Sporadic Clashes Rock Syria's Manbij As Deadline Passes

BEIRUT, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 23rd july,2016) : Islamic State group militants clashed Saturday with US-backed fighters in Syria's Manbij, a monitor said, as a 48-hour deadline passed for the jihadists to leave the battleground town.

The ultimatum was issued Thursday by the Manbij Military Council, part of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) alliance that is fighting IS with support from a US-led coalition.

"The 48-hour period is over, and there will be no more opportunities like this one for Daesh (IS)," a Manbij Military Council commander told AFP on condition of anonymity. IS has "not responded" to the SDF's offer and had instead "attacked our positions" in Manbij, he said.

"We will intensify our attacks on their remaining positions in the town," the commander said, adding that the SDF was working to "secure safe passages" for civilians in Manbij looking to flee.