12 Nov 2019 | 07:17 PM UTC
Syria: Turkish forces open fire on protesters in Kobane November 12 /update 18
At least two killed after Turkish forces open fire on protesters in Kobane November 12; similar incidents possible over the near term
Event
According to local sources, at least two people were killed and seven others wounded after Turkish security forces opened fire on protesters in Kobane on Tuesday, November 12. The incident occurred during a joint patrol of the area. Turkish forces reportedly opened fire using live ammunition and tear gas after being pelted by stones. The Turkish Defense Ministry has not commented on the incident as of Tuesday evening (local time).
A heightened security presence is to be expected in Kobane and in northeastern Syria over the near term. Further such clashes between security forces and residents are possible in the region over the coming days and weeks.
Context
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced on October 5 that Ankara would launch a military operation in northeastern Syria in an attempt to expel Kurdish (YPG) forces from the Syrian-Turkish border. Erdoğan stated that the air and ground operations would extend 30 km (19 mi) into Syria from Syria's northeastern border with Turkey. Turkey considers the YPG to be a terrorist organization linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) group.
On Tuesday, October 22, an agreement was reached between President Erdoğan and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the establishment of a "safe zone" in northern Syria. Between Wednesday, October 23, and Monday, October 28, Russian military police and Syrian border guards will move in to facilitate the removal of Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) forces and weapons to beyond the zone, which extends 29 km (18 mi) beyond the Turkish-Syrian border. After the initial phase of the operation, Turkish and Russian troops will conduct joint patrols in northern Syria within 10 km (6 mi) of the border, beginning on Tuesday, October 29.
Advice
Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise against all travel to Syria, with some banning travel to the country. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.
