Syria. Syria Summary of the war in Syria for 10.10

In the morning, during takeoff from the Khmeimim air base, a Su-24 front-line bomber crashed. The plane, which was supposed to take off to deliver fire strikes on the positions of the IG (“Islamic State” is a terrorist group banned in the Russian Federation), rolled out of the runway, after which it collapsed. The crew did not have time to eject, the pilots died.

The military has already called the preliminary version of the crash, - "according to the report from the scene, the cause of the incident could be a technical malfunction of the car."

The crashed SU-24 was flown by two pilots from the Kaliningrad region - crew commander Yuri Medvedkov and navigator Yuri Kopylov.

According to local media reports, both pilots served at the base of the 4th Guards Assault Aviation Regiment in the city of Chernyakhovsk, Kaliningrad Region. Both tragically killed officers of the Russian Aerospace Forces left behind families and small children.

Work on the situation with captured Russian citizens in Syria is underway, said the director of the Foreign Intelligence Service, Sergei Naryshkin.

The head of the Foreign Intelligence Service also recalled the lack of information about executed citizens, Interfax reports.

The Turkish Armed Forces will be present in Syria as long as there is a threat to Turkey's national security. This, according to the NTV channel, was announced by the Minister of Defense of the Republic Nurettin Janikli.

“We must stay there as long as there is a threat to Turkey from Syria. The Syrian Free Army is stationed there, which operates with us. That is the Syrians. They defend their land themselves, and we support them,” Janikli said.

The Russian Defense Ministry notes a decrease in the intensity of the actions of the coalition led by the United States over Iraq and a simultaneous increase in air strikes on Syria. According to the official representative of the Russian department Igor Konashenkov, Moscow needs clarification in connection with this change of priorities, Interfax reports.

Konashenkov claims that the US-led coalition can both try to complicate the operation of the Syrian government forces and the Russian Aerospace Forces to liberate the territory east of the Euphrates from militants, or pursue other goals.

“Or is this a clever opportunity to free Iraq from ISIS terrorists (banned in the Russian Federation), driving them into Syria under the precise strikes of the Russian Aerospace Forces?” - said the representative of the Ministry of Defense.

Also, Konashenkov said, Russian aircraft destroyed the economic infrastructure of ISIS in Syria. In the territory controlled by the militants, the extraction and sale of oil was stopped.

The Russian Aerospace Forces continued to destroy IS militants (the terrorist group "Islamic State", banned in the Russian Federation), which invaded the Syrian province of Deir ez-Zor from the western regions of Iraq. Over the past 24 hours, Russian aircraft have carried out 182 strikes. This was announced by the official representative of the Russian Defense Ministry, Major General Igor Konashenkov.

During the night, during reconnaissance by unmanned vehicles, a well-fortified stronghold of terrorists on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River near the village of Meyadin was opened. At this facility there was a buried warehouse of artillery and tank ammunition, as well as an extensive network of underground tunnels, in which a large number of terrorists, immigrants from the Asian republics of the CIS and Algeria, hid, Konashenkov explained.

To hit the target, two pairs of Su-34 bombers were assigned, which sequentially delivered 14 strikes. The means of objective control confirmed the destruction of 4 tanks, 3 infantry fighting vehicles, 9 off-road vehicles with large-caliber weapons and 2 MLRS installations. The losses of terrorists in manpower amounted to more than 50 militants killed. About 30 more terrorists remained blocked in underground tunnels.

After 40 minutes, the Su-34 aircraft launched a second strike, as a result of which about 20 more militants were destroyed, who arrived to evacuate the wounded terrorists.

An ISIS command post and three groups of terrorists who arrived in the area from Iraqi territory as reinforcements were destroyed in the area of ​​the Khatla settlement. The elimination of 34 militants, 5 SUVs with large-caliber weapons, and 2 vehicles with ammunition was confirmed.

As part of the implementation of the Memorandum on the establishment of de-escalation zones in the Syrian Arab Republic, monitoring groups continued to monitor compliance with the ceasefire regime.

The situation in the de-escalation zones is assessed as stable.

The Russian part of the mission recorded 12 cases of shooting in the provinces: Aleppo - 4, Homs - 7, Daraa - 1.

The Turkish part of the mission recorded 1 violation in the province: Daraa - 1.

Two humanitarian convoys were carried out through the UN. Food and household supplies with a total weight of 119 tons were delivered to the settlements of Khajmi and Et-Taiba.

Medical assistance was provided to 5 residents during the day.

In total, medical assistance was provided to 59,060 residents.

During the day, agreements on the accession of settlements to the cessation of hostilities were not signed.

The number of localities that have joined the reconciliation process has not changed - 2248.

The number of armed formations that have declared their commitment to accepting and fulfilling the conditions for the cessation of hostilities has not changed - 234.

Russian and Syrian Foreign Ministers Sergey Lavrov and Walid Muallem will meet in Sochi.

In addition to bilateral issues, the agenda of the ministerial meeting will include the situation on the ground in the context of the de-escalation process and the fight against terrorism, as well as prospects for a political settlement.

According to Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin, Russian business will receive preferences in Syria, which will be spelled out in contracts. “We discuss issues when we understand that the war is coming to its logical conclusion, the bandits will be destroyed, and by the time the Syrian civilian economy is restored, Russia has come up with a deep understanding of what will need to be done through both state-owned companies and Russian business,” - he said.

Rogozin placed particular emphasis on the creation of a direct shipping line between Russian and Syrian ports. According to him, the trade turnover between the countries for seven months of 2017 increased by 42 percent and amounted to $192.8 million. At the same time, the share of Syrian exports in the trade turnover is minimal - $2 million.

The Deputy Prime Minister explained this fact by the lack of the necessary infrastructure for the export and preparation of local agricultural products. However, Rogozin intends to quickly solve this problem by setting up a full-cycle production, which will begin to supply vegetables and fruits to Russia.

The European Union does not demonstrate political readiness to take part in the reconstruction of Syria after the war. This statement was made by Russia's Permanent Representative to the EU Vladimir Chizhov.

Thus, the European Commissioner for Migration, Internal Affairs and Citizenship Dimitris Avramopoulos avoided answering the question of Russian journalists about what specific contribution the EU intends to make to stabilize the situation in Syria.

Aleppo. The Syrian army continues demining villages in the province of Aleppo, a TASS correspondent reports from the scene.

Jarablus police detained a truck loaded with weapons and explosives from Manbij.

An office of the Turkish National Postal Service has been opened in Jarablus.

Idlib. Map of the military situation of the province of Idlib.

Dark gray areas controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham HTS, light gray areas with little HTS presence, green areas controlled by pro-Turkish militants.

Hama. The Syrian militia found IEDs and a fake IS tank.

HTS militants counterattacked several villages captured by ISIS the day before.

Homs. In the east of the Syrian province, as a result of an explosion on a mine left by terrorists, the cameraman of the Syrian television, Muhammad Milyad, died.

In the area of ​​the city of Karyatein, IS militants continue to maintain control over the dominant heights.

Damascus. The Syrian government army, together with its allies, completely liberated the territory bordering Jordan in the southeast of Damascus province from militants of the ISIS terrorist organization (banned in the Russian Federation).

Hasaka. Coalition aircraft near the city of Shadaddi destroyed IEDs and an ISIS combat position.

Deir ez-Zor. The 4th and 17th divisions of the Syrian Arab Army, together with the 5th Legion, cleared the vicinity of the Deir ez-Zor-Sukhna highway from IS militants.

Video of fighting east of Deir ez-Zor.

Government forces, with massive support from the Russian Aerospace Forces, are attacking the western districts of the city of Al-Mayadeen.

Fighting is underway in the Al-Arfi area, where government troops have managed to take most of the area.

Video from the vicinity of Al-Mayadeen.

Coalition aircraft near the city of Abu Kamal destroyed an IS tactical unit, a vehicle and a weapons depot.

Raqqa. RT Report: Bombing and looting: Raqqa civilians have lost everything in the fight against IS and live in ruins.

In Raqqa, fighting is underway in the northern and central regions, including at the National Hospital.

"The battle for Raqqa is in its final stages after SDF forces have liberated 90 percent of the city," SDF spokeswoman Jihan Sheikh Ahmed said.

The militants of the "Islamic State" (IS, the organization is banned in the Russian Federation) are returning the quarters of Syrian Raqqa they had previously abandoned, said the official representative of the Russian Defense Ministry, Igor Konashenkov.

“And the liberation of Raqqa, which has now remained in the rear, which the United States and the coalition for six months called the main priority in the fight against ISIS, has been frozen for a month now. To say the least, taking into account the current successes of the ISIS in returning the previously abandoned quarters of the city under their control, ”said Konashenkov.

Video: a human shield for terrorists: how the inhabitants of the Assyrian village became hostages of IS.

Video from the media center of the Kurdish YPJ about the fighting in Raqqa.

The coalition aviation near the city of Raqqa destroyed 4 tactical units, 50 combat positions, a tactical vehicle, six vehicles, IEDs and four ISIS command posts.

The operational environment in Syria is changing for the better. In the north of Homs, government troops repelled the offensive of Islamist rebels, and in the east they are preparing to storm the city of Al-Qaryatein. Near Damascus, Israeli aircraft attacked a battery of anti-aircraft missiles S-200 in response to the bombardment of aircraft Israeli Air Force who invaded Syrian airspace. The situation in Eastern Ghouta escalated, where the militants began active operations. At the same time, a successful offensive continues in Deir ez-Zor AF SAR and cleaning the administrative center from terrorists. East of Hama ISIS the last "pocket" has been liberated, and in the north of the province there are fierce battles between the group " Khayyat Tahrir ash-Sham"and militants" Islamic State". In Daraa, terrorists attacked armed opposition groups. In Raqqa, the completion of the operation to liberate the city is nearing completion. Under control " Syrian Democratic Forces» ( SDF) is currently located about 95% of the territory of the settlement. You can find out more about the events taking place in Syria in our daily report.

• Homs Province:

East Homs

The command of the SAR Armed Forces has not yet begun an operation to liberate Al-Qaryatein. Significant forces of government troops are drawn to the city. They included assault units of the 3rd division " Shield of Calamune».

North Homs

Over the weekend, the militants of the group " Harakat Ahrar ash-Sham”, violating the truce, attacked the positions of the SAR Armed Forces near the city of Jabburin. In addition, several more government-controlled settlements have come under attack by jihadists. ().

In turn, the Syrian army received a "green light" from the ceasefire guarantors: Russia, Iran and Turkey to retaliate against the rebels. As a result, the objects and positions of the rebels were first exposed to an air strike, and then the artillery of the SAR Armed Forces began to process them.

Video: The city of Talbisa, which is under the control of militants, was subjected to a massive air and artillery strike by the SAR Armed Forces

During the operation to clean up the territory of eastern Homs, the Syrian military discovered a large warehouse of weapons and ammunition belonging to the Islamic State. Most of the military equipment turned out to be Israeli-made.

Video: Security forces discover ISIS warehouse with Israeli weapons

• Damascus Province:

Yesterday, the Israeli Air Force launched a retaliatory strike on the air defense base of the SAR for shelling its aircraft that violated Syrian airspace. Israeli fighter jets fired rockets while over Lebanon. As a result, the S-200 battery was disabled. No human casualties were recorded. ().

Eastern Ghouta

Grouping " Jaysh al-Islam"continues to successfully resist government troops. As another propaganda step, the press service of the Islamists published a video showing the training of militants for the organization.

The situation in the Ain Tarma region has deteriorated significantly. The militants of the group Faylak ar-Rahman” burned a Shilka self-propelled anti-aircraft gun and a military bulldozer. In addition, with the help of a tunnel, the positions of the ATS Armed Forces were blown up.

Video: Faylak ar-Rahman militants blow up SAR strongholds in Ain Tarm

• 
  Aleppo Province:

Northern Aleppo

The internecine war between pro-Turkish factions in the north of Aleppo seems to be close to completion. The warring factions of militants came to an agreement on a truce. These clashes resulted in the deaths of over 50 Islamists on both sides. However, the conflict is still far from being completely resolved and it can resume again at any moment.

Meanwhile, the regular graduation of military pilots took place at the Kuveiris airbase. Yesterday, the Syrian Air Force added three squadrons of pilots who had just completed their training.

Video: Solemn release of pilots at the Kuweiris airbase

• Idlib Province:

Türkiye is increasing its military presence in Idlib. Another mechanized battalion of the Turkish army crossed the border of the province and entered Syrian territory. It consists of 15 tanks and 60 other combat vehicles.

Video: Turkish units invade Idlib part 1

The Turkish operation in Idlib currently covers the territory lying between the settlements of Qakh and Daira Simaan. In this area, the Turkish army strengthens the formed "corridor" and creates monitoring bases.

Video: Turkish troops in Idlib part 2

• Deir ez-Zor Province:

The Syrian army launched an operation in the southern part of the city of Deir ez-Zor. It involves units of the 5th Army Corps and the 4th Mechanized Division.

The Syrian military, with the support of tanks, is pushing out gangs of terrorists from the regions of Resafa, Rashidiya and Umma. If the pace of this offensive continues at the same level, then the ISIS group in the city of Deir ez-Zor will be eliminated in the coming days.

Video: Syrian tanks on the streets of Deir ez-Zor

On the eastern bank of the Euphrates River, government troops liberated the village of Husseiniya, as well as the settlement Zabkri, Saalo, Al-Aliyat and Al-Tob.

The rapid advance of the SAR armed forces in Deir ez-Zor is forcing the forces of the "Islamic State" to retreat. According to available information, the terrorists left the village of Mohassan. However, the Syrian military has not yet entered the above settlements, waiting for the sappers. The fact is that the entire infrastructure of towns and villages has signs of continuous mining.

A single suicide attack was carried out in the Humeima area. Unfortunately, she was successful. There are numerous casualties among the Syrian military.

• Hama Province:

Eastern Hama

The Syrian army has finished clearing the eastern "pocket" of Hama from terrorists. The operation was carried out by units of the 4th mechanized and 3rd divisions of the SAR Armed Forces. ().

North Hama

In the north of Hama, the confrontation between ISIS and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham continues. Al-Nusra militants drove the terrorists out of the settlement. Mustarikha and Shukistar.

Video: Footage of clashes from the area of ​​N. p. Mustarikha and Shukistar

During the battle, the jihadists of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham captured four prisoners. However, they were immediately shot, despite the fact that they threw down their weapons.

Video: Nusra militant shoots captured terrorists

• Hasaka Province:

If on the common front the "Islamic State" suffers one defeat after another, then in sabotage attacks it takes revenge. One of the ISIS raid groups in the area of ​​the Al-Salhiya-Sor highway captured the stronghold of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). All SDF soldiers captured by the terrorists were beheaded. ().

• Daraa Province:

ISIS controlled group Jaysh Khalid ibn al-Walid"attacked the positions of the armed opposition near the city of Advan. Currently, fierce battles are going on in this area with the use of armored vehicles.

The Syrian military intercepted a shipment of communications equipment destined for the rebels. The cargo was hidden in a car heading to Daraa from Suwayda.

• Raqqa Province:

During the past 24 hours, the SDF recaptured the al-Naim roundabout from ISIS. During this battle, 11 militants were destroyed and another 37 surrendered.

A little earlier, the Kurds occupied the building of the National Hospital, which the terrorists used as a hostage gathering place. There is no mention of their release.

Meanwhile, Raqqa's "Civil Council" has banned the evacuation of foreign IS fighters. He said in a statement that they are not covered by the signed agreement and "there can be no forgiveness."

Video: Military situation in Syria 10/16/2017 (Russian translation)

An overview of the map of hostilities and an operational summary of Syria for yesterday.

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Reading 11 min. Published on 09.10.2017

Syria Today News October 9, 2017 - summary. The air group of the Russian Aerospace Forces supports the offensive of government troops in the province of Deir ez-Zor. In the Syrian Arab Republic, the aviation of the Russian Aerospace Forces continues to assist government forces in the elimination of armed groups of international terrorist organizations.
The fighting for the liberation of the right-bank part of the province of Deir ez-Zor entered a decisive phase last week. The epicenter of the fighting is in the area of ​​​​the city of Meyadin, located downstream of the Euphrates, 45 km from the provincial center. UPDATED!

Major General Igor Konashenkov, spokesman for the Russian Defense Ministry, said on Saturday that over the past 24 hours, the actions of the Russian Aerospace Forces air group in Syria have been focused on destroying reinforcements of ISIS terrorists with a large number of foreign mercenaries arriving from Iraq to the area of ​​the city of Abu Kemal near the Syrian-Iraqi border.

“Russian military intelligence in Syria during the week uncovered their concentration areas and command posts in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe settlement of Abu Kemal, as well as the routes of advance to the city of Meyadin and further to the southern outskirts of the left-bank part of the city of Deir ez-Zor,” said the general. Major Igor Konashenkov. “After additional reconnaissance and confirmation of targets by the command of the Russian group in Syria, an operation was planned to destroy ISIS command posts, manpower and armored vehicles in the area with a missile and air strike.”

According to the official representative of the Russian Ministry of Defense, as a result of strikes in the Abu-Kemal area, a stronghold and about 40 ISIS soldiers - immigrants from Tajikistan and Iraq, as well as 7 off-road vehicles with large-caliber weapons (12.7-mm DShK and ZU-23 machine guns) were destroyed -2). Near the city of Meyadin there is a command post and up to 80 militants, including 9 people from the North Caucasus. 18 off-road vehicles with large-caliber weapons and 3 ammunition depots were also destroyed there.

From the area of ​​​​the American base at Al-Tanf, “ISIS mobile groups are carrying out sabotage and terrorist attacks against Syrian troops and civilians like the devil out of a snuffbox.”

Syria: video capture of Zabolotny and Tsurkanov by ISIS militants

A video footage appeared on the Internet, which shows two Russians who were previously captured by ISIS terrorists. Judging by the video, it was filmed immediately after Zabolotny and Tsurkanov were captured. The militants ask them a lot of questions to understand who they are dealing with.

Turkish troops launched an operation in Idlib

The Turkish Armed Forces have launched an operation in Syrian Idlib, reconnaissance is underway to establish observation posts to monitor the truce. This was reported on Monday at the General Staff of the country.

“According to the agreements reached in Astana on the creation of a de-escalation zone in the Idlib region, the Turkish Armed Forces, as one of the guarantor countries, launched a reconnaissance operation on October 8 to establish observation posts in order to monitor the ceasefire,” the document says.

Turkish units, which are part of the Deescalation Control Mission, have started reconnaissance since October 8 as part of the steps to establish observation posts in Idlib, the Turkish General Staff reports.

Nusra militants found weapons from the US, Belgium and France

The Jabhat al-Nusra terrorists who attacked a Russian military police observation post in Syria on September 18 carried weapons manufactured by the United States, Belgium and France, Syrian army soldier Walid Khali said during a demonstration of weapons seized from militants. “Here is a weapon seized from the militants a few weeks ago. It was supplied illegally from abroad. There are more than 100 small arms and hand grenade launchers made in the USA, Belgium and France,” the Syrian military man says.

He said that the militants independently finalized serial samples. According to the head of the main operations department of the Syrian Arab Army, Divisional General Ali Al-Ali, "irrefutable evidence has been collected that terrorists are using foreign weapons and ammunition."

“Fragments of foreign-made ammunition with serial numbers were photographed. With this ammunition, the militants regularly shell the residential areas of Damascus and the suburbs,” Al-Ali said.

According to him, during the demining of the Sakhur-2 quarter in the eastern districts of the city of Aleppo, 193 ammunition was discovered and neutralized. US-made munitions such as M203 underbarrel grenade launcher grenades and 60mm mines for mortars were found there. According to Al-Ali, the United States is supplying weapons to terrorists in Syria, not to the opposition. “We know that the United States delivered 1,421 trucks with military equipment and weapons to terrorists in Syria from June 5 to September 15 of this year. These weapons were allegedly intended to fight terrorists, but they eventually ended up in the hands of ISIS and Jabhat al-Nusra,” he said.

According to him, most of the weapons that end up with the Syrian radicals in this way are purchased by the American defense companies Chemring and Orbital ATK under the Pentagon's state program to help US allies. Al-Ali explained that these weapons are delivered to the Middle East by sea and enter Syria through sections of the border that government forces do not control.

Recall, earlier it was reported that "An-Nusra" staged a large-scale attack on the positions of the Syrian army north and northeast of the city. At some point, the terrorists managed to surround a Russian military police platoon. To help the besieged, a detachment for deblocking advanced, which was supported from the air by two Su-25 attack aircraft. As a result, the encirclement was broken, only three Russian special forces were injured.

The situation near Deir ez-Zor

In the province of Deir ez-Zor, units of the Syrian army, together with allied forces, liberated the settlement of Mrat al-Fouka, part of the village of Khatla at-Tahtani and a number of quarters of the city of Meyadin. When the army advances, the terrorists retreat, abandoning their positions.

In addition, aviation and artillery destroyed the fortifications of militants in the city of Muhasan, the settlements of Al-Jenena, Al-Husseiniya, Al-Husan, Khuveydzhet Sakr, as well as the quarters of Ar-Rushdiya, Al-Hamidiya, Al-Khweka, Al-Ommal and Ash - Sheikh Yassin of the city of Deir ez-Zor. In the city of Meyadin, the army surrounded the ISIS, destroying a large number of terrorists.

South of Deir ez-Zor in the valley of the Euphrates River, a detachment of foreign mercenaries numbering more than 60 militants - immigrants from the CIS, Tunisia and Egypt, 12 off-road vehicles with large-caliber weapons were destroyed.

For several days, additional reconnaissance of the results of an earlier missile and air strike near the village of Es-Sukkariya (the northern outskirts of the city of Abu-Kemal) was carried out, as a result of which the command post of the Islamic State formations was destroyed with more than 30 militants in it, including from the North Caucasus. “According to information received through several channels and confirmed “on the ground”, influential ISIS field commanders, who had been hiding in Iraq for a long time, came from the North Caucasus: Abu Omar ash-Shishani, Alyauddin ash-Shishani and Salahuddin ash-Shishani, were destroyed,” he said. Major General Igor Konashenkov.

A day earlier, on Friday, the official representative of the Russian Ministry of Defense that the US military base in Al-Tanf, covered with a human shield of Syrian refugees, has turned into a "black hole" on the border between Syria and Jordan, from where mobile groups of militants of a terrorist group make sorties "Islamic State". “The further the Syrian troops, with the support of the Russian Aerospace Forces, move east, destroying ISIS in the province of Deir ez-Zor, the more problematic the presence of an American military base in the village of Al-Tanf in its rear becomes,” he said.

The illegal deployment in April 2017 of this US military base on the Syrian-Jordanian border was publicly justified by the “need to conduct operations against ISIS,” Major General Igor Konashenkov explained. However, as he emphasized, “during the six months of the existence of this base, not a single operation of the Americans against ISIS is known. Representatives of the Pentagon have repeatedly stated that instructors from the United States, Great Britain and Norway, who are there under the cover of tactical aviation and MLRS, are training militants of the "new Syrian army."

Al-Tanf, an official representative of the Russian Defense Ministry pointed out, “has turned into a 100-kilometer ‘black hole’ on the Syrian-Jordanian state border. And instead of the “New Syrian Army”, ISIS mobile groups are making sabotage and terrorist attacks against the Syrian troops and civilians like the devil out of a snuffbox.”

Major General Igor Konashenkov drew the attention of media representatives to the fact that there is another problem associated with the presence of an American base in Al-Tanf. In the "security" zone next to the base, almost in the desert, there is the largest refugee camp Rukban. According to the most minimal estimates, there are today more than 60 thousand women and children from the provinces of Raqqa and Deir Ezzor, to which the Americans do not allow humanitarian convoys either from the Syrian government, or from Jordan, or from the UN and other international organizations.

“Rukban’s refugees today are essentially hostages, or rather, a human shield of the American base,” stated the official representative of the Russian Defense Ministry. “Let me remind you that in addition to the Americans, such “protective” barriers are used in Syria only by those with whom they came there to fight – terrorists.”

Our reference: In June 2017, Western media reported that the US military command deployed HIMARS long-range MLRS in the Al-Tanf area, supposedly designed to ensure the security of this base. HIMARS, depending on the configuration, can use either 227-mm rockets (six missiles with a range of 45 to 70 km, depending on modification), or ATACMS tactical missiles with a range of up to 300 km. Militants of the pro-American group "Jaysh Magavir at-Taura" are being trained at the base (the total number of this anti-government group is about 1.5 thousand militants, who have up to 200 pickup trucks with machine guns at their disposal).

Over the weekend, there were reports from Syria about the successful actions of government troops and allied forces on the right (western) bank of the Euphrates River. The mobile units of the Syrian army, reinforced with armored vehicles and supported from the air and artillery, approached the outskirts of Meyadin and started fighting for this city. His release will open the way to the city of Abu Kemal on the border with Iraq. The militants, among whom there are many experienced mercenaries, put up fierce resistance, trying to launch counterattacks. IS militants continue to hold some of the residents to use them as human shields.

But the fire superiority of government forces makes itself felt. According to correspondents from the scene, the crews of Russian-made attack helicopters masterfully clear the way for advancing units with unguided missiles.

Last week, government forces completed the elimination of the "Akerbat pocket" at the junction of the provinces of Hama and Homs. Having lost their heavy weapons under air strikes, ISIS detachments left all the settlements they held. A total of more than 1,800 square kilometers of territory have been liberated. Scattered groups of ISIS no longer pose a serious threat and are doomed to destruction.

At the same time, the desert character of the central regions provides the bandit formations with the opportunity to make sudden attacks on the extended communications of government forces. It also affects the fact that in the settlements recently liberated from the armed groups of the ISIS, there are "sleeping cells" of radical Islamists. This leads to the fact that a difficult situation persists along the strategic highway Palmyra - Arak - Es-Sukhne - Ash-Shola - Deir ez-Zor, as well as the city of Qaryatein (southeast of Homs province). The bandit groups operate using the classic tactics for the desert area - raids by mobile groups on off-road vehicles on roadblocks and villages. The intention of the ISIS leadership is obvious: to make it difficult to transfer reinforcements and materiel to the Deir ez-Zor area, where intense fighting is now underway.

South of Deir ez-Zor, an air strike by a Russian Aerospace Forces air group eliminated a detachment of foreign mercenaries numbering more than 60 militants - immigrants from the CIS, Tunisia and Egypt.

As for the situation in the former capital of ISIS, the city of Raqqa, the detachments of the pro-American alliance “Syrian Democratic Forces” (SDF) have not yet been able to finally break the resistance of ISIS militants, although the most combat-ready groups of ISIS members leaked in the direction of the province of Deir a month or two ago. ez-Zor. The militants remaining in the city - (estimated to be less than a thousand) are mostly local extremists who have risen under the black banners of ISIS. They stubbornly hold on to a number of central quarters, including the area of ​​the stadium and the hospital, despite the missile and bomb strikes of the international coalition, whose crews, which even Western human rights activists admit, do not protect the civilian population very much.

The delay in taking the city is partly due to the fact that the leadership of the SDS, apparently at the suggestion of US emissaries, transferred part of the Kurdish detachments from Raqqa to the left bank (north-eastern) part of the province of Deir ez-Zor, trying to preempt the government forces of the SAR and put it under its own control of oil and gas fields.

... In the ranks of ISIS formations fighting today against government forces in the province of Deir ez-Zor, there are not only many former Iraqi "Saddam's fedayeen", but also foreign mercenaries from North African countries, including those with experience serving in the French Foreign Legion. But ultimately, as most experts admit, the "caliphate" in Syria is doomed to complete military defeat. And then it's up to the measures of socio-economic stabilization and the struggle for the minds of ordinary Syrians, who, for various reasons, find themselves in captivity of the demagogy of radical Islamists.

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SYRIA

The Turkish Armed Forces captured the designated targets in the new cross-border operation "Source of Peace" in neighboring Syria. This is stated in a statement released on Thursday by the country's defense department.

“Operation Spring of Peace continued successfully throughout the night and was carried out both from the air and on land. The designated targets were captured. The operation continues successfully in accordance with [our] plans,” the communiqué says.

The Turkish armed forces will move at least 30 kilometers deep into the territory of northeastern Syria to create a "security zone" there, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said.

“At the first stage, we plan to create a security zone 120 kilometers long, then 400 kilometers. The width is about 30 km, we do not plan to reduce (the depth of the zone)," the head of the foreign ministry said on the air of the Turkish NTV channel.

The Turkish army and the Syrian opposition forces fighting on its side, after two days of fighting, managed to surround two border cities in northeastern Syria - Ras al-Ain and Tell Abyad. This was reported on Friday by the Al Jazeera TV station. According to her, Turkish troops and their allies were able to close the encirclement after they established control over 11 settlements located in the vicinity of these cities.

In Ras al-Ain, in northern Raqqa province, Turkish soldiers have now entered an industrial area where they are exchanging fire with remaining Kurdish YPG fighters. In Tell Abyad, armed opposition forces ousted Kurdish militias from the suburbs of El Yabs and Tell Fandar.

Farouk Abu Bakr, a spokesman for the so-called Syrian Free Army (TFSA), told Al Hadath that the Turkish-backed opposition forces "went into battle against the Kurdish separatists in order to restore the territorial unity of Syria." “This is a primordially Arab region that was captured by the YPG units, and we want to liberate it,” he stressed. According to Abu Bakr, the armed opposition is Turkey's partner in the fight against terrorist groups.

The SANA agency, in turn, reported a disorderly retreat of Kurdish troops from the border areas. According to him, the militias and their commanders hastily leave Ras al-Ain along with columns of refugees and head deep into the province of Hasakah.

On Thursday, the number of refugees who left the border area, where Turkey is going to create a buffer zone, exceeded 80 thousand people.

Ras al Ain.

At night, Turkish troops intensified shelling of the city of Tell Abyad. According to the SANA agency, eight people were killed among civilians and about 10 were injured. Significant material damage was caused to residential buildings and business facilities.

Moscow and Damascus have not yet reached an agreement on a new conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad to discuss the military operation that Turkey launched on October 9 in northeast Syria. This was stated to journalists by the assistant to the President of Russia Yuri Ushakov.

“We have established contacts with the Syrian leadership in various areas, various structures are involved in these contacts, so we are using the established schemes here. But so far no agreements have been reached on a new conversation between the leaders,” the Kremlin spokesman said.

On October 9, Putin held a telephone conversation with Turkish leader Tayyip Erdogan, during which he urged Ankara to carefully weigh the situation and not damage the overall efforts to resolve the crisis in the country with its military operation in Syria. In the conversation, which took place on the initiative of the Turkish side, the leaders continued to exchange views on the Syrian issue, including taking into account the agreements reached in September in Ankara at a meeting of the leaders of the guarantor states of the Astana process.

US President Donald Trump believes that in the situation with the Turkish operation in northeast Syria, the United States has three options, one of which is mediation in negotiations between Turkey and the Kurds. The American leader wrote about this on Thursday on his Twitter.

“We have 100% defeated the IS caliphate (the Islamic State terrorist group banned in the Russian Federation), we no longer have troops in the area attacked by Turkey in Syria. We did an excellent job. Now Turkey is attacking the Kurds, they have been fighting each other for 200 years. We have a choice of three options: send thousands of troops and win a military victory, hit Turkey hard financially and through sanctions, or broker an agreement between Turkey and the Kurds,” he wrote.

US President Donald Trump said he is in contact with Turkey and the Syrian Kurds in connection with the Turkish operation in northern Syria.

“Turkey has planned to attack the Kurds for a long time, they [Turks and Kurds] have always been at war,” Trump tweeted Thursday. “We don't have troops near the attack area. I intend to end the endless wars, talking to both sides."

“Someone wants us to send tens of thousands of soldiers to this zone and start a new war. Türkiye is a NATO member, he said. “Someone says not to interfere and let the Kurds fight their wars (even with our financial help). I said that I would hit Turkey very seriously financially and with the help of sanctions, if they don’t play by the rules, I’m watching closely.”

Five European countries - members of the UN Security Council called on Ankara on Thursday to stop the operation in northeast Syria, as it will not solve Turkey's security problems. This was stated on Thursday at the UN headquarters after closed consultations in the UN Security Council on the situation in northern Syria, Deputy Permanent Representative of Germany to the UN Jürgen Schultz, who spoke on behalf of the "European five" members of the UN Security Council - Germany, France, Great Britain, Belgium and Poland, as well as Estonia, which supported the statement.

“We are deeply concerned about the Turkish military operation in northeast Syria,” he said. “We call on Turkey to stop the unilateral military operation and believe that it will not solve the problems that are of concern to Turkey.”

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan criticized the European Union on Thursday for condemning Ankara's cross-border "Source of Peace" operation in Syria. In a speech broadcast by NTV, the Turkish leader threatened to open the door to refugees in Europe if Europe called the operation an invasion.

“Hey European Union, pull yourself together! If you try to call our operation an invasion, then our business is simple - we will open our border crossings and release 3.6 million refugees to you, ”he said.

UN Assistant Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs Ursula Muller will present to the Security Council of the world organization information on the situation in northeast Syria in the light of Turkey's military operation. This was announced on Thursday at a regular briefing by Deputy Spokesman for the UN Secretary General Farhan Haq.

As he noted, the states included in the Security Council "will discuss Syria, Assistant Secretary General Ursula Muller will inform them about the humanitarian situation in the north-east of the country." “They are also expected to receive information from UN Assistant Secretary General for Asia and the Middle East, Khaled Hiari,” Haq said.

The United Nations will intensify humanitarian activities in the areas of Syria where the Turkish operation is deployed, said Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for the UN Secretary General.

“We are not located in the region where the conflict is taking place… We have humanitarian personnel in other areas where we believe people may be arriving in search of safety. And so we will expand our activities in the surrounding areas,” Haq said.

French President Emmanuel Macron called on Turkey to end its invasion of Syria, saying it would help the Islamic State restore the caliphate, Euronews reports.

“Turkey is putting millions of people at humanitarian risk,” Macron said at a press conference. “At the same time, Turkey will be responsible to the international community for helping IS in establishing a caliphate.”

Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar had a telephone conversation with French Defense Minister Florence Parly.

Greece condemns Turkey's military operation in Syria and calls for its immediate cessation, the Greek Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

“Greece fully supports the position of the European Union, condemns Turkey's new unilateral military actions on the territory of a sovereign state and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities in northeast Syria. Operations that violate international law undermine stability in the region and jeopardize United Nations efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis,” the statement said.

Poland is concerned about the operation of the Turkish army in Syria, and hopes for its speedy completion, the republic's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

“Poland is concerned about the start of the operation of the Turkish armed forces in northeastern Syria. We fear that it may adversely affect the stability of the region, the UN-sponsored efforts to find a peaceful solution, and contribute to a further deterioration of the humanitarian situation,” the statement said.

Armenia condemns the Turkish military's invasion of Syria. We are concerned about the current situation as we estimate that this action will further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Syria. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this at a meeting of the Government of Armenia on October 10, speaking about yesterday's invasion of the Turkish Armed Forces into Syria.

In particular, he noted: “We call on the international community to take effective measures aimed at stopping these illegal actions and protecting the rights of Syrian citizens, including representatives of national minorities living along the Turkish border.

In this regard, I want to emphasize the following: as you know, Yerevan is successfully carrying out a humanitarian mission in Syria, and we will continue it. I think it’s worth discussing behind closed doors and exchanging views on the situation in northern Syria, possible developments and our positions after considering the agenda of the Cabinet meeting.”

EC head Jean-Claude Juncker urged Turkey to act with restraint in Syria and stop the military operation, which, according to him, will not lead to positive results, RIA Novosti reports.

“Turkey has security concerns on the border with Syria. However, I call on Turkey, as well as other actors, to act with restraint and stop the operations that are already taking place. This military action does not lead to positive results,” Juncker said, speaking in the European Parliament.

NATO member Norway is suspending all new arms exports to Turkey.

The military operation of the Turkish army in northern Syria could have dangerous consequences for the unity of Syria and negatively affect the course of the war against terrorists in the Arab Republic, Lebanese President Michel Aoun said Thursday at a meeting with UN Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs Rose Marie De Carlo in the palace in Baabda , reports RIA Novosti.

“President Aoun drew the attention of the UN adviser to the fact that the latest developments that are taking place on the Syrian-Turkish border could have dangerous consequences for the course of the war in Syria, and Lebanon is monitoring developments in the hope that attacks on the unity of Syria and the realities associated with refugees, will not be, ”the press service of the President of Lebanon writes in a statement.

Washington proceeds from the fact that Ankara, in the light of its ongoing operation in Syria, bears full responsibility for the safety of civilians and the fight against the terrorist group "Islamic State" (IS, banned in the Russian Federation) in the Arab Republic. This was stated on Thursday to journalists at the UN by the US permanent representative to the world organization Kelly Kraft.

As she stressed, “the United States does not in any way encourage” Turkey's operation. “President [U.S. Donald] Trump has told the Turkish government that it is solely responsible for the security of the Kurdish population and religious minorities, including Christians, and for preventing a humanitarian crisis,” Kraft said. “Failure to play by the rules, protect vulnerable populations and ensure that IS cannot take advantage of these actions to strengthen itself will have consequences,” she stressed.

The demographic policy pursued in Syria by some states that are members of the international coalition led by the United States became a prerequisite for the Turkish military operation in the Arab Republic. Vasily Nebenzya, permanent representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, announced this to journalists on Thursday.

As he stated, the Russian Federation proceeds from the fact that "all parties should exercise maximum restraint during this operation." As he stressed, "this operation was the result of demographic engineering, which was carried out in northeastern Syria by some coalition partners." “We have warned them for a long time not to experiment with this,” Nebenzya said.

“We called on the Kurds to engage in direct dialogue with the Syrian authorities, but, as you know, they have chosen other patrons. You see what is happening now," the permanent representative of the Russian Federation said.

The Arab-Kurdish armed coalition SDF enjoys the support of the United States.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu ruled out the possibility of negotiations with the current Syrian government. He stated this on Thursday on the air of CNN Turk.

“What can we talk about with the people who killed a million Syrian citizens? The Assad government cannot unite Syria,” the Foreign Minister said in response to a journalist’s request to comment on the statement by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that Moscow intends to facilitate dialogue between Damascus and Ankara.

NATO expects that Turkey's operation in Syria will be balanced and proportionate, and that Turkey will try to avoid exacerbating the suffering of the civilian population. This was stated by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a press conference in Athens, which was broadcast by the press service of the organization.

“I expect Turkey to show restraint, that its actions will be balanced and proportionate, that Ankara will try to avoid even greater suffering for the civilian population,” Stoltenberg said. “However, we must focus on our key task - defeating the terrorist organization Islamic State (IS, banned in the Russian Federation). Turkey is part of the [US-led] coalition in Syria, NATO is part of the coalition. We must work together to defeat ISIS,” Stoltenberg said. He also urged "to be careful not to allow an increase in migration flows in the region."

In turn, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed fears that Turkey's military operations could "give time for ISIS forces in the region to regroup and strengthen."

Earlier on Thursday, the chairman of the executive committee of the Kurdish Council of Democratic Syria, Ilham Ahmed, told a TASS correspondent in Brussels that IS militants could have escaped from a prison in the Syrian city of Qamishli, which was shelled by Turkish troops.

The Turkish Armed Forces eliminated 219 "terrorists" during the military operation "Source of Peace" in Syria. Anadolu agency reported this on Thursday, citing the Turkish Ministry of National Defense.

Earlier, the agency reported 174 "liquidated terrorists" from the Kurdistan Workers' Party and the Kurdish "People's Self-Defense Forces".

The flow of refugees from the Syrian border regions of Ras al-Ain and Tell Abyad intensified on Thursday after the expansion of the military operation "Source of Peace", launched by the Turkish army. According to the Al Hadath TV channel, the number of civilians who left their homes exceeded 60 thousand people.

According to him, the first columns of refugees moved out on Thursday from the city of Qamishli, the administrative center of the self-proclaimed Kurdish autonomy in northeastern Syria. Turkish troops resumed shelling of its western and eastern outskirts in the afternoon, where the main forces of the Kurdish armed formations are concentrated.

According to the SANA agency, 13 civilians were killed and 29 more were injured in northeastern Syria in a day. According to him, as a result of the aggressive actions of the Turkish army, great material damage was caused to the economic facilities of the region. So, on Thursday, a thermal power plant in Ain al-Arus was put out of action. Earlier, the Turkish Air Force raided the Rumeilan oil field, where a fire broke out at the main oil loading station.

Turkish military forces continued shelling northeastern Syria from their base in Akçakal on Thursday as part of their operation against Kurdish groups in Syria. The footage shows a plume of smoke and explosions as Turkish troops fire artillery from their base set up a few days ago for the operation.

The Turkish Ministry of National Defense has released footage of its commandos allegedly operating in Syria.

Recent events on the second day of the operation of the Turkish Armed Forces in the SAR.

At least 18 people were injured as a result of shelling by Syrian Kurds from the "People's Self-Defense Forces" of the Turkish cities of Akcakale and Ceylanpinar on the border with Syria. This was announced on Thursday by the NTV channel.

According to him, administrative buildings became the targets of the mortar attack.

In addition, the journalists of the Haber Turk TV channel were fired upon. The incident occurred at the moment when they were broadcasting live from the roof of one of the houses on the Turkish-Syrian border.

Later it became known that at least three people, including a child, were victims of shelling by the Syrian Kurds of the Turkish city of Akchakale, located near the border with the Arab Republic.

According to local authorities, "the terrorists fired from the Syrian region of Tell Abyad, during which several shells exploded in the city center."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Iraqi President Barham Saleh expressed their readiness to facilitate contacts to resolve the situation in northeastern Syria. This is stated in the message of the Russian Foreign Ministry following a telephone conversation between the parties held on Thursday.

“Issues related to the development of the situation in northeast Syria were discussed. A common opinion was expressed on the need to achieve a strong and long-term stabilization of the situation on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River based on respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria through the establishment of a dialogue between Damascus and Ankara, as well as between the Syrian authorities and representatives of the Syrian Kurds. It was emphasized that Russia and Iraq are ready to facilitate such contacts," the diplomatic mission informed.

“The interlocutors agreed to continue the exchange of views and coordination of approaches,” the ministry added.

The Iranian authorities demand an end to Turkey's military operation in Syria and the withdrawal of troops from the Arab country. This is stated in a statement by the Iranian Foreign Ministry, released on Thursday by its press service.

“Given the serious humanitarian threat and risks to civilians in the region, the Iranian Foreign Ministry insists on an immediate cessation of attacks and the withdrawal of Turkish armed forces from Syrian territory,” the statement said. At the same time, it is noted that "the Iranian side is concerned about the actions of Ankara."

According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, "military actions will not only not benefit Turkey's security, but will also lead to material losses and human casualties." "Tehran is convinced that tensions can only be resolved through peaceful actions, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria," the ministry said. At the same time, the Iranian side "declares its readiness for any kind of mediation between Syria and Turkey to resolve problems."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "condemned Turkey's invasion of northeast Syria, promising to help the valiant Kurdish people," Haaretz reports.

"Israel strongly condemns Turkey's military incursion into Kurdish areas in Syria," Netanyahu tweeted, adding, "Israel warns of ethnic cleansing against Kurds by Turkey and its representatives." According to Netanyahu, "Israel will make every effort to offer humanitarian assistance to the brave Kurdish people."

The first meeting of the Syrian Constitutional Committee is scheduled for October 29, Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov told reporters. “The Constitutional Committee has already been formed, its first meeting is scheduled for October 29,” he said.

As the Kremlin spokesman noted, it is important that Turkey, which launched a new military operation in northern Syria on October 9, “by its inaccurate actions does not interfere with this most important political process, the settlement process in Syria.” He added that Moscow is sympathetic to "Ankara's concerns regarding the protection of national security." “However, there are key international legal norms that relate to joint efforts to combat terrorism and establish peace in Syria. First of all, this is commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of Syria, respect for its sovereignty,” Ushakov said.

He recalled that during a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 9, Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed that he shares this approach. “Now, given the start of the operation, we consider it important that all parties show restraint, carefully weigh their practical steps so as not to damage the measures taken for a political settlement in Syria,” Ushakov added.

Moscow also urged to take into account the humanitarian aspect in this situation. “It is unacceptable for civilians to suffer. Peace and stability in the northeast of Syria must be ensured taking into account the interests of all groups of the Syrian people," the Kremlin spokesman stressed. According to him, in general, the aggravation of the situation in the region causes concern in Moscow, and it intends to "closely follow the development of events."

Ushakov drew attention to the fact that Putin and Erdogan communicate by phone and meet with each other more often than with other leaders, which is “due to their joint involvement in Syrian affairs.” “The parties did not agree on a new telephone conversation, but it can take place as needed. Leaders are always willing to talk, discuss current situations. It will be the same this time, I am sure,” the Kremlin spokesman summed up.

Turkey has deployed its air defense system near the Syrian border region, where they are currently launching an operation against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Russian aviation publication Avia.Pro reported.

According to Avia.Pro, the Turkish military deployed its air defense system in this zone of operation after the US refused to support their ongoing invasion of the northeastern region of Syria.

“Due to the fact that the United States of America refused to support Turkey during their military operation in northern Syria, the latter deployed short-range air defense systems in the zone of operation that could be used by American aircraft and drones if the latter tried to intervene,” — said in the message.

“According to preliminary data, we are talking about anti-aircraft missile launchers, consisting of 8 Stinger missiles mounted on a wheelbase. There are no official comments from Ankara on this issue, however, experts draw attention to one important detail: the Kurds do not have planes or helicopters in their arsenal, and it is Washington that is the main opponent of the military operation in northern Syria,” they continued.

“Whether the Turkish army dares to use its air defense systems against American combat aircraft and helicopters is still unknown.

Aleppo. Civilians and two policemen were injured when a motorcycle exploded in the center of Al Bab city. Local sources said six civilians and two police officers were injured in a bomb planted by an unidentified person at a motorcycle repair shop.

Latakia. The Syrian Air Force continued its air operation along the Latakia-Turkey border region, targeting several sites belonging to HTS militants and the Turkestan Islamic Party in the Jabal Al-Akrad and Jabal Turkmen areas.

Hasaka. Turkish military personnel have dismantled concrete barriers opposite the Syrian city of Tell Halaf, west of the Ras al-Ain region, and are preparing to launch an invasion on this section of the border. This was reported on Thursday by the Syrian television station Al Ekhbariya.

According to her, on Wednesday, Turkish artillery was already shelling settlements in the Khabur River valley, where Tell Khalaf is located, one of the centers of the ancient Mesopotamian civilization in northern Syria. The area is inhabited by Assyrian Christians, who are considered a religious-ethnic minority in Hasakah.

Artillery of the Turkish army shelled the region of the large Rumeilan oil field on Thursday. According to the Al Ekhbariya TV station, as a result of a direct hit, the main Saida oil loading station was disabled, and a strong fire broke out at the facility.

Earlier, the SANA agency reported that the aggressive actions of the Turkish troops led on Wednesday to the failure of the water tower in Miyah Alluk. However, maintenance crews later managed to restore the operation of the facility, which supplies drinking water to 2 million residents of Hasaka.

Two children, 10 years old, were killed, another was injured as a result of the indiscriminate bombing of the city of Qamishli by Turkey.

14 Turkish soldiers were killed during the fighting with the formations of the Kurdish coalition "Syrian Democratic Forces" (SDF) in the area of ​​the city of Ras al-Ain. This was reported on Thursday by the Al Mayadeen TV channel, citing Kurdish sources. According to them, the SDF successfully repel the offensive of the Turkish army east of Ras al-Ain.

The Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) thwarted an attempt by militants of the Islamic State (IS, banned in the Russian Federation) terrorist group to take advantage of the offensive operation of the Turkish army and make a sortie near the city of Ras al-Ain. This was reported on Thursday by the Al Mayadeen TV channel, citing Kurdish security sources.

According to them, militants from the "sleeping cells" of the ISIS tried to take control of the settlement of Al-Tuwaymiya in the Ras al-Ain region.

The Turkish Air Force resumed airstrikes on the Ras al-Ain area on Thursday morning. Attacks are being made on villages located east of Ras al-Ain.

This information was confirmed by the Syrian TV channel Al-Ikhbariya. He notes that ground forces of the Turkish army also take part in the operation. Al Jazeera TV channel confirmed this information. Turkish forces are said to have succeeded in taking control of several villages.

The Internal Security Forces (Asayish) captured 5 sleeper cell members associated with Turkish-backed armed groups in Ras al-Ayn.

TFSA fighters and parts of the Turkish army near the city of Ras al-Ain.

Deir ez-Zor. The Syrian Arab army is moving reinforcements to the area of ​​the Euphrates river valley. The SAR government is concerned that the oil fields in the eastern part of Deir ez-Zor will remain under the control of the American coalition or be captured by the Turkish armed forces and their allies.

If the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) enter into peace talks, they will demand the transfer of these oil fields, including Al-Umar, which is the largest in eastern Syria, according to an AMN source. He added that the Syrian army is ready to act if they feel that the Syrian Democratic Forces are on the brink of collapse east of the Euphrates River.

Raqqa. Demonstration in the city of Tel Abyad to protest against the Turkish military operation

Ground units of the Turkish Armed Forces entered on Thursday morning within the Syrian Tell Abyad, located on the border of the two countries. This was reported by the newspaper Milliyet.

The advance towards Tell Abyad began at night from four directions. It is indicated that to date, the positions of the armed Kurdish detachments that were there before the start of the “Source of Peace” operation are not visible in the city and its suburbs, and there are no skirmishes.

TFSA statement: “The village of Al Yabiseh, west of Tel Abyad, was captured after heavy clashes with the YPG.

Turkish artillery shelling of the outskirts of the city of Tel Abyad.

According to the SANA agency, in the north of the province of Raqqa, Turkish troops penetrated deep into Syrian territory and occupied four villages in the vicinity of the border town of Tel Abyad, including the settlement. Iksas (Iqsas).

Turkish military reinforcements moving towards Tel Abyad.

ISRAEL

A telephone conversation took place between Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The main topic of conversation was the growth of anti-Semitism in Germany and the terrorist attack in Halle.

The press service of Reuven Rivlin reported that the Israeli President thanked the German authorities for what they are doing to ensure the safety of members of the Jewish community in their country. But at the same time, he noted that it is necessary to continue to act decisively and without hesitation against any manifestations of anti-Semitism.

“We must learn from the tragedy in Halle in order to make sure that this does not happen again,” Reuven Rivlin concluded.

Two partners of Trump's personal lawyer Rudolfo Giuliani, Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman, have been arrested in the United States on suspicion of illegally financing Donald Trump's election campaign - in particular, transferring Russian donor money to the Republican Party fund.

Parnassus and Fruman, both ex-Soviet and now doing business in Florida, assisted Giuliani in his negotiations with the Ukrainian authorities regarding the initiation of criminal cases against Joe Biden and his son Hunter. During the investigation launched by Congress as part of the impeachment proceedings, it turned out that these two constantly accompanied Giuliani during his trips to Ukraine. According to a Wall Street Journal report, on October 9, Parnassus and Fruman tried to fly out of the United States and were arrested at Dallas airport on charges of violating campaign finance law.

US law prohibits the acceptance of campaign contributions from foreigners and donations under a false name.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York charges Giuliani's aides and two other businessmen named David Correla and Andrey Kukushkin with "organizing a scheme to transfer foreign money to candidates for public office in order to gain influence over the candidates, their campaigns and their administrations."

The businessmen are accused of forging hundreds of thousands of dollars of provenance documents that they have donated to Republican campaign funds, including its America First Action committee, which was formed in 2018 to re-elect Donald Trump.

60% of Israelis oppose US interference in Israeli decisions. On October 10, a poll by the Ruderman Foundation showed that 60% of Israelis oppose US interference in Israeli decisions. It also became known that only 22% of Israelis are aware of the differences between different currents of the Jewish community in the United States.

300 members of the Likud Central Committee (CC) voted this evening. October 10, for the proposal of its chairman, Knesset member Chaim Katz, who said that Benjamin Netanyahu is the party's candidate to form a new government.

“The Center confirmed that the Likud Chairman and Prime Minister, Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, who, in accordance with Article 85 of the Likud Charter, is the [Likud] movement’s [Likud] candidate for Prime Minister of Israel, is the Prime Minister Likud for the entire 22nd Knesset,” the proposal reads.

“During the term of the 22nd Knesset, Likud will only enter the only government headed by Likud Chairman and Prime Minister, Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, whether for any term or part of his term in rotation. ", it says there.

Prime Minister Netanyahu himself was absent this evening from the Ganei Ha-Taaruha conference center, however, it is clear that through a proposal approved by the Likud Central Committee, he wants to neutralize the ability of any other Likud member to form a right-wing government in the 22nd Knesset .

On October 10, senior officials of the ruling Likud party say that the leader of the NDI party, Avigdor Lieberman, is preventing the creation of a broad unity government that will include all Zionist parties. "Lieberman announces that he is awaiting a mandate [to form a government to Blue and White leader Benny] Gantz, and continues to refuse to vote against a left-wing minority government supported by Arab parties," they say, adding that Likud is working on the creation of a government of broad national unity, and, as the President suggested, without the disqualification of any party. The one who stops the process is Lieberman, who is completely attuned to Yair Lapid.”

Members of the Joint Arab List Knesset met October 10 with Internal Security Minister Gilad Erdan and the police high command. The meeting discussed the situation in the Arab sector in connection with the outbreak of violence in the Arab environment.

On the morning of October 10, hundreds of Israeli Arabs headed in a convoy from Maj al-Krum to Jerusalem. In this regard, traffic jams formed on highways No. 6 and No. 1 at the entrance to the capital.

At the same time, dozens of people protested outside the office of the head of government in Jerusalem. Among them were the relatives of those killed in various acts of violence in the Arab sector. The protesters also demanded the resignation of Minister Erdan.

Since the beginning of the year, 73 people have died in the Arab sector.

The Palestinian authorities in Ramallah are negotiating to change the supply route of the Gaza Strip so that more goods are delivered to the sector through the Rafah checkpoint on the border with Egypt at the expense of the Kerem Shalom checkpoint on the border with Israel.

According to the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar, Ramallah also wants Palestinian tax officials to be present on the Egyptian side of the Rafah checkpoint, who will collect import duties.

Thus, Ramallah expects to put pressure on Hamas, which collects duties on the supply of goods to the sector, as well as to reduce Israel's ability to control tax revenues of the autonomy.

According to the newspaper, this topic was discussed during a recent visit to Cairo by a Palestinian delegation headed by the prime minister of the autonomy, Muhammad Shtayyeh.

During the night (10.10) IDF soldiers, as well as Shin Bet, border police (MAGAV) and Israeli police arrested, in Judea and Samaria, eight residents of the PA. suspected of involvement in terrorist activities.

This was reported by the press service of the IDF.

IRAN

About 30% of Iranians aged 15 to 24 do not work or study, according to a report from the country's Ministry of Labor.
It is reported by The Times of Israel with reference to Farda radio.
Iran's economy has been under threat since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in the 1980s, and recent sanctions have exacerbated the problem.

The Iranian authorities decided to release the previously detained Russian citizen Yulia Yuzik, she flew to Moscow. This is stated in the statement of the Russian Embassy in Tehran, published on Thursday.

“As a result of the joint efforts of the Russian Foreign Ministry and the Russian Embassy in Tehran, the Iranian side made a decision to release Russian citizen Yulia Yuzik,” the report says. “In the early morning of October 10, she flew from Iran to Moscow on an Aeroflot flight.”

Yuzik feels fine, Andrey Ganenko, press attache of the Russian Embassy in Iran, told TASS.

“He is feeling normal, safe and sound,” he said.

IRAQ

US President Donald Trump said that especially dangerous militants of the terrorist organization Daesh (Islamic State, ISIS, ISIS - banned in Russia), who were held by the Kurdish YPG in northeast Syria, were transferred under the supervision of the US military before the start Turkish army operations in the specified region of the Arab Republic.

Trump did not elaborate, but The Washington Post reported on October 10 that the American side had taken control of two notorious British ISIS operatives dubbed the Beatles and transferred them to Iraq.

"We're taking some of the most dangerous Islamic State fighters and moving them to secure other locations," Trump said. “We have taken a number of ISIS fighters who are especially terrible, and we want nothing to happen to them in the sense that they do not escape (from captivity).”

As for the two members of the Beatles allegedly placed under the supervision of the US military, they are Alexander Coty and El Shafi Elsheikh, who were part of a cell of four Britons known for their extreme cruelty. At the height of IS in Syria and Iraq, members of the group kidnapped and tortured foreigners, including journalists, Voice of America explained on Thursday.

On Thursday evening, 64 children, citizens of Uzbekistan, were delivered by a special flight from Baghdad (Iraq) to Tashkent as part of the Mehr-2 (Dobro-2) humanitarian operation, UzA reported.

The operation was carried out on behalf of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in cooperation with the government of Iraq and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

Among those who arrived at home - 39 boys and 25 girls, of which 14 are children under the age of 3 years and 2 are orphans.

EGYPT

The Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation Denis Manturov and the President of Egypt Abdel Fattah al-Sisi at the talks in Cairo touched upon the issue of resuming charter flights between the countries. The head of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation told reporters about this.

“Of course, this issue was raised,” he said, noting that not all security issues at Egyptian airports have yet been resolved.

“In the near future (it is planned) to speed up the procedures for answering all the technical questions that remain in this regard. And I really hope, I hope that if all the answers are received, there will probably be more control visits [to Egyptian airports by Russian aviation specialists]. After that, decisions will be made [on the resumption of flights to the resort cities of Cairo],” Manturov said.

The parties also considered the issue of supplying Russian aircraft to Egypt, in particular, 12 SSJ-100 aircraft, the minister added. According to him, the issues of resuming flights to the resort cities of Egypt and the supply of aircraft are linked, and the final decision on the supply of aircraft will be made after the situation with charters is resolved.

The contract for the supply of SSJ-100 aircraft to Egypt has been discussed since May 2015 - then it was about the supply of 12 aircraft with an option for another 12 aircraft. It was assumed that under the trade-in scheme, Russia received Embraer aircraft from Egypt, giving SSJ-100. The first deliveries were to start at the end of 2016.

An agreement on a free trade zone between Egypt and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) can be signed in mid-2020, Denis Manturov, head of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, told reporters after a meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli.

“The end of next year, in my opinion, is the maximum timeframe [for signing the agreement]. I would focus on the middle of next year,” the minister said.

At the same time, he noted that the third of six rounds of negotiations has already been completed. “We will contact the EEC [Eurasian Economic Commission] regarding the possibilities in this case, in the absence of any contraindications and contradictions, to accelerate the process of passing the rounds or their merging into one,” Manturov said.

The first round of negotiations to conclude a free trade agreement between the EAEU and Egypt took place in January 2019. The agreement will provide new opportunities for the development and facilitation of trade between the participants, the EEC noted earlier.

Special Representative of the Russian President for the Middle East and Africa, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and Egyptian Ambassador to Moscow Ihab Nasr discussed the situation in the Middle East, including northeast Syria, as well as preparations for the first Russia-Africa summit at a meeting on Thursday. This is stated in the message of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

“During the conversation, the emerging situation in the Middle East and North Africa was discussed, including in the context of recent events in northeast Syria,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said. “At the same time, the importance of further strengthening coordination between Moscow and Cairo in resolving regional crises by political and diplomatic means was noted.”

The ministry noted that the parties touched upon some practical issues of preparation for the upcoming Russia-Africa summit.

The meeting took place at the request of the Egyptian diplomat, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

The Egyptian Ministry of Energy has ordered a reduction in the daily production of natural gas from 7 to 6 billion cubic feet (from 198 to 170 million cubic meters).

According to Egypt oil and gas, the decision was made due to the low level of demand for gas in the domestic and foreign markets.

According to Egyptian sources, Egyptian power plants' gas consumption has dropped from 4.5 billion cubic feet per year to 3.7 billion cubic feet per year.

Currently, Egyptian power plants consume 61% of the gas sold on the domestic market.

Türkiye

Ankara's second court for especially grave crimes released from custody three suspects in the case of the murder of Russian Ambassador to Turkey Andrei Karlov, a TASS correspondent reports from the courtroom.

The court decided to release Serjan Bashar, Kagan Bulbul and Timur Ozkan. The latter is the organizer of the exhibition at which the crime was committed.

The first meeting in the case of the murder of Karlov was held in the Turkish capital on January 8. In November 2018, the Ankara Prosecutor's Office sent an indictment to the court. There are now 25 suspects in this case, including the leader of the Fethullah terrorist group (FETO) Fethullah Gülen. Former civil servant Shahin Sogyut, in turn, allegedly personally ordered the direct executor to kill the Russian diplomat.

Among the charges brought by the prosecutor's office are violation of the constitutional order, membership in an armed terrorist group, and deliberate murder for terrorist purposes. The prosecution described the incident as "a provocative action aimed at undermining relations between Turkey and Russia."

An earthquake of magnitude 4.0 occurred in the Sea of ​​Marmara off the coast of Turkey, Trend reports citing Turkish media.

According to the report, the tremors were recorded at 19:52 local time. The epicenter of the earthquake was located 3.71 kilometers from the province of Yalova.

The source of tremors lay at a depth of 10.66 kilometers. The earthquake was felt in Istanbul.

It is also reported that at 22:32 an earthquake of magnitude 3.5 occurred in the Sea of ​​​​Marmara. The epicenter of the tremors was located 2.97 kilometers from the province of Yalova, the focus lay at a depth of 11.21 kilometers.

There were no reports of casualties or destruction.

SAUDI ARABIA

On October 14-15, Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay state visits to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Yury Ushakov, aide to the President of Russia, told reporters about this on Thursday.

“On Monday and Tuesday [next week] the long-awaited state visits of the President of the Russian Federation to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will take place,” the Kremlin spokesman said, adding that the state visit to Riyadh will take place on Monday, October 14, and from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, October 15, the Russian leader will arrive on a state visit to the UAE.

“These visits are important, they have been prepared for a long time, and they really are of particular relevance now in connection with the situation in the Middle East, North Africa and so on,” Ushakov said.

He recalled that the previous trip of the President of the Russian Federation to Saudi Arabia took place in February 2007, and in October 2017, for the first time in history, Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud paid a visit to Russia. Ushakov noted that Putin and King Salman keep in touch by phone, in addition, the Russian president regularly meets with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.

The last time the Russian leader visited the UAE was also in 2007.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia will discuss coordination of actions to stabilize the situation on the oil market at talks on October 14 in Riyadh. This was stated to journalists by the assistant to the President of Russia Yuri Ushakov.

“The talks will touch upon issues of further coordination of joint actions in order to stabilize the global hydrocarbon market,” he said. Ushakov recalled that "with the active role of Russia and Saudi Arabia, it was possible to agree on the extension until March next year of the agreement in the OPEC + format to reduce oil production."

In addition, according to Ushakov, "the build-up of multifaceted cooperation in various areas will be discussed." In particular, we are talking about the prospects for bilateral cooperation in the fields of energy, agriculture, industry, as well as military-technical cooperation and cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

"About 30 documents are being prepared for signing, both interdepartmental and commercial," the Kremlin spokesman added. According to him, the trade turnover between the countries in 2018 increased by 15% and exceeded $1 billion, and in January-July 2019, the figure increased by 38%, exceeding $846 million.

According to Ushakov, "a thorough exchange of views on topical issues on the international agenda with an emphasis on the state of affairs in the Middle East and North Africa region" is expected during the talks. “There will be talk about the situation in Syria, in the Persian Gulf region, in Yemen, as well as on the Palestinian-Israeli settlement,” he added.

The presidential aide said that Vladimir Putin would also take part in the first meeting of the Russian-Saudi Economic Council.

He recalled that Russia in this newly established council is represented by the head of the RDIF, Kirill Dmitriev, and Saudi Arabia is represented by the Minister of the National Guard, Prince Abdullah bin Bandar. The council included representatives of big business from the two countries, "about 20 representatives from each side," Ushakov added.

"The program of the visit provides for the participation of the President of the Russian Federation in the first meeting of this economic council, which will take place after negotiations with the king," Ushakov said, adding that Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud also intends to take part in the same meeting.

As the Kremlin representative noted, investment cooperation occupies an important place in bilateral cooperation. The Public Fund of Saudi Arabia has allocated $10 billion to invest jointly with the RDIF in the Russian economy. Of this amount, more than $2.5 billion has already been disbursed, he added.

The board of directors of Saudi Arabia's state oil company Saudi Aramco will give final approval to sell its securities next week. This was reported by Bloomberg, citing statements by experts familiar with this issue.

Members of the company's Board of Directors are scheduled to meet with initial public offering consultants around October 17, experts said. The oil giant will evaluate market conditions and feedback from a road show for potential major investors ending this week before making a final forecast, they said.

The initial public offering (IPO) of Saudi Aramco will be the largest in the history of the global stock market. Experts involved in the deal say about 2% of the company could be sold, which is expected to raise about $40 billion. The sale is at the heart of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's strategy to fund plans to diversify the country's economy.

Although Saudi Aramco is likely to move forward with the listing, the decision has yet to be made and the Saudis can still either delay or cancel the IPO, according to experts. Representatives of the company have not yet commented on the information presented above.

The initial public offering (IPO) of shares in Saudi Arabia's state oil company Saudi Aramco will not affect Riyadh's participation in OPEC in any way. This was announced by the secretary general of the cartel Mohammed Barkindo in an interview with Bloomberg on Thursday.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia remains committed to the OPEC organization as a founding country, as the de facto leader of the organization, as it is called in the media. And we heard from their representatives at the highest levels of government that the company's IPO will not affect their membership in OPEC in any way, ”he said.

According to Barkindo, the company's management has carefully considered the decision to hold an IPO right now. “For the last couple of years, they (the management of Saudi Aramco - TASS note) have been working very hard to prepare Aramco for an IPO. I think that in order to decide on the placement, they had to evaluate the whole situation. The company is in very capable hands. And they decided that the best time had come,” said the Secretary General of OPEC.

JSC "Russian Railways" (RZD) will take part in a tender for the construction of railways in Saudi Arabia. Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of RDIF, told reporters about this.

“Saudi Arabia has a massive railroad construction program, and there are a number of tenders and competitions for who will supply. Russian Railways could participate in the construction of a significant element of the railway infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. We believe that Russian Railways is one of the most competitive companies in this area. Together with Russian Railways, we are promoting the concept of Russian Railways' participation in the construction of various sections of railways in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

Dmitriev noted that RDIF also supports projects to invest funds from Saudi companies in national projects in Russia.

“We share information about where you can invest in infrastructure, and, accordingly, we discuss investments in national projects - this will be one of the important topics of discussion during a visit to Saudi Arabia,” the head of the RDIF said.

YEMEN

Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP, banned in the Russian Federation) specialist in the manufacture of explosive devices, Ibrahim Hasan al-Asiri, who occupied one of the key positions in the hierarchy of the group, was eliminated two years ago during a US special operation in Yemen. This was announced in a statement released on Thursday by US President Donald Trump.

“We confirm for the first time that Ibrahim al-Asiri, an important al-Qaeda explosives expert and terrorist coordinator, was killed two years ago in a US counterterrorism operation in Yemen,” the document says.

SYRIA

The Kremlin does not comment on the terms of delivery of S-300 systems to Syria. This was stated to journalists by the press secretary of the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Peskov.

“The delivery [of the S-300 systems to Syria] has indeed been completed,” he said. “All other nuances related to this delivery, please check with the Ministry of Defense.”

Earlier, a military-diplomatic source told TASS that Russia donated to Syria three divisions of the S-300PM anti-aircraft missile system, consisting of eight launchers each. “On October 1, the delivery of three S-300PM divisions to Syria, consisting of eight launchers each, was completed,” the agency’s interlocutor said.

“The equipment was previously in service with one of the anti-aircraft missile regiments of the Russian Aerospace Forces, re-equipped with the S-400 Triumph system, it underwent a major overhaul at Russian defense enterprises, is fully operational and capable of performing combat missions,” the source said, adding that the S-300PM were "transferred to the Syrian side free of charge."

Following talks with Deputy Prime Minister Maxim Akimov on Tuesday, October 9, in Jerusalem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his country would continue to strike hostile targets in Syria, despite the supply of Russian anti-aircraft missile systems (SAM) to the Arab Republic S-300. This is reported by the France-Presse agency.

Israel will continue to oppose Iran's plans to "root" its military presence in Syria, including air strikes in a neighboring Arab country, Netanyahu stressed.

According to the head of the parliament of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ali Larijani, the Israeli side is unable to strike at the S-300 Favorit anti-aircraft missile systems in Syria. He told the media about this. "I don't think Israel is capable of any serious action," Larijani said. He stressed that the Russian Federation has every right to deploy S-300 systems in Syria to protect its interests, especially after the incident with the downed Russian Il-20 aircraft. This is Russia's legitimate right, the Iranian parliamentarian said.

Russia will continue to expose the provocations of a group of countries led by the United States against the Syrian government over its alleged use of chemical weapons. This was stated on Wednesday by the head of the Russian delegation, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Georgy Kalamanov, speaking at the 89th session of the Executive Council of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

“Opponents of the legitimate Syrian authorities tirelessly talk about the guilt of government forces in the use of chemical weapons against the civilian population. Allegedly, there is confirmation of this in the reports of the Joint Investigation Mechanism [JIM], based on information collected by the Fact-Finding Mission in Syria [FFM],” Kalamanov said.

“But who gives this pseudo-information? These are non-governmental organizations such as the White Helmets, engaged and fed from the hands of the governments of the United States, Great Britain and other countries, he pointed out. “Now the White Helmets are fleeing Syria. They have completely discredited themselves even in the eyes of their Western sponsors.”

“We will continue to expose the underpinnings of the dirty provocative game that is being continued by a group of countries led by the United States against the legitimate government of Syria with the help of juggling facts and planting fake, custom-made videos by representatives of the White Helmets and the like,” the deputy minister stressed.

Russia sees no reason to force the start of the work of the Syrian constitutional commission. This was stated on Tuesday by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov following talks with his Slovak counterpart Miroslav Lajcak.

“We do not see any reason to speed up this process and set some artificial deadlines for the start of this work. The most important thing here is quality,” he said.

Lavrov stressed that attempts to speed up lead to the fact that the set goals cannot be achieved and “only unnecessary excitement is being pumped up.” “We continue our work, our representatives, together with Turkish and Iranian partners, are in contact with all interested parties, including Syrian colleagues and UN representatives, with whom they meet regularly,” the minister said.

The delegation of the Council of Democratic Syria (SDF, an autonomous governing body created by the Kurds in the north-east of the country) will hold the third round of talks in Damascus. This was reported on Tuesday by the Al Mayadeen TV channel. According to him, the political dialogue between the Kurds and the central government will resume on Wednesday after the arrival of the delegation in Damascus.

The first round of negotiations between the parties took place on July 26-27. Then it was possible to reach agreements on the creation of joint committees in various areas "with the aim of establishing economic life in the northern regions and solving the social problems that have accumulated there." At the second round on August 14-15, the development of a roadmap for the construction of a "decentralized democratic Syria" was discussed.

On October 4, SDF co-chair Amina Omar said that the Kurds were determined to continue dialogue with Damascus, which would "put an end to the crisis in Syria and preserve its territorial unity." According to her, the Kurds hope that as a result of the negotiations it will be possible to reach a settlement that "will be in the interests of the entire Syrian people and open the way to a stable future."

Russia is concerned about the situation on the eastern bank of the Euphrates, where the US, with the support of the Kurds, is creating some kind of special administration. This was stated on Wednesday at a briefing by the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova.

“Unfortunately, the development of the situation on the eastern bank of the Euphrates is of increasing concern,” she said. “In this zone, the Americans, who rely on their allies among the Kurds, actually rule the ball.”

“The efforts they are making to form some kind of special administration in the Trans-Euphrates, which does not comply with the current Syrian constitution, does not give positive results at all,” the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry added.

“Such quasi-state construction irritates the non-Kurdish population — Arabs, Assyrians, Turkomans,” Zakharova continued. “Local residents express particular dissatisfaction with the arbitrariness that employees of the local security service supervised by the Americans are doing.”

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad issued a decree on Tuesday granting a general amnesty "for conscription evaders inside and outside the country." According to the SANA news agency, the decree exempts deserters from criminal penalties under the law on service in the ranks of the republic's armed forces.

Under the terms of the amnesty, the fugitives inside the country must turn themselves in and surrender to the authorities within four months. For those who left the borders of Syria, the deadline for surrendering has been increased to six months.

President Assad issued similar amnesty decrees in 2013 and 2015. This move caused a positive response from the population. According to the Syrian press, then thousands of people surrendered to the authorities.

Commentators in Damascus point out that the amnesty decree is an important step towards national reconciliation and will facilitate the process of returning refugees to the country.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's decree pardoning deserters should be seen as a step towards national reconciliation in that country. This was announced on Tuesday by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

“As for the issue of pardoning deserters, this is probably a step towards national reconciliation, towards creating conditions that would be acceptable for those refugees who want to return to Syria. Not only refugees, but also temporarily displaced persons,” the head of the Russian Foreign Ministry noted. “We actively encourage this attitude of the Syrian leadership.”

“As you know, in connection with the need to help refugees return to their homes, there were fears that they would not be guaranteed security, that they would be discriminated against, that they would be immediately drafted into the army,” Lavrov noted. “They also cited the example of the so-called Law No. 10, which allegedly aims to expropriate property from those who will not return.” “On all these issues, we are trying to help the government and its opponents find such agreements that will be generally acceptable, which will help people make a decision to return to their homeland,” the minister said.

“By the way, under Law No. 10, we advised those who expressed concerns about this, in particular, UN representatives, to get in touch with the Syrian government,” Lavrov stated. — Such contacts took place. Now, in my opinion, almost all the misunderstandings and misunderstandings that existed in connection with this document have already been dispelled.”

Accusations from the West that Russia allegedly carried out cyber attacks against the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) are specifically put forward to form the information field before the publication of the final report on the chemical attack in the Syrian Duma and the adoption of decisions on changing the functions of the OPCW. This opinion was expressed in an interview with a TASS correspondent by a former OPCW inspector, expert of the Russian Council on International Affairs Anton Utkin, commenting on expectations from the organization's session starting on Tuesday.

He recalled that the task of the session is to determine the agenda of the OPCW conference scheduled for November. “Certainly, there is a direct link between Russia’s accusations of cyberattacks and the upcoming OPCW activities,” Utkin said. - At the conference in November, the issue of making appropriate decisions about the attributive mechanism will be decided. Let me remind you that this is the mechanism that allows the OPCW to appoint those responsible for the use of chemical weapons, that is, to put it mildly, a very controversial mechanism.”

“The final OPCW report on the use of chemical weapons in Douma has not yet been released,” he continued. “Such an attack on Russia, accusing it of cyberattacks on the OPCW, can certainly be preventive work against Moscow in conditions where the final report on the Duma may not contain the desired information that chemical weapons were actually used.”

The analyst emphasized that if in the final report on the alleged chemical attack in Douma, the OPCW experts cannot provide evidence of the use of chemical weapons, then “the information space will still be filled with accusations against the Russian Federation of cyber attacks, and the data of the report will go unnoticed.”

Safe havens for terrorists exist in Indonesia, the Egyptian Sinai and Afghanistan. This was stated in an interview with TASS by Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Oleg Syromolotov.

“Quiet harbors” are primarily where hostilities are taking place,” the high-ranking diplomat noted. “Today, there is such a “harbor” in the Sinai, there is a transfer of terrorists to Afghanistan, to Indonesia.”

According to him, one of the most difficult tasks at the moment is to prevent the return of foreign terrorists from the Middle East, primarily from Syria and Iraq. “You see, they are spreading across Europe,” Syromolotov explained. “And through Belarus and Ukraine, terrorists get to Russia.”

According to him, European countries are also facing the problem of the spread of militants from the Middle East region.

The Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation also stated that there was information about attempts to transfer terrorists from Idlib to Iraq, but so far such actions have been suppressed. “There are attempts to transfer [terrorists from Idlib] to Iraq, they are stopped. Iraq is responsible for this, they obviously don’t need extra terrorists,” Syromolotov said.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expressed concern about the lack of funds to assist refugees and displaced persons in a number of countries, including Syria, TASS reports.

Babar Baloch, spokesman for the agency, said at a briefing in Geneva on Tuesday that only 35% of the $1.968 billion needed in 2018 to support displaced Syrians has so far been received.

“About 5.6 million Syrian refugees in the region and 6.2 million internally displaced people are directly affected by the lack of funds,” he said. “UNHCR needs of $1.968 billion related to the situation in Syria are only 35% funded.”

According to Baloch, the funds are needed, in particular, to provide assistance to Syrians who have returned to their places of residence on the eve of winter. In addition, if funding does not arrive, the cash program for refugee families in Jordan and Lebanon will have to end as early as November: in total, about half a million refugees need such support to pay rent, basic services and provide for daily needs.

Baloch recalled that last year 56.6% of the necessary funds were received, and in 2016 - 57%.

Russia calls on UNESCO to get involved in the restoration of destroyed monuments in Syrian Aleppo and Palmyra. This was stated by Russia's permanent representative to the international organization Alexander Kuznetsov, RIA Novosti reported on Tuesday.

“The world needs UNESCO where no one else can replace it. We consider the implementation of a strategy to protect culture and promote cultural pluralism in the event of an armed conflict to be one of the most relevant areas,” the diplomat emphasized, speaking during the 205th session of the UNESCO Executive Board.

He recalled that the organization had begun a project to revive the old city of Iraqi Mosul, but noted that "the task of restoring the cultural heritage of Syria is no less urgent."

“We call on UNESCO to get involved in the restoration of the monuments of Palmyra and Aleppo destroyed by terrorists,” Kuznetsov said.

The permanent representative noted that Russian experts had already carried out significant preparatory work, created a 3D model of the Palmyra settlement. Kuznetsov added that the Hermitage is ready to accept a group of Syrian restorers for an internship.

“We expect UNESCO to take practical steps to fill the content of the memorandum signed in October 2017 between the organization and the Hermitage on the protection and restoration of cultural property in conflict zones, in particular in the Middle East,” he concluded.

A year ago, on 9 October 2017, a memorandum of understanding between the State Hermitage and UNESCO was signed in Paris. UNESCO and the Hermitage have agreed to "carry out joint projects to promote the protection of cultural property in areas affected by emergencies, especially in the Middle East."

The document stated that the parties would assess the damage to cultural property, develop operational plans to ensure the safety of the affected cultural property, and restore damaged movable and immovable objects.

The Syrian oil industry will be able to reach pre-war oil production levels no earlier than 2023. This was announced on October 8, 2018 by Z. Arbash, a member of the Advisory Council of the Syrian government.

According to Z. Arbash, due to the damage caused by terrorists, until 2023-2024. the Syrian oil sector will not return to pre-war production levels (until 2011). The recovery of the oil industry will take at least 4-5 years. This deadline is technologically determined, it is pointless to put pressure on this area. The reason is that the deposits that were under the control of the terrorists were depleted, besides, the militants destroyed the infrastructure in these regions. After the technical and geological assessment of the deposits returned under the control of the authorities, a period of rescue will begin, after which it will be possible to return the level of production at least to an acceptable level, Z. Arbash believes. After that, it will be possible to think about the development of deposits, but this requires huge investments. In figures, the damage suffered by the Syrian oil sector due to the war was voiced by the Minister of Oil of Syria A. Ghanem. As of October 2017, oil production in Syria has fallen 24 times since the beginning of the military conflict (from 385,000 barrels per day to 16,000 barrels per day). Gas production decreased by 1.6 times (from 21 million m3/day to 13.5 million m3/day).

In monetary terms, the loss of the Syrian oil industry exceeded 68 billion US dollars. In general, the Syrian economy was damaged in the amount of 400 billion US dollars. Syria expects to restore its oil industry with the support of Russia. Back in 2016, against the backdrop of an emerging improvement in the situation, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad invited Russia to take part in the development of oil and gas fields and petrochemical industry facilities in the country, moreover, Bashar al-Assad stated that Syria would not allow Western countries to participate in the reconstruction of the country, while Russian companies are given an exclusive opportunity to work in Syrian oil and gas. In February 2018, Russia and Syria signed a roadmap for cooperation in the oil and gas industry. In July 2018, the Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation reported that Russian oil companies are exploring the possibility of restoring oil and gas fields, refineries and infrastructure in Syria. At the same time, it became known that Russian companies began geological exploration (GE) in Syria, both on land and offshore.

Due to ongoing hostilities and drought, wheat production in Syria fell by 30% compared to last season to 1.2 million tons. This is the lowest crop in 30 years. Agnes reports. Grain On-Line with reference to FAO UN. Prior to the crisis, Syria produced an average of 4.1 million tons of wheat.

About 27,000 tons of Crimean wheat was sent to Syria through the ports of Sevastopol, Governor Dmitry Ovsyannikov told TASS. He said that in May this year, Sevastopol was visited by a delegation from Syria, headed by the country's ambassador to Russia, Riyadh Haddad. The prospects for joint work were discussed, in particular, an agreement was reached on the supply of grain grown on the Crimean peninsula to Syria.

“According to the results of the meeting, a contract was signed for transshipment of grain, and after a short time a mobile unit was installed, which allows transshipment of grain immediately from trucks. To date, about 27 thousand tons of wheat have already been delivered,” Ovsyannikov said.

The governor clarified that it is also planned to participate in the restoration of the Syrian economy - to supply food, building materials and much more. “Companies from Sevastopol will also participate in this work, if necessary. All this will become the basis for the growth of cargo turnover between Sevastopol and Tartus,” Ovsyannikov noted.

In Syria, the terrorists of the Islamic State (the organization is banned in Russia) (IS) attacked the militants of Jabhat al-Nusra in the village of Latamna, RIA Novosti reports with reference to the Russian Center for the Reconciliation of Warring Parties (CPVS).

As noted, as a result of the attack, two White Helmets soldiers were killed, and the terrorists also seized two cylinders with chlorine. The incident took place on the evening of October 9th.

“As a result of the clash, four militants and two employees of the White Helmets organization were killed. Two cylinders with chlorine were taken out of the headquarters premises," the TsPVS said in a statement.

According to reports, the stolen cylinders were taken to the south of Aleppo province and handed over to terrorists associated with the ISIS group Harras al-Din.

The opening of the Nasib checkpoint on the Syrian-Jordanian border, scheduled for October 10, has been delayed due to US pressure on Amman. This statement was made on Wednesday by the Syrian newspaper Al-Watan.

According to her, Jordan, which is experiencing great economic difficulties, is interested in the speedy resumption of the transport corridor with Syria, which will bring it income from the transit of goods across the border. However, as Al-Watan points out, the Jordanian authorities "do not risk resisting the dictates of Washington, which is trying to obtain concessions from Damascus in a political settlement."

The Syrian Ministry of Transport announced on September 29 that "all logistical preparations for the resumption of the movement of goods and passengers across the border" have been completed. The representative of the department said that the opening of the Nasib checkpoint would take place on October 10.

However, Jordanian Transport Minister Walid al-Masri said on Tuesday that "the parties are still discussing the technical details and the opening of the checkpoint is being postponed." In turn, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the kingdom, Ayman al-Safadi, told reporters in Amman that "the border will be opened after the bilateral technical committees complete all the preparatory work." According to the minister, "the opening of the border crossing should serve the common interests of Syria and Jordan."

The People's Council (Parliament) of Syria ratified on Tuesday an agreement on friendship and cooperation with South Ossetia. This was reported by the agency SANA.

“The Council approved the draft law on ratification of the treaty of friendship and cooperation between the Syrian Arab Republic and the Republic of South Ossetia, signed on July 23, 2018 in Damascus,” the agency quotes a press release from the Syrian parliament.

Aleppo. Militants of the Turkish-backed National Liberation Front group shelled residential areas of the city of Aleppo from their positions in the Layramoun area. As a result of the shelling of militants, several civilians were injured in the Nile Street area. In response, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) later launched artillery strikes on militant positions in Layramun.

Turkey has sent a serious warning to the US authorities in connection with the increased military activity of the YPG in the area of ​​the city of Manbij.

Referring to Turkish National Defense Minister Hulusi Akar, the Daily Sabah reported that Ankara had reached out to Washington.

"The terrorist group must know that when the time and place comes, it will be buried in the trenches it dug," Akar told the Anadolu news agency.

Akar said the YPG was digging trenches and building up its forces around Manbij, in violation of the US-Turkish agreement.

Over the past two weeks, the Turkish military has been complaining about an increase in the YPG presence in Manbij, prompting them to fortify the area in preparation for a new operation.

Ahrar al-Sharqiya militants at the Aoun al-Dadat checkpoint near Jarabulus arrested foreign IS commander Abu Khubaib al-Jazairi, as well as seven women and 16 children who accompanied him on their way to Afrin from Manbij.

Idlib. The agreements reached by the presidents of Russia and Turkey, Vladimir Putin and Tayyip Erdogan, on the creation of a demilitarized zone in the province of Idlib are being implemented. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters about this on Wednesday.

“These agreements on the creation of a demilitarized zone inside the Idlib de-escalation area are being implemented,” he said, noting that Turkey plays the main role in their implementation, which “actively seeks to ensure that all groups located there cooperate in solving this problem.” “Our information confirms that this process is proceeding quite progressively,” Lavrov stated.

He recalled that by October 15, the demilitarized zone should be fully functional. At the same time, according to him, a delay of a day or two does not play any role. “The quality of these works is more important. We actively support these efforts of Turkish partners,” the minister stressed.

The withdrawal of heavy weapons from the demilitarized zone in the Syrian province of Idlib has now been completed. Anadolu reported this on Wednesday, citing a statement by the Turkish Defense Ministry.

“Today, the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the demilitarized zone in Idlib has been completed. We continue, without reducing our efforts, to take measures within the framework of the Sochi agreements to ensure permanent peace in Idlib,” the ministry said.

Unknown persons killed Abu Yousef al-Jazrawi (Saudi Arabia), a security adviser to the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), on the road between the villages of Juzef and Maerata, south of Idlib.

Hama. The withdrawal of jihadist heavy weapons from the north of the province.

Russian reconnaissance UAV spotted in northern Hama.

Homs. Displaced persons in the al-Rukban camp organized a protest, demanding that the Syrian government let the humanitarian aid through.

“We call on the United Nations, international organizations and stakeholders to save this camp,” said Mohammed Derbas al-Khalidi, head of the local council at the al-Rukban camp, on Wednesday, October 10, 2018.

Damascus. Government law enforcement agencies carried out arrests in Eastern Ghouta and the suburbs of Damascus.

Suwayda. The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) is fighting fierce battles near the strategic heights of Tulul al-Safa (Tulul al-Safa).

At least 15 Syrian Arab Army (SAA) soldiers were killed in an ambush organized by IS militants in the Al-Safa area.

The 4th Panzer Division was deployed to the Al-Safa area (Al-Safa).

Deir ez-Zor. Dust storm in Deir ez-Zor.

Raqqa. Another mass grave was discovered in the city of Raqqa. As the Iranian English-language channel Press TV reports on Wednesday, October 10, this is the largest burial in the territories liberated from Islamist militants.

ISRAEL

The visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Russia is expected in the near future, but the exact date has not yet been agreed, Zeev Elkin, co-chairman of the bilateral intergovernmental commission, Minister for Jerusalem Affairs, Israel's Environment and Cultural Heritage, told Russian journalists on Tuesday.

"The exact date has not yet been set, but it is expected to be relatively soon," said Elkin, who accompanied the commission's Russian co-chair, Deputy Prime Minister Maxim Akimov, to a meeting with Netanyahu on Tuesday.

“Naturally, at the beginning of the meeting, our Prime Minister once again expressed our condolences to the families of those who died during the incident with the crash of the Russian plane. Naturally, we will do our best to prevent such incidents from happening, and this is one of the tasks of the ongoing dialogue between Israel and Russia,” Elkin said.

He also added that the death of the Russian plane in Syria was a test of the strength of relations between Russia and Israel, which the countries will be able to withstand. "<…>This obliges us to do everything in our power to show and translate into reality that the relations between our countries are very strong, and both sides are interested in developing them,” Elkin said, answering the relevant question. “Just in this kind of exams, when various kinds of misunderstandings arise, relationships are tested for strength, the sincerity and openness of the dialogue between the leaders of both countries is tested. I am confident that Israel and Russia will pass this test of the strength of our relationship,” he added.

The leaders of Russia and Israel, Vladimir Putin and Benjamin Netanyahu, will discuss the issue of cooperation in the air sphere at the upcoming meeting. This was announced on Tuesday at a plenary session of the State Duma by the chairman of its defense committee, the former commander of the Russian Airborne Forces, Vladimir Shamanov.

“Negotiations are underway [with Israel], and you already know that there is an agreement - in the near future there will be another meeting of the country's president with Netanyahu. And one of the issues will be the issue of clarifying cooperation in the air sphere,” Shamanov said.

“Questions will be more strictly raised there due to the fact that, indeed, we have delivered three S-300 divisions to Syria, and the situation there today has changed significantly,” he stressed. “It is one thing to say, and another thing to do. We see all the planes, including invisible ones, ”the politician confirmed.

A proposal to hold a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been received, and the dates are being considered. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced this to journalists on Wednesday.

“Such an offer has been received. The terms are considered in contacts between the presidential administration and the apparatus of the Prime Minister of Israel,” the minister said.

Commenting on Netanyahu's statements that Israel will act against Iran's consolidation in Syria, Lavrov stressed that all external players who are somehow involved in the Syrian conflict should "first of all be guided by the task of assisting the Syrian government in the uncompromising eradication of the terrorist threat in the Syrian earth." “I think that it is by this criterion that one should judge certain actions,” the head of the Russian diplomatic department added.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Maxim Akimov told Russian journalists that he assured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a meeting with him in Jerusalem that Russia pays great attention to the security of the Jewish state. Akimov met with the head of the Israeli cabinet of ministers in his office on Tuesday.

“Once again they told the Prime Minister that Russia has always treated and treats the issues of Israel's national security, issues that are sensitive for Israel, very scrupulously, with great attention,” Akimov said. He said that Netanyahu expressed condolences to the families of 15 military personnel who died in the September 17 crash of a Russian Il-20 spy plane over the Mediterranean Sea at a meeting on Tuesday. “This is a sensitive topic, it concerns more the political agenda, I think the leaders of our countries will develop solutions that would make such events technically, including, impossible,” continued the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation. - The development of economic and humanitarian contacts is an excellent basis for being able to conduct a dialogue even in such difficult times, including on sensitive issues, and, most importantly, today I felt a great will and desire to make these aspects the basis for development Russian-Israeli Relations by the Prime Minister of Israel.

Russia expects that the topics of innovative development and digitalization will be reflected in joint work with Israel. This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Maxim Akimov during an opening speech before the start of the meeting of the intergovernmental commission, which will be chaired by Russian Deputy Prime Minister and Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu.

“It is very important to respond to technological changes in the world. We very much hope that such topics as innovative development, digitalization, development in the field of new production systems will also be reflected in our work,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Akimov also pointed out that the parties plan to work out issues of expanding the geography of cooperation. “Russia is a huge country, life in which is far from exhausted.<…>Moscow and St. Petersburg. Therefore, this part of the dialogue should, from my point of view, be actively developed,” he said.

In addition, Russia and Israel need to discuss joint support for initiatives promoted by the business community, representatives of the cultural and social spheres.

“Our contacts with you and the contacts of colleagues are of an almost daily working nature, and the meeting of the commission is an opportunity to sum up the results and outline new plans,” Akimov concluded.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon have decided to appoint Professor Amir Yaron as the new head of the Bank of Israel. Yaron will take the place of Karnit Flug, who is due to leave this post on November 12 at the end of her 5-year term. Yaron's candidacy will be submitted for approval by the appointment committee.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his gratitude to US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley, who, in his opinion, fought against "hypocrisy" in the organization. Netanyahu's words were quoted on Tuesday on Twitter by the Israeli prime minister's office.

“I would like to thank Permanent Representative Nikki Haley, who led an uncompromising fight against hypocrisy at the UN and for truth and justice for our country,” Netanyahu said in the message.

The leadership of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) expressed satisfaction on Wednesday with the fact that decisions on the Middle East were once again taken in the Organization on the basis of consensus, joined by Israel and Palestine. This is stated in a statement by UNESCO, received by the Paris office of TASS. The adopted decisions concern two issues - on the world heritage of Jerusalem and on the organization of the learning process in the Palestinian territories.

“On Wednesday, within the framework of its 205th plenary session, the UNESCO Executive Board once again adopted decisions on the Middle East by consensus. Last year, all 12 decisions on the Middle East were agreed upon as a result of negotiations between the parties with the assistance of the UNESCO Secretariat,” the statement says. In connection with the approval of the new document, supported by both Israel and Palestine, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said: “The spirit of dialogue and sense of responsibility that led to this result must be noted. It is clear that the trend towards consensus is currently gaining momentum, which is based on the presence of all parties at the negotiating table in UNESCO and, of course, on goodwill.”

As the head of UNESCO noted, "all these factors were present in recent months, which allowed the Secretariat of the Organization to fully act as an intermediary." “I would like to thank everyone who worked to achieve this result, in particular the representatives of the delegations of Palestine, Israel and Jordan. As well as all the members of the Executive Council who supported this agreement, and the European Union,” emphasized Audrey Azoulay.

Moscow and Tel Aviv have completed the creation of the Russian-Israeli Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The corresponding statement was made by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Maxim Akimov and Minister for Jerusalem Affairs, for the Protection of the Environment and Cultural Heritage of Israel Zeev Elkin as part of a bilateral business forum organized by the Israeli-Russian Business Council.

“For us, this kind of platform, where new ideas are born, where cooperation is born, where new business projects are born, this is what we need,” Elkin said.

According to the Israeli minister, the main task for the two countries is to expand trade turnover and business cooperation, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry will become an important tool and platform for business representatives.

“We have high hopes for the future of Russian-Israeli economic cooperation. The constant growth of both quantitative indicators and the level of economic cooperation in general is a natural consequence of the hard work of representatives of both countries and the high interest of business,” said Teimuraz Khikhinashvili, head of the council.

IDF forces continue to search for the terrorist Ashraf Walid Suleiman Naalov, who killed two Israelis on the morning of October 7 in the Barkan industrial zone.
Two battalions of the IDF, as well as special forces of the army, police and the Shin Bet, are taking part in the search.
IDF forces detained the terrorist's mother and sisters. The search for the terrorist's accomplices continues.

Citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo must leave Israel by the beginning of January, the Immigration and Border Guard Administration said.
The decision of Interior Minister Aryeh Deri, first published on Sunday, was made in agreement with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Citizens of Krngo will have until January 5 to leave Israel and no new residence permits will be able to cancel this decision.

The launch of the first Israeli spacecraft to explore the moon was postponed to 2019 due to technical difficulties with Elon Musk's SpaceX company. This was reported on Wednesday by the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper.

Initially, the private Israeli company SpaceIL and the state concern Israel Aerospace Industries intended to place the lunar module as an additional payload on the SpaceX Falcon-9 launch vehicle, which was supposed to launch from the Cape Canaveral cosmodrome (Florida) in December 2018. The Israelis intended to land their spacecraft on the moon on February 13, 2019. Now it is expected that the Israeli station will go to the Earth's satellite no earlier than the first quarter of 2019, Yedioth Ahronoth points out.

The Israeli device weighing 600 kg was created as part of the Google Lunar X Prize project. Under its terms, a private company that was the first to deliver an automatic station to the moon capable of moving on the lunar surface at a distance of at least 500 m would receive a prize of $ 20 million. In March of this year, Google canceled this competition, but the Israeli company continued to work on the lunar module, spending about $88 million on the project.

IRAN

Much of the US sanctions on Tehran have been rendered ineffective by the efforts of the Iranian Central Bank. This was announced on Tuesday by the head of the Central Bank, Abdolnaser Hemmati.

“Our efforts have made most of the sanctions ineffective, and now the country has enough support to resist the economic war,” Mehr quoted Hemmati as saying. He stressed that "Iran is in a difficult situation, the enemies are trying to weaken the solidarity of the people of the country."

Hemmati thanked the executive branch for supporting the Central Bank. “Due to the powers given to the Central Bank by all three branches of power, we manage to operate effectively in the country's market,” he said. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani appointed Hemmati as the head of the Central Bank at the end of July. The appointment came amid a prolonged currency crisis.

On October 1, the national currency of Iran after a protracted fall began to strengthen. During the week, the rate of the Iranian rial in the country's exchange offices increased by almost 35% against the dollar. The value of the dollar fell to 120 thousand Iranian rials, at the end of September the exchange rate on the free market exceeded 180 thousand rials.

Instability in the Iranian foreign exchange market began to take on serious proportions at the beginning of the year. This process accelerated after US President Donald Trump announced in the spring that Washington was withdrawing from a deal that limited Tehran's nuclear development in exchange for the lifting of relevant UN Security Council sanctions and unilateral restrictive measures imposed by the US and the EU. At the end of May, the exchange rate of the Iranian rial was 65 thousand per dollar.

EU finance ministers will try to convince the US administration not to disconnect Iran from the SWIFT international payment system. This was reported by the Financial Times on Tuesday.

This is an international interbank system for transmitting information and making payments, to which more than 11,000 financial institutions in more than 200 countries are connected. “Our question is: why remove all the electrical cables from the building when you can just turn off the lights,” a European diplomat told the publication on condition of confidentiality. “If it can be determined which bank should be sanctioned, there is no need to force SWIFT to shut down Iran.”

According to the publication, the EU finance ministers intend to announce this approach at meetings with United States Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin at the annual meeting of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Indonesia on the island of Bali, which starts on Tuesday. It will last until October 14th.

The United States and "certain countries" in the Middle East region are disappointed with the establishment and development of friendly strategic relations between Iran and Turkey. This was announced on Tuesday, October 9, by Speaker of the Mejlis (Parliament) of Iran Ali Larijani, meeting with his Turkish counterpart Binali Yildirim "on the sidelines" of the III Meeting of Speakers of the Eurasian Countries' Parliaments in Antalya, Turkey.

“After the successful measures taken by Iran, Russia and Turkey to resolve the conflict in Syria, the fears of the United States and some regional countries have only continued to grow,” Larijani said in an interview with the chairman of the Turkish parliament, Iranian news agency Mehr reports.

Speaking today at the III Meeting of Speakers, Larijani called on the parliaments of the Eurasian countries to jointly develop measures to counter the "selfish actions" of the US administration in the economic sphere and agree on the transition to national currencies in mutual trade settlements. “The unilateral, selfish and illegal actions of (U.S. President Donald) Trump, the use of pressure against other countries negatively affect international relations, lead to chaos and distrust,” the Iranian speaker said.

The US Treasury has granted British BP and Serica Energy a license to operate the Rhum gas field in the North Sea, which is being developed jointly with Iran, Serica said in a release.

The license will be valid until October 31, 2019 and can be extended subject to the conditions of the Ministry of Finance.

The approval will allow Serica Energy to complete the purchase of BP's stake in the Rum project, as well as the Bruce and Keith fields, making the company the operator of three projects, the release said.

“Obtaining a license and guarantee from OFAC (US Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control - ed.) is an important step towards ensuring the continuity of ongoing operations in this critical North Sea field, which makes a significant contribution to natural gas production in the UK,” — quoted in the message the words of the head of Serica Energy Mitch Flegg (Mitch Flegg).

The Rum gas field in the North Sea is 50% owned by BP and 50% by the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC). In November 2017, Serica agreed with BP to buy its stake in the field.

The Chinese Ambassador to Tehran said that Beijing is committed to expanding economic and trade relations with Tehran, IRNA reported on Tuesday.

Pang Sen, in a meeting with Special Assistant to the Speaker of the Majlis (Parliament) of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, spoke about this aspiration and expressed satisfaction with the growing economic ties between the two countries.
“The level of bilateral cooperation is favorable. China pays great attention to the development of cooperation with Iran and attaches great importance to the development of partnerships,” he continued.
Sen considered terrorism a common problem for all countries and emphasized the need for a global and universal fight against this ominous phenomenon.
Hossein Amir Abdollahian, who is also the Director General of International Affairs, pointing to the existing relations between the two countries, praised the growth of these ties and noted: "The long-term relations between Iran and China show the deep cultural and social ties of both countries."
The Iranian official emphasized the development of parliamentary relations, adding that parliamentary cooperation is an important basis for the development of friendly relations between the two countries, and the Iranian parliament emphasizes the importance of improving relations between the two countries.
He also stated that there are relevant opportunities in the economic and commercial sectors of the two countries, which should be used to promote the level of cooperation and the interests of Tehran and Beijing.

United States sanctions against Iran will not result in the suspension of Qatar's flag carrier, Qatar Airways, to the Islamic Republic. This was announced at a business forum in Doha on Monday, October 8, by the CEO of the Qatari airline, Akbar al-Baker, the Tasnim news agency reports today.

Flights to the Iranian direction will continue, the Qatar Airways CEO noted, noting that US sanctions do not apply to air travel using civilian passenger liners.

The United States has applied to the International Court of Justice with a request to withdraw Iran's demands for the return of $1.75 billion of Iranian assets confiscated by the US court in US national banks.

Earlier, the US Supreme Court ruled that in 2016 Iranian assets should be handed over to the families of those killed in the 1983 US Marine barracks bombing in Beirut.

The United States has accused Iran of funding and supplying weapons to the paramilitary Hezbollah, which is also accused of attacking trucks on a US military base in the Lebanese capital. Iran denies any links to the explosion and support for radical groups.

"Iran comes to court with 'dirty hands'. This is a great example of bad faith,” US State Department legal representative Richard Wisek said on Monday. “The actions underlying this case are related to Iran’s support of international terrorism… They include sponsoring terrorist attacks, assassinations, kidnappings and hijackings,” he added.

Visek also accused Iran's "senior leaders" of "promoting and facilitating terrorism" and "violating commitments to non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles and defense systems."

The Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned the German ambassador to the country due to the extradition to Belgium of an Iranian diplomat who is suspected of involvement in preparing a terrorist attack against participants in a conference of the Iranian foreign opposition group Mujahiddin-e Khalq (Organization of the Mujahideen of the Iranian People), which was supposed to take place in the summer in the French city of Villepinte. This was reported by the Press TV channel.

As DPA reported earlier, the German authorities extradited an Iranian diplomat to Belgium on Tuesday, suspected of involvement in the preparation of a terrorist attack against participants in the conference of the Mojahedin-e Khalq group. Last week, the Higher Regional Court in Bamberg (Bavaria) approved the extradition of the Iranian.

Despite US threats to stop imports of Iranian oil, South Korean authorities are still striving to maintain trade ties with Iran and have access to Iranian oil, IRNA reported on Wednesday.

The South Korean authorities, which have taken a positive stance towards Iran, are monitoring the improvement of the situation for the activities of Korean companies operating in Iran.
They intend to negotiate with the United States in order to cause the least damage to Korean companies in trade with Tehran and to get rid of oil sanctions against Iran.
The partnership between Iran and South Korea is beneficial to both sides, so these countries are looking for different ways to continue economic relations.
According to the Iranian ambassador in Seoul, trade between Iran and South Korea reached $14 billion in 2017. Iran has exported goods worth $8 billion to South Korea, 98 percent of which, worth $7.9 billion, are oil products.

According to the Deputy Head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA), from March to September of this year, Iran's customs revenue amounted to about $3.88 billion, Russian media reported on Wednesday.

Ali Rakhimyan said that this figure for the same period last year was 158.835 trillion rials (about $3.78 billion).

The official further noted that Iran's customs revenue during the past Iranian calendar year ending March 20, 2018, 1396, was 30 percent more than the rate stipulated in the state budget law.

Iran's non-oil exports amounted to $23.123 billion in the first half of this year, an increase of 13 percent over the same period last year. As reported, 56.644 million tons of goods were exported during these six months.

In the first half of this year, about 16.22 million tons of goods worth $22.182 billion were imported, which is 9.30 percent less in weight and 11.93 percent less in value than a year ago.

The Serbian government has decided to abolish visa-free entry for citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This was reported on Wednesday by the publication "Office Bulletin", which publishes decrees of the Cabinet.

It is reported that the decision was made on October 8 and will enter into force on the eighth day after publication. According to analysts, this decision was made due to a sharp increase in the migration flow from Iran to Europe through the territory of Serbia.

Belgrade agreed with Tehran on a visa-free regime in August 2017.

IRAQ

Appointed last week as Prime Minister of Iraq Adel Abdel Mahdi on Monday invited those wishing to take a post in the new cabinet of ministers to send information about themselves in electronic form, RIA Novosti reports.

Applications will be accepted from Tuesday morning to Thursday evening, according to the new prime minister's office.

The office of Abdel Mahdi also announced the huge workload of the politician since his appointment. It is reported that he "is forced to refuse to receive numerous delegations and visitors who wish to personally congratulate the head of government, or put forward their candidacy for a post in the new cabinet."

Iraqi President Barham Saleh, who was elected last Tuesday by the parliament, instructed Adel Abdel Mahdi, who was appointed to the post of prime minister, to form a new government of the country.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has agreed to increase water supplies to Iraq, Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Khalbousi said. It is reported by the Jerusalem Post.
Since Ankara diverts the waters of the Tigris River to the Ilisu Dam, the clean water crisis in Iraq has worsened significantly.
“Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan agreed to our request to ensure that the water reaches all the provinces of Iraq, especially Basra,” Khelbusi, who met with Erdogan the day before in Turkey, said in a statement.

A video has surfaced online showing the moment of the murder of Miss Baghdad 2015, 22-year-old Tara Fares.

Türkiye

The implementation of the Turkish Stream is on schedule, gas can go through both lines of the pipeline from January 1, 2020, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said in an interview with Russia 24 TV channel.

“As for the Turkish Stream, its construction is being carried out in accordance with the approved plans. You know, an intergovernmental agreement was signed between Russia and Turkey, a roadmap was approved, and everything is going according to schedule, by January 1, 2020, it will be possible to supply gas through the Turkish Stream, along two lines,” Novak said.

At the same time, he added that the priority directions for deliveries via the Turkish Stream are Bulgaria and. “The continuation of one line should ensure gas supplies to the southeastern part of Europe, to those countries that need gas. There are different route options. There is the option of Greece and Italy, there are options for gas supplies through Turkey to Bulgaria, then to Serbia, Hungary and […] Now the gas transportation infrastructure in these countries is being expanded, for us today the most priority is, of course, the direction towards Bulgaria and, ”- the minister added.

Novak recalled that at the moment roadmaps for the development of gas transmission infrastructure have been signed with all countries, the terms in which “are generally synchronized with the construction of the Turkish Stream”.

The offshore section of the Turkish Stream pipeline is 85% ready, and gas will start flowing at the end of 2019. This was announced to journalists by the Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak.

“The overall percentage of completion is 85%. This is just the underwater part. Therefore, we have no doubt that by the end of 2019 the entire project will be implemented: both offshore and onshore [parts]. Gas will begin to flow at the end of 2019,” he said.

According to Andriy Sibiga, the Ukrainian Ambassador to Ankara, "Turkey has actually stopped the fraudulent schemes of illegal traffic between Turkish ports and the ports of the Russian-occupied Crimea."

“Have you noticed that not only Turkish ships have stopped visiting Crimea, but also fraudulent schemes of ships that called from the ports of the occupied Crimea to the ports of Turkey under the flags of third countries? Turkey previously banned this for its ships, and now it has finally solved this problem,” the ambassador said.

He explained that earlier, some shipowners, despite the official ban of the Turkish authorities to visit the ports of Crimea, deliberately deceived the maritime administration: they turned off notifications about the location of ships, gave the “SOS” command if only the port would accept them, carried out fraud with documentation about visiting the previous port, and so on. .

“Now the ships must submit an answer to the question of the maritime administration: “Have you been in the ports of Crimea?”.

The corresponding decision of the Chamber of Shipping of Turkey No. 635/2017 on the introduction of such a procedure appeared after the meeting of the presidents of the two countries, Petro Poroshenko and Recep Tayyip Erdogan,” Sibiga added.

The Saudi side invited representatives of the Turkish authorities to inspect the building of the consulate general of the kingdom in Istanbul. This was reported on Tuesday by the Habertürk TV channel.

We are talking about the actual invitation of Turkish "specialists and representatives of interested departments" to conduct investigative actions in the diplomatic mission in connection with the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

According to the Milliyet newspaper, the invitation was conveyed to the Turkish authorities in the form of a diplomatic note, which notes that it was sent as a sign of readiness to cooperate with Ankara and "due to the fact that the Saudi Kingdom attaches importance to the search for truth in the matter of the disappearance of a Saudi Arabian citizen." Jamal Khashoggi.

Earlier, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that "the authorities of Saudi Arabia have stated that they are open for cooperation, and a search may be carried out in the building of the Consulate General."

Turkish authorities have formed an investigation team that will inspect the premises of the Saudi Arabian Consulate General in Istanbul after the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This was announced on Tuesday by the Haberturk TV channel.

According to him, the group will be headed by the deputy prosecutor general of Turkey and one of the prosecutors of the republic. Meanwhile, the date and time of the procedure is not specified.

Earlier it was reported that Turkish investigators are studying the recordings of 150 surveillance cameras to establish the circumstances of the disappearance of Khashoggi, who has not been contacted since October 2 after visiting the Consulate General of Saudi Arabia.

Turkish authorities have launched a search for a black van that may contain the remains of Saudi Arabian journalist Jamal Khashoggi. It is reported by The Guardian.

In Turkey, the pro-government newspaper Sabah has published photos of alleged "killer squad" members who may have been involved in the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The newspaper believes that 15 Saudi citizens were involved in the kidnapping or murder of the journalist. Their identity was established thanks to pictures taken by security cameras at the airport and the hotels where they stayed.

It is assumed that these people at the time of the disappearance of Khashoggi were in the diplomatic mission of Saudi Arabia in Istanbul. In total, they spent two days in Turkey, and then returned to their homeland on charter and regular flights.

Turkish officials suspect the journalist was killed, and Saudi Arabia has strongly denied the allegations CCTV footage showing the alleged timeline of events surrounding the disappearance of Saudi journalist and dissident Jamal Khashoggi was aired by Turkish media on Wednesday.

Ankara's prosecutor general's office has issued arrest warrants for 51 suspects as part of an ongoing investigation into the 2016 Turkish coup attempt. According to the Anadolu agency on Tuesday, among these persons are 49 current and former employees of the command of the republic's ground forces.

Raids are taking place in 28 provinces of the country. In addition to the military, arrest warrants were issued for two so-called internal imams of the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO), who were in contact with FETO supporters in the army.

As part of an operation against the terrorist organization PKK in eight Turkish provinces in the southeast of the country, as well as in Istanbul, 90 members of the PKK were detained, the Turkish Interior Ministry said on Tuesday.

The report notes that during a search in the apartments of the detainees, firearms were found, as well as maps on which military and strategic facilities were indicated.

Kurdish rebels attacked a military base located in the Chukurca region of the Kurdish-populated province of Hakkari in southeastern Turkey.

According to the website of the Turkish newspaper Cumhuriyet, representatives of the Hakkari administration issued a statement early in the morning on October 9, announcing an attack by Kurdish rebels on a military base located on Mount Guven in the Chukurca region. According to the report, as a result of the attack, 1 soldier was killed and 4 wounded.

The State Duma and the National Assembly of Turkey signed a protocol of intent to create a high-level inter-parliamentary commission. Speakers Viacheslav Volodin and Binali Yildirim put their signatures under the communiqué on Tuesday.

“An agreement was reached on the creation of a new, advanced format of cooperation — a high-level Russian-Turkish inter-parliamentary commission in order to promote the implementation of the agreements between the leaders of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Turkey, including the effective practical implementation of significant infrastructure projects in areas of mutual interest,” the document says.

It is proposed to hold meetings of the commission once every six months alternately in Russia and Turkey. “The parties agreed to sign documents on the establishment of a high-level Commission during the upcoming visit of the Chairman of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Binali Yildirim to the Russian Federation,” the communiqué says.

The signing took place on the sidelines of the third meeting of the speakers of the Eurasian parliaments.

A ship with illegal immigrants sank in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of the western Turkish province of Izmir, the Turkish Coast Guard said in a statement.

The report notes that as a result of the incident, 30 people disappeared, the bodies of four people were found.

It is reported that work is currently underway to search for the missing.

EGYPT

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in the near future.

“The president of Egypt will be visiting me soon, let's treat him to your apples,” Putin suggested, talking with workers at the Rassvet agricultural enterprise.

Putin noted that he would gladly pass on all the gifts of Stavropol to his counterpart and advised Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, who was participating in the conversation, to acquaint his colleagues from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates with the successes of Russian farmers. “Thank God, we have very good relations with them,” Putin said. Galeev assured that "he will also enter the Middle East market." “The market, by the way, is huge, because nothing is growing in them and they were originally attached to Europe,” Medvedev approved the idea. — If we offer a good product and competitive
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