The northern Syrian town of Ain Issa is once again under attack by the Turkish army and Islamist allies of Turkey. The Rojava-based ANHA news agency reports that heavy artillery has been hitting residential areas of the town since the midday hours. Information on the impact of the bombardments is not yet available.

Turkey intensified its attacks on Ain Issa from late November to occupy the region. Almost daily, heavy artillery strikes hit residential areas and the adjacent M4 highway. Previously, sporadic attacks to demoralize and displace the civilian population occurred throughout the year as part of a low-intensity war. The attacks have already razed six villages to the ground.

The M4 international highway runs through northern Syria like a lifeline, connecting the Euphrates and Cizire regions. As such, it is of strategic importance. The capture of Ain Issa would cut the connection between Kobanê and Til Kocher.