Click to see the full-size map
Kurdish YPG forces (also known in the mainstream media as the so-called “Syrian Democratic Forces”) have captured some 54 villages from ISIS terrorists in the Syrian province of Raqqah, according to pro-Kurdish sources.
The liberated villages, located at the eastern bank of the Euphrate, were encircled by YPG units on December 19.
SON DAKİKA: Fıratın Gazabı Eylem Odası savaşçıları, çembere aldığı 54 köy ve onlarcası mezrayı özgürleştirdi.#FıratınGazabı #Rakka #YPG
— YPG Rûpela Fermî (@defenseypg) December 20, 2016
If these reports are true, it will be a major success for the Kurdish YPG.
Nonetheless, no reports about clashes between the YPG and ISIS in the area have been recently aviable. This means that ISIS units just withdrew from the area last night.
Military situation in the area prior to the recent advance by YPG forces:
Click to see the full-size map
Kurdish forces are advancing fast in Isis territory. If they continue the offensive at this rhythm, we could expect a siege on Al-Raqqah in the coming months. With the facto capital in danger, SAA and allies could push deeper into Palmyra and isis held territory
Very optimistic. We have many times seen daesh rapidly make a clean sweep de luxe and back to square one.
I dont think SAA has any force, which could do much at Palmyra. More like ISIS can keep Assads away for oil and gas for the vinter.
May be good to draw ISUS up north. SAA may get a break at T4 and relieve pressure on Deir Ezzor. Reported that coalition is striking ISUS around Palmyra, this is great news!
We will follow it. I didnt expect SAA would let Palmyra fall again.
Good one kurds !
To use gen. Grant’s term: all hollow inside.