Turkish-SDF clashes in northeastern Syria, suggest reports

AMMAN, Jan 22 (KUNA) -- The Turkish military was involved in its first-ever clashes with the Syrian Democratic Forces in Syria's northeastern city of Al-Hasaka on Monday since the start of its Operation Olive Branch offensive, according to reports.
The clashes have expanded to include other fronts, including the western countryside of the city of Kobane and areas in the northeastern-most regions of Al-Hasaka, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said.
Elsewhere, Afrin, the city initially targeted in the operation, is witnessing its toughest battles since the military offensive began three days ago.
Turkish forces have managed to take control of a town in the northern countryside of the northwestern city.
Meanwhile, the SDF is considering whether to send reinforcements to Afrin, said its spokesperson, who said that 18 civilians, including women and children, have so far been killed amid the clashes. (end) tk.sd