Confusion about the future of US action in Syria as Trump’s announcement of withdrawal is seemingly undermined.
Articles tagged: ‘Syria’
Sudan – sustained protests
Posted onSudan – three weeks of protests more widespread and numerous than previously. Teargas and live ammunition cause some casualties but protests continue.
Iraq: still no government
Posted onIraq politicking – no government six months after the election. Trump’s undiplomatic visit. IS ruination – the fight continues.
Turkey and Syria – on the edge
Posted onTurkey still poised to extend its invasion of northern Syria, but faces uncertainties with US and Russia.
Syria and the Knave of Trumps
Posted onDonald Trump’s announcement that he is withdrawing all US military personnel from Syria may fulfil one of his 2016 election pledges to the American people. But it is also a — domestically driven — betrayal of key American allies, not least the Kurds. Latest clear indicator of the overall shape of US foreign policy for as long as Mr Trump remains in the Oval Office.
Political prisoners
Posted onMany countries in the region hold disgracefully large numbers of prisoners, but information is patchy and unreliable.
Turkey and the Kurds in Syria
Posted onAny Turkish strike on Kurds in Syria east or west of the Euphrates unwelcome to the Pentagon and would risk a clash with US-led or actual US troops.
UNRWA
Posted onUS halts support for UNRWA. UNRWA and its activities. Likely political consequences.
Turkey and USA – problems in Syria
Posted onTurkish/US relations warmer, Trump/ Erdoğan meeting Sunday, but objectives in Syria seem irreconcilable.
Golan Heights: most Druze boycott elections; more settlers coming
Posted onMost of the Druze on the Golan boycotted the 30 October municipal elections. Separately, Israel has announced plans to increase the number of settlers in the territory.