Southwest Asia –
UPDATE
SOUTHWEST ASIA—U.S. and Turkish military forces initiated combined patrols northwest of Manbij this morning.
The combined patrols allow U.S. and Turkish military forces to complement the local security structure for security and stability in Manbij. Maintaining security and stability in Manbij is imperative to sustaining momentum during the ongoing defeat-ISIS operations in eastern Syria and for the safe and voluntary return of refugees and internally displaced persons.
"As professional NATO forces, the recent rehearsals conducted by U.S. and Coalition forces provide an important foundation. Our interoperability ensures our ability to work together to continue to protect the civilians of Manbij in our common goal of the enduring defeat of Da'esh,” said Maj. Gen (UK) Christopher Ghika, Deputy Commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve. “We’re fully supportive of the road map and the combined patrols, and I am confident they will be very effective.”
A designated and bilaterally agreed upon ground force commander will lead the joint patrols.
The joint patrols follow rehearsals where the two military forces addressed safety and familiarization with combined tactical operations.
Turkish and U.S. military forces have conducted more than 60 independent, coordinated patrols outside of Manbij since June 2018.
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