HTS–ISIS and Turkey-backed armed factions are maintaining the blockade on the northern Syrian city of Kobanê despite the ceasefire and the related agreements that have been made recently. Since January 29, trenches have been dug under the supervision of Turkish soldiers on both the right and left sides of the Mürşitpınar Border Crossing, at points close to the border wall.
The soil removed from the trenches dug by construction machinery parallel to the border wall has been piled up along the line, forming small embankments. The work was temporarily halted over the past two days due to heavy rainfall, but has been resumed as of today.
Meanwhile, it has been reported that at least five Turkish military points have been established along the line stretching from the border town of Suruç to the Mürşitpınar Border Crossing. Due to increased military activities, locals are prevented from entering and leaving their villages, and are subjected to criminal record check when allowed to do so.