2016 Latakia offensive

Military operation of the Syrian civil war Latakia offensive (disambiguation) 2016 Latakia offensive the Syrian Civil War and the Russian military intervention in the Syrian Civil War 27 Junehttp://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2016/07/foreign-jihadists-advertise-role-in-latakia-fighting.php Foreign jihadists advertise role in Latakia fighting The Long War Journal 11 July 2016 – 12 August 2016(06 27 2016 08 12 2016) Latakia Governorate, Syria Syrian government victory Rebels initially capture Kinsabba and 11 villageshttps://twitter.com/PetoLucem/status/749514044911017984 Peto Lucem on Twitter 8 August 2016 9 July 2016 The Army recaptures all lost territory, except 1 villagehttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-key-village-northern-latakia/ Syrian Army recaptures key village in northern Latakia Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 4 July 2016 4 July 2016 3 February 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190203133924/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-key-village-northern-latakia/ deadhttps://twitter.com/PetoLucem/status/762718559323746304 Peto Lucem on Twitter 11 August 2016 Syria 1980 Syrian Arab Republic Syrian Armed Forces Flag.svg Syrian Armed Forces Flag of the Syrian Social Nationalist Party.svg Syrian Social Nationalist Party Hezbollahhttp://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48325 Regime forces advance in al-Akrad mount SOHR 18 July 2016 19 July 2016 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20161220213745/http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48325 20 December 2016 Syria 1980 Saraya al-Areenhttp://www.joshualandis.com/blog/saraya-al-areen-alawite-militia-latakia/ Saraya al-Areen: An Alawite Militia in Latakia Aymenn Al-Tamimi Syria Comment 10 December 2016 11 December 2016 8 November 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20201108095045/https://www.joshualandis.com/blog/saraya-al-areen-alawite-militia-latakia/ dead IranSyria 1980 Liwa al-Mukhtar al-Thiqfihttp://www.joshualandis.com/blog/liwa-al-mukhtar-al-thiqfi-syrian-irgc-militia/ Liwa al-Mukhtar al-Thiqfi: Syrian IRGC Militia Aymenn Al-Tamimi Syria Comment 8 March 2017 8 March 2017 8 March 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20170308205948/http://www.joshualandis.com/blog/liwa-al-mukhtar-al-thiqfi-syrian-irgc-militia/ dead Flag of Russia.svg Russia (air strikes) Army of Conquesthttp://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2016/06/jihadists-and-other-rebels-attack-syrian-regime-positions-in-latakia-province.php Jihadists and other rebels attack Syrian regime positions in Latakia province Thomas Joscelyn The Long War Journal 28 June 2016 2 July 2016 Flag of the Al-Nusra Front.svg al-Nusra Front (Jabhat Fateh al-Sham since mid-2016) Logo of the Islamic Front (Syria).svg Ahrar al-Sham Flag of the Turkistan Islamic Party in Syria.svg Turkistan Islamic Party in Syria Flag of the Sham Legion.svg Sham Legion Flag of Ajnad al-Sham.png Ajnad al-Sham Syrian opposition Free Syrian Army Green Shahada.png Movement of Salah al-Din the Kurdhttp://www.aymennjawad.org/2019/08/kurdish-rebels-in-northwest-syria-interview-with Kurdish Rebels in Northwest Syria: Interview with Harakat Salah al-Din al-Kurdi Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi 6 August 2019 12 August 2019 Flag of Taliban.svg Imam Bukhari Jamaat Infobox Ajnad al-Kavkaz flag.png Ajnad al-Kavkaz 25px Junud al-Makhdi Syrian Armed Forces Flag.svg Lt. Gen. Ali Abdullah Ayyoubhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/top-syrian-general-visits-northern-latakia-ahead-planned-offensive/ Top Syrian general visits northern Latakia ahead of planned offensive Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 6 July 2016 6 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816163232/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/top-syrian-general-visits-northern-latakia-ahead-planned-offensive/ dead(Chief of Staff of the Army)Syrian Armed Forces Flag.svg Gen. Mohammad Jaber(Desert Hawks Brigade chief commander)Syria 1980 Abu al-Jarrahhttps://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/16755.html Latakia: Clashes renewed between rebels, regime army over strategic hilltop SYRIA NEWS - ZAMAN ALWSL 4 July 2016 5 July 2016(Al-Daher Hawks Brigade commander)https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-withdrawals-most-of-their-soldiers-from-abu-al-dhuhour-airport/ Syrian Army Withdrawals Most of Their Soldiers from Abu Al-Dhuhour Airport Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 9 September 2015 4 July 2016 23 October 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20171023065027/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-withdrawals-most-of-their-soldiers-from-abu-al-dhuhour-airport/ deadIranSyria 1980 Badi’ Muhammad Hasawi(Latakia commander of Liwa al-Mukhtar al-Thiqfi) Flag of Ajnad al-Sham.png Abdel Aziz al-Alihttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadi-groups-mourn-top-leader-northern-latakia/ Jihadi groups mourn top leader in northern Latakia Zen Adra Al-Masdar News 4 July 2016 4 July 2016 21 July 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160721011652/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadi-groups-mourn-top-leader-northern-latakia/ dead(Ajnad al-Sham top commander)Flag of the Sham Legion.svg Hazem Shardoubhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/senior-jihadi-commander-killed-northern-latakia/ Senior Jihadi commander killed in northern latakia Zen Adra Al-Masdar News 8 July 2016 9 July 2016 8 July 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160708174926/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/senior-jihadi-commander-killed-northern-latakia/ dead(Sham Legion top commander)Flag of the Sham Legion.svg Abd Al-Salam Omar Kiliyehhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebel-group-latakia-leadership-almost-entirely-wiped/ Rebel group Latakia leadership almost entirely wiped out Izat Charkatli Al-Masdar News 12 August 2016 12 August 2016 12 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160812151108/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebel-group-latakia-leadership-almost-entirely-wiped/ dead(Sham Legion commander)Flag of the Sham Legion.svg Samer Fawwaz Sadeq(Sham Legion commander)Flag of the Sham Legion.svg Wafi Mohammad Hashem(Sham Legion commander)Flag of the Al-Nusra Front.svg Unknown al-Nusra field commanderFlag of Caucasian Emirate.svg Unknown Ajnad al Kavkaz commander Unknown 1st Coastal Brigade commanderhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/two-rebel-commanders-killed-latakia-clashes/ Two more rebel commanders killed in Latakia clashes Al-Masdar News Izat Charkatli 8 August 2016 9 August 2016 8 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160808232124/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/two-rebel-commanders-killed-latakia-clashes/ dead Fadi Bitar(3rd Coastal Brigade commander)Flag of Syrian Turkmens (variant 2).svg Riyad Qarrah Bijeqhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/another-rebel-commander-bites-dust/ Another rebel commander bites the dust Al-Masdar News Izat Charkatli 4 August 2016 4 August 2016 10 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160810115702/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/another-rebel-commander-bites-dust/ dead(2nd Coastal Division commander)Flag of the Jaysh al-Nasr.svg Unknown al-Adiyat brigade commanderhttps://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/photos/a.150495128392167.28686.121855461256134/898566113585061/?type=3&theater Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - 5 fighters killed in clashes against the regime forces in Latakia Mountains Facebook 10 July 2016 11 July 2016 Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg Syrian Army 16px Republican Guardhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/massive-convoy-syrian-army-reinforcements-arrive-northern-latakia/ Massive convoy of Syrian Army reinforcements arrive in northern Latakia Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 4 July 2016 4 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816150904/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/massive-convoy-syrian-army-reinforcements-arrive-northern-latakia/ dead 103rd Brigade 25px Syrian Marines Mourning flag.svg Quwat al-Ghadab volunteershttp://www.aymennjawad.org/18957/quwat-al-ghadab-a-pro-assad-christian-militia-in Quwat al-Ghadab: A Pro-Assad Christian Militia in Suqaylabiyah Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi 3 July 2016 12 July 2016 25px Desert Hawks Brigade 19px Special Forceshttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-massive-offensive-latakia-province/ Syrian Army launches massive offensive in Latakia province Izat Charkatli Al-Masdar News 8 July 2016 8 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816135050/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-massive-offensive-latakia-province/ dead 144th Regimenthttp://en.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13950416000586 Syrian Army RepelsTerrorists' Attack in Lattakia Farsnews 7 July 2016 7 July 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20170224222621/http://en.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13950416000586 24 February 2017 dead InfoboxNDF.png National Defence Forces Military Intelligence Directorate Military Security Shield Forceshttp://www.joshualandis.com/blog/quwat-dir-al-amn-al-askari-another-regime-intelligence-militia/ Quwat Dir' Al-Amn Al-Askari: A Latakia Military Intelligence Militia Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi Syria Comment 3 September 2016 3 September 2016 30 December 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161230165452/http://www.joshualandis.com/blog/quwat-dir-al-amn-al-askari-another-regime-intelligence-militia/ dead Flag of the Syrian Arab Air Force.svg Syrian Arab Air Forcehttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-key-town-northeast-latakia/ Syrian Army storms key town in northeast Latakia Al-Masdar News Leith Fadel 5 August 2016 5 August 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806104241/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-key-town-northeast-latakia/ dead Banner of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (obverse).svg Russian Armed Forces Flag of the Air Force of the Russian Federation.svg Russian Air Force Flag of the Al-Nusra Front.svg Al-Nusra Front / Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Flag of Jaysh al-Muhajireen wal-Ansar.png Jaish al-Muhajireen wal-Ansarhttp://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2016/07/foreign-jihadists-advertise-role-in-latakia-fighting.php Foreign jihadists advertise role in Latakia fighting Caleb Weiss The Long War Journal 11 July 2016 12 July 2016 Flag of Jihad.svg Katibat al-Tawhid wal-Jihad Syrian opposition Free Syrian Army 1st Coastal Division 1st Coastal Brigade 3rd Coastal Brigade Flag of Syrian Turkmens (variant 2).svg 2nd Coastal Division Mount Turkmen Brigade Flag of the Sham Legion.svg Sham Legion Logo of Jaish al-Tahrir.jpg Jaysh al-Nukhba Flag of the Jaysh al-Nasr.svg Jaysh al-Nasr al-Adiyat brigade Logo of the Army of Glory.png Jaysh al-Izza 40+ killed,https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/posts/897481307026875 Syrian Observatory for Human Rights Facebook 9 July 2016http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48453 12 killed during clashes in Lattakia countryside SOHR 20 July 2016 21 July 2016 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20161220213753/http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48453 20 December 2016 http://en.eldorar.com/node/2852 Losses in al-Assad forces' ranks in Jabel al-Akrad area El-Dorar Al-Shamia 29 July 2016 30 July 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20170328105055/http://en.eldorar.com/node/2852 28 March 2017 dead several capturedhttp://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48234 Continued clashes in Lattakia countryside 18 July 2016 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20161007213305/http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48234 7 October 2016 107+ killedhttp://www.insidesourcenews.com/#!EXCLUSIVE-Rebels-Suffer-Huge-Losses-Across-Syria/cjds/5775165f0cf231749dcb52b1 The Inside Source 11 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160830231409/http://www.insidesourcenews.com/#!EXCLUSIVE-Rebels-Suffer-Huge-Losses-Across-Syria/cjds/5775165f0cf231749dcb52b1 2016-08-30 deadhttp://www.syriahr.com/2016/07/18/%d9%85%d8%b2%d9%8a%d8%af-%d9%85%d9%86-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%ae%d8%b3%d8%a7%d8%a6%d8%b1-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%a8%d8%b4%d8%b1%d9%8a%d8%a9-%d8%ae%d9%84%d8%a7%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%82%d8%b5%d9%81-%d9%88%d8%a7%d9%84/ مزيد من الخسائر البشرية خلال القصف والاشتباكات المتواصلة في جبل الأكراد بريف اللاذقية الشمالي 18 July 2016https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-kills-dozens-militants-successful-ambush-latakia/ Video: Syrian Army kills dozens of militants in successful ambush in Latakia Izat Charkatli Al-Masdar News 6 August 2016 7 August 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806233509/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-kills-dozens-militants-successful-ambush-latakia/ dead The 2016 Latakia offensive, code-named Battle of Yarmouk, refers to a rebel operation launched in the northern Latakia Governorate in late June 2016. The aim of the offensive was to recapture the territory lost during the Army's offensive earlier in the year.http://english.aawsat.com/2016/06/article55353564/army-conquest-led-offensive-turns-around-syrian-coastal-battles Army of Conquest-Led Offensive Turns around Syrian Coastal Battles - ASHARQ AL-AWSAT Asharq Al-awsat 29 June 2016 2 July 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160630194355/http://english.aawsat.com/2016/06/article55353564/army-conquest-led-offensive-turns-around-syrian-coastal-battles 2016-06-30 dead The offensive Rebel capture of Kinsabba Between 27 and 30 June, the al-Nusra-led Army of Conquest, supported by FSA groups, launched the offensive on the Turkmen and Kurd Mountains, capturing several villages before they withdrew under Russian airstrikes.https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/photos/a.150495128392167.28686.121855461256134/893114470796892/?type=3&theater Hit-and-run clashes continue in the... - Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - Facebook Facebook 2 July 2016https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recovers-lost-points-northern-latakia-jihadists-retreat-turkey/ Syrian Army recovers lost points in northern Latakia as jihadists retreat to Turkey Leith Fadel 30 June 2016 2 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816111347/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recovers-lost-points-northern-latakia-jihadists-retreat-turkey/ deadhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-seizes-hilltop-village-near-turkish-border/ Syrian Army seizes hilltop village near Turkish border Leith Fadel 30 June 2016 2 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816104944/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-seizes-hilltop-village-near-turkish-border/ dead 33 rebels and 15 soldiers were killed in the fighting.https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/posts/892691277505878 Human losses in rebels during clashes in... - Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - Facebook Facebook 2 July 2016https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/photos/a.150495128392167.28686.121855461256134/892104904231182/?type=3&theater 31 rebels killed during clashes against... - Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - Facebook Facebook 2 July 2016https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/posts/891552100953129 More than 30 fighters killed during... - Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - Facebook Facebook 2 July 2016 Still, a second rebel assault one day later managed to capture Kinsabba,https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-latakia-idUSKCN0ZH4QA Syria rebels retake key town in western coastal province: monitor, rebels 2 July 2016 2 July 2016 Reutershttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebels-capture-kinsibba-lattakia-province/ Rebels capture Kinsibba in Lattakia province Izat Charkatli 1 July 2016 2 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816103843/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebels-capture-kinsibba-lattakia-province/ dead as well as a dozen nearby villages and hills.https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/photos/a.150495128392167.28686.121855461256134/893297884111884/?type=3&theater Factions keep on advancing in the... - Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - Facebook Facebook 2 July 2016 In reaction, the Russian Air Force conducted more than 100 airstrikes over Kinsabba and several other villages.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-air-force-reemerges-northern-latakia-strike-jihadists-near-turkish-border/ Russian Air Force reemerges in northern Latakia to strike jihadists near Turkish border Leith Fadel 1 July 2016 2 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816163405/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-air-force-reemerges-northern-latakia-strike-jihadists-near-turkish-border/ dead On 2 July, the rebels captured the Jabal Qal’at mountaintop in the Turkmen mountains.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-capture-key-mountaintop-near-turkish-border/ Jihadists capture key mountaintop near Turkish border Leith Fadel 2 July 2016 2 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816171328/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-capture-key-mountaintop-near-turkish-border/ dead The next day, the rebels captured the strategically significant village of Saraf and its surrounding hills, before it was recaptured by the Syrian Marines, backed by the NDF and the SSNP, later that night. On 4 July, Republic Guard reinforcements arrived in Salma for an anticipated government offensive. By 5 July, the Syrian Army had surrounded Kinsabba on two sides and prepared to launch its offensive to retake the town. The Army as well as the Republican Guard had already begun their artillery bombardment of the site. Meanwhile, the Army of Conquest was reported to have sent reinforcements to the southern Aleppo countryside instead of Kinsabba.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-surrounds-key-town-northern-latakia/ Syrian Army surrounds key town in northern Latakia Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 5 July 2016 6 July 2016 5 July 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160705192251/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-surrounds-key-town-northern-latakia/ dead Heavy clashes continued around Turkmen Mountain and the village of Bashura, with Islamist rebels attacking government positions amid aerial and artillery bombardment.https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/posts/895239390584400 Violent clashes continue in the Turkman mount, casualties reported. Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - Facebook 5 July 2016 5 July 2016 On 5 July, Lt. Gen. Ali Abdullah Ayyoub personally inspected the troops in northern Latakia that were preparing the awaited government offensive. At midnight, heavy clashes between government forces and Islamist fighters took place around the Turkmen Mountain, while airplanes bombed the village of Kabani.https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/photos/a.150495128392167.28686.121855461256134/896100573831615/?type=3 Syrian Observatory for Human Rights Facebook 9 July 2016 On 6 July, government units reportedly repelled another al-Nusra attack on their positions. Furthermore, the 144th Regiment of the Syrian Army, which is "skilled in guerilla warfare" according to Farsnews, was deployed to northern Latakia. First Army counter-attack On 8 July, the government launched its counter-offensive, as Syrian Marines, Desert Hawks and Special Forces stormed two locations south of Kinsabba, a hilltop and a nearby village (Shillif). Government troops managed to recapture both.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-gains-ground-latakia-offensive/ Syrian Army gains ground in Latakia offensive Izat Charkatli 8 July 2016 9 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816174119/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-gains-ground-latakia-offensive/ deadhttp://www.syriahr.com/2016/07/08/%d8%ac%d8%a8%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%a3%d9%83%d8%b1%d8%a7%d8%af-%d9%81%d9%8a-%d8%b1%d9%8a%d9%81-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a7%d8%b0%d9%82%d9%8a%d8%a9-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b4%d9%85%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%8a-%d9%8a%d8%b4/ جبل الأكراد في ريف اللاذقية الشمالي يشهد تجدداً للاشتباكات بين قوات النظام 18 July 2016https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/photos/a.150495128392167.28686.121855461256134/897438420364497/?type=3&theater Syrian Observatory for Human Rights Facebook 9 July 2016 During the fighting, the Sham Legion suffered many casualties, among them a local commander. Two days later, government forces launched a new assault towards Kinsabba, attacking the surrounding hillshttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-key-mountaintop-village-northern-latakia/ Syrian Army storms key mountaintop village in northern Latakia Leith Fadel 10 July 2016 18 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816174116/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-key-mountaintop-village-northern-latakia/ dead and capturing several positions.http://www.syriahr.com/2016/07/10/%d8%aa%d9%82%d8%af%d9%85-%d9%84%d9%82%d9%88%d8%a7%d8%aa-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%86%d8%b8%d8%a7%d9%85-%d9%81%d9%8a-%d8%ac%d8%a8%d8%a7%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a7%d8%b0%d9%82%d9%8a%d8%a9-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b4/ تقدم لقوات النظام في جبال اللاذقية الشمالية واستمرار الاشتباكات العنيفة والقصف المكثف 18 July 2016https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-strikes-back-latakia-captures-shilif-castle/ Syrian Army strikes back in Latakia as government troops capture Shilif castle Chris Tomson 10 July 2016 18 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816145106/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-strikes-back-latakia-captures-shilif-castle/ dead However, by the end of the day, the rebels recaptured the positions they had lost.http://www.syriahr.com/2016/07/11/%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%81%d8%b5%d8%a7%d8%a6%d9%84-%d8%aa%d8%b9%d8%a7%d9%88%d8%af-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%aa%d9%82%d8%af%d9%85-%d9%81%d9%8a-%d8%ac%d8%a8%d8%a7%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a7%d8%b0%d9%82%d9%8a%d8%a9/ الفصائل تعاود التقدم في جبال اللاذقية وقصف جوي ومدفعي على مناطق فيها 18 July 2016 In the night of 13–14 July, the al-Nusra Front and the Turkistan Islamic Party launched a surprise assault in the area of Kabbani, capturing the Zuwayqat Hills to the village's south. In response, the Russian Air Force intensified their attacks on the advancing rebels, while the government forces regrouped to launch a counter-attack.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-surprise-offensive-northeast-latakia/ Jihadist rebels launch surprise offensive in northeast Latakia Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 14 July 2016 14 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816150924/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-surprise-offensive-northeast-latakia/ dead On 16 July, government forces had retaken Qalat Tubal, south of Kinsabba,https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-tubal-castle-northern-latakia/ Syrian Army captures Qalat Tubal in northern Latakia Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 16 July 2016 16 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816145358/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-tubal-castle-northern-latakia/ dead and later in the day took back Kinsabba itself. Overall, the operation to retake Kinsabba lasted 12 hours.https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-troops-recapture-major-town-coastal-province-40634079 Syrian Troops Recapture Major Town in Coastal Province ABC News 18 July 2016https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-jihadist-stronghold-latakia-province/ Syrian Army captures jihadist stronghold in Latakia province Izat Charkatli 16 July 2016 18 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806165553/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-jihadist-stronghold-latakia-province/ dead Subsequently, all of the surrounding villages and hills were also recaptured by the Army.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-kinsabba-latakia-province-map-update/ Syrian Army recaptures Kinsabba in Latakia province - Map update Ibra Joudeh 16 July 2016 18 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806210720/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-kinsabba-latakia-province-map-update/ deadhttp://edmaps.com/html/latakia_hama_idlib_july_16_201.html Latakia_Hama_Idlib_July_16_2016 18 July 2016 25 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160825130251/http://www.edmaps.com/html/latakia_hama_idlib_july_16_201.html dead At dawn on the next day, the rebels launched a counter-attack against Kinsabba,http://www.syriahr.com/2016/07/17/%d9%87%d8%ac%d9%88%d9%85-%d9%85%d8%b9%d8%a7%d9%83%d8%b3-%d9%88%d8%aa%d9%82%d8%af%d9%85-%d9%84%d9%84%d9%81%d8%b5%d8%a7%d8%a6%d9%84-%d8%a8%d8%ac%d8%a8%d8%a7%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a7%d8%b0%d9%82/ هجوم معاكس وتقدم للفصائل بجبال اللاذقية الشمالية وقصف على عدة محاور فيها 18 July 2016 and managed to retake the town.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/nothing-battle-immerses-strategic-latakia-town/ All-or-nothing battle immerses strategic Latakia town Leith Fadel 18 July 2016 18 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806123032/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/nothing-battle-immerses-strategic-latakia-town/ deadhttp://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/31834/Opposition_recapture_Kansaba_and_Shalif_castle_in_north_of_Lattakia Opposition recapture Kansaba and Shalif castle in north of Lattakia - Qasion News Agency 18 July 2016 11 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160811000639/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/31834/Opposition_recapture_Kansaba_and_Shalif_castle_in_north_of_Lattakia dead Subsequently, a new Army attack was launched with fighting continuing into 18 July,http://www.syriahr.com/2016/07/18/%d8%a7%d8%b3%d8%aa%d9%85%d8%b1%d8%a7%d8%b1-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%a7%d8%b4%d8%aa%d8%a8%d8%a7%d9%83%d8%a7%d8%aa-%d8%a8%d8%b9%d9%86%d9%81-%d9%81%d9%8a-%d9%85%d9%86%d8%b7%d9%82%d8%a9-%d9%83%d9%86%d8%b3%d8%a8/ استمرار الاشتباكات بعنف في منطقة كنسبا بريف اللاذقية الشمالي وشهيد في محيط مدينة دير الزور SOHR 21 July 2016 when the military once again took control of the town and its surrounding hills and villages.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-recaptures-kinsibba-northern-latakia/ In Video: Syrian Army recaptures Kinsibba in northern Latakia Zen Adra 18 July 2016 18 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806102552/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-recaptures-kinsibba-northern-latakia/ deadhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-strategic-mountains-northern-latakia-map/ Syrian Army captures strategic mountains in northern Latakia: map Leith Fadel 18 July 2016 21 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816170353/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-strategic-mountains-northern-latakia-map/ deadhttp://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48315 Advances for regime forces in Lattakia countryside and continued clashes in Ein Essa countryside 18 July 2016 18 July 2016http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48325 Regime forces advance in al-Akrad mount 18 July 2016 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20161220213745/http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48325 20 December 2016 On 19 July, a second rebel counter-attack was launched with an al-Nusra suicide-bomber targeting Army positions at Qal’at Shalaf, forcing government forces to withdraw to Kinsabba. The rebels than, once again, advanced into the town.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-suicide-bomber-propels-nusra-key-latakia-town/ Jihadist suicide bomber propels Nusra at key Latakia town Leith Fadel 19 July 2016 21 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806111601/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-suicide-bomber-propels-nusra-key-latakia-town/ deadAfter hours of restoring it... factions and Jabhat Al-Nusra advance again in Kinsabba and Jabal al-Akrad after booby trapped vehicles detonation https://web.archive.org/web/20161220213748/http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48333 2016-12-20 Subsequently, the rebels again recaptured Kinsabba,http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/32012/Opposition_forces_recapture_Kinsuba_again Opposition forces recapture Kinsuba again - Qasion News Agency 11 August 2016 11 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160811001209/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/32012/Opposition_forces_recapture_Kinsuba_again dead marking the fourth time the town changed hands over the previous 72 hours.http://eaworldview.com/2016/07/syria-daily-dozens-killed-by-us-strike-on-isis-held-city/#kinsabba Syria Daily: Dozens of Civilians Killed by US Strikes on ISIS-Held City - EA WorldView 19 July 2016 21 July 2016 Meanwhile, as fighting at Kinsabba continued, the Army captured several other villages in the area.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-thei-turkmen-mountains-latakia-map/ Syrian Army advances in the Turkmen Mountains of Latakia: map Leith Fadel 19 July 2016 21 July 2016 3 February 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190203023206/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-thei-turkmen-mountains-latakia-map/ dead On 20 July, the al-Nusra Front, backed by the Turkistan Islamic Party, and Ahrar al-Sham, captured the village of Shalaf, and forced pro-government forces to retreat from all positions in the Kurd Mountains they had recently recaptured.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-capture-shalaf-village-northern-latakia/ Jihadists capture Shalaf village in northern Latakia Leith Fadel 21 July 2016 21 July 2016 5 June 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190605132204/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-capture-shalaf-village-northern-latakia/ dead Interlude On 28 July, the Army of Conquest launched a new offensive in Latakia, aimed at capturing the Zuwayqat Mountains. Their first attack was repelled by government forces, but in course of a second assault later that day, the rebels took the Zuwayqat Mountains. Pro-government fighters were forced to retreat south to avoid being overrun, regrouping for a counter-attack later that day,https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jaysh-al-fateh-captures-mountaintop-northeast-latakia/ Jaysh Al-Fateh captures mountaintop in northeast Latakia Leith Fadel 28 July 2016 28 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806102626/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jaysh-al-fateh-captures-mountaintop-northeast-latakia/ dead which reversed all rebel gains made.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-zuwayqat-mountains-northeast-latakia/ Syrian Army recaptures Zuwayqat Mountains in northeast Latakia Leith Fadel 28 July 2016 28 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806131904/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-zuwayqat-mountains-northeast-latakia/ dead Second Army counter-attack The next day, the government launched a new offensive aimed at recapturing Kinsabba. During the assault, Syrian Marines, Desert Hawks and NDF units recaptured Shalaf village,https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-captures-shalaf-village-northern-latakia/ Syrian captures Shalaf village in northern Latakia Leith Fadel 29 July 2016 29 July 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816173441/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-captures-shalaf-village-northern-latakia/ dead while other government units attacked Kabani villagehttp://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/32953/Fatih_Al_Sham_Front_Seize_Over_Zuwaiqat_Hill_In_Kurd_Mount_Northern_Lattakia_City Fatih Al-Sham Front Seize Over Zuwaiqat Hill In Kurd Mount Northern Lattakia City - Qasion News Agency 11 August 2016 19 October 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20171019185101/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/32953/Fatih_Al_Sham_Front_Seize_Over_Zuwaiqat_Hill_In_Kurd_Mount_Northern_Lattakia_City dead as well as other sites in the Kurd Mountains.http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48878 Continued clashes in Lattakia and Der-Ezor SOHR 29 July 2016 29 July 2016 Despite the new government advances, the Army of Conquest subsequently began to move hundreds of fighters from Latakia to Aleppo, where they were to counter another government offensive. The redeployment reportedly weakened the rebel frontline in Latakia significantly.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hundreds-islamist-rebels-leave-latakia-frontline-new-aleppo-offensive/ Hundreds of Islamist rebels leave Latakia frontline for new Aleppo offensive Chris Tomson 29 July 2016 30 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806135350/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hundreds-islamist-rebels-leave-latakia-frontline-new-aleppo-offensive/ dead On 30 July, government fighters directly attacked Kinsabba from Shalaf, resulting in heavy clashes,https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-massive-offensive-northern-latakia/ Syrian Army begins massive offensive in northern Latakia Leith Fadel 30 July 2016 Al-Masdar News 30 July 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806121231/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-massive-offensive-northern-latakia/ deadhttp://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48913 Continued clashes in Lattakia countryside SOHR 30 July 2016 30 July 2016 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20161220213829/http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=48913 20 December 2016 http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/33056/New_Regime_Offensive_Over_Kensaba_And_Shalaf_Castle_Northern_Lattakia New Regime Offensive Over Kensaba And Shalaf Castle Northern Lattakia Qasioun News 30 July 2016 30 July 2016 11 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160811034814/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/33056/New_Regime_Offensive_Over_Kensaba_And_Shalaf_Castle_Northern_Lattakia dead though the assault yielded no government gains and the offensive was halted.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launched-massive-offensive-lattakia-province/ Syrian Army launches a massive offensive in Lattakia province Al-Masdar News Izat Charkatli 4 August 2016 4 August 2016 6 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160806174225/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launched-massive-offensive-lattakia-province/ dead Third counter-attack and Army recaptures Kinsabba On 4 August, pro-government forces again launched a counter-attack to recapture the lost territory, targeting the Toubal and Shillif hills overlooking Kinsabba. In the morning on the next day, they stormed Kinsabba's outskirts, resulting in heavy fighting with the Islamist defenders, who still held all the nearby hills. Pro-government units attempted to surround the town, which they claimed to have done by 6 August, capturing Shillif hill and imposing fire control over the town. Nevertheless, the government forces had not yet entered the town itself.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-surrounds-kinsibba-northeast-latakia/ Syrian Army surrounds Kinsibba in northeast Latakia Leith Fadel 6 August 2016 Al-Masdar News 6 August 2016 8 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160808161821/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-surrounds-kinsibba-northeast-latakia/ dead Government forces also managed to ambush rebels coming as reinforcements to Kinsabba, killing 16–50 of them,http://www.insidesourcenews.com/#!SAA-Encircles-Rebel-Stronghold-in-Latakia/cjds/57a7a3b80cf28a3dd78321f7 The Inside Source 11 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160830231409/http://www.insidesourcenews.com/#!SAA-Encircles-Rebel-Stronghold-in-Latakia/cjds/57a7a3b80cf28a3dd78321f7 2016-08-30 dead then proceeding to capture Toubal hill and Ruwaysat Shams Mountain. This allowed pro-government forces to impose fire control over Kinsabba.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-flanks-strategic-latakia-town/ Syrian Army flanks strategic Latakia town Izat Charkatli 7 August 2016 7 August 2016 16 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160816234057/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-flanks-strategic-latakia-town/ deadاشتباكات مستمرة بريف اللاذقية والطائرات الحربية تقصف إدلب وريفها After the government had captured the hills around Kinsabba, the rebels retreated from the town. Nevertheless, pro-government forces entered the town only after their force had also advanced toward Kabani. This was to ensure that no rebel surprise counter-attack could overwhelm them like the previous time they had recaptured Kinsabba.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-strategic-latakia-town/ Syrian Army captures strategic Latakia town Izat Charkatli 8 August 2016 Al-Masdar News 8 August 2016 9 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160809212411/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-strategic-latakia-town/ dead A rebel counter-attack still managed to push the army out of the town once again, but the military had taken full control of the town and its surroundings after it received reinforcements. The rebels suffered heavy casualties due to air and artillery strikes and sniper fire from the surrounding hills.http://www.insidesourcenews.com/#!BREAKING-SAA-Captures-Strategic-Kinsibba/cjds/57a83c290cf2fdb0f74c8e3f The Inside Source 11 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160830231409/http://www.insidesourcenews.com/#!BREAKING-SAA-Captures-Strategic-Kinsibba/cjds/57a83c290cf2fdb0f74c8e3f 2016-08-30 deadقوات النظام تستعيد السيطرة على منطقة كنسبا ومحيطها بجبل الأكراد In course of the fighting, two commanders of the rebel 1st Coastal Division were also killed. After the taking of Kinsabba, the Army continued its advance and retook almost all of the other villages it had lost during the rebel offensive.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/50-militants-killed-latakia-battles-today-map-update/ More than 50 militants were killed in Latakia battles today (Map Update) Izat Charkatli 8 August 2016 11 August 2016 26 February 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180226132939/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/50-militants-killed-latakia-battles-today-map-update/ deadhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-makes-major-advances-latakia-videomap/ Syrian Army makes major advances in Latakia (Video+Map) Izat Charkatli 8 August 2016 11 August 2016 26 February 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180226045849/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-makes-major-advances-latakia-videomap/ deadقصف لقوات النظام يرافق الاشتباكات المتواصلة بجبال اللاذقية Government advances continued on 9 August,https://mobile.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-army-captures-qalaat-mt-karmiz/ Map Update: Syrian Army captures Qala'at Mt. and Karmiz Izat Charkatli 9 August 2016 11 August 2016 9 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160809203312/https://mobile.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-army-captures-qalaat-mt-karmiz/ dead with the Army capturing the mountaintop Jabal Al-Qal’at, only a few kilometers from the Turkish border.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-overlooks-turkish-border-seizing-key-mountaintop/ Syrian Army overlooks Turkish border after seizing key mountaintop Leith Fadel 9 August 2016 11 August 2016 10 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160810153828/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-overlooks-turkish-border-seizing-key-mountaintop/ dead Two rebel counter-attack early on 10 and 12 August, were repelled, with the rebels retreating to the Turkish border.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-suffer-heavy-casualties-failed-latakia-counter-offensive/ Jihadist rebels suffer heavy casualties in failed Latakia counter-offensive Leith Fadel 10 August 2016 Al-Masdar News 10 August 2016 10 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160810101820/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-suffer-heavy-casualties-failed-latakia-counter-offensive/ deadhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/major-jihadist-offensive-northern-latakia-fails/ Major jihadist offensive in northern Latakia fails Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 12 August 2016 12 August 2016 13 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160813142740/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/major-jihadist-offensive-northern-latakia-fails/ dead In course of the failed counter-attacks, the rebels suffered heavy casualties, including three commanders. Aftermath On 12 August, government forces and Hezbollah units launched an offensive aimed at capturing Kabbani from the rebels.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-launch-surprise-offensive-capture-key-town-latakia/ Syrian Army, Hezbollah launch surprise offensive to capture key town in Latakia Leith Fadel 12 August 2016 Al-Masdar News 12 August 2016 13 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160813142438/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-launch-surprise-offensive-capture-key-town-latakia/ dead As of 16 August, heavy fighting between government and Jabhat Fateh forces continued around Kabbani.http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=49377 Clashes continue in Kabbana front and aerial bombardment targets Rastan and Talbisa SOHR 16 August 2016 16 August 2016 A new government offensive against Kabbani was launched in late August, but the assault was again repelled the first day.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-russian-jets-pound-jihadists-northeast-latakia-ahead-syrian-army-attack/ [Video] Russian jets pound jihadists in northeast Latakia ahead of Syrian Army attack Leith Fadel 23 August 2016 18 September 2016 26 August 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160826120743/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-russian-jets-pound-jihadists-northeast-latakia-ahead-syrian-army-attack/ dead On 9 September, a new wide-scale government offensive in northern Latakia and captured 13 villages, as well as several nearby hills, with government forces being on the verge of reaching the Idlib Governorate's provincial border.Warplanes raid again on Jabal al-Akrad and clashes continue after regime forces’ advancementhttps://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-verge-reaching-idlib-border-latakia/ Syrian Army on the verge of reaching the Idlib border with Latakia Leith Fadel 9 September 2016 18 September 2016 17 September 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160917214134/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-verge-reaching-idlib-border-latakia/ deadhttp://stepagency-sy.net/archives/107008 خريطة تظهر تطورات السيطرة والنفوذ في ريف اللاذقية بعد تقدم قوات النظام اليوم - وكالة خطوة الإخبارية 18 September 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161107135659/http://stepagency-sy.net/archives/107008 7 November 2016 dead The government forces also captured several mountaintops around the rebel stronghold of Kabbani 12 September.http://en.abna24.com/service/middle-east-west-asia/archive/2016/09/12/778601/story.html Report: War in Syria On September 12; Syrian Army advances in Latakia 12 September 2016 18 September 2016 At the end of September, government forces advanced at Tal Haddadeh hilltop.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-attempts-close-gap-turkey-latakia-border/ Syrian Army attempts to close the gap on the Turkey-Latakia border 2016-09-29 2016-09-29 https://web.archive.org/web/20160929133258/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-attempts-close-gap-turkey-latakia-border/ dead In February 2017, the 1st Coastal Division and the Free Idlib Army bombarded the Shalaf Castle on the Kurd Mountain area where Syrian government forces were stationed with BM-21 Grad rockets.Feb 16, 2017 جيش ادلب الحر استهداف قوات الاسد المتمركزة في قلعة شلف بوابل من صواريخ الغراد بجبل الاكراد https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHnflMNW7c جيش ادلب الحر In early April, the rebels launched an assault towards Kinsabba.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-large-scale-offensive-northern-latakia/ Jihadist rebels launch large-scale offensive in northern Latakia 2017-04-07 2017-04-06 https://web.archive.org/web/20170406185250/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-large-scale-offensive-northern-latakia/ dead However, after one hour of fighting, the attack on the Al-Zuwayqat axis was repelled.https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/long-awaited-jihadist-offensive-latakia-ends-disastrous-fashion/ Long-awaited jihadist offensive in Latakia ends in disastrous fashion 2017-04-07 2017-04-07 https://web.archive.org/web/20170407170330/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/long-awaited-jihadist-offensive-latakia-ends-disastrous-fashion/ dead See also Latakia offensive (2015–2016) Asia References 30em Category:Latakia Governorate in the Syrian civil war Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war in 2016 Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving al-Nusra Front Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Category:June 2016 in Syria Category:July 2016 in Syria Category:August 2016 in Syria Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Syrian government Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Hezbollah Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Russia