The Director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), Rami Abdel-Rahman, said that Syrian fighters are believed to be taking part in the battle for Sirte, alongside forces aligned to the Government of National Accord (GNA).
He noted that these forces are affiliated with the so-called “National Army” of the Syrian Interim Government in the areas of Afrin, the Euphrates Shield, and the areas controlled by Turkey.
According to his media office, Abdel-Rahman stated that the Syrians had received their full monthly salaries and they were to join the battles led by Turkish army officers.
He pointed out that the numbers of these fighters are increasing and the goal is to cement the GNA’s victory by entering central and eastern Libya. Abdel-Rahman alleged that Turkey’s ambitions will not stop at the borders of Libya, but their eye is on Egypt.
“We are talking about more than 15 thousand mercenaries of Syrian nationality … and thousands of jihadists from non-Syrian nationalities, including members of the Islamic State, who went through Turkish territory to Libya. We previously talked about a battalion that was with IS, and fought in the Homs Badia.” the SOHR’s Director stated.
“They have logistical support from the GNA, Turkey and the Turkish officers who lead those groups directly. More than 400 of these fighters were able to reach Europe, via the shores of North Africa” he added.