[Published here on October 9, 2017]
Raqa (Syria) (AFP) – US-backed fighters battling to oust the Islamic State group from Syria’s Raqa were nearing the “final week” of their assault, the campaign’s commander told AFP on Sunday. Continue reading
civilians
Trapped in Syria’s Raqa, civilians become human shields for IS | AFP
[Published here October 9, 2017]
Hawi al-Hawa (Syria) (AFP) – As fighters from the Islamic State group retreat into a shrinking part of Syria’s Raqa, they are dragging along terrified civilians for cover against a ferocious US-backed onslaught.
After dreams of freedom, a bitter escape from Syria’s Raqa | AFP
[Published here September 27, 2017]
HAWI AL-HAWA (SYRIA) (AFP) – For years, Gharam Habbal and her elderly father had desperately dreamt of escaping the Islamic State group’s hellish grip on Raqa. But when she finally fled, he wasn’t with her.
Mosul area retaken, but still danger of IS attack | AFP
[Published here on November 13, 2016]
Mosul (Iraq) (AFP) – A black Humvee speeds down a dusty road in eastern Mosul carrying two boys: one is dead, and the other’s leg has been torn open by the same mortar strike.
Syria regime relentless on siege of ‘thorn in side’ Daraya | AFP
[Published here May 23, 2016]
Beirut (AFP) – Under international pressure, Syria’s government has agreed to partial aid access for thousands of civilians living under regime siege but one town near Damascus remains a “thorn in its side”: Daraya.
