:
Turkish-backed militants’ artillery shelled SAA positions near the villages of Kafr Nubl and Maarat Mukhis in the southern countryside of Idlib;
Syrian Arab Army (SAA) artillery shelled Turkish-backed militants’ positions near the villages of Safuhin, Kafr Uwaid and Kansafra;
Russian police conducted a military patrol in the vicinity of the city of Al-Malikiyah;
The US coalition sent a convoy of weapons and logistical supplies to Al-Shaddadi military base, south of Hasakah;
A large Turkish military convoy with heavy equipment entered Idlib through the Kafr Lusin checkpoint;
Turkish-backed militants’ artillery shelled SDF positions near the town of Tal Tamar;
The Russian Military Police and the Turkish Armed Forces conducted the second joint training in Greater Idlib.
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southfront--2020-09-06--Syrian Army, Turkish Forces Exchange Artillery Fire In Greater Idlib

On September 6 , the Turkish military and the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) exchanged artillery fire in the northwestern region of Greater Idlib .
The Turkish Millitary shelled in the morning SAA positions in Saraqib city and the nearby town of Kafr Nabl .
No losses whatsoever were reportedly as a result of Turkish shelling .
The SAA responded within a few hours by launching a series of rocket strikes on Turkish-backed militants ’ positions in the towns of Fatterah , Sufuhon , Kafar Aweed and Kansafra in the southern Idlib countryside .
A day earlier , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on SAA positions in Saraqib .
As a result , a series of clashes broke out between the army and the militates on several fronts around Greater Idlib .
Turkey , which maintains thousands of troops in Greater Idlib , promised to neutralize all radicals in the region under the March 5 agreement with Russia .
This promise is yet to be fulfilled by Ankara .
The SAA and its allies may resume ground operations in Greater Idlib , if Turkey fail to honor its commitments under the March 5 agreement .
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On September 6, the Turkish military and the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) exchanged artillery fire in the northwestern region of Greater Idlib.
In the morning, the Turkish military shelled SAA positions in Saraqib city and the nearby town of Kafr Nabl. No losses were reported as a result of Turkish shelling.
The SAA responded within a few hours by launching a series of rocket strikes on Turkish-backed militants’ positions in the towns of Fatterah, Sufuhon, Kafar Aweed and Kansafra in the southern Idlib countryside.
A day earlier, the Turkish military carried out similar artillery strikes on SAA positions in Saraqib. As a result, a series of clashes broke out between the army and the militants on several fronts around Greater Idlib.
Turkey, which maintains thousands of troops in Greater Idlib, promised to neutralize all radical militants in the region under the March 5 agreement with Russia. This promise is yet to be fulfilled by Ankara.
The SAA and its allies may resume ground operations in Greater Idlib, if Turkey fails to honor its commitments under the March 5 agreement.
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