American Special Operations forces are advising the Syrian fighters on the ground, although a military spokesman asserted that they are not in direct, front-line combat. Describing the operation, American officials said a ground force of Syrian fighters was approaching the dam from the north. The airlift was carried out south of the dam, Colonel Scrocca said, and appeared to take the Islamic State by surprise. Important details of the operation, including how many Syrian fighters and American advisers were involved, were not disclosed. News reports suggested that 500 Syrian fighters were deployed in the attack, but American officials hinted that the number might be much larger.

Source: New York Times March 22, 2017 20:32 UTC