Syria: Freed Aleppo Major Defeat to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Serious Setback for US

Commenting on the success of the Syrian army and complete liberation of Syria's second-largest city, Aleppo, Kurdish political official Rezan Hiddo explained to Sputnik why it came as a serious defeat to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, while Professor Tim Anderson explained why it is the most serious setback for the US in 15 years.

"The liberation of Syria's major strategic center, Aleppo, from the armed opposition has changed the course of the Syrian war, propelled strengthening of the Syrian army and increased its morale," Kurdish political official, member of the Syrian Democratic Council Rezan Hiddo told Sputnik Turkiye. However it came as a serious defeat to those countries which have been supporting the rebel groups operating on the Syrian territory, he added.

"I mean Saudi Arabia, Qatar and particularly Turkey," he specified.

Mid- East: Battle Continues between Syrian Kurds and Assad Forces

Syrian government officials arrived Friday in the Kurdish-controlled city of Qamishli to try to negotiate a cease-fire between Kurdish fighters and mainly Arab pro-Assad militiamen after the heaviest fighting in more than two years broke out this week. Sources tell VOA's Zana Omar the battle intensified after Kurdish forces took over a government-held prison in the city. Robert Raffaele narrates his report.

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US is ready to take "targeted" military action in Iraq, but American forces will not be returning to combat - Obama

President Obama said the United States is prepared to help Iraqi forces take back their country.

The President said it is in the best interest of the United States there not be an all out civil war in Iraq for numerous reasons, “Above all, Iraqi leaders must rise above their differences and come together around a political plan for Iraq’s future.”

“American forces will not be returning to combat in Iraq,” said Obama during a news conference from the White House.

The U.S. is prepared to send 300 military ‘advisers’ into Iraq.

President Obama said we are prepared to take, “targeted and precise military action” in Iraq, if needed.