US and Russia one accident away from war in Syria

Russia has suspended communications over shoot down of Syrian jet.

Russia and the United States are close to shooting at one another, following the destruction of a Syrian plane that attacked U.S.-backed rebels in Syria. Russia has also closed down a special line of communication intended to prevent accidents between the two sides. The two nations are now one accident away from open conflict.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) -- Russia has threatened to shoot down all U.S. aircraft flying west of the Euphrates River in Syria. The Euphrates runs immediately south and west of Raqqa where Coalition aircraft are supporting the advance of U.S.-backed rebels into ISIS territory. U.S. aircraft must operate very close to the Euphrates to provide ground support to troops in the region, including U.S. Marines.

Moscow has also suspended the use of a special line that allows both sides to talk to each other for the purpose of avoiding accidents.

The strained relations came about following the shootdown of a Syrian air force jet.

The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon after the jet attacked U.S.-backed rebels fighting ISIS. In response to the attack, an order was given to shoot down the Syrian Su-22, "Fitter" fighter-bomber. The intercept was made by a U.S. Navy F-18E Super Hornet, one of the best, most versatile fighters in the U.S. arsenal. The Syrian fighter-bomber did not stand a chance.

The message sent by the U.S. is clear, stop bombing our allies. However, Russia is prepared to defend Syrian warplanes and has issued a warning in response.

Is conflict likely? Neither the U.S. nor Russia want war with each other, but accidents are now more likely. Without any way for the commanders on both sides to call one another, they may be forced to assume that all non-friendly aircraft are hostile.  The danger of a tit-for-tat exchange is real, and one it begins, it is difficult to stop.

There is also the fact that U.S. airpower may be superior to anything the Syrians and Russians can field. Russian aircraft are capable, but it's widely believed American pilots are better trained and have better weapons.

For now, the world waits for Trump and Putin to speak to one another and de-escalate the situation before an accident happens that could result in war.