The fighting between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Islamists of the Turkish army in Ain Issa continues with unabated intensity. As reported from the front line in the northern Syrian town, at least three jihadists have been killed since clashes broke out on Friday morning. In addition, an armored vehicle belonging to the occupation forces was destroyed by the SDF fighters.

Coinciding with the fighting are heavy artillery attacks on the villages of Muelek and Mişêrfa west of Ain Issa. Both villages are located directly on the M4 highway. It is unclear whether civilians have been harmed. For days, there have been repeated infiltration attempts there, which were all averted by SDF units.

In the meantime, reports say that SDF fighters have launched an intensified aggression on the largest Turkish military base 2 km north of Ain Issa.

The town of Ain Issa is located in a key position on the M4 east-west road. The traffic route runs through northern Syria practically like a lifeline and connects the Euphrates and Cizire regions. An occupation of Ain Issa could effectively separate the two regions. For this reason, the Turkish state has been doing everything in its power to occupy the town for months. Although a ceasefire negotiated with Russia prohibits attacks by Turkey, the ceasefire is systematically broken by Turkey with approval from Moscow. Since the airspace is under the control of the international anti-ISIS coalition, the Turkish army cannot use its air superiority at the moment and relies on ground forces, especially mercenaries. The SDF hold the front and defend Ain Issa.