Skip to main content

US backs Turkish offensive with airstrikes around al-Bab

After repeated appeals from Turkey for the United States to help Turkish troops and their rebel proxies to capture al-Bab, US airstrikes are resuming in a move that could help diffuse growing tensions between the NATO allies.
Turkish military vehicles drive in the Syrian rebel-held town of al-Rai, as they head towards the northern Syrian town of al-Bab, Syria January 9, 2017. REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi - RTX2Y60D

The United States has resumed airstrikes in support of Turkey’s ongoing campaign against the Islamic State in Syria, a spokesman for the US-led coalition based in Baghdad told reporters Jan. 17. The move could help diffuse growing tensions between the NATO allies.

Air Force Col. John Dorrian said four airstrikes carried out on Tuesday near the IS-held town of al-Bab hit IS construction equipment and tactical vehicles, including an armored personnel carrier. US forces are likely to remain active in and around al-Bab in the coming days, Dorrian said. He called Tuesday’s operation “in our mutual interest.”

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.