By Chris Peeks December 27, 2023
The Battle of Khasham, which took place in Syria in 2018. During the initial phases of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR), the coalition led by the United States faced a challenging situation involving Syrian pro-government militia and Russian private military contractors. The conflict began when the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near Khasham were attacked, leading to a deadly clash between citizens of Russia and the United States since the Cold War.
The United States began its military intervention in Syria in 2014 as part of Operation Inherent Resolve to combat the forces of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). With US military support, the Syrian Democratic Forces had successfully seized control of Raqqa and advanced toward the Euphrates. In that vicinity lay a deconfliction line established by the governments of the US and Russia.
Russian private military contractors, primarily associated with the Wagner Group, have been present in Syria since 2015. Still, the official confirmation of their participation in ground operations has not been provided by the Russian government.
The Battle of Khasham began when the outpost, situated in Conoco, near Khasham, was surrounded by a group of over 500 pro-government militia, backed by T-72 and T-55 tanks. The American soldiers retaliated by firing Javelin anti-tank missiles, and the air was filled with dust and shrapnel.
The American soldiers emerged unscathed, despite being subjected to a relentless barrage of gunfire. The battle lasted for about three hours before the quick response force of Marines and Green Berets finally arrived. Despite the challenges, the American forces emerged victorious in the end.
Chris Peeks
Reporter and Columnist
Alabama Political Contributor
C -War History Online
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