Syrian troops battling IS cross river toward US-backed force
BEIRUT — Syrian troops battling the Islamic State militant group crossed to the eastern bank of the Euphrates River in Deir el-Zour on Monday, threatening a potential faceoff with the U.S.-backed forces operating there.
But the U.S.-led coalition spokesman played down concerns, saying both advancing forces are maintaining lines of communication to avoid conflict.
Col. Ryan Dillon, spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition, told The Associated Press that the top commander of the U.S.-backed Syrian forces has maintained “open lines” of communication and discussions with his counterpart in the Syrian government to avoid friction.
This is the first sign of direct contact between the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces and the forces of Syrian President Bashar Assad, as the race for control of the oil-rich province picks up speed.