Syrian National Army captures Minnigh airbase from PKK/YPG terrorist group in Operation Dawn of Freedom
The Syrian National Army (SNA) continues its advance in the Tel Rifat district as part of Operation Dawn of Freedom, launched to prevent the PKK/YPG (PKK listed as a terrorist organization by Turkiye, the U.S. and the EU and YPG which Turkiye consider as the extension of PKK in Syria) terror corridor between Tel Rifat and Manbij, in Syria on December 01, 2024. (AA Photo)
The Syrian National Army (SNA) has captured the strategically important Minnigh Airbase in Tel Rifaat as part of Operation Dawn of Freedom, aimed at disrupting the PKK/YPG terrorist group’s plans to establish a corridor between Tel Rifaat and northeastern Syria.
Key victory in strategic operation
Minnigh Airbase, located 13 kilometers (8.07 miles) from the Turkish border, has been under the control of the PKK/YPG terrorists since 2016. Russian and Iranian forces also used the airbase as a hub for distributing military supplies.
The SNA’s success in reclaiming the airbase marks a significant step in countering the PKK/YPG’s presence in northern Syria.
Operation Dawn of Freedom
Operation Dawn of Freedom was launched in response to the PKK/YPG’s attempt to create a terror corridor between Tel Rifaat and northeastern Syria.
The operation has focused on cutting off key routes, including the road between Raqqa and Aleppo, to block the group’s movements and logistical support.
SNA forces continue to engage PKK/YPG terrorists across multiple fronts in Tel Rifaat, with clashes reported in the northwest, northeast, eastern, and southern areas of the region.
Background on Tel Rifaat
The PKK/YPG took control of Tel Rifaat and the surrounding areas in February 2016, displacing approximately 250,000 civilians, many of whom sought refuge near the Turkish border.
From Tel Rifaat, the terror group launched attacks on areas secured during Türkiye’s Operation Euphrates Shield and Operation Olive Branch, as well as on positions held by Turkish security forces.
Despite support from the Assad regime and its allies, the PKK/YPG’s grip on Tel Rifaat has weakened amid opposition advances in Aleppo, leading to the regime’s withdrawal from the area.
Syrian opposition’s call to regime soldiers
The Syrian opposition has called on the soldiers and officers of the Assad regime to lay down their arms, guaranteeing the protection of their lives.
“To the officers working in the armed forces of the criminal regime in all occupied Syrian cities, the Department of Military Operations announces its full readiness to secure defection of any officer who wishes to drop the weapon and move safely to areas of our control in the liberated north of Syria.” the Syrian opposition said.
“We invite you to take the initiative to defect to ensure your sovereignty,” the statement concluded.
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