Wikipedia

Syrian Desert campaign (May–July 2017)

(Redirected from Syrian Desert campaign (May-July 2017))

The Syrian Desert campaign (May–July 2017) was a large-scale military operation of the Syrian Army that initially started along the highway from Damascus to the border with Iraq against rebel forces during the Syrian civil war. Its first intended goal was to capture both the highway and the al-Tanf border crossing, thus securing the Damascus countryside from a potential rebel attack.[34][35] Later, multiple other fronts were opened as part of the operation throughout the desert, as well as operation "Grand Dawn" against ISIL with the aim of reopening the Damascus-Palmyra highway and preparing for an offensive towards Deir ez-Zor.[citation needed]

Syrian Desert campaign (May–July 2017)
Part of the Syrian civil war and the Russian military intervention in Syria

  •   Controlled by the Syrian government
  •   Controlled by the Syrian opposition
  •   Controlled by the Iraqi government
  •   Controlled by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
Date7 May – 13 July 2017
(2 months and 6 days)
Location
Syrian Desert, Syria
Status

Decisive Syrian Army and allies victory

Belligerents

Syria Syrian Arab Republic

Russia[2]
 Iran[3]
Allied militias:
PMF-affiliated militias[4]
Hezbollah[5]
Liwa Fatemiyoun[6]
Supported by:
 UAE[7]
 Egypt[7]		 Syrian opposition Free Syrian Army
Supported by:
 United States[8][9]
 Jordan
 United Kingdom[3]
 Norway[3]		 Islamic State Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (since 23 May)
Commanders and leaders
Iran Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani[14]
(Quds Force chief commander)
Syria Mowafiq As'ad[15]
(Chief of staff for eastern Syria until 28 June)
Syria Brig. Gen. Rafiq Shahadeh[15]
(Chief of staff for eastern Syria from 28 June)
Syria Maj. Gen. Fuad Khaddour †[16]
(Syrian Army top commander)
Turki Albu Hamad[17]
(Forces of the Fighters of the Tribes)
Mohammad Hosseini "Salman" †[6]
(Hazrat-e Fatemeh Zahra Brigade intelligence chief)

Syrian opposition Tlas Salama[18]
(Lions of the East Army commander)

Syrian opposition Lt. Col. Muhannad Tala[19]
(Revolutionary Commando Army commander)		 Unknown
Units involved

Syrian Armed Forces

Syria Syrian pro-government militias

PMF-affiliated Iraqi militias

Liwa Fatemiyoun

  • Hazrat-e Fatemeh Zahra Brigade[6]

Russian Armed Forces and affiliated units

Syrian opposition Free Syrian Army

Islamic State Military of ISIL

  • Wilayat Homs
Strength

50,000 (pro-government claim)[32]

Syrian opposition Revolutionary Commando Army: "Hundreds"[19]
United States 150 US troops,[19] 1 HIMARS[33]		 Unknown

Since 2016, the United States and the United Kingdom operated and manned a training facility in al-Tanf (the "Al Tanf Garrison"), with their special operations troops advising a Syrian rebel group known as the Revolutionary Commando Army.[36][37] The garrison was reinforced in May, and then expanded in June 2017, with more advanced US offensive weapons, including the HIMARS multiple rocket launchers.[38][39][40][41] On a number of occasions, US forces struck advancing pro-government troops and militia in what US forces dubbed "self-defense strikes".[39]

Background

edit
Main article: Syrian Desert campaign (December 2016–April 2017)

In the months prior to the offensive, the rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA) waged a campaign against the jihadist Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in the desert border region known as the Badia, which ended with ISIL being fully expelled from the southern Syrian desert. This also brought the rebels closer to the southeastern countryside of Damascus and government-held territory.

The offensive

edit

Advance along the Baghdad–Damascus highway

edit

On 7 May 2017, the Syrian Arab Army, led by the 5th Corps and Iranian-backed militias, launched an attack on the FSA in the Sabaa Biyar area of Homs province.[35][42] By the following day, the SAA had advanced some 45 kilometers[34] and captured several sites east of the Al-Seen Airbase in the advance, including: the Zaza Checkpoint, the Sabihiyah Mountains and the Sabaa Biyar area. The advance gave them fire control over this rural region.[43][44]

The FSA began a counteroffensive on 9 May,[45] with the intended goal of recapturing these areas as well as the large mountains overlooking the Baghdad-Damascus road.[46] The commander of the Lions of the East Army, Tlas al-Salama, said that Syrian warplanes had struck rebel outposts near the Syrian-Jordanian border after which his group fired missiles towards Khalhala airport.[18] At the end of the day, the rebels recaptured the Zaza checkpoint, but failed to re-enter the Sabaa Biyar area.[47]

On 10 May, clashes renewed in the Zaza area[10] and two days later the Army recaptured the Zaza checkpoint, as well as the Sabihiyah Mountains.[48] In an attempt to counter the Army's advances, the rebels fired dozens of 'Grad' rockets on Army positions. In retaliation, the Syrian Air Force hit FSA convoys and their rearguard headquarters at the al-Tanf border crossing,[49] and on 12 May Iraqi Shi'ite militias launched an offensive from the east to drive the militants from the desert region.[50]

In the night between 14 and 15 May, pro-government reinforcements arrived in the area, including Iraqi Shiite militias.[22][27][50] The reinforcements concentrated in the town of Biyar Al-Saba.[50] More Army tanks, as well as surface-to-air missiles, were brought closer to the frontline.[51] By this point, government forces were within 24 and 100 kilometers of al-Tanf.[51][52] Meanwhile, US and British special forces had arrived at the border crossing[51] to assist the rebels in their ongoing offensive towards ISIL-held Deir ez-Zor.[53]

On 18 May, National Defense Forces, alongside the 5th and 7th Armored Divisions of the Syrian Army, advanced 35 kilometers into rebel-held areas in eastern As-Suwayda Governorate.[21] Meanwhile, government forces were probing to determine how near they could get to al-Tanf and reached positions about 27 kilometers from the town,[54] when the lead portion of their advancing convoy was hit by US-led Coalition air-strikes. According to a US defense official, before the strikes were conducted, government troops were warned they were getting too close to Coalition forces garrisoned in al-Tanf but did not respond.[55] According to the US, four or five vehicles were destroyed, including a tank[56] and two bulldozers.[57] In contrast, the Syrian Army reported that two tanks were destroyed and a Shilka SPAAG was damaged.[58][59] Eight soldiers were killed.[56][60]

The next day, despite the US-led Coalition's air-strikes, pro-government forces captured the Zarqa junction near al-Tanf.[61] The Army also sent more reinforcements to the highway.[5][61] Meanwhile, the pro-government Iranian-backed militias advanced southwards from the government-held eastern Qalamoun area on the 19th, taking territory from US-backed rebels in the Badia.[62]

Push along the Jordanian border

edit

On 20 May, the Syrian Army, alongside their paramilitary allies, captured part of the eastern part of as-Suwayda province, namely the al-Zuluf area.[1] The following day, government forces further advanced and captured several positions in the southern Syrian desert.[63] In response to the government advances, FSA groups in the area launched an operation named "Badia Volcano" to fight the pro-government forces.[64][65]

On 22 May, the Army captured the Al-Rahbeh area, 25 kilometers north of the Zuluf dam, with no direct clashes taking place, save for an artillery duel. Thus the Army was 30 kilometers from cutting off a large, sparsely populated, rebel-held area in the southeastern Damascus countryside. Also, during the last week, the Syrian Army managed to secure 70 kilometers of the Syrian–Jordanian border.[66] Towards the end of the day, the Syrian Army reached positions six kilometers south of the newly captured Scientific Research Battalion, while other forces advanced east of the Zuluf Dam. These advances, brought the Army close to completely encircling and cutting off rebel forces in the southeastern part of Damascus governorate from their comrades in and around al-Tanf.[67] The government forces appeared to use advanced Russian-made arms and were supported by Russian helicopters, a report acknowledged on 26 May by the Russian Defence ministry's media outlet.[68]

Reopening of the Damascus–Palmyra highway

edit

On 23 May, the Syrian Army opened a new 100-kilometer front against ISIL, with the intended aim to open the Damascus-Palmyra highway and to prevent the US-backed rebels from linking up with their allies in the Eastern Qalamoun mountains. Government forces swiftly captured over 1,200 square kilometers of territory, including numerous hills and villages from ISIL.[69][70]

On 25 May, the Army captured half a dozen locations, paving the way for the reopening of the Damascus-Palmyra highway the following day.[71][72]

Syrian Army reaches the Iraqi border

edit

On 30 May, the Syrian Army, alongside the National Defense Forces and Iraqi paramilitary units, captured the Helba area in southeastern Homs province, thus coming within 50 km of the border with Iraq.[73] The next day, FSA groups launched a counteroffensive called Operation This is Our Land and launched barrages of BM-21 Grad rockets at government forces. The rebels claimed to have broken through the first government lines of defense near the Zaza checkpoint. In response, the Syrian and Russian Air Forces conducted airstrikes against the rebels.[74]

On 3 June, the Syrian Army captured several positions along the highway, six kilometers west of Arak.[75][76] Three days later, the Army reported it had captured three areas from ISIL south of Palmyra, creating the conditions for a simultaneous push towards both the T3 pumping station and Arak.[77]

Meanwhile, on 6 June, the Syrian Army captured the hilltop of Tal Al-Abd along with some adjacent points, thus putting them close to the Dawkah area, while the USAF had struck pro-government forces 25 miles from the US-UK training area at al-Tanf earlier in the day.[78] The US forces stated the government forces were a threat to the US-backed fighters and allied troops based at the Coalition training area at al-Tanf.[37][36] The next day, the Syrian government's allies threatened retaliatory strikes in the event of further US strikes on Syria's forces.[79]

 
Major general Qasem Soleimani gives a prayer of thanks for the success of the offensive near the Iraqi border, together with Liwa Fatemiyoun fighters.[14]

On 7 June, government forces seized several hills around Arak. Advances were also made southeast of Palmyra.[80][81] On 8 June, the Syrian Army captured the Dakwah hilltop from the rebels and some hilltops and the Bir Abbasiyah area from ISIL.[82][83][84] Meanwhile, during the same day, the USAF struck the Syrian Army operating near al-Tanf again, while the rebels showered SAA positions with Grad rockets.[85]

On 9 June, government forces advanced eastwards and set up positions around 70 kilometers (43 miles) northeast of al-Tanf, thus reaching and securing a part of the Syrian–Iraqi border for the first time since 2015.[86][87][88] The advance also cut off the US-backed forces from the Deir ez-Zor Governorate.[89][90] On 11 June, five rebel fighters were killed by Jordanian forces, as they tried to return to Jordan.[91] On 23 June, Syrian Army captured Ard Al-Washash, Al-Waer Dam, Al-Waer Canyon region and considerable desert areas, coming within 25 km from T2 pumping station.[92] On 26 June Bi'r al-Duliayat area was captured by Syrian Army from ISIL rebel forces.[93]

SAA advance towards al-Sukhnah and into Deir ez-Zor

edit
 
A Syrian rebel BM-21 Grad launcher launching rockets at Syrian Army forces in the Syrian Desert.

On 13 June, the Syrian Army captured the town of Arak and nearby Arak Gas Fields.[citation needed] Later on that day, almost the entire 103rd Brigade of the Republican Guard was deployed to the area from the Latakia Governorate, to participate in an upcoming large-scale offensive to break ISIL's siege of Deir ez-Zor city.[94] The next day, the Syrian Army captured the Arak triangle, which includes the T3 pumping station, as well as the Talilah area.[95]

Main article: Operation Laylat al-Qadr

On 18 June, the Syrian Army reportedly cut the road between ISIL-held towns of Al-Qaim to Al-Sukhnah, entered Deir ez-Zor Governorate from the south, while capturing large parts of the Syrian Desert from ISIL.[citation needed] Meanwhile, IRGC Aerospace Force bases in west Iran fired six surface-to-surface mid-range missiles targeting ISIL forces in the Deir ez-Zor Governorate. It was officially announced as a response to the terrorist attacks in Tehran earlier that month.[96]

On 19 June, ISIL fighters reportedly stormed a military camp held by the Revolutionary Commando Army, resulting in the capture and subsequent execution of eight rebels.[97] The next day, a USAF F-15E shot down a pro-government Shahed-129 UCAV as it approached the 55-kilometer exclusion zone surrounding the Coalition base at al-Tanf.[98] On 21 June, the Syrian Army attacked the rebel-held Bir Qassab area, 75 km southeast of Damascus, eventually capturing it.[99][100][101][102]

On 22 June, the Syrian Army reported it had come within 20 km of Al-Sukhnah.[103] Two days later, pro-government forces seized the Arak Gas Station as they continued their push towards Deir ez-Zor.[104]

On 26 June, government forces made significant advances toward Abu Kamal,[105] and over the next two days captured more territory from ISIL in eastern Homs Governorate. ISIL resistance was heavy, however,[106][107][108] and the government forces suffered numerous casualties, including Maj. Gen. Fuad Khaddour.[16][24] Meanwhile, FSA groups continued to attack government outposts in the desert.[30] During the first day of July, the Syrian Army pushed deeper into Syrian Desert, capturing two hills overlooking Hamimah.[109]

On 6 July, after two days of fighting, pro-government forces advanced 10 km, coming within 15 km of Al-Sukhnah. Thirty-five ISIL jihadists and 22 pro-government fighters were killed during the clashes.[110] On 9 July ISIL fighters overran hill of Al-Mashirfah near town of Jubb Al-Jarrah, stating that they killed 20 SAA soldiers. The next day Syrian Army pressed on towards Sukhnah, capturing most of al-Qalilat mountain chain northwest of al-Hail gas field, stating that they killed over 20 ISIL fighters.[111][112]

On 11 July, the al-Hail gas field was captured by the Army.[113][114]

SAA advances in as-Suwayda and Rif-Dimashq governorates

edit

Despite an internationally agreed ceasefire,[115] on 10 July Syrian government troops and Iranian-backed militias initiated the second phase of Operation Big Dawn,[116] launching an assault upon eight rebel-held villages east of Khalkhalah airbase in a sparsely-populated, mainly Druze desert area, capturing the hilltop of Tal al-Asfar alongside several smaller hills overlooking the village of Al-Asfar.[117][118][119] The area was held by Jaysh Ahrar al Ashaer, a rebel group composed of tribal fighters operating in the border area with Jordan, and the rebels claimed the government assault included aerial bombing.[117] Concurrently, another assault was launched on rebel positions in Suwayda and Rif-Dimashq governorates near al-Seen airbase.[120][121] During the first day of the renewed push, government forces captured 3,000 square kilometers of territory from the rebels.[13] Over the next several days, by 13 July, the Syrian Army and its allies captured an additional 200 km2,[122] coming within 20 km from completely encircling a large rebel-held mountainous semi-desert area straddling across eastern Suwayda and Rif-Dimashq governorates.[123][124]

Following a short-lived ceasefire with the FSA in Syria's southwestern Badia region, brokered by Russia and the United States,[125][126] government forces started redeploying to the east of Palmyra for a new offensive.[127]

Aftermath

edit
Main article: Central Syria campaign

On 1 August, the rebels announced a new offensive against the Syrian Arab Army in Syria's desert region. The rebels stated they would continue to fight government forces despite the rejection of US support for their battle.[128][129] On 4 August, the Syrian Arab Army resumed their operations against the FSA, making advances near the Jordanian border.[130] Government advances continued in As-Suwayda the next day.[131] Late in August, rebel fighters assaulted Syrian Army border posts along the border with Jordan in As-Suwayda governorate, but were forced to fall back to Jordan after failing to break through the defenses.[132]

References

edit
  1. ^ a b c d e Fadel, Leith (20 May 2017). "US-backed rebels lose large chunk of territory to Syrian Army in east Sweida". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 2 October 2018. Retrieved 20 May 2017.
  2. ^ a b c Fadel, Leith (21 May 2017). "Russian forces arrive in southern Syria". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 30 May 2019. Retrieved 22 May 2017.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h Toumaj, Amir; Weiss, Caleb (3 June 2017). "Iran tests the US in southeastern Syria". Long War Journal. Retrieved 4 June 2017.
  4. ^ Leith Fadel (21 May 2017). "Hezbollah, Iraqi forces poised to help Syrian Army capture Baghdad-Damascus Highway". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 28 August 2018. Retrieved 21 May 2017.
  5. ^ a b c Tomson, Chris (19 May 2017). "In pictures: Syrian Army reinforcements pour into the Syrian desert despite US airstrikes". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 20 May 2017.
  6. ^ a b c Toumaj, Amir (7 June 2017). "Afghan Fatemiyoun Division operative killed near US base in southeastern Syria". Long War Journal. Retrieved 9 June 2017.
  7. ^ a b "Gulf state's support for the Russian military campaign against Syria, leaked document from the Air Force confirms". 11 July 2018. Archived from the original on 15 February 2020. Retrieved 5 August 2022.
  8. ^ News, ABC. "The Latest: US: Pro-Syrian forces hit in strike posed threat". {{cite news}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  9. ^ Manson, Katrina (18 May 2017). "US strikes pro-Assad regime convoy in southern Syria". Financial Times. Retrieved 14 December 2022.
  10. ^ a b "The factions continue their offensive for the second day in the southeastern desert of Homs". syriahr.com. 10 May 2017. Retrieved 10 May 2017.
  11. ^ "Çöl taarruzu: Suriye ordusu, +20.000 kilometrekare alanı kontrol altına aldı". Al-Masdar News. 10 June 2017. Archived from the original on 2 March 2019. Retrieved 10 June 2017.
  12. ^ Fadel, Leith (26 May 2017). "Syrian Army liberates roads between Damascus, Palmyra: video". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 2 March 2019. Retrieved 27 May 2017.
  13. ^ a b "Titanic blitz offensive by pro-Syria forces sees 3,000 km2 liberated in just 12 hours: Map update". Al-Masdar. 10 July 2017. Archived from the original on 1 March 2019. Retrieved 11 July 2017.
  14. ^ a b c d e f Toumaj, Amir (14 June 2017). "Qassem Soleimani allegedly spotted in Syria near the Iraqi border". Long War Journal. Retrieved 15 June 2017.
  15. ^ a b Fadel, Leith (28 June 2017). "Syrian military names new commander in eastern provinces". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 4 November 2018. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  16. ^ a b "ISIS kills top army commander in Syrian desert". Zaman al-Wasl. 26 June 2017. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  17. ^ a b Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi (2 April 2017). "Quwat Muqatili al-Asha'ir: Tribal Auxiliary Forces of the Military Intelligence". Retrieved 13 February 2019.
  18. ^ a b c Al-Khalidi, Suleiman (9 May 2017). "Syrian planes strike rebel outposts near Jordanian border". Reuters. Retrieved 9 May 2017.
  19. ^ a b c d Muhammad Ersan (1 June 2017). "Syrian rebel commander: 150 US troops at al-Tanf base". Al-Monitor. Archived from the original on 12 June 2017.
  20. ^ "Assad army deploys troops near the borderline with Jordan, Iraq". Zaman al-Wasl. 14 May 2017. Retrieved 21 May 2017.
  21. ^ a b Fadel, Leith (18 May 2017). "US-backed rebels suffer major setback as Syrian Army troops capture much of eastern Sweida". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 18 May 2017.
  22. ^ a b c d Fadel, Leith (15 May 2017). "Syrian government, Iraqi reinforcements reach southeast Damascus for upcoming offensive". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 10 May 2019. Retrieved 15 May 2017.
  23. ^ a b "In pictures: Pro-Syria Palestinian troops partaking in huge Badia offensive". Al-Masdar. 11 July 2017. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 11 July 2017.
  24. ^ a b "Liwa al Quds mourns 17 militants killed by ISIS in Palmyra". Zaman al-Wasl. 27 June 2017. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  25. ^ a b c Smyth, Phillip (12 April 2018). "Iran Is Outpacing Assad for Control of Syria's Shia Militias". Washington Institute. Retrieved 15 April 2019.
  26. ^ a b Hassan, Mostapha (13 June 2017). "Who leads, operates Iran militias in al-Tanf?". Baghdad Post. Archived from the original on 11 July 2018. Retrieved 23 September 2017.
  27. ^ a b c "Assad regime bringing in new Iraqi militias". El-Dorar Al-Shamia. 12 May 2017. Archived from the original on 26 August 2017. Retrieved 15 May 2017.
  28. ^ СМИ: Элитные отряды сирийской армии и российские морпехи переброшены на восток Хамы Vzglyad, 26 May 2017.
  29. ^ Stormark, Kjetil (11 May 2018). "Nordmenn kjempet på russisk side i Syria" [Norwegians fought in Syria on the Russian side]. AldriMer.no (in Norwegian). Retrieved 16 May 2018.
  30. ^ a b Tomson, Chris (26 June 2017). "VIDEO: US-backed rebels divert all resources to fighting the Syrian Army instead of ISIS". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  31. ^ "Territorial Control Map – Sham Desert" (PDF). Omran Dirasat. 4 January 2017.
  32. ^ Republican Guard reinforcements arrive in Palmyra to aid Deir Ezzor liberation offensive Archived 5 August 2017 at the Wayback Machine, Al-Masdar News
  33. ^ Browne, Ryan (13 June 2017). "Exclusive: US deploys long-range artillery system to southern Syria for first time". CNN. Retrieved 15 June 2017.
  34. ^ a b "Syrian troops shift focus to IS-held east | Miami Herald". miamiherald.com. Retrieved 10 May 2017.
  35. ^ a b Fadel, Leith (7 May 2017). "Syrian Army begins important operation to prevent US-Jordanian troops from entering Damascus". almasdarnews.com. Archived from the original on 23 November 2018. Retrieved 10 May 2017.
  36. ^ a b US-led coalition strikes pro-Syrian regime forces CNN, 6 June 2017.
  37. ^ a b U.S.-led coalition strikes pro-government forces in Syria CBS News, 6 June 2017.
  38. ^ Coalition forces reinforce at key Al Tanf garrison in Syria Gulf News, 2 June 2017.
  39. ^ a b Exclusive: US deploys long-range artillery system to southern Syria for first time CNN, 13 June 2016.
  40. ^ U.S. moves long-range rocket launchers into southern Syria, intelligence sources say[dead link‍] Reuters, 14 June 2017.
  41. ^ Al-Khalidi, Suleiman (14 June 2017). "Exclusive: U.S. expands presence in Syrian desert, rebels say". Reuters.
  42. ^ Syria army 'moves into area' where rebels evicted ISIL, Al-Jazeera, 15 May 2017
  43. ^ Fadel, Leith (8 May 2017). "US, Jordanian military presence growing in southern Syria amid new government offensive". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 22 April 2019. Retrieved 9 May 2017.
  44. ^ "معركة جديدة لميليشيات الأسد للاستيلاء على مواقع المعارضة بالقلمون الشرقي | Step News Agency". stepagency-sy.net. Archived from the original on 19 October 2017. Retrieved 10 May 2017.
  45. ^ "Attack by Usoud al-Sharqiyyah in the Syria desert between Homs and al-Qalamoun in an attempt to advance". syriahr.com. Retrieved 10 May 2017.
  46. ^ Fadel, Leith (9 May 2017). "FSA launches large counter-offensive in southeast Damascus". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 27 September 2018. Retrieved 9 May 2017.
  47. ^ Fadel, Leith (10 May 2017). "FSA's makes little advance after launching big counter-offensive in southeast Damascus". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 26 September 2018. Retrieved 10 May 2017.
  48. ^ Fadel, Leith (12 May 2017). "Syrian Army resumes offensive to seal Iraqi border". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 12 May 2017.
  49. ^ Tomson, Chris (13 May 2017). "VIDEO: US-backed rebels launch GRAD rockets on Syrian Army positions east of Damascus". Al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 21 September 2018. Retrieved 13 May 2017.
  50. ^ a b c Al-Khalidi, Suleiman (15 May 2017). "Syrian army sends reinforcements toward border with Iraq: rebels". Reuters.[dead link‍]
  51. ^ a b c Ensor, Josie; Safwan, Luna (15 May 2017). "Syrian troops advancing towards U.S. and British special forces". The Telegraph.
  52. ^ Charkatli, Izat (15 May 2017). "Syrian Army prepares to seize the Jordanian and Iraqi borders". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 21 April 2019. Retrieved 17 May 2017.
  53. ^ "MINA Breaking News". macedoniaonline.eu. Archived from the original on 3 August 2017. Retrieved 15 May 2017.
  54. ^ Al-Khalidi, Suleiman and Stewart, Phil. "U.S. strikes Syria militia threatening U.S.-backed forces - officials". Archived from the original on 24 November 2018. Retrieved 22 May 2017.
  55. ^ "US-led coalition strikes pro-regime convoy in Syria near Jordan". 18 May 2017.
  56. ^ a b "U.S. launches rare intentional strike on pro-government forces in Syria". The Washington Post.
  57. ^ "Military official: U.S. airstrike hits pro-regime forces in Syria". USA Today.
  58. ^ Fadel, Leith (18 May 2017). "Details of U.S. attack on Syrian military in southern Syria". Al-Masdar News.
  59. ^ Scott Lucas, Syria Developing: US Warplanes, Supporting Rebels, Hit Pro-Assad Forces in East, EAWorldview 18 May 2017
  60. ^ "Syria says US airstrike killed several soldiers near Jordan". ABC News. Retrieved 22 May 2017.
  61. ^ a b "Tanf front: SAA, Hezbollah & allies advance reached Zarqa junction so far". Map of Syrian Civil war/ Global conflict in Syria - Syria news - syria.liveuamap.com. Retrieved 22 May 2017.
  62. ^ Pro-regime forces advance toward base in Syrian desert as US warns: Coalition will 'defend' itself Archived 5 January 2019 at the Wayback Machine, SyriaDirect, 22 May 2017
  63. ^ "Pro-regime forces advance toward base in Syrian desert as US warns: Coalition will 'defend' itself". Syria Direct. Archived from the original on 5 January 2019. Retrieved 23 May 2017.
  64. ^ "Syrian opposition launch "Burkan al-Badeya" offensive". 23 May 2017.
  65. ^ "بركان البادية: معركة جديدة لطرد الميليشيات الشيعية". Al Etihad Press. 22 May 2017. Archived from the original on 19 October 2017. Retrieved 23 May 2017.
  66. ^ Tomson, Chris (23 May 2017). "Syrian Army blitz offensive secures 70 kilometers of Jordanian border in one week". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 23 May 2017.
  67. ^ Charkatli, Izat (24 May 2017). "Syrian Army continues blitz offensive to besiege US-backed rebels in Syrian Badiyah". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 23 May 2017.
  68. ^ Ми-35 ВКС РФ наносит удар по террористам у границ Иордании: видео Zvezda (TV channel), 26 May 2017.
  69. ^ Charkatli, Izat (23 May 2017). "Syrian Army opens new front against ISIS in a surprise offensive". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 24 October 2017. Retrieved 23 May 2017.
  70. ^ Charkatli, Izat (24 May 2017). "Syrian Army opens a 100 km front against ISIS in new surprise offensive". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 21 September 2018. Retrieved 23 May 2017.
  71. ^ Waleed Khaled a-Noufal US-backed rebels losing territory in east Syrian desert to regime Archived 20 December 2018 at the Wayback Machine, Syria Direct, 29 May 2017
  72. ^ Fadel, Leith (26 May 2017). "Syrian Army liberates roads between Damascus, Palmyra: video". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 2 March 2019. Retrieved 26 May 2017.
  73. ^ Fadel, Leith (30 May 2017). "Syrian Army captures more territory from retreating US-backed rebels near Iraqi border". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 29 September 2018. Retrieved 30 May 2017.
  74. ^ ""Free Army" ignites the desert counter attack .. The Russians are interfering". Enab Baladi. 31 May 2017.
  75. ^ Syrian Army, Hezbollah make significant push towards Deir Ezzor from Palmyra Archived 20 September 2018 at the Wayback Machine Al-Masdar News
  76. ^ Army Retakes Key Town From Isis And Gains Ground In East Archived 10 September 2017 at the Wayback Machine, Morning Star
  77. ^ Feyerabend, Henri (6 June 2017). "SAA scores massive advances against ISIS in east Homs". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. Archived from the original on 3 August 2017. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
  78. ^ "Syrian Army strikes back against US-backed forces in southeast Syria". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 6 June 2017. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 7 June 2017.
  79. ^ Штаб союзников Сирии пригрозил США ответным ударом RIA Novosti, 7 June 2017.
  80. ^ "Syrian Army, Palestinian paramilitary advance against ISIS en route to Deir Ezzor (VIDEO)". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 7 June 2017. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 7 June 2017.
  81. ^ "Regime forces achieve advancement in the northeastern desert of Palmyra and aerial bombardment targets its areas". 7 June 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  82. ^ "BREAKING: Syrian Army overruns US-backed rebels, recaptures strategic hilltop". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 8 June 2017. Archived from the original on 26 August 2017. Retrieved 8 June 2017.
  83. ^ "Map Update: Government forces regain more territories in Syrian Desert". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 8 June 2017. Archived from the original on 28 September 2018. Retrieved 8 June 2017.
  84. ^ "Syrian Army and allies score significant gains against ISIS in southeast Homs (VIDEO)". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 8 June 2017. Archived from the original on 24 September 2018. Retrieved 8 June 2017.
  85. ^ "VIDEO: US-backed rebels pound Syrian Army positions on the Damascus-Baghdad highway". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 8 June 2017. Archived from the original on 28 September 2018. Retrieved 8 June 2017.
  86. ^ Syria says troops reach Iraq border after US tensions Archived 16 November 2019 at the Wayback Machine AFP, 9 June 2017.
  87. ^ "Syria army reaches Iraq border after US tensions: monitor". 9 June 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  88. ^ "Syrian Army reaches Syrian-Iraqi borders northeast of al-Tanf, thwarts ISIS attack in Deir Ezzor – Syrian Arab News Agency". sana.sy. 9 June 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  89. ^ "Syrian Army, Hezbollah cutoff US-backed rebels from Deir Ezzor". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 9 June 2017. Archived from the original on 28 September 2018. Retrieved 9 June 2017.
  90. ^ "BREAKING: Syrian Army, Hezbollah reaches border with Iraq for the first time in years". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 9 June 2017. Archived from the original on 20 December 2018. Retrieved 9 June 2017.
  91. ^ "Jordanian Army shoots dead five US-backed rebels who tried to evade the Syrian Army". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 11 June 2017. Archived from the original on 25 September 2018. Retrieved 12 June 2017.
  92. ^ "Exclusive: Syrian Army enters Deir Ezzor province". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 23 June 2017. Archived from the original on 9 October 2018. Retrieved 23 June 2017.
  93. ^ "VIDEO: Pro-government forces liberate strategic area from ISIS in Syria's Badia". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 26 June 2017. Archived from the original on 9 November 2018. Retrieved 26 June 2017.
  94. ^ "Republican Guard reinforcements arrive in Palmyra to aid Deir Ezzor liberation offensive". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 14 June 2017. Archived from the original on 5 August 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  95. ^ "ISIL completely collapses east of Palmyra". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 14 June 2017. Archived from the original on 27 September 2018. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  96. ^ "Why Iran Targets ISIS Positions in Syria's Deir Ezzur?". Iran's View. 19 June 2017. Archived from the original on 25 June 2017. Retrieved 18 June 2017.
  97. ^ "In pictures: ISIS attacks pro-U.S. militants in southeast Syria, executes eight". al-Masdar News. 19 June 2017. Archived from the original on 11 October 2018. Retrieved 19 June 2017.
  98. ^ Browne, Ryan and Starr, Barbara (20 June 2017). "First on CNN: US shoots down another pro-regime drone in Syria". CNN.
  99. ^ Rebels say Syrian army, Iranian-backed militias launch offensive in eastern desert, Reuters
  100. ^ Breaking: Syrian Army captures important area from US-backed militants in east Damascus Archived 9 October 2018 at the Wayback Machine, Al-Masdar
  101. ^ "وكالة ستيب الإخبارية". stepagency-sy.net. Archived from the original on 17 February 2019. Retrieved 26 June 2017.
  102. ^ "Hit-and-run clashes southeast of Rif Dimashq between the regime forces and International Coalition-backed factions". 26 June 2017.
  103. ^ "Syrian Army pushes east of Palmyra, recaptures strategic gas field". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 22 June 2017. Archived from the original on 31 October 2018. Retrieved 22 June 2017.
  104. ^ "Syrian Army, Hezbollah capture Arak Gas Station as they push east to Deir Ezzor". Al-Masdar. 24 June 2017. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 27 June 2017.
  105. ^ Tomson, Chris (26 June 2017). "Deir Ezzor liberation within sight as Syrian Army pounces through ISIS-held desert". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 8 October 2018. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  106. ^ Fadel, Leith (27 June 2017). "Syrian Army, Hezbollah inch closer to Deir Ezzor". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  107. ^ Fadel, Leith (28 June 2017). "Video footage of the Syrian Army pushing east to Deir Ezzor". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 6 November 2018. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  108. ^ Fadel, Leith (28 June 2017). "Syrian Army, Hezbollah capture new sites along Palmyra-Deir Ezzor Highway". al-Masdar News. Archived from the original on 30 December 2018. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  109. ^ "VIDEO: Syrian Army tanks race headlong towards ISIS bastion in southern Deir Ezzor". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 2 July 2017. Archived from the original on 4 October 2018. Retrieved 2 July 2017.
  110. ^ "About 60 persons were killed during the advancement of the regime forces to 15 km from the last city controlled by the "Islamic State" organization in Homs province". 7 July 2017.
  111. ^ "In pictures: ISIS carries out rare successful counter-offensive in eastern Homs". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 10 July 2017. Archived from the original on 7 October 2018. Retrieved 10 July 2017.
  112. ^ "Pro-Syria forces smash key ISIS defense line before Sukhnah, capture strategic high-ground". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 9 July 2017. Archived from the original on 7 October 2018. Retrieved 10 July 2017.
  113. ^ "BREAKING: Syrian Army and allies fully secure strategic site from ISIS in eastern Homs". Al-Masdar. 11 July 2017. Archived from the original on 10 September 2017. Retrieved 25 July 2017.
  114. ^ "Syrian army takes more oil fields from Islamic State in Raqqa and eastern desert". Reuters. 15 July 2017.
  115. ^ Southern Syria ceasefire holds despite sporadic violations, Al-Araby, 10 July 2017
  116. ^ "Breaking: Syrian Army kicks off 2nd phase of Operation Big Dawn in southeast Syria". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 10 July 2017. Archived from the original on 2 March 2019. Retrieved 10 July 2017.
  117. ^ a b Syrian army, militias attack rebels in southeast desert, Reuters, 10 July 2017
  118. ^ Syria regime breaks ceasefire with attacks on Free Syrian Army in Suweida and Daraa, Al-Araby, 11 July 2017
  119. ^ "Syrian Army captures several sites in northern Sweida". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 10 July 2017. Archived from the original on 1 March 2019. Retrieved 10 July 2017.
  120. ^ Ceasefire in Syria broken after a day, The Times, 11 July 2017
  121. ^ "Syrian Army seizes large parts of southeast Damascus from US-backed rebels". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 10 July 2017. Archived from the original on 2 March 2019. Retrieved 10 July 2017.
  122. ^ "Pro-government forces destroy FSA base in Syria's Badia, liberate 200 km2 of territory". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 13 July 2017. Archived from the original on 2 March 2019. Retrieved 13 July 2017.
  123. ^ "Massive FSA salient in Syrian desert to be cut-off and annihilated by pro-Syria forces: Map". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 12 July 2017. Archived from the original on 2 March 2019. Retrieved 12 July 2017.
  124. ^ "In their quest to besiege the factions and regain full control over the second province in Syria… the regime forces supported by their loyal gunmen advance in the Syrian Desert". 14 July 2017.
  125. ^ Southern Syria ceasefire holds despite sporadic violations, al-Araby, 10 July 2017
  126. ^ Syria regime breaks ceasefire with attacks on Free Syrian Army in Suweida and Daraa, al-Araby, 11 July 2017
  127. ^ "Massive pro-government reinforcements arrive in eastern Homs for upcoming offensive". Al-Masdar. 25 July 2017. Archived from the original on 21 October 2018. Retrieved 25 July 2017.
  128. ^ "Syrian Rebels Say U.S. Allies Push for Retreat From Southeast Syria". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 16 March 2020. Retrieved 18 September 2017.
  129. ^ "Rebels announce new offensive against Syrian Army in central Syria". Al-Masdar. 1 August 2017. Archived from the original on 23 October 2018. Retrieved 8 August 2017.
  130. ^ "Syrian Army, allies recommence offensive in Syria-Jordan border region". 4 August 2017. Archived from the original on 30 October 2018. Retrieved 8 August 2017.
  131. ^ "Watch the Syrian Army seize new sites near the Jordanian border". Al-Masdar. 6 August 2017. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 8 August 2017.
  132. ^ "US-backed rebels fall back across the Jordanian border after failed offensive in Sweida: video". AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز. 21 August 2017. Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 21 August 2017.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Syrian_Desert_campaign_(May–July_2017)&oldid=1245433223"