The Idlib de-escalation zone remains the key point of instability in western Syria. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other radical militant groups have significantly strengthened their positions and consolidated control over the area. This in fact sabotaged de-escalation efforts and the establishment of “demilitarized zone”.
A brief look at the recent developments:
- Syrian Army artillery strikes were reported in al-Lataminah, Lahaya, Maarkaba, al-Buwaydah, Qalaat al-Madiq, al-Hwaiz, al-Twinah and al-Hurriyah in northern Hama and the towns of Sukayk, Khan Shaykhun and al-Tamanah in southern Idlib;
- Turkish-backed forces seized a car loaded with narcotic pills and ammunition in Afrin city;
- 4 Turkish-backed militants were injured in an IED explosion in Daghilyash.
Click to see the full-size image
