southfront--2020-04-02--China Locks Down County In Fear Of COVID-19 Resurgence, As U.S. Confirmed Cases Soar

On April 1st , a country in China ’ s central Henan province said that it had banned all outbound movement of people , following several cases of coronavirus infection in the area .
No one can travel out of Jia county without proper authorization , the county , which has a population of about 600,000 , said in a post on its social media account .
Residents are prohibited from leaving their homes , even for work , unless they have clearance for that .
Henan province reported one confirmed case in Luohe city on March 28th .
Local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in contact with two doctors based in Jia county who later tested positive for the virus even though they had showed no symptoms .
Bloomberg ’ s Simon Flint wrote presciently overnight , “ as China ’ s economy restarts , there is every risk infection rates to tick higher once again , requiring renewed control measures and potentially the beginning of a stop-start pattern of lockdowns followed by eased restrictions.
” The closing of outbound movement came shortly after unnamed US intelligence officials said that the US intelligence committee had issued a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has concealed the extent of the coronavirus outbreak in its country , under-reporting both total cases and deaths it ’ s suffered from the disease .
“ Their numbers seem to be a little bit on the light side , and I ’ m being nice when I say that , ” US President Donald Trump said , but he said he hadn ’ t received any intelligence report .
“ The reality is that we could have been better off if China had been more forthcoming , ” Vice President Mike Pence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The claim that the United States has more coronavirus deaths than China is false , ” Senator Ben Sasse , a Nebraska Republican , said in a statement after Bloomberg News published its report .
“ Without commenting on any classified information , this much is painfully obvious : The Chinese Communist Party has lied , is lying , and will continue to lie about coronavirus to protect the regime.
” Deborah Birx , the State Department immunologist advising the White House on its response to the outbreak , said that China ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world about the nature of the virus .
In response , Hu Xijin , editor-in-chief of China ’ s state-run Global Times , on his Weibo account said that this was an attempt to divert attention from surging deaths in the US by blaming China .
As of April 1st , the US has more confirmed cases than both Italy and Spain combined .
Spain is on the way to surpass Italy in just a matter of days , if Italy ’ s daily cases continue their downward trend , as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the trend downwards .
Meanwhile , according to confirmed data , China has less than 2,000 active cases .
Russia made a leap , going up by 771 cases , to a total of 3,548 .
Meanwhile , in Germany , Thomas Schaefer , the finance minister of Germany ’ s Hesse state committed suicide on March 28th , apparently after becoming “ deeply worried ” over how to cope with the economic fallout from the coronavirus .
Schaefer , 54 , was found dead near a railway track .
The Wiesbaden prosecution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died by suicide .
Bouffier recalled that Schaefer , who was Hesse ’ s finance chief for 10 years , had been working “ day and night ” to help companies and workers deal with the economic impact of the pandemic .
Hesse is home to Germany ’ s financial capital Frankfurt , where major lenders like Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank have their headquarters .
The European Central Bank is also located in Frankfurt .
The US , on April 1st , reached 215,000 active cases of COVID-19 , with US Navy hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Angeles to assist in offloading some of the strain on the hospitals in the cities .
An engineer in Los Angeles , attempted to ram a train at full speed in the USNS Mercy , docked near Los Angeles , and was arrested and charged .
San Pedro resident Eduardo Moreno was charged with one count of train wrecking after admitting to authorities that he deliberately derailed a locomotive in an attempt to crash it into the USNS Mercy .
Moreno told the LA Port Police that he did it because he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believed was involved in a “ government takeover ” plot or some other mysterious conspiracy .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Russian Aid To U.S .
Came From Sanctioned State-Owned Company • In Video : Russian Humanitarian Aid Arrives In New York City • How Did The “ Three Little Piglets ” Prepare For The “ Wolf ” : Russia , U.S. , China ’ s Response To COVID-19

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On April 1st, a country in China’s central Henan province said that it had banned all outbound movement of people, following several cases of coronavirus infection in the area.
No one can travel out of Jia county without proper authorization, the county, which has a population of about 600,000, said in a post on its social media account.
Residents are prohibited from leaving their homes, even for work, unless they have clearance for that.
Henan province reported one confirmed case in Luohe city on March 28th. Local authorities said the infected person had been in contact with two doctors based in Jia county who later tested positive for the virus even though they had showed no symptoms.
Bloomberg’s Simon Flint wrote presciently overnight, “as China’s economy restarts, there is every risk infection rates to tick higher once again, requiring renewed control measures and potentially the beginning of a stop-start pattern of lockdowns followed by eased restrictions.”
“Multiply that pattern by the growing number of countries in lockdown – and the unknown impact of a rampant virus in nations with fewer restrictions – and the much hoped for V-shaped recovery could quickly become a series of W’s”… and since “there is no blueprint for jump-starting a stalled economy in the midst of a global pandemic, a fresh waves of infections following production restarts could quickly snuff out any rally in global stocks.”
The closing of outbound movement came shortly after unnamed US intelligence officials said that the US intelligence committee had issued a report to the White House claiming China has concealed the extent of the coronavirus outbreak in its country, under-reporting both total cases and deaths it’s suffered from the disease.
“Their numbers seem to be a little bit on the light side, and I’m being nice when I say that,” US President Donald Trump said, but he said he hadn’t received any intelligence report. “The reality is that we could have been better off if China had been more forthcoming,” Vice President Mike Pence on April 1st on CNN. “The claim that the United States has more coronavirus deaths than China is false,” Senator Ben Sasse, a Nebraska Republican, said in a statement after Bloomberg News published its report. “Without commenting on any classified information, this much is painfully obvious: The Chinese Communist Party has lied, is lying, and will continue to lie about coronavirus to protect the regime.”
Deborah Birx, the State Department immunologist advising the White House on its response to the outbreak, said that China’s public reporting influenced assumptions elsewhere in the world about the nature of the virus.
“The medical community made — interpreted the Chinese data as: This was serious, but smaller than anyone expected,” she said at a news conference on March 31st. “Because I think probably we were missing a significant amount of the data, now that what we see happened to Italy and see what happened to Spain.”
In response, Hu Xijin, editor-in-chief of China’s state-run Global Times, on his Weibo account said that this was an attempt to divert attention from surging deaths in the US by blaming China.
“To fake the casualty data, which departments will be deployed? Who will implement the plan?,” Hu said. “It will involve many different departments in many places to get the total numbers. If one of them is faking once, they have to fake it all the time. The risk of screwing up could be very high.”
As of April 1st, the US has more confirmed cases than both Italy and Spain combined.
Spain is on the way to surpass Italy in just a matter of days, if Italy’s daily cases continue their downward trend, as it appears that Rome is succeeding in pushing the trend downwards.
Meanwhile, according to confirmed data, China has less than 2,000 active cases.
Russia made a leap, going up by 771 cases, to a total of 3,548.
Meanwhile, in Germany, Thomas Schaefer, the finance minister of Germany’s Hesse state committed suicide on March 28th, apparently after becoming “deeply worried” over how to cope with the economic fallout from the coronavirus.
Schaefer, 54, was found dead near a railway track. The Wiesbaden prosecution’s office said they believe he died by suicide.
“We are in shock, we are in disbelief and above all we are immensely sad,” state premier Volker Bouffier said in a recorded statement.
Der Tod von Finanzminister Thomas Schäfer erschüttert die Landespolitik. Ministerpräsident Volker Bouffier spricht davon, dass die Sorgen um die Zukunft den Minister „erdrückt“ haben könnten. https://t.co/ElLhkQCjRo — FAZ Rhein-Main (@FAZ_RheinMain) March 29, 2020
“The death of finance minister Thomas Schäfer shakes state politics. Prime Minister Volker Bouffier says that concerns about the future could have “crushed” the minister.”
Bouffier recalled that Schaefer, who was Hesse’s finance chief for 10 years, had been working “day and night” to help companies and workers deal with the economic impact of the pandemic.
“Today we have to assume that he was deeply worried,” said Bouffier, a close ally of Chancellor Angela Merkel. “It’s precisely during this difficult time that we would have needed someone like him,” he added.
Hesse is home to Germany’s financial capital Frankfurt, where major lenders like Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank have their headquarters. The European Central Bank is also located in Frankfurt.
The US, on April 1st, reached 215,000 active cases of COVID-19, with US Navy hospital ships docked near New York and Los Angeles to assist in offloading some of the strain on the hospitals in the cities.
An engineer in Los Angeles, attempted to ram a train at full speed in the USNS Mercy, docked near Los Angeles, and was arrested and charged.
Train operator at Port of Los Angeles charged with intentional derailment of locomotive near the Navy hospital ship Mercy.https://t.co/Y5fZEj0Vz4 — US Attorney L.A. (@USAO_LosAngeles) April 1, 2020
San Pedro resident Eduardo Moreno was charged with one count of train wrecking after admitting to authorities that he deliberately derailed a locomotive in an attempt to crash it into the USNS Mercy.
Moreno told the LA Port Police that he did it because he was suspicious of the Mercy, which he believed was involved in a “government takeover” plot or some other mysterious conspiracy.
CALIFORNIA: A train engineer at the Port of Los Angeles is facing federal charges for allegedly charging a locomotive off tracks toward the USNS Mercy, which he suspected is tied to a government plot, federal prosecutors said Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/RnEC5cecGb — News (@News_USA_MSM) April 2, 2020
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southfront--2020-04-02--Russian Aid To U.S. Came From Sanctioned State-Owned Company

On April 1st , the Russian medical aid arrived in New York , which currently has 83,901 confirmed cases of COVID-19 .
The aid includes personal protective equipment ( PPE ) and other medical supplies .
Notably , this includes the Aventa-M ventilators , produced by the Ural Instrument Engineering Plant .
It is part of the Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies , which itself is a part of Rostec .
On July 16th , 2014 the Obama administration imposed sanctions through the US Department of Treasury ’ s Office of Foreign Assets Control ( OFAC ) by adding Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nationals List ( SDN ) in retaliation for the situation in Ukraine and the events of Crimea .
As part of the Entity List , the US reasonably believes that the Russian company is involved in , or poses a significant risk of being or becoming involved in , activities that are contrary to the national security or foreign policy of the United States .
As such , export to the US of these companies is generally prohibited , US citizens , businesses and generally anybody associated with the US is impeded from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Yet , they just received their ventilators , while the sanctions remain .
In addition to make things more interesting , the US Department of State published a statement , saying that the aid Russia sent was actually “ purchased ” by the US .
“ The United States is committed to the global fight against COVID-19 .
We are a generous and reliable contributor to crisis response and humanitarian action across the world , but we can not do it alone .
The countries of the G20 agreed last week to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we are working closely with these countries and others to ensure that critically needed supplies get to those in need .
As a follow-up to the March 30 phone call between President Trump and President Putin , the United States has agreed to purchase needed medical supplies , including ventilators and personal protection equipment , from Russia , which were handed over to FEMA on April 1 in New York City .
Both countries have provided humanitarian assistance to each other in times of crisis in the past and will no doubt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is a time to work together to overcome a common enemy that threatens the lives of all of us.
” Thus , it would appear that one of two things is true : • The US , itself , doesn ’ t pay any respect to its own sanctions , and the situation is so dire that it would do business with an Entity it itself deemed a threat to its interests ; • If the part about “ purchasing ” the aid is untrue , then it is so desperate for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from just about anybody , even sanctioned Entities ( except Cuba , of course ) , and is even willing to go as far as to attempt and save face by saying it paid for the aid .
Since neither US President Donald Trump , nor Russian President Vladimir Putin made any mention of these supplies being a sort of transaction , in the same way that no payment is expected from Italy for receiving 15 planes of equipment and Russian specialists .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • In Video : Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • How Did The “ Three Little Piglets ” Prepare For The “ Wolf ” : Russia , U.S. , China ’ s Response To COVID-19 • ‘ Strange Times ’ : Russia Is Sending Medical Aid To U.S. To Help It With COVID-19 Crsisis

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On April 1st, the Russian medical aid arrived in New York, which currently has 83,901 confirmed cases of COVID-19.
The aid includes personal protective equipment (PPE) and other medical supplies.
Among the supplies delivered by the An-124-100 are Aventa-M ventilators produced by the Ural Instrument Engineering Plant (UPZ). 9/https://t.co/BhVjLhFSOK pic.twitter.com/Hl9KGEP1IE — Rob Lee (@RALee85) April 1, 2020
Notably, this includes the Aventa-M ventilators, produced by the Ural Instrument Engineering Plant.
It is part of the Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies, which itself is a part of Rostec.
Regardless, returning to Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies.
On July 16th, 2014 the Obama administration imposed sanctions through the US Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) by adding Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies and other entities to the Specially Designated Nationals List (SDN) in retaliation for the situation in Ukraine and the events of Crimea.
Video of the Russian Air Force An-124-100 (RA-82038) military transport aircraft unloading medical supplies at JFK Airport in New York City. 10/https://t.co/TvGhoVzm4z pic.twitter.com/aGuhwugHWz — Rob Lee (@RALee85) April 1, 2020
As part of the Entity List, the US reasonably believes that the Russian company is involved in, or poses a significant risk of being or becoming involved in, activities that are contrary to the national security or foreign policy of the United States.
As such, export to the US of these companies is generally prohibited, US citizens, businesses and generally anybody associated with the US is impeded from doing any sort of business with them.
Yet, they just received their ventilators, while the sanctions remain.
In addition to make things more interesting, the US Department of State published a statement, saying that the aid Russia sent was actually “purchased” by the US.
“The United States is committed to the global fight against COVID-19. We are a generous and reliable contributor to crisis response and humanitarian action across the world, but we cannot do it alone. The countries of the G20 agreed last week to work together to defeat the coronavirus, and we are working closely with these countries and others to ensure that critically needed supplies get to those in need. As a follow-up to the March 30 phone call between President Trump and President Putin, the United States has agreed to purchase needed medical supplies, including ventilators and personal protection equipment, from Russia, which were handed over to FEMA on April 1 in New York City. Both countries have provided humanitarian assistance to each other in times of crisis in the past and will no doubt do so again in the future. This is a time to work together to overcome a common enemy that threatens the lives of all of us.”
Thus, it would appear that one of two things is true:
The US, itself, doesn’t pay any respect to its own sanctions, and the situation is so dire that it would do business with an Entity it itself deemed a threat to its interests; If the part about “purchasing” the aid is untrue, then it is so desperate for supplies, that it would receive them from just about anybody, even sanctioned Entities (except Cuba, of course), and is even willing to go as far as to attempt and save face by saying it paid for the aid.
Since neither US President Donald Trump, nor Russian President Vladimir Putin made any mention of these supplies being a sort of transaction, in the same way that no payment is expected from Italy for receiving 15 planes of equipment and Russian specialists.
April 2nd, 13:15 CET UPDATE: The spokeswoman of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maria Zakharova said that 50% of the medical aid provided to the US was purchased by the Washington, and the other half was covered by Russia, and specifically by the Russian Direct Investment fund.
“As you know, RDIF [Russian Direct Investment Fund] plays a significant role in Russian and American business cooperation, and supports American business in Russia,” she added.
The fund, in turn, noted the critical importance of dialogue between the two countries for the successful fight against coronavirus at the global level.
“RDIF paid half the cost of medical equipment for hospitals, hospitals and laboratories in New York. We also work with US companies to deliver the goods from the United States, if necessary, and expect US partners to pay half of its cost.”
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southfront--2020-04-02--Netanyahu Shows Proof Of Iranians Lying About COVID-19 Deaths: It’s Hallmark Channel Series

On April 1st , Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu provided evidence to his Cabinet that Iran was concealing deaths from COVID-19 with a video showing corpses being thrown in garbage dumps , Axios reported , citing two unnamed Ministers .
Apparently , just hours later it become known that the video had little to do with Iran , and was rather a scene from the 2007 Hallmark channel mini-series “ Pandemic.
” According to the sources , during a conference call , Netanyahu said he had seen a video of Iranian soldiers loading COVID-19 victims on trucks and then throwing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his national security adviser , Meir Ben-Shabbat , had shown him the video .
Naturally , since Iran is Israel ’ s nemesis and such a chance to undermine Tehran ’ s reputation and influence couldn ’ t be missed , the ministers asked to watch the video , thus Ben-Shabbat sent it to the entire cabinet .
The video had been shared by Iranians on social media over the last week , and it was passed on to Netanyahu without any confirmation of its authenticity .
However , the Prime Minister ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story , but said that only three ministers received it , after requesting it and they were warned that it came from social media and its contents were unclear .
Purportedly , the video is this , due to its sensitive content , those who wish to find it can do so on this link , and viewer discretion is advised .
And the video very clearly shows scenes from the mini-series Pandemic , as well as some of the deaths part of Hajj , the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca , which typically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is likely that scenes are from the 2015 “ stampede ” which saw upwards of 2,000 die .
The scene from the movie alone can be found here .
And the entire “ part 2 ” can also be found on YouTube , for those who would like to have the questionable honor of watching it , in its entirety .
Netanyahu is currently in isolation , after an aide tested positive for COVID-19 .
He , and his family were all tested , and the results came back negative , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isolation , until there ’ s further instructions of the ministry of health .
In the political scene in the country , Israel ’ s leading opposition candidate , Benny Gantz , has agreed to form a unity government with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , ending a political deadlock that forced three elections in less than a year .
The unexpected announcement sent shockwaves through Gantz ’ s Blue and White party over the weekend , and comes after he warned former allies in the party that leading Israel into a fourth round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gantz , a former general and Israel Defense Forces chief , had previously vowed he would never enter into a unity government with the rightist Netanyahu Under the agreement , Netanyahu will lead the country for 18 months , then allow Gantz to take over as prime minister .
Earlier in March , Gantz ’ s Blue and White party won 33 seats while Netanyahu ’ s Likud party won 36 seats , but neither party could form a majority coalition .
“ I am more at peace today than ever.
” Gantz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former allies .
“ I am at peace because I did what my nation needs .
These are unusual times .
Israel is in a state of emergency .
Hundreds of thousands of families are hunkering down in their homes .
There is a real sense of emergency in the face of a health threat that is taking human life and in the face of the threat of economic devastation.
” The draft of the coalition agreement permits funding for housing for both the prime minister and the so-called deputy , the role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half of the proposed unity government , with Netanyahu filling it for the second .
Netanyahu was indicted in the corruption cases against him , but there ’ s very little to come out of it , since he ’ s still PM , and then he ’ ll continue being deputy PM .
As of April 2nd , Israel has 6,211 confirmed cases of COVID-19 , and 30 fatalities .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • How Did The “ Three Little Piglets ” Prepare For The “ Wolf ” : Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To COVID-19

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On April 1st, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu provided evidence to his Cabinet that Iran was concealing deaths from COVID-19 with a video showing corpses being thrown in garbage dumps, Axios reported, citing two unnamed Ministers.
Apparently, just hours later it become known that the video had little to do with Iran, and was rather a scene from the 2007 Hallmark channel mini-series “Pandemic.”
According to the sources, during a conference call, Netanyahu said he had seen a video of Iranian soldiers loading COVID-19 victims on trucks and then throwing them at garbage dumps.
Allegedly, his national security adviser, Meir Ben-Shabbat, had shown him the video.
Naturally, since Iran is Israel’s nemesis and such a chance to undermine Tehran’s reputation and influence couldn’t be missed, the ministers asked to watch the video, thus Ben-Shabbat sent it to the entire cabinet.
The video had been shared by Iranians on social media over the last week, and it was passed on to Netanyahu without any confirmation of its authenticity.
However, the Prime Minister’s office didn’t deny the story, but said that only three ministers received it, after requesting it and they were warned that it came from social media and its contents were unclear.
Purportedly, the video is this, due to its sensitive content, those who wish to find it can do so on this link, and viewer discretion is advised.
And the video very clearly shows scenes from the mini-series Pandemic, as well as some of the deaths part of Hajj, the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, which typically has dozens of fatalities each year. It is likely that scenes are from the 2015 “stampede” which saw upwards of 2,000 die.
The scene from the movie alone can be found here. And the entire “part 2” can also be found on YouTube, for those who would like to have the questionable honor of watching it, in its entirety.
Netanyahu is currently in isolation, after an aide tested positive for COVID-19. He, and his family were all tested, and the results came back negative, but he said he planned to remain in isolation, until there’s further instructions of the ministry of health.
In the political scene in the country, Israel’s leading opposition candidate, Benny Gantz, has agreed to form a unity government with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, ending a political deadlock that forced three elections in less than a year.
The unexpected announcement sent shockwaves through Gantz’s Blue and White party over the weekend, and comes after he warned former allies in the party that leading Israel into a fourth round of elections was not an option.
Gantz, a former general and Israel Defense Forces chief, had previously vowed he would never enter into a unity government with the rightist Netanyahu
Under the agreement, Netanyahu will lead the country for 18 months, then allow Gantz to take over as prime minister.
Earlier in March, Gantz’s Blue and White party won 33 seats while Netanyahu’s Likud party won 36 seats, but neither party could form a majority coalition.
“I am more at peace today than ever.” Gantz said in a Facebook post to his former allies. “I am at peace because I did what my nation needs. These are unusual times. Israel is in a state of emergency. Hundreds of thousands of families are hunkering down in their homes. There is a real sense of emergency in the face of a health threat that is taking human life and in the face of the threat of economic devastation.”
The draft of the coalition agreement permits funding for housing for both the prime minister and the so-called deputy, the role Gantz is to have for the first half of the proposed unity government, with Netanyahu filling it for the second.
Netanyahu was indicted in the corruption cases against him, but there’s very little to come out of it, since he’s still PM, and then he’ll continue being deputy PM.
As of April 2nd, Israel has 6,211 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and 30 fatalities.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Watch: Riots Erupt In Israel As Police Enforce COVID-19 Quarantine, Synagogues Shuttered

Israeli media is reporting that riots have broken out in Arab as well as some Jewish neighborhoods of Israel over quarantine enforcement .
Particularly violent clashes in Jaffa also erupted after police confronted and tried to detain a man for reportedly breaking quarantine .
“ Dozens of people are demonstrating and rioting in Jaffa after police questioning of a man who apparently broke his mandatory self-quarantine led numerous residents to gather and confront the officers , ” the Times of Israel reports .
“ Protesters are clashing with police , burning tires and blocking roads.
” At least four have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Israeli police have been filmed in other parts of Israel as well , over a week after Tel Aviv imposed some of the strictest quarantine measures the world has yet seen , which authorizes police to physically enforce court-ordered isolation of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases .
“ Not Ramallah , Jaffa !
!
( in Hebrew ) the above video of the rare Wednesday clashes is captioned .
Typically such scenes have more commonly played out in occupied Arab West Bank neighborhoods , but increasingly it ’ s also Israel ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defy and flaunt national quarantine and self-isolation policies .
Police have in some cases moved to seal synagogues which ignored orders and stayed open , issuing fines to worshipers .
The Jerusalem Post reports the outbreak is set to get worse : Israel ’ s total number of cases is “ going up in a steady way , and that is not so good , ” Tal Brosh , head of infectious disease at Assuta Ashdod Medical Center , told The Jerusalem Post .
“ But that is also because the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My concern now is the haredim ” who are not practicing social distancing , which could lead to a spike in cases “ very quickly , ” he said .
“ If Bnei Brak residents do not stop gathering at weddings , prayers , mikvaot… we could see a surge within a few weeks.
” Conservative neighborhoods have come to view police quarantine enforcement as a severe violation of religious freedom .
There are increasing instances of rabbis and synagogues defying orders to conduct services across the country such as the following , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ below video is from the Orthodox stronghold of Beit Shemesh , located 19 milies west of Jerusalem , during clashes with police : A number of local outbreaks in Israeli cities have been traced to crowded and in some cases still-operating synagogues .
Towns close to more ultra-conservative neighborhoods have increasingly petitioned state authorities to crack down : Nationwide Israel is fast approaching 6,000 cases , among these 25 deaths , with numbers expected to climb much higher in the days ahead due to expanded testing .

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
Israeli media is reporting that riots have broken out in Arab as well as some Jewish neighborhoods of Israel over quarantine enforcement. Particularly violent clashes in Jaffa also erupted after police confronted and tried to detain a man for reportedly breaking quarantine.
“Dozens of people are demonstrating and rioting in Jaffa after police questioning of a man who apparently broke his mandatory self-quarantine led numerous residents to gather and confront the officers,” the Times of Israel reports. “Protesters are clashing with police, burning tires and blocking roads.”
At least four have been arrested so far, while confrontations with Israeli police have been filmed in other parts of Israel as well, over a week after Tel Aviv imposed some of the strictest quarantine measures the world has yet seen, which authorizes police to physically enforce court-ordered isolation of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases.
“Not Ramallah, Jaffa!! (in Hebrew Yafo) — the above video of the rare Wednesday clashes is captioned.
Large Police forces have arrived to disperse the riots in Yafo which started after the arrest of a man who refused to identify in routine Health Ministry checks. pic.twitter.com/gz2zwjYZ6W — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 1, 2020
Typically such scenes have more commonly played out in occupied Arab West Bank neighborhoods, but increasingly it’s also Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community which has tended to defy and flaunt national quarantine and self-isolation policies.
Police arrested 4 during the riots in Yafo which started when Police questioned a man for being outside for a non critical reason and he refused to identify. pic.twitter.com/NS1UASjnIG — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 1, 2020
Police have in some cases moved to seal synagogues which ignored orders and stayed open, issuing fines to worshipers.
י-ם: כוחות גדולים של משטרה ויס”מ
פשטו כעת על שטיבלך זיכרון משה
ברחוב חפץ חיים.
עימותים ומעצרים במקום pic.twitter.com/v5hAW7quRp — dudi d?lev (@dudid2428) March 31, 2020
The Jerusalem Post reports the outbreak is set to get worse:
Israel’s total number of cases is “going up in a steady way, and that is not so good,” Tal Brosh, head of infectious disease at Assuta Ashdod Medical Center, told The Jerusalem Post. “But that is also because the number of tests being done is increasing.” “My concern now is the haredim” who are not practicing social distancing, which could lead to a spike in cases “very quickly,” he said. “If Bnei Brak residents do not stop gathering at weddings, prayers, mikvaot… we could see a surge within a few weeks.”
Conservative neighborhoods have come to view police quarantine enforcement as a severe violation of religious freedom.
Riots in Yafo after policeman arrested a number of people for violating Health Ministry restrictions. pic.twitter.com/bo8El8tEtZ — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 1, 2020
There are increasing instances of rabbis and synagogues defying orders to conduct services across the country such as the following, according to The Jerusalem Post:
Israel Police arrested six suspects belonging to the Peleg HaYerushalmi after they were found gathering in a synagogue in the Haredi city of Modi’in Illit, violating Health Ministry instructions issued to fight the coronavirus outbreak. The suspects refused to listen to police instructions to leave and refused to identify themselves and began clashing with police.
This is not going well… Protests & burning of tires in Jaffa/Yafa after a resident was fined a #Covid19 Quarantine violation. Fine by Israeli authorities can go up to $1,380: pic.twitter.com/PqgAcV6u35 — Joyce Karam (@Joyce_Karam) April 1, 2020
The below video is from the Orthodox stronghold of Beit Shemesh, located 19 milies west of Jerusalem, during clashes with police:
Disgusting behavior: Ultra-Orthodox in Jerusalem coughing on Policemen and calling them Nazis. pic.twitter.com/k15UQQusU8 — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 1, 2020
A number of local outbreaks in Israeli cities have been traced to crowded and in some cases still-operating synagogues.
Coronavirus test site for the residents of Bnei Brak, via Jerusalem Post.
Towns close to more ultra-conservative neighborhoods have increasingly petitioned state authorities to crack down:
Ramat Gan Mayor Carmel Shama-Hacohen has written a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other government officials demanding a general closure on the neighboring city of Bnei Brak, which has become one of the main coronavirus hotspots in the country.
Police arrested a number of people in Yafa an-Naseriyye
after they attacked Policemen when they were asked to disperse a gathering which violated the Health Ministry restrictions. pic.twitter.com/IMegFgfDIQ — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 1, 2020
Nationwide Israel is fast approaching 6,000 cases, among these 25 deaths, with numbers expected to climb much higher in the days ahead due to expanded testing.
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southfront--2020-04-02--In Video: Russian Humanitarian Aid Arrives In New York City

A Russian military aircraft , carrying medical aid needed to fight the COVID-19 outbreak , has landed in the worst @ @ @ @ @ York .
The plane , that took off for its some 8,000-kilometer trek early overnight @ @ @ @ @ protective and medical equipment supplies .
The delivery was agreed upon by Vladimir Putin and @ @ @ @ @ call .
The presidents discussed the fast-spreading Covid-19 pandemic as well as major shortages of @ @ @ @ @ , according to the Kremlin press service .
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A Russian military aircraft, carrying medical aid needed to fight the COVID-19 outbreak, has landed in the worst coronavirus-affected US city, New York. The plane, that took off for its some 8,000-kilometer trek early overnight. The cargo contains personal protective and medical equipment supplies.
The delivery was agreed upon by Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump during a phone call. The presidents discussed the fast-spreading Covid-19 pandemic as well as major shortages of protective gear in the US, according to the Kremlin press service.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Combat Footage: Houthis Clear Vast Area Near Saudi Arabia’s Najran

The Houthis cleared vast parts of the al-Ajashir desert on the border with Saudi Arabia ’ s Najran in a @ @ @ @ @ On April 1 , the Yemeni group ’ s media wing released a video documenting @ @ @ @ @ shows Houthi fighters rapidly advancing in al-Ajashir without facing any real resistance .
Several positions @ @ @ @ @ , who also burned a Guardian armored personnel carrier ( APC ) that was left @ @ @ @ @ In the course of the attack , the Houthis also captured loads of weapons , @ @ @ @ @ guns .
The al-Ajashir desert lays between the northern Yemeni province of Sadda and Najran @ @ @ @ @ east of Albuqa , one of the main crossings on Yemeni-Saudi border .
Since the @ @ @ @ @ Yemen , the Houthis have maintained a strong presence along the border with Saudi Arabia @ @ @ @ @ deep understanding of rough terrain and their superior tactics have given them the upper hands @ @ @ @ @ border .
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The Houthis cleared vast parts of the al-Ajashir desert on the border with Saudi Arabia’s Najran in a new limited military operation.
On April 1, the Yemeni group’s media wing released a video documenting the attack. The video shows Houthi fighters rapidly advancing in al-Ajashir without facing any real resistance. Several positions were captured by the fighters, who also burned a Guardian armored personnel carrier (APC) that was left behind by Saudi-backed forces.
In the course of the attack, the Houthis also captured loads of weapons, including mortars and heavy machine guns.
The al-Ajashir desert lays between the northern Yemeni province of Sadda and Najran. The desert is located east of Albuqa, one of the main crossings on Yemeni-Saudi border.
Since the outbreak of the war in Yemen, the Houthis have maintained a strong presence along the border with Saudi Arabia. The Yemeni fighters’ deep understanding of rough terrain and their superior tactics have given them the upper hands in most confrontation along the border.
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southfront--2020-04-02--New Generation Dornier Seastar Amphibious Aircraft Carries Out First Flight

On March 28th , a New Generation of the Dornier Seastar amphibious aircraft successfully performed its first flight at Oberpfaffenhofen EDMO airport , Germany .
The flight was performed by Dornier Seawings test pilot crew and took 31 minutes .
The Seastar SN1003 attained the required approvals from EASA and LBA on 19 March 2020 , this was a major milestone and achievement for the program .
As per the manufacturer , The New Generation Seastar is significantly improved from the original Seastar which was designed and developed by Claudius Dornier Jr. in the 1980s .
The New Generation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cockpit , new highly efficient propellers , several systems including air-conditioning and stern thruster , plus a corrosion-resistant composite structure that results in reduced maintenance keeping costs significantly down particularly in sea water operations .
Its operation concept is to enhance short to medium haul trips by making them cheaper and faster , but safer and with a bigger capacity .
The plan is to efficiently connect “ land and sea through the sky.
” The New Generation Seastar has a maximum takeoff weight of 5100 kilograms , a maximum cruise speed of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 900nm ( 1667 km ) as a maximum range .
The twin-engine multi-purpose turboprop amphibian Dornier Seastar was developed in the 1980s , as mentioned above , under the leadership of Claude Dornier Jr. in an attempt to revive the former glory of Dornier flying boats .
The design of the aircraft in many respects repeated the traditional Dornier flying boats of the 1920-1940s , with wide sponsor fuselage floats and an elytron arrangement of a combination of engines with pulling and pushing propellers .
The first flight of the first prototype Dornier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in August 1984 , the second prototype , the DC2 – in 1987 .
Following the acquisition of Dornier in 1985 by Daimler Benz , Claude Dornier Jr. established his own company , Claudius Dornier Seastar GmbH & Co KG , specifically for the production and promotion of Dornier Seastar aircraft .
Although Dornier Seastar successfully passed the tests , it received European and American type certificates in 1990-1991 and collected 72 orders , but due to the chronic problems of the development company and lack of funding , it did not go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dornier Jr. passed away , and in 1989 Claudius Dornier Seastar went bankrupt .
The rights to the Dornier Seastar were transferred to the company Dornier Composite Aircraft GmbH & Co KG and later development was promoted by his grandson Conrad Dornier , who created the new company Dornier Seastar GmbH & Co. in 1991 for this .
KG , in 2001 renamed Dornier Seawings AG .
In the next 20 years , an attempt was repeatedly made to revive the Dornier Seastar , with no result .
The second prototype of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , being used as a demonstrator .
But only in 2013 there was a real chance to revitalize the program when Conrad Dornier managed to attract Chinese investors in the form of two Chinese state-owned companies Wuxi Industry Development Group Co. , Ltd and Wuxi Communications Industry Group Co. , Ltd from Wuxi .
Together with them , the Dornier family organized a new joint venture Dornier Seawings GmbH , in which the Chinese invested 150 million euros , and now took to the air the third newly built prototype of the modernized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the aircraft was built at the former head office of Dornier , located in Oberpfaffenhofen , now owned by the Swiss RUAG group .
In the future , it is planned to organize the serial assembly of Dornier Seastar CD2 aircraft also in China , in Wuxi .
Initially , it was planned to begin mass production in 2021 , although it is unlikely that this period will be met , especially since the availability of specific orders for the aircraft is unclear .
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On March 28th, a New Generation of the Dornier Seastar amphibious aircraft successfully performed its first flight at Oberpfaffenhofen EDMO airport, Germany.
The flight was performed by Dornier Seawings test pilot crew and took 31 minutes.
The Seastar SN1003 attained the required approvals from EASA and LBA on 19 March 2020, this was a major milestone and achievement for the program.
As per the manufacturer, The New Generation Seastar is significantly improved from the original Seastar which was designed and developed by Claudius Dornier Jr. in the 1980s.
The New Generation is equipped with a state-of-the-art full digital glass cockpit, new highly efficient propellers, several systems including air-conditioning and stern thruster, plus a corrosion-resistant composite structure that results in reduced maintenance keeping costs significantly down particularly in sea water operations.
Its operation concept is to enhance short to medium haul trips by making them cheaper and faster, but safer and with a bigger capacity. The plan is to efficiently connect “land and sea through the sky.”
The New Generation Seastar has a maximum takeoff weight of 5100 kilograms, a maximum cruise speed of 180 KTAS (333 km/hr) and 900nm (1667 km) as a maximum range.
The twin-engine multi-purpose turboprop amphibian Dornier Seastar was developed in the 1980s, as mentioned above, under the leadership of Claude Dornier Jr. in an attempt to revive the former glory of Dornier flying boats.
The design of the aircraft in many respects repeated the traditional Dornier flying boats of the 1920-1940s, with wide sponsor fuselage floats and an elytron arrangement of a combination of engines with pulling and pushing propellers.
The first flight of the first prototype Dornier Seastar, the RT-1, took place in August 1984, the second prototype, the DC2 – in 1987.
Following the acquisition of Dornier in 1985 by Daimler Benz, Claude Dornier Jr. established his own company, Claudius Dornier Seastar GmbH & Co KG, specifically for the production and promotion of Dornier Seastar aircraft.
Although Dornier Seastar successfully passed the tests, it received European and American type certificates in 1990-1991 and collected 72 orders, but due to the chronic problems of the development company and lack of funding, it did not go into series.
In 1986, Claude Dornier Jr. passed away, and in 1989 Claudius Dornier Seastar went bankrupt.
The rights to the Dornier Seastar were transferred to the company Dornier Composite Aircraft GmbH & Co KG and later development was promoted by his grandson Conrad Dornier, who created the new company Dornier Seastar GmbH & Co. in 1991 for this. KG, in 2001 renamed Dornier Seawings AG.
In the next 20 years, an attempt was repeatedly made to revive the Dornier Seastar, with no result.
The second prototype of the D-ISEA aircraft is still in flight condition, being used as a demonstrator.
But only in 2013 there was a real chance to revitalize the program when Conrad Dornier managed to attract Chinese investors in the form of two Chinese state-owned companies Wuxi Industry Development Group Co., Ltd and Wuxi Communications Industry Group Co., Ltd from Wuxi.
Together with them, the Dornier family organized a new joint venture Dornier Seawings GmbH, in which the Chinese invested 150 million euros, and now took to the air the third newly built prototype of the modernized aircraft Dornier Seastar CD2.
In fact, the aircraft was built at the former head office of Dornier, located in Oberpfaffenhofen, now owned by the Swiss RUAG group. In the future, it is planned to organize the serial assembly of Dornier Seastar CD2 aircraft also in China, in Wuxi. Initially, it was planned to begin mass production in 2021, although it is unlikely that this period will be met, especially since the availability of specific orders for the aircraft is unclear.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Turkish Military Threatens Syrian Army Troops In Greater Idlib Via Radio

On April 1 , the Turkish military in Syria ’ s Greater Idlib podcasted a message over the radio , warning Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) troops against “ violating ” the ceasefire , according to several opposition sources .
“ Your army commanders endanger your life and lead you to death when they order you to bomb the de-escalation zone … Never cross the de-escalation zone , or you will receive a fatal response , ” the Turkish military said in the message , which was reportedly podcasted in Arabic and Turkish .
The Syrian Observatory for Human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkish military podcasted the message after “ hacking ” Syrian military communication .
However , such messages are usually podcasted on open frequencies .
Pro-government sources are yet to confirm or deny these reports .
Such threats and warnings are not unusual , however , they rarely receive media attention .
A day earlier , Greater Idlib witnessed an escalation when the government-held city of Saraqib was shelled .
Opposition activists claimed that the artillery strike was carried out by Turkish forces in response to “ violations ” by the SAA .
Turkey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the SAA and its allies in Greater Idlib .
The recent developments suggest that such a confrontation could start very soon .
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On April 1, the Turkish military in Syria’s Greater Idlib podcasted a message over the radio, warning Syrian Arab Army (SAA) troops against “violating” the ceasefire, according to several opposition sources.
“Your army commanders endanger your life and lead you to death when they order you to bomb the de-escalation zone … Never cross the de-escalation zone, or you will receive a fatal response,” the Turkish military said in the message, which was reportedly podcasted in Arabic and Turkish.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said that the Turkish military podcasted the message after “hacking” Syrian military communication. However, such messages are usually podcasted on open frequencies.
Pro-government sources are yet to confirm or deny these reports. Such threats and warnings are not unusual, however, they rarely receive media attention.
A day earlier, Greater Idlib witnessed an escalation when the government-held city of Saraqib was shelled. Opposition activists claimed that the artillery strike was carried out by Turkish forces in response to “violations” by the SAA.
Turkey is clearly preparing for a new confrontation with the SAA and its allies in Greater Idlib. The recent developments suggest that such a confrontation could start very soon.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Trump Sends Threats To Iran As New Commander Of Quds Force  Visits Baghdad

On April 1 , Brig .
Gen. Esmail Ghaani , commander of Iran ’ s Quds Force , paid a secret visit to the Iraqi capital , Baghdad , according to RT .
“ The commander of the Quds Force has been in Baghdad since this morning , he met with some Iraqi politicians , ” a source told the Russian news channel , adding “ Ghanni discussed with them the formation of the Iraqi government and Iran ’ s position on Adnan Zarfi , who is charged with forming it.
” Ghaani succeeded former Quds Force commander Brig .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a U.S. drone strike on the Baghdad Airport in January of 2020 .
Last month , the commander visited Syria , where inspected the frontlines in the northern governorate of Aleppo .
Following the reports of Ghaani ’ s visit to Iraq , U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Iran , vowing to response to any attack on U.S. troops in Iraq .
The last few months witnessed a series of rocket attacks on Iraqi bases hosting U.S. troops .
The U.S.-led coalition is now carrying out a partial withdrawal from the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relocated to well-protected bases where air-defense systems are being deployed .
Ghanni ’ s secret visit and Trump ’ s threat indicate that Iraq may soon witness a new stand-off between Iranian-backed Shiite groups and U.S. forces .
The situation could escalate very quickly .
Washington is reportedly preparing for a war with Iran ’ s allies in the country .
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On April 1, Brig. Gen. Esmail Ghaani, commander of Iran’s Quds Force, paid a secret visit to the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, according to RT.
“The commander of the Quds Force has been in Baghdad since this morning, he met with some Iraqi politicians,” a source told the Russian news channel, adding “Ghanni discussed with them the formation of the Iraqi government and Iran’s position on Adnan Zarfi, who is charged with forming it.”
Ghaani succeeded former Quds Force commander Brig. Gen. Qassam Soleimani, who was killed in a U.S. drone strike on the Baghdad Airport in January of 2020. Last month, the commander visited Syria, where inspected the frontlines in the northern governorate of Aleppo.
Following the reports of Ghaani’s visit to Iraq, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Iran, vowing to response to any attack on U.S. troops in Iraq.
“Upon information and belief, Iran or its proxies are planning a sneak attack on U.S. troops and/or assets in Iraq. If this happens, Iran will pay a very heavy price, indeed!” the President said on Twitter.
The last few months witnessed a series of rocket attacks on Iraqi bases hosting U.S. troops. The U.S.-led coalition is now carrying out a partial withdrawal from the country. Most of the troops are being relocated to well-protected bases where air-defense systems are being deployed.
Ghanni’s secret visit and Trump’s threat indicate that Iraq may soon witness a new stand-off between Iranian-backed Shiite groups and U.S. forces. The situation could escalate very quickly. Washington is reportedly preparing for a war with Iran’s allies in the country.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Vietnam People’s Navy And Balance Of Power In South China Sea

Currently , South-East Asia ( SEA ) is one of the most dynamically developing regions of the world , whose economic growth is associated with the concentration of significant resources , primarily human ( about 600 million people ) , and the most important maritime communications that pass through it ( the South China Sea* SCS ) and the Strait of Malacca ) .
Yet , the presence of external ( international terrorism , drug trafficking and piracy ) and internal ( religious and ethnic contradictions , political instability ) threats , as well as the clash of interests of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-regional powers determine the high conflict potential of South-East Asia .
The Socialist Republic of Vietnam ( SRV ) , increasing its role in SEA and building a state foreign policy , pays special attention to the protection of sovereignty and territorial integrity , as well as control over the exclusive economic zone ( EEZ ) of the republic .
Thus , in the course of reforming the Vietnamese People ’ s Army ( VPA ) , which acts as a guarantor of national security , its priority is to develop its maritime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Armed Forces that performs the following tasks : conduct of hostilities in maritime theaters of military operations ; destruction of enemy forces at sea and in the bases ; targeting of ground objects ; disruption of communications ; protection of sea transport and the exclusive economic zone ( EEZ ) of the republic ; assistance to land forces ; amphibious landings and participation in repelling enemy landings ; intelligence and control of the situation in the area of responsibility ; conducting search and rescue operations as sea .
The strength of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the reserve is 50 thousand ( the basis is self-defence units formed from public and private fishing , as well as transport companies ) .
The commander directly directs the naval forces through a system of bodies and control points , including the Navy Command , the Centre Command Post ( Haiphong ) , the command post ( CP ) in the southern strategic area ( Ho Chi Minh City ) and the command posts of the naval areas .
Organisationally , the Navy includes surface and submarine forces , marine aviation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forces .
They consist of five naval districts , surface ship and combat boat brigades , Marines , coastal defence , combat boat divisions , coastal missile and artillery divisions , coastal defence battalions , radio engineering regiments and battalions .
The fleet ’ s forces are based at the main naval base Haiphong , Da Nang , Cam Ranh , Ho Chi Minh City , Vung Tau , Honggai , Anthoi and Nyongchat naval bases .
Training is conducted at the naval academy ( Nha Trang ) and the secondary technical school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Training of submarine crews , as well as specialists in the operation of modern weapons systems , take place in Australia , China , Russia , the United States and the countries of the European Union .
In the course of operational and combat training ( OCT ) of the Navy , the ships ’ crews and personnel of coastal units work out tasks for their intended purposes , master new types of weapons and military equipment , improve maritime training , including search and rescue at sea .
Together with their partners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Navy ’ s forces and assets are participating in multinational exercises , including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations ( ASEAN ) .
Regular events are held in the waters of the South China Sea , with special attention paid to the training of marine units and garrisons stationed in the Spratly Archipelago , as well as interaction with other types of Armed Forces and branches of the Armed Forces .
The national Navy is armed with more than 200 units of marine equipment , including more than 120 warships and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launchers , about 20 aircraft and helicopters , 150 tanks and armoured vehicles .
Currently , Vietnam has the most combat-ready submarine fleet among the Southeast Asian countries .
According to the Vietnamese military leadership , the improvement of this component of the Navy allows it to increase the military presence in the Spratly area , as well as effectively counteract the warships of the Chinese Navy in this region .
The development of the naval forces is a priority task for the VNA , which contributes to improving the combat capability of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One of the main areas is to increase the combat capabilities of the national Navy to a level that ensures the effective response against the enemy in case of armed conflict over territorial disputes in the South China Sea .
To achieve these goals , a comprehensive programme of Navy modernisation by 2025 was adopted , which provides for the improvement of the organisational structure , optimisation of management and comprehensive support , equipping with modern airborne vehicles , as well as the development of the fleet basing system .
Implementation of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 2018-2020 and 2021-2025 .
It is planned to allocate about 1.3 billion US dollars for their financing , 700 million of which will be spent on the purchase of new weapons .
By 2020 , the Navy should have four brigade : guard ships , missile , rocket and artillery ships and patrol boats , as well as a division of surface ships and a centre for monitoring the underwater situation .
It is planned to build two Sigma-type corvettes for the Navy , and purchase the French AS-565MV Puma helicopters for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the ship composition of the Vietnamese Navy is planned to increase to 40 warships and 180 boats .
Along with the purchase of military equipment abroad , it is planned to master the production of ships at the national shipbuilding facilities .
It is important to switch from purchasing finished products from foreign companies to their joint development , obtaining technologies and developing production on Vietnamese territory .
One of the immediate tasks of the country ’ s leadership is to organise joint repairs of submarines with foreign partners .
In this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make significant efforts to launch a plant in Cam Ranh .
In the future , this enterprise and production association “ Bashon ” ( Ho Chi Minh City ) is expected to service all types of ship and coastal weapons systems .
As part of the improvement of the fleet base system , infrastructure is being developed , including facilities on the islands in the South China Sea controlled by Vietnam .
For example , the naval base Vung Tau is increasing the depth and increasing the length of berths .
At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runway has been lengthened , the construction of defensive structures and logistics centre continues , and the fairway and anchorage areas are being equipped .
An automated port air defence control system is being deployed .
The military and political leadership of Vietnam pays considerable attention to the development of the naval forces .
The current long-term construction and modernisation programmes are aimed at improving their combat capabilities .
At the same time , the scientific , technological and industrial potential of the state determines the interest of Hanoi in solving the tasks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partners .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Cyber Operations And Information Support Forces of the German Armed Forces

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Written by Captain 1st rank A. Morozov; Originally appeared at Foreign Military Review #12 2019, translated by AlexD exclusively for SouthFront
Currently, South-East Asia (SEA) is one of the most dynamically developing regions of the world, whose economic growth is associated with the concentration of significant resources, primarily human (about 600 million people), and the most important maritime communications that pass through it (the South China Sea* SCS) and the Strait of Malacca).
Yet, the presence of external (international terrorism, drug trafficking and piracy) and internal (religious and ethnic contradictions, political instability) threats, as well as the clash of interests of the main countries of the region and non-regional powers determine the high conflict potential of South-East Asia.
The Socialist Republic of Vietnam (SRV), increasing its role in SEA and building a state foreign policy, pays special attention to the protection of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as control over the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the republic. Thus, in the course of reforming the Vietnamese People’s Army (VPA), which acts as a guarantor of national security, its priority is to develop its maritime component.
An overview of Vietnam’s Armed Forces that performs the following tasks: conduct of hostilities in maritime theaters of military operations; destruction of enemy forces at sea and in the bases; targeting of ground objects; disruption of communications; protection of sea transport and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the republic; assistance to land forces; amphibious landings and participation in repelling enemy landings; intelligence and control of the situation in the area of responsibility; conducting search and rescue operations as sea. The strength of the Navy is about 30 thousand people; the reserve is 50 thousand (the basis is self-defence units formed from public and private fishing, as well as transport companies).
The commander directly directs the naval forces through a system of bodies and control points, including the Navy Command, the Centre Command Post (Haiphong), the command post (CP) in the southern strategic area (Ho Chi Minh City) and the command posts of the naval areas.
Organisationally, the Navy includes surface and submarine forces, marine aviation, coastal defence forces, Marines and Special Forces. They consist of five naval districts, surface ship and combat boat brigades, Marines, coastal defence, combat boat divisions, coastal missile and artillery divisions, coastal defence battalions, radio engineering regiments and battalions. The fleet’s forces are based at the main naval base Haiphong, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau, Honggai, Anthoi and Nyongchat naval bases.
Training is conducted at the naval academy (Nha Trang) and the secondary technical school (Ho Chi Minh City). Training of submarine crews, as well as specialists in the operation of modern weapons systems, take place in Australia, China, Russia, the United States and the countries of the European Union.
In the course of operational and combat training (OCT) of the Navy, the ships’ crews and personnel of coastal units work out tasks for their intended purposes, master new types of weapons and military equipment, improve maritime training, including search and rescue at sea. Together with their partners, they are conducting OCT activities, and the Navy’s forces and assets are participating in multinational exercises, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Regular events are held in the waters of the South China Sea, with special attention paid to the training of marine units and garrisons stationed in the Spratly Archipelago, as well as interaction with other types of Armed Forces and branches of the Armed Forces.
The national Navy is armed with more than 200 units of marine equipment, including more than 120 warships and boats, up to 20 tactical missile launchers, about 20 aircraft and helicopters, 150 tanks and armoured vehicles. Currently, Vietnam has the most combat-ready submarine fleet among the Southeast Asian countries. According to the Vietnamese military leadership, the improvement of this component of the Navy allows it to increase the military presence in the Spratly area, as well as effectively counteract the warships of the Chinese Navy in this region.
The development of the naval forces is a priority task for the VNA, which contributes to improving the combat capability of the Armed Forces as a whole. One of the main areas is to increase the combat capabilities of the national Navy to a level that ensures the effective response against the enemy in case of armed conflict over territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
To achieve these goals, a comprehensive programme of Navy modernisation by 2025 was adopted, which provides for the improvement of the organisational structure, optimisation of management and comprehensive support, equipping with modern airborne vehicles, as well as the development of the fleet basing system. Implementation of the planned activities is planned in two stages: 2018-2020 and 2021-2025. It is planned to allocate about 1.3 billion US dollars for their financing, 700 million of which will be spent on the purchase of new weapons.
By 2020, the Navy should have four brigade: guard ships, missile, rocket and artillery ships and patrol boats, as well as a division of surface ships and a centre for monitoring the underwater situation. It is planned to build two Sigma-type corvettes for the Navy, and purchase the French AS-565MV Puma helicopters for the Navy aviation.
In the future, the ship composition of the Vietnamese Navy is planned to increase to 40 warships and 180 boats.
Along with the purchase of military equipment abroad, it is planned to master the production of ships at the national shipbuilding facilities.
It is important to switch from purchasing finished products from foreign companies to their joint development, obtaining technologies and developing production on Vietnamese territory. One of the immediate tasks of the country’s leadership is to organise joint repairs of submarines with foreign partners. In this regard, the Vietnamese side intends to make significant efforts to launch a plant in Cam Ranh. In the future, this enterprise and production association “Bashon” (Ho Chi Minh City) is expected to service all types of ship and coastal weapons systems.
As part of the improvement of the fleet base system, infrastructure is being developed, including facilities on the islands in the South China Sea controlled by Vietnam. For example, the naval base Vung Tau is increasing the depth and increasing the length of berths. At the airfield (Spratly Island), the runway has been lengthened, the construction of defensive structures and logistics centre continues, and the fairway and anchorage areas are being equipped. An automated port air defence control system is being deployed.
The military and political leadership of Vietnam pays considerable attention to the development of the naval forces. The current long-term construction and modernisation programmes are aimed at improving their combat capabilities. At the same time, the scientific, technological and industrial potential of the state determines the interest of Hanoi in solving the tasks at the expense of cooperation with foreign partners.
* In the South China Sea, there are territorial disputes between Vietnam and China over the Paracel Islands, and between China, Brunei, Vietnam, Malaysia and the Philippines over the ownership of the Spratly Archipelago.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Local Authorities Delays Plan To Introduce Special Pass System Limiting Movement Across Moscow After

Local Authorities Delays Plan To Introduce Special Pass System Limiting Movement Across Moscow After Massive Negative Reaction Of Citizens

On April 2 , Moscow mayor Sergey Sobyanin announced that local authorities are not going to impose a mandatory pass pass control mode limiting movement across the city .
He said that most city residents comply with the self-isolation regime introduced as part of the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak .
According to him , the authorities may return to the issue with an increase in the number of violations or worsening of the situation with the COVID-19 outbreak .
At the same time , local authorities extended until May 1 all anti-virus restrictions introduced in the city .
Earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sergey Sobyanin announced administrative fines for violations of the regime of ‘ self-isolation ’ in the city .
The document ( a law of Moscow city ) was published on the mayor ’ s official website .
The law provides for a fine for violators of up to 5,000 rubles ( ~ 65 USD ) , and for organizations – up to 500,000 rubles ( 6,410 USD ) .
Meanwhile , in another Russian region , Krasnadar Krai , a fine for violators of the regime of ‘ self-isolation ’ is 15,000 rubles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The decision of Moscow authorities to not introduce the mandatory pass control mode of movement across the city goes contrary to previous moves and rhetorics of the Sobyanin team .
It has been consistently pushing for further restrictions of freedoms of Russian citizens in the capital as well as blaming them for the lack of motivation to support the draconian measures limiting their basic freedoms and violating the Russian Consitution .
However , it seems that by April 2 the negative reaction of the Russians has reached the level when Moscow authorities are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and further .
The idea to deploy “ smart monitoring ” to enforce the new rules and will develop a special pass system for residents to leave their houses was announced by Moscow authorities on March 30 and caused a widespread negative reaction among the Russian society .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • While the World Is In Disarray , COVID-19 Is Breaking Up Russia • New York And Moscow : How Is COVID-19 Being Tackled ?

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On April 2, Moscow mayor Sergey Sobyanin announced that local authorities are not going to impose a mandatory pass pass control mode limiting movement across the city. He said that most city residents comply with the self-isolation regime introduced as part of the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak.
“Residents showed a responsible civic stance and solidarity in the fight against coronavirus, against common misfortune. I sincerely appreciate you. Therefore, the pass control mode of movement around the city so far can not be introduced, ”said the mayor.
According to him, the authorities may return to the issue with an increase in the number of violations or worsening of the situation with the COVID-19 outbreak. At the same time, local authorities extended until May 1 all anti-virus restrictions introduced in the city.
Earlier on the same day, Moscow mayor Sergey Sobyanin announced administrative fines for violations of the regime of ‘self-isolation’ in the city. The document (a law of Moscow city) was published on the mayor’s official website. The law provides for a fine for violators of up to 5,000 rubles (~ 65 USD), and for organizations – up to 500,000 rubles (6,410 USD). Meanwhile, in another Russian region, Krasnadar Krai, a fine for violators of the regime of ‘self-isolation’ is 15,000 rubles (~192 USD) and more.
The decision of Moscow authorities to not introduce the mandatory pass control mode of movement across the city goes contrary to previous moves and rhetorics of the Sobyanin team. It has been consistently pushing for further restrictions of freedoms of Russian citizens in the capital as well as blaming them for the lack of motivation to support the draconian measures limiting their basic freedoms and violating the Russian Consitution. However, it seems that by April 2 the negative reaction of the Russians has reached the level when Moscow authorities are no more able to push this agenda and further.
The idea to deploy “smart monitoring” to enforce the new rules and will develop a special pass system for residents to leave their houses was announced by Moscow authorities on March 30 and caused a widespread negative reaction among the Russian society.
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southfront--2020-04-02--ISIS Sustained Heavy Losses In Sinai, About To Collapse: Egyptian Official

ISIS cells in the Sinai Peninsula have sustained heavy losses and they are about to collapse , an Egyptian official told Germany ’ s DPA on April 2 .
According to the official , who declined to be named , the Egyptian military inflicted heavy losses on the terrorist group ’ s remnants in Sinai over the last few days .
Dozens of terrorists were allegedly killed .
The official revealed that the Egyptian Air Force ( EAF ) have been pounding ISIS personnel , equipment and hideouts in different parts of Sinai for more than five days now .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Bir El Abd , Jail , Tufaha , Fatir and Sheikh Zuweid .
The official stressed that the Egyptian military will continue its campaign until all terrorists are neutralized , saying that Sinai will be soon announced free from terrorism .
In 2018 , the Egyptian military and security forces launched a large-scale operation against ISIS cells in Sinai .
Most of the terrorist group ’ s assets were neutralized in the operation , dubbed Sinai 2018 .
However , less than a year later , the group ’ s remnants resumed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Egyptian official ’ s statements to DPA indicate that Cairo is determined this time to end ISIS presence in Sinai once and for all .
While this is completely possible , it will not likely be easy or fast .
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ISIS cells in the Sinai Peninsula have sustained heavy losses and they are about to collapse, an Egyptian official told Germany’s DPA on April 2.
According to the official, who declined to be named, the Egyptian military inflicted heavy losses on the terrorist group’s remnants in Sinai over the last few days. Dozens of terrorists were allegedly killed.
The official revealed that the Egyptian Air Force (EAF) have been pounding ISIS personnel, equipment and hideouts in different parts of Sinai for more than five days now. The airstrikes targeted the areas of Rafah, Bir El Abd, Jail, Tufaha, Fatir and Sheikh Zuweid.
“Warplanes bombed ammo and explosives depots, hideouts, shelters, gatherings and armed 4×4 vehicles,” the official said.
The official stressed that the Egyptian military will continue its campaign until all terrorists are neutralized, saying that Sinai will be soon announced free from terrorism.
In 2018, the Egyptian military and security forces launched a large-scale operation against ISIS cells in Sinai. Most of the terrorist group’s assets were neutralized in the operation, dubbed Sinai 2018. However, less than a year later, the group’s remnants resumed their activities in the region.
The Egyptian official’s statements to DPA indicate that Cairo is determined this time to end ISIS presence in Sinai once and for all. While this is completely possible, it will not likely be easy or fast.
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SouthFront continues its work despite the erupted global crisis and COVID-19 issues .
The current situation around the globe does not allow for levity .
We once again thank all of you who support our efforts and assure you that we will do everything possible to justify your confidence .
In the coming weeks , the SouthFront Team is going to continue covering topical issues regarding the situation in the Middle East and will release a series of exclusive videos covering various aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic .
These videos will provide a closer look at the means , measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the outbreak .
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DEAR FRIENDS,
SouthFront continues its work despite the erupted global crisis and COVID-19 issues. The current situation around the globe does not allow for levity. We once again thank all of you who support our efforts and assure you that we will do everything possible to justify your confidence.
In the coming weeks, the SouthFront Team is going to continue covering topical issues regarding the situation in the Middle East and will release a series of exclusive videos covering various aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic. These videos will provide a closer look at the means, measures and structures employed by nations to combat the outbreak.
If you think that SouthFront’s work is important, you can help our endeavour to stay alive by your donations:
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southfront--2020-04-02--Iraq’s Kata’ib Hezbollah Says It Won’t Attack U.S. Troops As Long As They Are Withdrawing

Kata ’ ib Hezbollah ( KH ) announced on April 2 that its fighters will not attack U.S. troops as long as they are withdrawing from Iraq .
In an official statement , the Iran-affiliated group stressed that it would only accept a full withdrawal of U.S. forces from the country .
“ What these monsters wont understand is the knighthood of the Mujahedeen and their commitment to the orders of God Almighty which don ’ t allow the killing of those who are withdrawing , ” the statement reads .
KH also touched on the recent threats of U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ moron ” and warning against any “ aggression ” on Iraq .
Trump claimed a day earlier that Iran and its allies are preparing new attacks on U.S. troops in the country .
The U.S. held KH responsible for several recent attacks on its troops in Iraq , including the March 11 rocket strike on Camp Taji .
Three service members of the U.S.-led coalition were killed in the strike .
In response , the U.S. struck five military positions in Iraq .
The U.S.-led coalition is now carrying out a partial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two bases have been handed over to Iraqi government forces .
While this withdrawal appears to be a sign of de-escalation , the coalition is in fact bracing for more tension .
Troops are being moved to more secured bases , where air-defense systems are being deployed .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Trump Sends Threats To Iran As New Commander Of Quds Force Visits Baghdad

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Kata’ib Hezbollah (KH) announced on April 2 that its fighters will not attack U.S. troops as long as they are withdrawing from Iraq.
In an official statement, the Iran-affiliated group stressed that it would only accept a full withdrawal of U.S. forces from the country.
“What these monsters wont understand is the knighthood of the Mujahedeen and their commitment to the orders of God Almighty which don’t allow the killing of those who are withdrawing,” the statement reads.
KH also touched on the recent threats of U.S. President Donald Trump, calling him a “moron” and warning against any “aggression” on Iraq. Trump claimed a day earlier that Iran and its allies are preparing new attacks on U.S. troops in the country.
The U.S. held KH responsible for several recent attacks on its troops in Iraq, including the March 11 rocket strike on Camp Taji. Three service members of the U.S.-led coalition were killed in the strike. In response, the U.S. struck five military positions in Iraq.
The U.S.-led coalition is now carrying out a partial withdrawal from Iraq. Thus far, two bases have been handed over to Iraqi government forces. While this withdrawal appears to be a sign of de-escalation, the coalition is in fact bracing for more tension. Troops are being moved to more secured bases, where air-defense systems are being deployed.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Turkish Forces Shell Syrian Army. U.S. Claims Iran Prepares Attacks In Iraq

Syrian Army positions in the town of Saraqib came under joint shelling from the Turkish Army and Turkish-backed armed groups late on April 1 .
Strikes were carried out from the area of Almastumah , where Turkish military positions are located .
The April 1 incident became the second attack on Syrian Army troops in the area in the last 3 days .
At the same time , Turkish forces continue their military buildup in the Idlib de-escalation zone .
Two more convoys with armoured vehicles and artillery pieces crossed the border into Syria .
Before the start of Ankara @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 , the number of Turkish troops in Idlib was estimated at 5,000 .
Syrian sources say that by April 2020 this number reached 7,000 .
And there are no indications that Turkey is going to use this force to put an end to the presence of al-Qaeda-linked terrorist groups in the region .
Rather , it sees these groups as important allies and the pillar of its policy aimed at strengthening its control over northwestern Syria and turning it into a quasi-state under a Turkish protectorate .
Just recently , Hayat Tahrir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkish forces protect from the Syrian Army , executed a civilian accusing him of spying for Syrian government forces .
68-year Rifaat Mahmoud al-Daqqah , a former member of the Syrian Parliament , was detained by militants in May 2019 .
Terrorists claimed that he was providing the Syrian military with information on terrorists ’ positions in the southwestern part of Greater Idlib , mainly around the town of Kabani .
Al-Daqqah , originally from the town of al-Janoudiyah , abandoned his position in the Syrian Parliament in 2011 , in the early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , militants pressured many officials and service members to defect by threatening their lives , families and businesses .
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other Idlib groups regularly arrest and execute civilians , accusing them of spying for Syria , Russia or Iran .
In most cases , they do not bother to support these claims with any evidence , rather they use such claims as a pretext to terrorize and subjugate the local population .
These atrocities happen right under the nose of Turkish observation posts , which have supposedly been set up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the region .
Nonetheless , it seems that Ankara has no problem with the execution of civilians , training of suicide bombers , arming of al-Qaeda-affiliated groups or public calls to cleanse a majority of the population living in the government-controlled part of Syria as long as organizations doing this serve its foreign policy interests .
On April 1 , Brig .
Gen. Esmail Ghaani , the commander of Iran ’ s Quds Force , paid an unofficial visit to the Iraqi capital , Baghdad .
He reportedly met with several influential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them the current security and political situation in Iraq .
In March Brig .
Gen. Ghaani visited Syria , where he inspected the frontlines in the northern province of Aleppo .
Ghaani succeeded former Quds Force commander Brig .
Gen. Qassam Soleimani , who was assassinated in a US strike on Baghdad Airport in January 2020 .
His visit to Iraq comes amid the ongoing US effort to regroup its forces in Iraq and reinforce them with Patriot air defense systems .
Two Patriot batteries are already there .
Meanwhile , US President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ information ” and “ belief ” that “ Iran or its proxies are planning a sneak attack on U.S. troops and/or assets in Iraq.
” Top US officials often make such claims before conducting strikes on targets affiliated with Iran and/or before announcing a new round of sanctions .

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Syrian Army positions in the town of Saraqib came under joint shelling from the Turkish Army and Turkish-backed armed groups late on April 1. Strikes were carried out from the area of Almastumah, where Turkish military positions are located. The April 1 incident became the second attack on Syrian Army troops in the area in the last 3 days.
At the same time, Turkish forces continue their military buildup in the Idlib de-escalation zone. Two more convoys with armoured vehicles and artillery pieces crossed the border into Syria. Before the start of Ankara’s Operation Spring Shield in February 2020, the number of Turkish troops in Idlib was estimated at 5,000. Syrian sources say that by April 2020 this number reached 7,000.
And there are no indications that Turkey is going to use this force to put an end to the presence of al-Qaeda-linked terrorist groups in the region. Rather, it sees these groups as important allies and the pillar of its policy aimed at strengthening its control over northwestern Syria and turning it into a quasi-state under a Turkish protectorate.
Just recently, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, one of the groups that Turkish forces protect from the Syrian Army, executed a civilian accusing him of spying for Syrian government forces. 68-year Rifaat Mahmoud al-Daqqah, a former member of the Syrian Parliament, was detained by militants in May 2019. Terrorists claimed that he was providing the Syrian military with information on terrorists’ positions in the southwestern part of Greater Idlib, mainly around the town of Kabani.
Al-Daqqah, originally from the town of al-Janoudiyah, abandoned his position in the Syrian Parliament in 2011, in the early days of the crisis. Back then, militants pressured many officials and service members to defect by threatening their lives, families and businesses.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other Idlib groups regularly arrest and execute civilians, accusing them of spying for Syria, Russia or Iran. In most cases, they do not bother to support these claims with any evidence, rather they use such claims as a pretext to terrorize and subjugate the local population.
These atrocities happen right under the nose of Turkish observation posts, which have supposedly been set up by the Turkish military to restore security in the region. Nonetheless, it seems that Ankara has no problem with the execution of civilians, training of suicide bombers, arming of al-Qaeda-affiliated groups or public calls to cleanse a majority of the population living in the government-controlled part of Syria as long as organizations doing this serve its foreign policy interests.
On April 1, Brig. Gen. Esmail Ghaani, the commander of Iran’s Quds Force, paid an unofficial visit to the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. He reportedly met with several influential Iraqi commanders and politicians, discussing with them the current security and political situation in Iraq. In March Brig. Gen. Ghaani visited Syria, where he inspected the frontlines in the northern province of Aleppo.
Ghaani succeeded former Quds Force commander Brig. Gen. Qassam Soleimani, who was assassinated in a US strike on Baghdad Airport in January 2020. His visit to Iraq comes amid the ongoing US effort to regroup its forces in Iraq and reinforce them with Patriot air defense systems. Two Patriot batteries are already there.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced that the US has “information” and “belief” that “Iran or its proxies are planning a sneak attack on U.S. troops and/or assets in Iraq.” Top US officials often make such claims before conducting strikes on targets affiliated with Iran and/or before announcing a new round of sanctions.
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southfront--2020-04-02--U.S.-Led Coalition Reinforces Base In Syria’s Oil-Rich Rmelan

The U.S.-led coalition has dispatched reinforcements to its main base in the oil-rich area of Rmelan in the northeastern region @ @ @ @ @ Xeber24 , fresh reinforcements arrived in the base on April 2 .
The base is @ @ @ @ @ country ’ s richest oil fields , which can produce up to 90,000 barrels a @ @ @ @ @ two days , similar supplies arrived in the coalition base in the area of al-Shaddadi @ @ @ @ @ area is also located near key oil and gas fields .
The U.S. withdrew its @ @ @ @ @ northeast Syria last year , facilitating a Turkish offensive on its allies , the Kurdish @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Washington later announced a plan to “ guard ” oil fields in the @ @ @ @ @ troops are now deployed near key oil and gas fields in Deir Ezzor and al-Hasakah @ @ @ @ @ these areas could be related to recent threats against coalition troops in Iraq , where @ @ @ @ @ .
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The U.S.-led coalition has dispatched reinforcements to its main base in the oil-rich area of Rmelan in the northeastern region of Syria.
According to Xeber24, fresh reinforcements arrived in the base on April 2. The base is located near one of the country’s richest oil fields, which can produce up to 90,000 barrels a day.
“International [U.S.-led] Coalition forces sent military equipment and massive logistical supplies to their base in the city of Rmelan, northeast of al-Hasakah,” the Kurdish outlet quoted a local source as saying.
In the last two days, similar supplies arrived in the coalition base in the area of al-Shaddadi in southern al-Hasakah. The area is also located near key oil and gas fields.
The U.S. withdrew its troops from vast parts of northeast Syria last year, facilitating a Turkish offensive on its allies, the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Washington later announced a plan to “guard” oil fields in the region.
Around 500 U.S. troops are now deployed near key oil and gas fields in Deir Ezzor and al-Hasakah. The reinforcements arriving in these areas could be related to recent threats against coalition troops in Iraq, where protective measures are being taken.
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southfront--2020-04-02--Trump Says Saudi Arabia, Russia Will Cut Back On Oil Production

U.S. President Donald Trump said on April 2 that he expects Saudi Arabia and Russia to lower oil production , revealing that he had discussed the issue with Crown Prince Mohamad Bin Salman Al Saud .
“ Just spoke to my friend MBS ( Crown Prince ) of Saudi Arabia , who spoke with President Putin of Russia , & I expect & hope that they will be cutting back approximately 10 Million Barrels , and maybe substantially more which , if it happens , will be GREAT for the oil & gas industry !
” Turmp wrote on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saudi Arabia called for a meeting of OPEC+ to reach “ a fair oil agreement that would bring stability to the global oil market.
” From its side , the Kremlin denied that Saudi Crown Prince Mohamad Bin Salman had spoken with President Vladimir Putin .
Trump ’ s announcement led to a 21 % increase in oil prices , which have been plummeting for the last few weeks .
Brent Crude reached $ 30.33 for a barrel .
Last month , Saudi Arabia began flooding the oil market in an attempt to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the biggest oil price fall since the war in the Persian Gulf in 1991 .
Riyadh offered unprecedented discounts to its customers in Asia , the U.S. and Europe .
Russia was badly hit by the Saudi move as its oil exports to Europe were affected .
The Russian Ruble collapsed 10 % , falling to its lowest level in more than four years .
Iran , which is already suffering from crippling sanctions by the U.S , was also harmed .
Saudi Arabia ’ s harsh offensive was apparently about to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This has apparently forced Trump to intervene , pressuring Bin Salman into cutting back on oil production .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Saudi-Initiated All-Out Oil War Could Lead To Collapse Of Kingdom Itself

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U.S. President Donald Trump said on April 2 that he expects Saudi Arabia and Russia to lower oil production, revealing that he had discussed the issue with Crown Prince Mohamad Bin Salman Al Saud.
“Just spoke to my friend MBS (Crown Prince) of Saudi Arabia, who spoke with President Putin of Russia, & I expect & hope that they will be cutting back approximately 10 Million Barrels, and maybe substantially more which, if it happens, will be GREAT for the oil & gas industry!” Turmp wrote on Twitter.
Following Trump’s announcement, Saudi Arabia called for a meeting of OPEC+ to reach “a fair oil agreement that would bring stability to the global oil market.”
From its side, the Kremlin denied that Saudi Crown Prince Mohamad Bin Salman had spoken with President Vladimir Putin.
Trump’s announcement led to a 21% increase in oil prices, which have been plummeting for the last few weeks. Brent Crude reached $30.33 for a barrel.
Last month, Saudi Arabia began flooding the oil market in an attempt to capture a larger share, which led to the biggest oil price fall since the war in the Persian Gulf in 1991. Riyadh offered unprecedented discounts to its customers in Asia, the U.S. and Europe.
Russia was badly hit by the Saudi move as its oil exports to Europe were affected. The Russian Ruble collapsed 10%, falling to its lowest level in more than four years. Iran, which is already suffering from crippling sanctions by the U.S, was also harmed.
Saudi Arabia’s harsh offensive was apparently about to hit the U.S. own oil trade. This has apparently forced Trump to intervene, pressuring Bin Salman into cutting back on oil production.
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