Turkey’s operation in Syria close to achieve goals

By Levent Tok

ANKARA (AA) – The Free Syrian Army (FSA) has seized more than 1,200 square kilometers from Daesh terrorist group in northern Syria as part of Turkey’s Euphrates Shield Operation.

Within the context of the offensive, Daesh militants have been removed from nine towns and villages in northern Syria, including Dabiq and Sawran towns that are now under FSA control.

Now, the line between the towns of Maree and Jarabulus has been connected, putting an end to threats posed by Daesh and PYD terrorist groups.

Dabiq, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of Aleppo and around 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of Syria’s border with Turkey, has a symbolic importance for Daesh as the group believes it will be the site of an end-times battle with non-Muslims. Dabiq is also the name of one of Daesh’s online magazines.

The FSA has also advanced 24km south of Jarabulus and 20km south of Azaz-Marea and held positions some 20km far from al-Bab town.

The new gains make it harder for PYD to protect its controlled areas in northeastern Syria (near Iraq border) and in northwestern areas (near Turkey).

The PYD failure to capture al-Bab town will mean that it will not be able to connect Manbij city on the west bank of Euphrates River with Afrin city near the Turkish border.

Operation Euphrates Shield, which began on Aug. 24 backed by the Turkish Armed Forces, is aimed at bolstering border security, supporting coalition forces, and eliminating the threat posed by terror organizations, especially Daesh.