Turkish attack on Ain Issa failed,but put more pressure on SDF

By December 19 morning, all clashes around Ain Issa, in the northern countryside of Raqqa, ended. Turkish forces have not shelled the town and its outskirts for the last few hours.

The attack claimed the lives of at least nine SNA militants. The SDF also sustained casualties, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

While Turkish forces failed to drive the SDF out of Ain Issa and its outskirts, their attack mounted real pressure on the Kurdish-led group.

Recent reports revealed that Russia is pressuring the SDF into handing over Ain Issa and other parts to northern Raqqa to Syrian government forces. The group was warned of a Turkish plan to occupy the region.

The SDF agreed to establish three joint observation posts with government forces around Ain Issa following Russia’s pressure. Nevertheless, it refused to hand the region over.

The last Turkish-led attack will likely push the SDF to comply with Russia’s demands, which are meant to protect Ain Issa and its residents. Turkish forces appear to be preparing to launch a second attack, not only in northern Raqqa but also in northern al-Hasakah.