Syria

Four forces are involved in the Al-Bab battle -- IS, Turkish-backed Syrian rebels, Kurds and the Syrian government

Violence will continue among multiple actors, further damaging state institutions

The Egyptian president has reiterated that his priority is to support strong military forces, including in Syria

Government-aligned fighters have encircled the city, and US airstrikes destroyed a key bridge

The addition of a naval force adds offensive and deterrent capacity to Russia's existing military presence

Syrian refugees trapped on the border will receive aid, but no long-term solutions

Reports that some families have been stopped from fleeing rebel-held areas follow an intensified government campaign

A disputed offensive against Al-Bab has caused fighting between Turkish-backed rebels and Syrian Kurds