The Syrian border town that has been the scene of an intense four month battle has been lifted by Kurdish defenders who say they have retaken the entire town of Kobani. {13.10.14, Turkish Tanks Sit Idle on Border} US and allied airpower played a role in their success. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says the YPG (Kurdish People's Protection Unit's) flag is flying from a nearby hill previously displaying the black banner of ISIS. Since September the fighting in and around Kobani has killed about 1500 people including civilians. Most of the dead are ISIS fighters. ISIS launched some 35 suicide bombing attacks during the battle for the town. It still has hundreds of fighters in nearby villages.
In reply United States has carried out almost daily airstrikes launched from its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinsonstationed in the Persian Gulf. Kobani is the only declared battle against stateless terrorists in which US airpower has been used to provide close air support for a foreign ground force. Cooperation may even have extended to the training of Kurd personnel in close air support techniques such as the use of hand-held laser devices that pin-point a target for laser-guided bombs. Whatever the actual methods, the operation apparently has been largely successful. Kurd forces seem to be especially motivated by their desire to establish a nation in the areas in which ISIS now operates. Kurdish leaders may see a quid pro quo with the US for their efforts to defeat the Islamic extremists. An Islamic State spokesmen said in an audio clip posted today that supporters should attack the "infidel West" wherever and with whatever weapons are at hand. ISIS invested considerable assets in the Kobani battle, halting a move to take Aleppo. Where it will strike next is the question.