Russian Air Force Operation to Help Root Out Terrorism in Syria - Egypt FM

Click banner for more info

Russia's pinpoint airstrikes on Islamic State positions in Syria contribute to the eradication of terrorism in this country, Egypt's Foreign Minister said.

CAIRO  — Russia started carrying out airstrikes against ISIL in Syria on Wednesday, following the request of President Bashar Assad.

"Russia's entry into this struggle [with ISIL], with its [Russia's] potential and opportunities, in our judgment, will contribute to reduction of the terrorism in Syria, and its eradication," Sameh Shoukry said in an interview with the Saudi Al Arabiya broadcaster.

According to the foreign minister, the information obtained by Cairo in the course of direct contacts with Moscow, "demonstrates the attention Russia pays to the fight against terrorism and the limitation of its spread in Syria."

Shoukry's statement is Cairo's the first official reaction to Russia's recent actions in Syria.

International law permits the use of force in a foreign country only if it has been authorized by the UN Security Council, as an act of self-defense, or at the request of the country’s authorities.

Russia launched airstrikes on ISIL targets in Syria, following a request from Assad. Since September 2014, a US-led coalition has been bombing ISIL positions in Syria without the approval of the UN Security Council or Syrian authorities.