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HTS terrorists release self-proclaimed American journo linked to Takfiris in Syria’s Idlib: SOHR

Thursday, 18 February 2021 5:39 PM [ Last Update: Thursday, 18 February 2021 5:46 PM ]

This file picture shows self-described American journalist Bilal Abdul Kareem in an undisclosed location in Syria’s northwestern province of Idlib. (Photo via Twitter)

Foreign-backed militants affiliated with the so-called Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Takfiri terrorist group have reportedly released an American self-described journalist, accused of having ties to terror networks in northwestern Syria, more than six months after his arrest in the country’s restive province of Idlib.

The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), citing local sources, said Bilal Abdul Kareem, born Darrell Lamont Phelps, was set free on Wednesday after receiving “guarantees” from local leaders who petitioned the HTS to drop charges against him.

The Britain-based monitor added that HTS militants detained Abdul Kareem on August 13 last year in the town of Atma, which lies north of the provincial capital city of Idlib.

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The so-called US-led military coalition is reportedly building a new military base in Syria’s northeastern province of Hasakah near the border with Iraq and Turkey.

The HTS military court had sentenced Abdul Kareem to one year and a half in detention.

Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. The Syrian government says the Israeli regime and its Western and regional allies are aiding Takfiri terrorist groups wreaking havoc in the country.

Syrian government troops and their allies have managed to retake roughly 80 percent of the war-ravaged Arab country’s territory from the Takfiri terrorists.

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Two US helicopters also landed on the Shaddadah base, local sources in Hasakah said.

The Syrian army is fighting to drive out remaining militants, but the presence of US and European forces and Turkish troops has slowed down its advances.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.ir