US service members killed in Manbij explosion

By Kasim Ileri

WASHINGTON (AA) - U.S. service members were killed in an apparent suicide attack in Manbij, Syria on Wednesday, according to the spokesman for the international anti-Daesh coalition.

Col. Sean Ryan said the yet-to-be-known number of the soldiers were "killed during an explosion while conducting a routine patrol," which reportedly killed several civilians.

"We are still gathering information and will share additional details at a later time," said Ryan.

The Daesh terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the bombing, which it said was carried out by a suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest.

Manbij remains under the control of the PYD/YPG, the Syrian affiliate of PKK terrorist organization.

The attack came after U.S. President Donald Trump announced withdrawal of troops from the region last month.

*Servet Gunerigok contributed to the story