Yuri Popov, Deputy Head of the Russian Center for Reconciliation in Syria, part of the Russian military, stated that aircraft from the US-led international coalition violated Syrian airspace in the Al-Tanf area 12 times over the last 24 hours.
According to a press release from the Russian news agency “TASS,” Popov warned that the international coalition’s aircraft continue to create a dangerous situation that could lead to aerial incidents and escalate the situation in Syrian skies.
He specified that three pairs of F-15 coalition aircraft, a pair of Rafale fighter jets, and two pairs of A-10 Thunderbolt attack bombers violated Syrian airspace in the Al-Tanf area, which intersects international air routes, 12 times in the past day.
The Russian military official added that there were also three violations of the deconfliction protocols signed on December 9, 2019, related to drone flights conducted by the US-led coalition in Syria in the last 24 hours.
The U.S. military presence in Syria, which began in 2014 as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, has been aimed primarily at defeating ISIS. As of 2024, there are about 900 U.S. troops still stationed in Syria. These forces are involved in ongoing operations against ISIS and other jihadist groups and play a critical role in stabilizing the region, preventing a resurgence of ISIS, and countering Iranian influence.
Recent discussions and events indicate a sustained but contentious American commitment to the region. The U.S. has faced increasing pressures and attacks from local militias, complicating its operations. The situation is further complicated by the geopolitical dynamics with Russia, Iran, and Turkey, all of whom have significant stakes in Syria.
Strategically, the U.S. presence aims to support the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and maintain a buffer against the spread of Iranian influence across the Middle East. The U.S. military also provides intelligence and conducts operations to disrupt smuggling and militant activities in the region.
