Turkish military says begins setting up observation posts in Syria's Idlib

The Turkish military began setting up observation posts in northern Syria's Idlib province on Thursday as part of a "de-escalation" deal which it agreed on last month with Iran and Russia, the Turkish Armed Forces said on Friday.

It said the Turkish forces in the region were carrying out their duties in line with rules of engagement agreed with Russia and Iran.

Approximately eight tanks and 50 armored vehicles passed the Turkey-Syria border and headed toward Idlib. Special Forces had been conducting reconnaissance activities in the area for approximately one week. Following this, the first Turkish units entered Idlib.

The deployment started at 11:05 p.m., and eight tanks, 50 armored vehicles and about 200 Turkish troops entered Syria's Kafr Lusin region. The final destination of the convoy after passing through the village of Darat Izza was Sheikh Barakat, a hilltop that overlooks large areas of northwestern Syria and Afrin. For security purposes, a blackout was applied during the journey.

The convoy opened 200 rounds of fire into the air before embarking on the journey. Opposition groups provided security and safe passage.

Three armed unmanned vehicles (UAVs) formed an aerial convoy and followed the developments. Armored ambulances also accompanied the Turkish soldiers. The people of the region on the route where the convoy passed showed great support to the Turkish soldiers.

Tanks sent to reinforce the troops near Iraq reached Şırnak. While the drill was started near the Habur Border Gate, tank shipments were made to border units. A tank-laden military convoy reached the city in the middle of the night under security precautions and was sent to military units at the border. The tanks will be stationed at the border.