Violent clashes erupt between the Turkish army and armed factions in northern Syria
The areas of Azaz, Afrin and Tadif in the northern countryside of Aleppo have recently witnessed a series of sabotage acts that targeted several civilian and military headquarters belonging to the Turkish forces and the militants of the Syrian National Army backed by Ankara.
The attacks began with attacks on Turkish trucks and cars, almost completely destroying them.
The events evolved to include burning the Turkish flag and setting fire to several civilian headquarters run by the Turks in the cities of Azaz, Tadif, al Bab and Afrin, north and northwest of Aleppo.
The Turkish forces responded quickly by sending large military reinforcements to the area to protect their military points and installations.
In Afrin, northwest of Aleppo, tensions escalated into medium- and light weapons clashes between the Turkish army and militants affiliated with the HTS (Hay’at Tahrir al Sham) who infiltrated the city to exploit the chaos.
The clashes spread to the areas of Azaz, al Bab and Tadaf, where militants attacked a Turkish point using bombs.
Clashes continued late on Monday, killing nine of HTS (Hay’at Tahrir al Sham) militants and five pro-LNA factions, and killing four civilians, including women.
In response to these developments, Turkish forces have pushed large military reinforcements into the affected areas, deploying armored vehicles and tanks to ensure the safety of civilians and military and civilian headquarters.
In light of these tense circumstances, the Turkish authorities decided to close all international crossings with Syria, including the al Ra’I, Bab al Salama, Bab al Hawa border crossings, until further notice.
