Russian forces appear to be expanding their military presence in Syria through the development of two additional bases, according to new satellite imagery viewed by the Journal. Why could this be significant? WSJ’s Jason Bellini has #TheShortAnswer.

WARNING: Disturbing content.

A YOUNG suicide bomber has been filmed weeping before blowing himself up in an attack on a Syrian village.

In the distressing footage, Jafar al-Tayyar was shown sobbing before driving an explosive-laden vehicle into the defences of the town of Fua, in Idlib Province, on September 18.

The Uzbeki jihadi, who was fighting with al-Qaeda-aligned rebels, embraced supporters as tears streamed down his face.

“Jafar, my brother, don’t be afraid. When you are scared, remember Allah,” an Uzbek-speaking militant is heard to say, encouraging him.

“I’m just scared I won’t succeed,” Tayyar responded. He was reportedly in his twenties.

Some media reported that Tayyar appeared reluctant to carry out his final mission.

Tayyar’s vehicle is filmed driving away before exploding in the distance in a vast mushroom cloud. It is not known how many people were killed and injured in the blast.

The video’s narrator said Tayyar was the “first volunteer mujahid (jihad fighter) of Mawarannahr,” referring to an area of Central Asia corresponding with modern-day Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, southern Kyrgyzstan and southwest Kazakhstan, Radio Liberty reported.

The wider attack on the Shi’ite town of Fua by al-Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate, Nusra Front, involved more than 200 rockets and seven separate suicide bombings, The Times reports.

Tayyar’s attack was also filmed using a small drone which showed thick clouds of smoke billowing over the bombed area.

Since the assault, a ceasefire has come into effect in the area around Fua and the neighbouring village of Kefraya.

The Times reports fighting has also stopped around the rebel-held town of Zabadani, which has been under attack since July.

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