US-Led Coalition Conducts 8 Airstrikes in Syria Amid Russian Air Operations

The airstrikes in Syria took place near Al Hasakah, Palmyra and Dayr Az Zawr, and targeted four Islamic State tactical units, three vehicles, two anti-air artillery platforms and a crude oil collection point.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The US-led coalition against the Islamic State completed eight airstrikes in Syria, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a release on Friday amid concurrent Russian aerial operations against the terrorist group.

"In Syria, coalition military forces conducted eight strikes using fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft," the release stated.

The airstrikes took place near Al Hasakah, Palmyra and Dayr Az Zawr, and targeted four Islamic State tactical units, three vehicles, two anti-air artillery platforms and a crude oil collection point.

In Iraq, 20 airstrikes destroyed 13 Islamic State tactical units, 22 fighting positions, four vehicles and a mortar system.

On Wednesday, the US Department of Defense said that Russia had asked the US-lead coalition to clear Syrian airspace following Moscow’s announcement it would begin conducting airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Syria.

Washington insisted it would continue its air operations against the Islamic State in Syria, but said it welcomes Russia’s contribution as long as it was genuine and not directed at strengthening the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

The US-led coalition of 62 nations has conducted more than 6,500 airstrikes in Syria since September 2014, albeit without the approval of the UN Security Council or the Syrian government.