reddit.

com/r/syriancivilwar 8 December 2016 Volume 2 Issue 5

THE WEEK IN REVIEW

THE BATTLE FOR AL-BAB

A MICROCOSM IN THE SYRIAN CIVIL WAR

IN DEPTH UPDATES
THE BATTLE FOR AL-BAB TIMELINE OF EVENTS SINCE THE PREVIOUS ISSUE
A TIMELINE OF THE BATTLE FOR MOSUL - PART 2 AN OVERVIEW OF THE SDF'S RAQQA OFFENSIVE
ALEPPO OFFENSIVE - REBELS REPULSED
WHAT HAS OPERATION CHAMMAL ACHIEVED SO FAR?
ADMIRAL KUZNETSOV
/R/SYRIANCIVILWAR
THE WEEK IN REVIEW INDEX AND MAP REFERENCE
Our team We are LOCATION PAGE TITLE

PUBLISHER A weekly publication written and edited by Page 2 Timeline of events since the previous issue
/u/oreng the moderators and contributors Page 4 A message from the team

EDITOR- IN-CHIEF of reddit.com/r/syriancivilwar Map ref 1 Page 5 An overview of the SDF's Raqqa offensive
/u/AofB, @qamaamaalamriki Map ref 2 Page 6 The Battle for al-Bab: a microcosm in the Syrian civil war
ACTING EDITOR- IN-CHIEF Social media Map ref 3 Page 8 A timeline of the battle for Mosul - part 2
/u/Naenil, @Naenil Map ref 4 Page 10 Aleppo offensive: rebels repulsed
ART DIRECTOR
Visit us on social media or scan the Page 12 What has operation Chammal achieved so far?
/u/CIA_Shill, @scw_shill QR code:
Page 14 Admiral Kuznetsov: the struggles of a Soviet era carrier in the modern age
PHOTO EDITOR
/u/Status_Gruen /ScwWeekInReview
MANAGING EDITOR
/u/stella-artois /r/syriancivilwar
EDITORS
Trenton S, /u/Chester_T_Molester Email us 2 3
Andy Jackson 4
CONTRIBUTORS Contact us by email at:
1
/u/AofB, @qamaamaalamriki contact.weekinreview@gmail.com
/u/Beansareno1
Chris Gentry, /u/Robowarrior123
/u/Naenil, @Naenil Ethics Statement
/u/NotVladeDivac, @NotVladeDivac The editors and contributors are all members of an online community
/u/Status_Gruen that has managed - some might say against all odds - to preserve a cul-
Trenton S, /u/Chester_T_Molester ture of inclusiveness, civility and mutual dialogue between users ranging
from the staunchest supporters of Syrias government to supporters of
entities as diverse as the FSA, YPG, the Islamic Front, Western states,
Israel and indeed the Islamic State.
This coexistence is made possible by active, often heavy-handed
moderation by the moderators of the subreddit and through a publicly-
stated policy of enforcing civility rather than ideological compliance. The
/r/syriancivilwar community uses self-selected flairs to enable users
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stated allegiances of contributors to this publication feel free to inspect
their flairs on reddit.com/r/syriancivilwar.

8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 2 8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 1
SINCE THE
More than 1,000 soldiers deployed by Rebel battle lines in northern Aleppo
Iran to Syria to back the government city collapsed under heavy pressure
side in its civil war have been killed, an from SAA and allied forces. Rebel forces

PREVIOUS ISSUE
At least 49 people have been killed
in heavy government air strikes in the
eastern part of Syria's largest city,
Aleppo, witnesses and activists say.
(Al Jazeera)
The predominantly Shiite Popular
Mobilization Units (PMU) troops say
they have reached and retaken ISIS-held
Mosul's Tal Afar airport.
(France24)
18 November
A flotilla of Russian warships including
the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov A pro-government militia announces it is
arrived off the coast of Syria, readying
for a large-scale land and sea assault on
the city of Aleppo.
(Telegraph)
Iranian official says, underlining Tehran's
increasing presence on the front lines of
the conflict.
(Reuters)
Euphrates Shield forces retake the
strategic town of Qabasin from ISIS
following extensive shelling of the
town's outskirts by Turkish forces.
Qabasin is 5 km NE of ISIS-held Al-Bab.
( #QalaatAlMudiq)
Syria has applied to be part of a free
trade zone with Russia. The proposal
will be discussed at a Eurasian Economic
Commissions (EEC) session, scheduled
for December 23.
(Russia Today)
22 November
cutting off roads connecting Syria with
Iraqs predominantly Turkmen city of Tal
Afar, held by ISIS.
(Anadolu Agency)
were forced to retreat from Hanano,
Jabal Badro, Badaeen, Hay Jandoul,
and Bustan al-Pasha neighborhoods.
(Saleh Soliman, @watanisy, BBC,
ground-based sources)
An air strike thought to have been
27 November Syrian government troops have gained
control of 50% of rebel-held areas of
carried out by Syrian government
east Aleppo, says a military spokesman.
forces killed three Turkish soldiers and
(BBC)
wounded 10 others overnight, one of
them seriously, according to the Turkish
military. 3 December
(Reuters)
Syria and its allies aim to drive rebels
SAA troops, in co-ordination with the from Aleppo before Donald Trump
SDF, has advancde in Northern Aleppo, takes office as U.S. President, a senior
seize 5 villages West of Al Bab.
(The Inside Source @InsideSourceInt)
official in the pro-Damascus military
alliance said.
SAA and Liwa al-Quds forces continue
(Reuters)
The Russian government said on
Monday it would start talks with
to gain ground in the Hanano district Some 20,000 people have fled Washington on a rebel withdrawal from
in Eastern Aleppo, capturing several intensified attacks on rebel-held eastern Aleppo this week as Russian-backed
public buildings and an unknown Aleppo in Syria in the past 48 hours, Syrian forces fought to seize more
number of residential blocks. the International Committee of the Red territory from rebels who are struggling
(@InsideSourceInt, Saleh Soliman, Cross (ICRC) said on Tuesday. to avoid a major defeat.
Sohayb Masri) (Reuters) (Reuters)

12 November 19 November 24 November 29 November 5 December

15 November 23 November 25 November 1 December 6 December

Food production in Syria has dropped The town of Arimah in Rif Aleppo, SDF forces capture Tall Jijan and the A counterattack by Fatah Halab Rebel commanders in Aleppo say they
to an all-time low as the country enters previously surrounded by SDF forces, surrounding area from ISIS in Northern elements has retaken most of Sheikh have agreed to withdraw from Aleppo
a sixth winter of war, U.N. agencies said is been overrun after an attack from Aleppo. Sa'eed from pro-government forces. following talks between officials in
on Tuesday. Wheat output dropped three axes. The Islamic State defenders (@CivilWarMap) Parts of Masraniyah Youth Housing Turkey and the UN (United Nations)
from an average 3.4 million metric were overwhelmed after fierce have also been captured following a (Qasioun news, @sayed_ridha)
tonnes harvested before the war began fighting, with several tanks eliminated. counterattack.
five years ago to 1.5 million this year. (ANHA News, SOHR, @SayedRidha, (@Aleppo_Free2, @QalaatalMudiq)
(Reuters) SyrianCivilWarMap, et. al.)
Russia resumed airstrikes on the 1st Coastal Division and Furqat
besieged rebel-held sections of 13 forces repelled a small-scale
Aleppo. Jets taking off from Russias government offensive in the region of
aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, Jabal Turkman, Latakia. Initial reports
conducted their first strikes on Syria. indicated at least 15 SAA soldiers
were killed.
(@QalaatalMudiq and @Houar_M_O.)
Forces battling the Islamic State group
in northern Iraq cut off the jihadists' last
supply line from Mosul to Syria. West
21 November of Mosul, Hashed al-Shaabi (Popular

Government forces backed by Iranian

Mobilisation) paramilitary forces made
a push to cut the road between two
30 November
and Russian troops and fighters from towns on the route heading to Syria. Early reports indicated that the SAA and
Lebanon's Hezbollah penetrate the (AFP) allied forces have captured the majority
eastern part of the Masakan Hanano of Aleppos Sheikh Sa'eed district,
Turkish artillery shell SAA positions
neighbourhood in Eastern Aleppo, compounding previous rebel losses
during a resumed offensive in the areas
according to the Britain-based Syrian within the city.
surrounding Nawara, Latakia
Observatory for Human Rights monitor. (sources on the ground, @
(Hassan Ridha @sayed_ridha)
(Telegraph) InsideSourceInt) By /u/Status_Gruen

8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 2 8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 3

A QUICK MESSAGE FROM ALL OF THE TEAM
HERE AT THE WEEK IN REVIEW:
Although we have gone from strength to strength since renewing
the Week In Review, it is important at this time of year that we
take a moment out to remember all of those who will not see joy in
Iraq and Syria during this festive season. Indeed, we must spare a
moment to think about anyone caught up in the multiple conflicts
raging around the world.
We must also pay homage to those who have not lived to see the
close of 2016. We cannot forget the men, women and children who
have lost their lives in this brutal conflict.
It is very easy for many of us in this community to sit, analyse and
observe, but we must never lose sight of the fact we are always
talking about real people and real events. Hundreds of thousands
of lives have been torn apart. Let's hope the end of 2017 reflects a
better year for humanity than the one past.
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 4
Please remember to check out our list of recommended charities
on the back cover.
We wish a very festive period to all our readers, contributors and
all that continue to keep this community great. Although all of us
may not always see eye-to-eye, it is thanks to your hard work and
dedication that we do what we do.
Stay safe and warm this December. A big thanks from us all and
we'll see you in the New Year.
From all the team at the Week in Review,
Happy holidays!
AN OVERVIEW OF
THE SDF'S RAQQA OFFENSIVE
US special forces supporting the offensive
O n November 5th 2016, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)
started the so called "Wrath of the Euphrates" offensive, which
targets the Islamic State's Capital of Raqqa. The stated end goal of
the operation is the complete capture of Raqqa. The troops involved
are multi-ethnic and multi-religious. The forces include Arabs, many
of whom are from Raqqa, Kurds, Turkmen and Assyrians. There are
also embedded United States Special Forces.2,3
Discussions surrounding a
Raqqa offensive had been on-
going for quite some time,
however, the Kurdish People's
Protection Units (YPG) had
maintained that their assault on
An (SDF) member flashes the Raqqa ought to be in exchange
for official political recognition
V-sign for 'victory' in Ain Issa
of Rojava.4 As far as has been
indicated from reports that have surfaced, this recognition is still
yet to be assured, despite the on-going activities. According to one
Kurdish YPG fighter, Arabs within the SDF, and especially those from
Raqqa, had been eager for the offensive to commence, expressing
dismay at the possibility of a delay due to YPG politicking.5
Regarding the operation, reactions from US CENTCOM (Central
Command) appear to be mixed. While they indicated that they would
both welcome the offensive and provide support, they also argued
against the SDF being the long-term solution for holding Raqqa.
General Dunford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for example,
publicly stated that the United States would not allow an attack on
the city proper without involving Turkey and their perspective into
the plans.6 The American command has been trying to balance the
wishes of their NATO ally Turkey, with the reality that the SDF is the
only force capable, both politically and militarily, of taking Raqqa.
Alongside this, the SDF also
plans that Raqqa will be controlled
by local groups. They intend
that the bulk of the fighting will
be done by the Raqqa Military
Council, which is indigenous to
the city. There are no intentions
to include Raqqa into the Rojava
Jihan Sheikh Ahmed, a federation.7
spokeswoman for the SDF,
holds a press conference in The Wrath of the Euphrates
the town of Ain Issa offensive has so far progressed
south along two main axes, Ayn
Issa and Suluk. The capture of the village Tal Semen on November
16th was significant, as it has since given the SDF control of the
northern bank of the Al-Rey channel.8 The area bordering the
channel is mostly farmland, the rest is desert. Overall 26 villages
have so far been taken from IS. Although most of them are rather
small,9 Raqqa city is now only 25 km away from the front line.
As interested parties follow the events on the ground, it seems
that for now the offensive has stalled. Some reports have alleged
that the break has occurred because of the recent intensification of
hostilities between Turkey and SDF in Northern Aleppo, and whilst
plausible, the reports remain unconfirmed.10
By /u/Beansareno1
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 5
THE BATTLE FOR AL-BAB
A MICROCOSM IN THE SYRIAN CIVIL WAR
W hen Turkey launched Operation Euphrates Shield to clear the
Islamic State (IS) presence on its border and prevent the Syrian-
Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) from linking its territories,
the seemingly straightforward plan was an easy sell to international
partners. The hostile Syrian government was preoccupied with trying
to maintain its siege on East Aleppo and, alongside this, had its
hands full on all fronts with opposition forces. The Russians too did
not protest thanks to bilateral efforts to rebuild ties following last
years downing of a Russian jet by a Turkish F-16, reconciliation also
aided by the lifting of the de-facto ban on Turkish access to Syrian
airspace. Finally, the United States seemed eager to take all the help
it could get in dealing a final blow to IS before President Obama
leaves office. For these reasons, Turkey was able to send special
forces and armored units across the border rather comfortably.
At the center of Turkeys would-be safe zone is al-Bab, a strategic
city north of Aleppo. It is currently held by IS and situated between
the major territorial possessions of the PYD and their allies in the
Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkey and the Free Syrian Army
(FSA) fighters it backs desperately want to prevent the PYD from
capturing the city and creating a single, combined autonomous
region in northern Syria. Much to Turkeys delight, so far, the absence
of support from a major power has ensured that the SDFs plans
have remained in rhetoric. The volatility of the situation, however,
promises that the balance of power may not remain the same
for long.
At the time of writing, besieged rebel-held areas of Aleppo
are falling to government forces after an attempt to lift the siege
failed several weeks ago.1 The Syrian governments momentum
has allowed it to react to the Turkish operation which President
Bashar al-Assad calls an invasion.2 Still lacking the ground forces
to make a push for Al-Bab, the government is relying on the SDF
preventing Turkish backed rebels from taking the city. Where the
Syrian government could have grabbed territory itself to the west
of Al-Bab, for example, it has settled for joint rule to allow an SDF
advance. The Syrian government has also used its limited influence
over the airspace to keep Turkey from having free reign.
Just as opposition forces seemed to be making progress
towards al-Bab, the issues plaguing Turkeys long-term strategy in
Syria emerged as an obstacle blocking its path to the city. Turkeys
current Syria policy is irreconcilable with the interests of the Assad
government and the SDF. Thus as the Turks turn up the heat on IS-
held Al-Bab, the prospect of Turkey fully joining the regional war in
Syria becomes all the more dangerous.
Recep Tayyip Erdoans government is staking its credibility on
taking al-Bab and has, in fact, already mentioned taking Manbij
from the SDF after.3 Though Turkey under Erdoan has executed
policy reversals in the past, the SDF capturing al-Bab would be a
dramatic collapse of Turkish policy in Syria. There is no face-saving
solution to fall back on. The Turks did a reasonably good job of
keeping themselves outside of the broader war in Syria when they
first crossed the border but the abundance of enemies and lack of
friends in the region has brought the war to them.
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 6
Shaping Operations
Before the al-Bab offensive started, Turkey prepared its allies on
Rebel forces briefly took control of Qabasin, right outside of
al-Bab, later losing it and starting an ongoing tug-of-war over the
town.13 They were on the outskirts of al-Bab on November the
the ground for the difficult task of taking the city from IS. The array 14th, with some sources claiming FSA fighters entered the northern
of FSA and other rebel groups extremities of the city.14 Yet, not long into the offensive, cracks
that Turkey supports in the began to appear.
Aleppo countryside suffer from
a chronic manpower shortage Fighting broke out in rebel-held Azaz between major groups
which means progress is often participating in the operation. Jabhat al-Shamiyya forces were
two steps forward and one step attacked by Ahrar al-Sham and other FSA groups over accusations
backwards. Turkeys solution has of corruption.15 The clashes went on for days. The United States
been to supply rebel forces with announced that it was pulling support for the Al-Bab operation on
Units linked to the FSA man Turkish-built ACV-15 Armored the 16th, leaving Turkey alone to act unilaterally.16 The next day, a
an ACV-15 near al-Bab Personnel Carriers (APCs) to car bomb went off in Azaz, targeting an office belonging to Harakat
reduce casualties and act as Nour al-Din al-Zenki.17 All of this while fighting had begun with the
a force multiplier. A handful of APCs were transferred to various SDF to the northeast of Al-Bab.18
groups, such as the FSAs Sultan Murad Division and Jabhat al-
Shamiyya.4,5 Despite the difficulties of fighting both IS and the SDF on the
ground, Turkish-backed forces continued to make moderate
The capture of Tal Al-Hawa (northwest of Manbij) on November progress owing to escalated Turkish air and artillery support.19,20 SDF
12th was a quiet milestone for Euphrates Shields progress.6 Ethnic forces also closed in on al-Bab from the east and west, capturing the
kin in the FSAs Sultan Murad Division took the Turkmen village town of Arimah.21
back from IS and freed up manpower to advance on Al-Bab after IS
held out in the villages for weeks.7 SDF forces based out of Manbij The offensive on al-Bab became more difficult after a second
moved west simultaneously and captured IS territory sandwiched front was opened against SDF forces. The situation remained
in between the two advancing forces, creating a new front line. To manageable, however, as Turkey struck SDF targets and continued
make matters worse, dynamics in the area are an ethnic tinderbox. to back their FSA allies in clashes against them.
According to information received from prominent Syrian Turkmen
journalist Hseyin Bozan, there are many Turkmen villages in the
region but not all identify with this bloc. The Karakeili tribe which Cause for Hesitation as the Syrian Air Force
inhabits the region are Kurdish-speaking ethnic Turkmen, which Becomes Involved
explains conflicting claims of identity in areas such as Kanl Kuyu
or Qanl Qoy in Kurdish. These dangerous circumstances set the Despite unconfirmed reports of Turkish jets being denied access
stage for clashes between the FSA and SDF, just as the rebels were to Syrian airspace,22 airstrikes continued against IS and SDF targets,
ready to push south. paving the way for a cautious
advance through the weekend
and into the beginning of the
Bad News Comes Early as the week.23 Without confirmation,
Offensive Begins it is impossible to know what
transpired in the air; however, it
Images of advancing convoys and news of major rebel gains
is feasible that the Syrian Arab
marked the morning of November 13th.8 The al-Bab offensive
Air Force (SyAAF) may have
had begun. Local sources
attempted to harass Turkish
indicated that up to 1,000 FSA Smoke rises after coalition
aircraft. Radar lock-ons and
fighters were set to participate airstrikes over IS targets at
other aerial interaction have
in the battle.9 Meanwhile it Baraan
happened in the past and the
was also reported that Turkey
SyAAF is thought to have struck Euphrates Shield rebels previously
had increased the number of
during the FSAs failed offensive on SDF-held Tal Rifaat.
special forces committed to the
operation.10 The participation
On November 24th, the SyAAF set a dangerous precedent by
of Turkeys elite Maroon Berets
Turkish military convoys directly striking Turkish troops for the first time inside Syria.25 Both
is well known but the Turkish
advance in Jarablus countries have previously downed jets belonging to the other and
Armys 1st and 4th Commando
Syrian jets have bombed Turkeys allies in the Aleppo countryside
Brigades have also been seen inside Syria.11,12 Speaking on the before. However, the airstrike and subsequent death of three
condition of anonymity, a source close to the military has also Turkish soldiers was the largest escalation in the conflict between
indicated that the Navys Underwater Offense (SAT) units have also the feuding neighbors so far. Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yldrm
been involved. promised retaliation in the immediate aftermath of the incident,
although, as of yet, nothing has come of his threats.26
No Way but Forward
In the two days following the strike on Turkish troops attempting
to encircle al-Bab, the Turkish and Russian Presidents spoke on
the telephone twice, discussing developments in Syria.27 Clearly
insulted by the attack on its soldiers and eager to avoid looking
weak, the Turkish military later carried out airstrikes on IS positions
near al-Bab.28 A report from an anonymous local source also spoke
of increased Turkish Air Force activity in the region.
FSA groups backed by Turkish firepower continued their advance
after the incident, albeit at a slower pace. Rebel forces made modest
gains against IS and the SDF, but the damage had already been
done to Operation Euphrates Shield.29
The Syrian government
demonstrated publicly that it
is willing to use lethal force to
prevent Turkish-backed rebels
from taking al-Bab from IS.
Despite the Syrian militarys
limited capabilities to fight
FSA forces advance Turkey conventionally, Turkey is
in no hurry to risk an inter-state
war given its position domestically and internationally. One must also
remember that, only one year ago, Turkeys relations with Russia hit
rock-bottom. Turkey will be nervous to launch even the most limited
of attacks on Assads forces for fear of mistakenly attacking Russian
assets in Syria.
Although one cannot completely rule out private Russian approval
of the airstrike on Turkish soldiers near al-Bab, the dialog between
the two leaders afterwards suggests that the order may have come
from Damascus independently. The SyAAF is overstretched and,
without Russian participation, it seems reasonable to assume that
the airstrike was more of a warning shot than a sign of a revised
policy.
The loss of a small number of Turkish soldiers is, from a utilitarian
perspective, hardly out of the norm for a country fighting an
insurgency at home and IS abroad. From this perspective, it seems
undeniable that the operation will continue regardless. Beyond
the tension between the two neighboring states, the advance of
the SDF continues to be the biggest obstacle to Turkeys efforts to
dislodge IS from al-Bab. The chances are of course slim that a one-
off airstrike triggers a regional war. However, there is still cause for
alarm. Following the airstrike incident, it has become clear that one
side is willing to pull the trigger. That alone is not much of a surprise.
At the same time, Turkey appears willing to accept casualties or
worse retaliate, in the name of taking strategic objectives on the
ground. That is where the real danger lies.
Since the article was written, anonymous officials have claimed that
the strike was carried out by an Iranian-made drone.30
By /u/notvladedivac @NotVladeDivac
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 7
A TIMELINE OF THE BATTLE FOR MOSUL PART 2 8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 9

A s the year comes to a close, the battle of Mosul rages on in

Iraqs Ninawa Province. Despite political and humanitarian
concerns, the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) and their Peshmerga
and militia allies have continued to gain ground against the
Islamic State (IS). IS has put up fierce resistance but has been
steadily losing ground both within and outside of Mosul city.
Losses for both sides have been heavy, but no official casualty
numbers have been made available.
Urban combat has begun in the eastern and northern
suburbs of Mosul, and a marked change in tactics has been
noted. As seen in several videos, ISF soldiers have been less
willing to use heavy weaponry and have been taking steps to
ensure civilian casualties are limited. Despite this, collateral
11 November 11th
Hashd al-Shaabi took four more villages near Tal
Afar and continued to advance towards Tal Afar.14
15 November 15th
Hashd al-Shaabi units advanced to within 12km
of Tal Afar airport, encountering little resistance.19 To the
casualties on both sides,25 including several IS SVBIEDs.
Continued advances were made by Federal Police south
of Mosul.
21 November 21st
In Tal Afar, Hashd forces captured parts of the al-
Ulama district after significant clashes.29
south of Mosul, the ISF and Hashd captured four villages
12 November 12th
IS retreated from Hay al-Intisar neighborhood in
Mosul, allowing the ISF to fully secure it.15,16
and advanced on Mosul airport.20 Federal Police and
auxiliary units bombarded the airport and its vicinity.21 18 November 18th
No significant fighting occurred. 22 November 22nd
Intense clashes occurred in northern and eastern
Mosul, but ISF forces were unable to advance.
13 November 13th
IS attempted brief counterattacks on Hay al-Intisar,
16 November 16th
Federal Police liberated the town of Athbah and 19 November 19th
After significant clashes, Hashd al-Shaabi forces
retook the Tal Afar airport and secured it.26 Within the 23 November 23rd
The road between Mosul and Raqqa was finally cut,
surrounding hamlets, south of Mosul.22 Further west,
with no gains. The town of Nimrud, to the south of Mosul, Hashd al-Shaabi advanced units captured Tal Afar airport, next couple of days, Tal Afar was completely cut off as all road checkpoints were secured by Hashd forces.30
was fully secured. but fighting continued and IS counterattacked.23 Heavy and the encirclement of Mosul was complete as Sinjar Fighting around Tal Afar continued.
fighting occured in al-Mithaq neighborhood. Resistance Units (YBS) and Hashd forces linked up on the
14 November 14th highway to Raqqa.27
24 November 24th

17
Progress was made by Iraqi forces both west November 17th ISF forces, assisted by Coalition aircraft, pushed IS
damage has occurred and civilian lives have been lost during
operations within the city proper. It remains unclear whether
ISF or IS forces have been responsible for the majority of
and east of Mosul.17 Major clashes inside Mosul marked
the full capture of the Zahraa district, despite heavy IS
resistance and several SVBIEDs.18
IS briefly recaptured Tal Afar airport and confirmed
it through various media outlets.24 Hashd counterattacked 20 November 20th
No significant fighting occurred.
out of several more villages south of Mosul.31 Shelling of
the airport continued.
the airport vicinity and heavy clashes resulted in significant
these losses.

The timeline below provides a summary of the main

events in the Mosul campaign between November 1st and
November 20th.
1
1 November 1st
Both Bashiqa and Tell Keppe were shelled. The ISF entered
Aden neighborhood in Mosul.1 Heavy fighting ensued within
1,6

Aden and near Kokjaly suburb.2 IS leader Abu Bakr al-

Baghdadi issued an audio statement to his fighters, the first
one in a year and a half.3

2 November 2nd
Heavy fighting in Aden neighborhood continued.4 ISF
attempted to advance but ended up being repelled.
34
14
2,7
3 November 3rd
Little to no fighting occurred. 30 1
4 November 4th
An attempt by ISF to advance on Hay al-Intisar
neighborhood was repelled by IS defenders.5 The ISF
26
7
achieved minor gains elsewhere in the city.6 4
12,13
5 November 5th
Hashd al-Shaabi and ISF forces secured the city center of
the town of Hammam al-Alil, south of Mosul, after weeks of 16
fighting.7 Several villages west of Mosul were captured. The
ISF advanced on al-Mithaq, a neighborhood in eastern Mosul,
they also successfully repelled IS counterattacks.8

5
6 November 6th
Peshmerga forces, with Coalition air support, launched a
final assault to capture town of Bashiqa northeast of Mosul.9

24
Progress was made throughout the day. By the end of the
day, Bashiqa was captured and IS had been forced into the 16
countryside.10

7 November 7th
Hashd al-Shaabi forces advanced on the western axis of
Mosul and seized several villages.11 There was heavy fighting
in Mosul but no gains were made. 25 November 25th
No significant clashes were reported.
8 November 8th
Little to no fighting occurred. 26 November 26th
ISF forces launched a major assault on
IS defenses and recaptured al-Amin, al-Kadra,
completely secured the Nineveh Plains
following continuous clashes with IS forces.34
Clashes in Tal Afar continued with no gains.
31 December 1st
Hashd units captured several more
villages west of Tal Afar, expanding the
33 December 3rd
Sandstorm continued.
fighting reported.
No major
The United Nations fears that over a million
people could be affected by the Mosul
operation. Reports suggest that while
buffer zone they controlled along the Mosul- 60,000 shelters are currently available they
29 November 29th
Hashd forces reached the Tal Abta
Raqqa highway.38 A sandstorm created poor
34 December 4th
Poor weather conditions abated and
will need many more to accommodate the

9 November 9th
The ISF gained new territory in Mosul city after heavy
fighting.12 Hammam al-Alil city was fully secured after minor
clashes. Hashd al-Shaabi forces continued to advance west
weather conditions in northern Iraq, halting flow of internally displaced people (IDPs)
and al-Karama districts in eastern Mosul.32 district of Tal Afar after clashes.35 ISF most operations. Sporadic clashes continued ICTS regiments resumed their offensive in expected.28 Fuel and food shortages are
advanced in Mosul, fully securing Karama despite the weather.39 the northern sector of Mosul, capturing Hay also expected, due to the difficulty of getting
27 November 27th apartments and al-Zuhor district.36 al-Kafaat.40 supplies through Iraqi Kurdistan.

Heavy Coalition airstrikes were
towards the crucial city of Tal Afar, with the aim of cutting IS
off from their Syrian territory.13
reported. No major advances, fighting in and
around Mosul city occurred.33
32
December 2nd Humanitarian concerns have once again
30 November 30th
ISF and ICTS forces cooperated to
capture the Qadisiyah al-Thaniah district.37
Poor weather conditions due to the
sandstorm continued to hamper military
been raised by numerous agencies as the
temperature at night drops in the provinces By Trenton S, /u/Chester_T_Molester

10 November 10th operations. No major fighting reported. of Ninawa and Dohuk, as more and more
Significant shelling but no major fighting occurred. 28 November 28th
YBS and Assyrian militia units
Fierce fighting along the frontline in the city. civilians seek shelter from on-going fighting.
ALEPPO OFFENSIVE
REBELS REPULSED
O nce considered the Jewel of the Rebellion, eastern Aleppo
seems poised to revert to government control.1 The citys pre-
war population totalled 2.1 million, eclipsing Damascus 1.7 million
inhabitants. It had been a major industrial center with a major
concentration of electrical, chemical, textile and pharmaceutical
industries. Aleppo was responsible for 60% of the national budgets
export revenues.2 As such, it has been a major focal point of the
wars fighting since 2012 when the eastern portion was captured by
rebels invading from the Idlib countryside.3 For the last five months
government forces have been laying siege to the eastern pocket.
During the summer rebel forces succeeded in briefly opening a
corridor, however in the months that followed government forces
managed to re-encircle them. as-Sabbagh had to be cancelled due to infighting between Zinki,
On October 28th rebel forces consisting of Jabhat Fateh al-Sham,
Fatah Halab, and Ahrar al-Sham, amongst others, began an assault
on the south-eastern portion of the government forces lines.4 Calling
it the Battle of the Hero Martyr Abu Omar Saraqib, in reference to
the al-Sham commander who was killed by an airstrike in September,
the assault intended to break the government encirclement around
Aleppos eastern pocket.5 Abu Saeed al-Halabi, a Dutch member
of Jabhat Fatah al-Sham, credited Jaish al-Fatah with organizing
the various (and often-infighting) rebel factions, as well as setting
up the foundations of the offensive.6 They opened the offensive
against the government forces western lines and the airport using
150 shells and rockets.7 This strong rebel assault made significant
progress on the first day, capturing Minyan Sawmills, large portions
of Dahiyat al-Assad, approximately half of the Minyan Residential
District, as well as the cardboard factory. A simultaneous offensive
on the 1070 and 3000 Housing Projects was repelled by government
forces.8 The next day the rebels attempted to continue their forward
momentum. They launched a second wave of assaults on Minyan
and the Zahra district, as well as renewed attacks on the 1070 and
3000 Housing Projects.9 Despite this push the rebels made little
additional progress; the capture of Minyan Residential District being
their only success. The conflict once again briefly stalemated.10
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 10
On November 3rd rebel
forces launched a second phase
of the battle with further attacks
on the 1070 and 3000 Housing
Projects, al-Assad Military
Academy, and New Aleppo.11
Despite three more suicide
bombing and a heavy militant
push, the rebels failed to break
Jaish al-Fatah (or Army of
any major new ground other
Conquest) fighters watch the
than capturing a few positions in
aftermath of an explosion
the 1070 Projects.
The 6th of November marked a turning point when the Syrian
Arab Army (SAA) and Hezbollah launched their counter-attack. By
November 8th, the SAA had recaptured the 1070 Housing Project,
Hikmah school and Minyan Industrial Complex, and had gained
ground in Dahiyat al-Assad and Minyan.12,13 By November 12th, the
Army had recaptured Dahiyat al-Assad, the cardboard factory, and
the Minyan Sawmills. Not only had government forces succeeded
in regaining everything lost during the initial rebel offensive, but
they also re-captured the few holdouts of territory lost to the rebels
during the previous summer rebel offensive.14
There was a significant amount of rebel infighting during these
offensives, especially between the Fastqim Union and their two
rival groups Harakat Nour al-Zinki and the Abu Amara Brigades.
On November 2nd, the Fastqim Union captured a Nour al-Zinki
commander. In response al-Zinki and Abu Amara assaulted the
positions of Fastqim.15 After three days of in-fighting that included a
raid on the Fastqim Union Headquarters in the Salaheddine District,
al-Zinki began placing its fighters in all of the positions in eastern
Aleppo previously held by Fastaqim. By the conclusion of these
inter-faction hostilities Fastiqim had few active fighters left, most
having deserted or joined Ahrar al-Sham.16
The rebel offensive failed for a variety of reasons. First, the army
had become aware of the rebels tactics. This offensive employed
similar tactics to those used during their summer offensive; the rebels
begin by deploying SVBIEDs along the front line in concurrence
with volleys of shells and rocket strikes. This would be followed by
an assault using the bulk of their infantry backed up by only a small
group of reserves. To counter this the Army would withdraw their
first line, determine the source of the rebels assault, direct airstrikes
to those locations, and then, knowing the rebels to have only
minimal reserves, counter-attack those sectors.17 The second reason
for the rebel offences failure was because of infighting. According
to a member of Fatah Halab, a planned rebel assault against Ard
Abu Amarah and Fastaqem.18 Finally, as with many rebel assaults,
the Russian and Syrian airstrikes drastically impeded their progress.
Following the failure of the rebel offensive, the government
launched Operation Dawn of Victory. This offensive began on
November 15 with airstrikes all around Eastern Aleppo. The
following day the SAA pushed into Rashidun and Aqrab.18
After heavy fighting over the following week, government forces
succeeded in progressing to the entrance of the Hanano district.
Hanano represents a key strategic position for government forces
because its capture would lend to the possibility of splitting the
rebel-held area into two smaller pockets. In the five days that
followed, and with the assistance of heavy bombing, the army and
SAA Tiger Forces captured Hanano from the Jaish al-Fatah militants
holding it. Over 100 rebel fighters were killed in the process and
the capture of Hanano positioned the SAA only 1500 meters from
splitting the rebel pockets.19 Only the rebel-held Sakhur district
stood between the government forces linking their frontline in
Suleiman Halabi. The next day, November 27th, the government
forces pushed through Sakhur, succeeding in splitting the rebels.20
Subsequently on the southeast side of the pocket the SAA, Liwa
Imam al-Baqir, Liwa al-Quds and the NDF (The National Democratic
Forces, a progovernment militia) advanced north of Sheik Lufti
to capture the strategic Hill 420 (Tell Police).21 The strategic fire
superiority lent by this hill will likely lead to the SAAs capturing of
Sheikh Lufti. It will also allowedthe government forces to advance
more easily into the more densely populated Maqar al-Anbiya
(Marjeh). The government effectively encircled the Shaar district by
capturing the Qadi Askar on December 6th.22 An official from Jabha
Shamiyeh told Reuters "The revolutionaries are fighting fiercely but
the volume of bombardments and the intensity of the battles, the
dead and the wounded, and the lack of hospitals, are all playing a
role in the collapse of these frontlines.23
Rebel fighters withdrew on December 7th from the old city
through a 700m corridor between the Citadel of Aleppo and the
Eyes Hospital.24 The Government now controls 75% of Eastern
Aleppo and are pushing into the Karm daad after the complete
collapse of Bab Nirab, Marjeh, and Sheik Lufti.25 The opposition
has demanded a five-day ceasefire that would evacuate wounded
and allow civilians to leave the besieged areas and move to the
countryside north of the city. However reports from inside of the
SAA claim the government is looking for a complete military victory
and are unlikely to deal.26,27
The rebel pocket in Aleppo is now at its most vulnerable since
the beginning of the conflict, it has become clear that rebels
outside the besieged area will be unable to break the siege. Unless
something radically changes, and does so quickly, eastern Aleppo,
the Jewel of the Rebellion will return to government control. The
rebellion collapsed so incredibly fast that there are reports of rebel
commanders in negotiations with the government to withdraw from
the city.28 The facts on the ground now indicate, short of a radical
development, that the rebels will lose their jewel.
By Chris Gentry, /u/Robowarrior123
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 11
KEY
TARGET
AIRBASE
ARTILLERY BASE
AIRCRAFT CARRIER
WHAT HAS OPERATION CHAMMAL ACHIEVED SO FAR?
AN ACCOUNT OF THE FRENCH ARMY INTERVENTION IN IRAQ AND SYRIA
O peration Chammal is the French counterpart to Operation
Inherent Resolve (OIR). The operations stated goal is to
degrade and destroy the Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria. The
operation was launched on September 19th, 2014, alongside OIR,1
and is currently being commanded by General Serge Cholley.2 Since
the November attacks in Paris, Operation Chammal has increased
in priority.3 Two years on, and with the subsequent progress of OIR
against IS, the impact of the operation can now be assessed.
Despite having deployed 3200 soldiers, the operation has only
suffered two casualties. This is a low number relative to the overall
Iraq and Syria conflicts that have thus far claimed hundreds of
thousands of lives.4
The economic costs have also been relatively low compared
to other foreign bombing campaigns. Expenditure on Operation
Chammal in 2016 has thus far totalled 330m, up from 220m in
2015. Comparatively, Frances Operation Barkhane that began
in August 2014 against al-Qaeda in the Islamic Mahreb (AQIM) in
North Africa has thus far cost 550m. Whilst on a different scale, the
Coalitions OIR costs have reached $10bn.5,6 The French government
has justified the cost of Operation Chammal on the grounds of their
perceived terror threat to Europe, meeting with little protest from
the public or from within the government itself.
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 12
MOSUL OFFENSIVE
QARRAYAH BASE
MANBIJ OFFENSIVE
CHARLES DE GAULLE
AIRCRAFT CARRIER
PRINCE HASSAN AIRBASE
AL DAFRAH AIRBASE
This expenditure has largely funded airstrikes launched from
airbases in Iraqi Kurdistan (KRG), Jordan, and UAE as well as from
the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.7 From information available it
Le Drian has emphasized how the primary role of French troops
is to support Iraqi Security and Peshmerga forces. However, official
statements have seldom discussed the role of Frances Special
In general, Frances role in
the Coalition, via Operation
Chammal, has been kept
appears that the main French strike force is comprised of 6 Rafales, Forces (SOFs) who are also deployed in the KRG and alongside the relatively discrete. French
6 Mirage 2000D, 12 Rafale Marine and 9 Super Etendard.8 Since Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). airstrikes and SOFs have mainly
January of this year, 2937 sorties have been flown with 416 confirmed acted in support of both local
strikes.9 Objectives have primarily focused on reconnaissance and The purpose of the SOFs forces and American military
supporting ground forces. While Frances responsibility for civilian in Iraq and Syria is mostly to actions. In addition, France Task Force Wagram firing a
casualties in the Iraq theatre is estimated to have been several perform coordination roles. has pursued its own objectives CAESAR 155mm howitzer
hundred people, exact numbers are unknown.10 Working with 18,600 Iraqi in the overall war on terror
soldiers assembled and aided designed to ensure its own security on home soil. As such, the French
A second French contribution, Task Force Wagram, is comprised by the Coalition, France strategy in Iraq has been in accordance with a general consensus
of 150 soldiers and 4 CAESAR long range canons deployed at the has helped form and train among the French political class concerning Frances overarching
Qarrayah base, south of Mosul. It has similar support-role objectives approximately 3,700 personnel role and aims. It thus seems unlikely that there will be significant
as Operation Chammal.11 The French militarys approach to Mosul in order to assemble the Iraqi alterations to French policies in the foreseeable future. The prospect
has been explained by Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian: Counter Terrorism Service of Francois Fillons election in May 2017, however, may plot a new
(ICTS). In Syria, the French General Serge Cholley course for Frances role in both Iraq and Syria, perhaps one with a
It's our Enemys cradle; it was from Mosul and SOFs have often performed more pro-Russia stance, but this remains to be seen.
the role of unofficial advisors. They have been identified working
Raqqa that the attacks that struck us were planned,
alongside American SOFs with SDF soldiers. Both are likely involved
and from where other attacks are being prepared. in coordinating and commanding airstrikes.13 Damascus has reacted By /u/Naenil, @Naenil
We need to strike at their heart. That's what the negatively to their involvement, calling it interference, especially
Iraqis will do with the Coalition's support.12 since French SOFs are believed to have played a significant role in
the capture of Manbij from IS during the summer of 2016.14
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 13
ADMIRAL KUZNETSOV
THE STRUGGLES OF A SOVIET ERA CARRIER
IN THE MODERN AGE
As the battle of Aleppo approached a crescendo and Russian air
strikes in Syria increased, Russias only aircraft carrier, the Admiral
Kuznetsov arrived off the coast of Syria and began its first ever
combat operations.1
The Kuznetsov left Severomorsk, Murmansk
in mid-October, ending months of
speculation on whether or not it would
be deployed.2,3 On route, the Kuznetsov
cancelled previously scheduled refueling
stops in Spain and Malta amid international
pressure over the mounting civilian casualties
resulting from Russias air campaign.4 The
Kuznetsov reached the Syrian coastline on
November 8th.
On the 13th, a day prior to beginning
combat operations, the Kuznetsov was
engaged in training sorties when a problem
with the decks arrester cable forced a
MiG-29KR to circle a distance from the
ship before crashing in the sea due to
mechanical problems. The pilot ejected and
was promptly rescued. That same day, a
MiG-29KR was filmed over Idlib, though it is
unclear if it dropped munitions.5,6
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 14
The next day, the Kuznetsov engaged in its
first ever combat operation. Russia Today
(RT) crews filmed as Su-33s, seemingly
armed with only air-to-air munitions, took
off for targets in Homs and Idlib. According
to Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) claims,
an Su-33 carrying FAB-500s killed at least 30
JFS militants on November 15th, among
them three high ranking commanders. The
operation was also complemented by Kalibr
cruise missile launches from the Admiral
Grigorovich nearby.7
The Kuznetsov displaces 65,000 tons,
compared to the USs Nimitz class 100,000-
ton displacement. It was ordered in the
early 1980s and commissioned in the early
1990s during the collapse of the USSR. It is
conventionally fueled but, unlike most NATO
carriers, it lacks a catapult mechanism. This
necessitates smaller payloads and shorter
flight times.8
The Kuznetsov has been plagued with a
history of problems, including so many
breakdowns that she requires a tugboat
escort. In 2009 it hosted one fatality due to
fire and was also responsible for an oil spill
off the coast of Ireland.9 While capable of
carrying 20 fixed-wing jets, the Kuznetsov
currently carries at least 8 Su-33s and 4
MiG-29KRs. No more than 15 planes are
believed to be on board.10,11 Otherwise,
the Kuznetsov is complemented with utility
helicopters including a debut from the naval
variant of the menacing Ka-52.12
Of the two aircraft on board intended for
combat use, the Su-33 is far older. It was
intended to have reached its operational
lifespan in 2015. While refurbished and
outfitted with the reportedly accurate SVP-
24 free fall bomb guidance system, the Su-
33 was not originally designed for bombing
runs.13,14
The MiG-29KR was
introduced in 2010 for
Indias expanding carrier
fleet. The Russian MoD
saw it as the perfect
replacement its aging
fleet of Su-33s. Twenty-
four were ordered in 2009 and have been
delivered recently. At present the MiGs are
amongst the most formidable carrier based
fighters available to any military.15 However,
since the crash on November 13th, there
has yet to be evidence of any MiGs flying
combat operations in Syria.
As of late November, satellite evidence
indicates that most, if not all, of the Su-
33s and one MiG had moved from the
Kuznetsov to the Russian Khmeimim air base
in Latakia. The Russian MoD appears to have
abandoned the idea of carrier-launched
sorties altogether.16
On the 3rd of December, an Su-33
attempting to land on the Kuznetsov broke
the arrester cable and skidded off the deck
into the sea. Yet again the pilot ejected and
was safely rescued, but this was the second
arrester cable related crash in a month.17,18
Ultimately it seems the Kuznetsov was
deployed with an awareness that she would
not accomplish much tactically. On the
ground, and if used efficiently, the jets can
benefit the Syrian government by steadily
applying pressure on the opposition-held
north. However, considering the Kuznetsovs
small fighter wing, the fleets air protection
requirements, and evidence of her planes
being based on the ground, the deployment
was always destined to have a limited
operational impact.
If anything, one may argue that the benefits
of the Kuznetsovs deployment are more
abstract than practical. It now appears that
the deployment of the Admiral Kuznetsov
was more likely intended as an advertisement
for Russian equipment, a method of
projecting power and demonstrating Syrias
significance, and, finally to instill a new sense
of pride in the Russian and Syrian peoples.
By /u/AofB, @qamaamaalamriki
8 December 2016, The Week In Review | Page 15
BIBLIO & LINKS
AN OVERVIEW OF THE SDF'S RAQQA OFFENSIVE
1. https://www.ypgrojava.org/Democratic-Forces-of-Syria-launch-
Operation-Wrath-of-Euphrates-to-liberate-Raqqa
2. https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cwm8KQGXAAAnJSD.jpg:large
3. http://www.militarytimes.com/articles/islamic-state-syria-raqqa-us-
military-general-stephen-townsend-mosul
4. https://youtu.be/qoqds4LV9RI?t=29m
5. https://www.reddit.com/r/syriancivilwar/comments/5bqvr3/
problems_with_how_people_here_think_about_raqqa/
6. http://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/997373/
dunford-turkish-leaders-create-long-term-plan-against-isil-in-
raqqa?source=GovDelivery
7. http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2016/11/turkey-syria-
euphrates-from-kurdish-perspective.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_
medium=twitter
8. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQ4T6QfFyxE
9. https://www.ypgrojava.org/Results-of-Wrath-of-Euphrates-Phase-First-
%E2%80%93-SDF-Campaign-to-Liberate-Raqqa
10. https://twitter.com/CivilWarMap/status/800789238451081216
THE BATTLE FOR AL-BAB: A MICROCOSM IN THE SYRIAN CIVIL WAR
1. http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-aleppo-
idUSKBN13N0H4
2. http://russia-insider.com/en/politics/president-bashar-al-assads-
interview-given-russias-komsomolskaya-pravda/ri17010
3. http://rudaw.net/english/middleeast/turkey/23112016
4. https://twitter.com/ruffthecrimedog/status/797399460376494080
5. https://twitter.com/NoorNahas1/status/795753418178629632
6. https://twitter.com/huseyinbozan/status/797355047273238528
7. https://twitter.com/notvladedivac/status/797556424817672193
8. https://twitter.com/notvladedivac/status/797858241673887744
9. https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/797839329922084864
10. https://twitter.com/aaronstein1/status/797804028281389056
11. https://twitter.com/RaoKomar747/status/798253121327792128
12. https://twitter.com/Derinkuvvet/status/798246945521287170
13. https://twitter.com/worldonalert/status/797876124252569600
14. https://twitter.com/putintintin1/status/798247246227718144
15. https://twitter.com/putintintin1/status/798098784056184832
16. http://www.militarytimes.com/articles/us-halts-military-support-for-
turkeys-fight-in-key-islamic-state-town
17. http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-azaz-
idUSKBN13C1E5
18. https://twitter.com/QalaatAlMudiq/status/799299909304381443
19. https://twitter.com/Conflicts/status/798151698363465728
20. https://twitter.com/notvladedivac/status/798190122940276736
21. https://twitter.com/CivilWarMap/status/801441658483179525
22. https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/799958005152239620
23. https://twitter.com/EjderHaberAjans/status/801147016394850304
24. https://twitter.com/EuphratesShield/status/800781476069576705
25. http://www.tsk.tr/BasinFaaliyetleri/BA_219
26. http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-mideast-crisis-syria-turkey-
idUKKBN13J0HX?il=0
27. http://www.dailysabah.com/diplomacy/2016/11/26/erdogan-putin-
discuss-syria-over-phone-second-time-in-two-days
28. http://qasioun.net/en/news/show/43237
29. https://twitter.com/QalaatAlMudiq/status/802896842077995008
30. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/Default.
aspx?PageID=238&NID=106965&NewsCatID=352
MOSUL UPDATE
1. https://twitter.com/Mogared__Mosul/status/793450666752638976
2. https://twitter.com/Bassam_Nasralla/status/793541413799624704
3. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/03/isis-leader-abu-
bakr-al-baghdadi-issues-first-message-since-mosul-offensive
4. https://twitter.com/dkimball12/status/794559222126145536
5. https://twitter.com/Nidalgazaui/status/794647153964675073
6. https://twitter.com/Mogared__Mosul/status/794648984140836868
7. https://twitter.com/haditha_tribe/status/794997886555746304
8. https://twitter.com/Bassam_Nasralla/status/795334888081788928
9. https://twitter.com/RudawEnglish/status/795491823930265600
8 December, The Week In Review | Page 16
10. https://twitter.com/RudawEnglish/status/795494300129906688
11. https://twitter.com/teamsmediawar/status/795682104050847744
12. https://twitter.com/Mogared__Mosul/status/796486275310256129
13. https://twitter.com/anaverageole/status/796908792927621120
14. https://twitter.com/anaverageole/status/797303806304415744
15. https://twitter.com/IraqiSecurity/status/79756724329506816
16. https://twitter.com/arabthomness/status/797529344855986176
17. https://twitter.com/warmediateam/status/798185745861124096
18. http://i.imgur.com/prwWbD4.png
19. https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/798573590790729728
20. https://twitter.com/IraqiSecurity/status/798467671905935360
21. https://twitter.com/MunAlimary/status/798892426857512960
22. https://twitter.com/IraqiSecurity/status/798947149111316480
23. https://twitter.com/teamsmediawar/status/798952505526931456
24. http://i.imgur.com/1EADm15.png
25. https://twitter.com/anaverageole/status/799441427235147776
26. https://twitter.com/TeamMediaWarIq/status/800048774609596416
27. http://rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/24112016
28. http://www.unocha.org/top-stories/all-stories/iraq-growing-concerns-
people-mosul
29. http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/updated-two-mosul-villages-
district-recaptured-security-forces/
30. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-38079602
31. http://rudaw.net/mobile/english/middleeast/iraq/231120162
32. https://twitter.com/iraqicts/status/802566363231485952
33. https://twitter.com/anaverageole/status/803077449517006848
34. http://www.iraqinews.com/iraq-war/security-forces-liberate-areas-
nineveh-plain-entirely/
35. https://twitter.com/warmediateam/status/803609766299770880
36. https://twitter.com/Mogared__Mosul/status/803654172906295296
37. http://pressiraq.net/p=66643
38. https://twitter.com/warmediateam/status/804356073461346304
39. https://twitter.com/dkimball12/status/804800619810672640
40. http://rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/041220162
ALEPPO OFFENSIVE: REBELS REPULSED
1. http://www.cbsnews.com/news/aleppo-once-the-jewel-of-syrias-
rebellion-faces-possible-collapse/
2. http://www2.giz.de/wbf/4tDx9kw63gma/Rabenau_LED.pdf
3. http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2013/04/29/the-river-martyrs
4. http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-offensive-
idUSKCN12S0QP
5. http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2016/10/jihadists-and-other-
rebels-launch-new-offensive-in-aleppo.php
6. https://twitter.com/abu__saeed01
7. http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=53401
8. http://www.insidesourcenews.com/single-post/2016/10/29/Battle-for-
Aleppo-Summary-Day-1
9. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-3902020/Rebels-step-
Aleppo-offensive-three-car-bombs.html
10. https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/793235200452857856
11. http://eaworldview.com/2016/11/syria-developing-rebels-launch-2nd-
stagee-of-aleppo-offensive/ [12] http://www.reuters.com/
article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-aleppo-idUSKBN133125
12. http://en.alalam.ir/news/1884249
13. http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=54435
14. https://kashmirobserver.net/2016/world-news/infighting-between-
aleppo-militants-leave-dozens-dead-injured-11683
15. http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=53841
16. http://eldorar.com/node/105421
17. http://eldorar.com/node/105532
18. http://bigstory.ap.org/02d35a69c0ce41728696f288f140488a
19. http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=55193
20. http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/11/syrian-army-captures-rebel-
district-aleppo-161127135516405.html
21. https://www.yahoo.com/news/reports-syrian-troops-capture-high-
point-city-aleppo-092724371.html
22. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/11/26/syrian-army-captures-
part-rebel-held-east-aleppo/
23. http://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/monitor-says-syrian-
army-seizes-aleppo-old-city-from-rebels
24. http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/aleppo-syrian-army-control-75-per-
cent-rebels-1.3884189 conflict_110373.html
25. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/07/syrian-troops-in- 14. http://thesaker.is/technology-sitrep-how-russian-engineering-
control-of-aleppo-old-city-after-rebels-withdraw made-the-current-operation-in-syria-possible/
26. https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/806470167689457664 15. http://eng.mil.ru/en/news_page/country/more.htm?id=12007494@
27. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/ egNews
syrian-rebels-in-talks-with-us-about-surrender-in-aleppo- 16. http://www.janes.com/article/65775/russian-carrier-jets-flying-from-
evacuation/2016/12/06/613e4196-bbcb-11e6-94ac- syria-not-kuznetsov
3d324840106c_story.html?utm_term=.ad9ff3d76260
WHAT HAS OPERATION CHAMMAL ACHIEVED SO FAR?
1. www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-34372892
2. http://www.opex360.com/2016/08/06/iraksyrie-le-general-air-
serge-cholley-pris-le-commandement-de-loperation-chammal/
3. http://www.opex360.com/2014/11/19/le-dispositif-de-loperation-
chammal-va-etre-renforce/
4. http://www.reuters.com/article/us-france-iraq-iraq-
idUSKCN12B2QI?il=0
5. http://www.opex360.com/2016/11/17/loperation-chammal-devrait-
couter-360-millions-deuros-en-2016/
6. http://www.defense.gov/News/Special-Reports/0814_Inherent-
Resolve
7. http://www.opex360.com/2016/02/19/chammal-le-cap-des-500-
jours-doperations-ete-franchi-par-la-base-aerienne-projetee-en-
jordanie/
8. http://www.defense.gouv.fr/operations/irak-syrie/actualites/
rencontre-des-cema-francais-et-americain-sur-le-porte-avions-
charles-de-gaulle
9. https://www.facebook.com/armeefrancaise/
posts/961343377244721
10. http://tempsreel.nouvelobs.com/monde/20151201.OBS0526/
frappes-contre-l-etat-islamique-le-delicat-bilan-des-victimes-civiles.
html
11. http://www.opex360.com/2016/09/30/irak-les-canons-francais-ont-
deja-fait-feu-trois-reprises/
12. http://www.europe1.fr/international/irak-la-bataille-de-mossoul-
pourrait-durer-des-mois-2876237
13. http://www.rfi.fr/moyen-orient/20160609-syrie-france-defense-
terrorisme-ei-forces-speciales-francaises
14. http://www.lefigaro.fr/flash-actu/2016/06/15/97001-
20160615FILWWW00091-damas-condamne-la-presence-de-
forces-speciales-francaises.php
ADMIRAL KUZNETSOV: THE STRUGGLES OF A SOVIET ERA CARRIER
IN THE MODERN AGE
1. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/22/world/europe/russia-admiral-
kuznetsov-syria.html
2. https://warisboring.com/russias-creaky-old-aircraft-carrier-is-up-to-
something-strange-d05d5d9a927c#.zgr593bq9
3. https://www.offiziere.ch/wp-content/uploads-001/2016/11/
Kuznetsov-Group-103.png
4. http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/russian-
warships-malta-spain-refueling-aleppo-bombing-admiral-
kuznetsov-putin-a7382901.html
5. http://www.janes.com/article/65775/russian-carrier-jets-flying-from-
syria-not-kuznetsov
6. https://twitter.com/green_lemonnn/status/797899492552896512
7. https://www.rt.com/news/367205-syria-nusra-commanders-killed-
strikes/
8. http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2016/11/22/
assessing_the_admiral_kuznetsov_deployment_in_the_syrian_
conflict_110373.html
9. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/22/world/europe/russia-admiral-
kuznetsov-syria.html?_r=0
10. http://www.janes.com/article/65775/russian-carrier-jets-flying-from-
syria-not-kuznetsov
11. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/22/world/europe/russia-admiral-
kuznetsov-syria.html?_r=0
12. http://www.combataircraft.net/2016/10/21/carrier-based-ka-52k-
bound-for-syria/
13. http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2016/11/22/
assessing_the_admiral_kuznetsov_deployment_in_the_syrian_
8 December, The Week In Review | Page 17
 LIST OF CHARITIES RATED "B+"
(72%-74% OF FUNDS RAISED ARE USED FOR THE PURPOSES STATED)
WHO PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR SYRIAN HUMANITARIAN RELIEF: