Syrian govt. forces attempt to seize key central town from rebelsJuly 17, 2014 - 16:05 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Syrian government forces heavily shelled the central town of Morek in an attempt to wrest it from rebels, activists said on Thursday, July 17, according to the Associated Press. Military helicopters dropped barrels packed with explosives on the city overnight, said the Local Coordination Committees. More than 20 bombs were dropped by aircraft on the town on Wednesday, reported the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Morek is one of three towns that lie on a strategic highway linking central and northern Syria. Rebels linked mostly to Islamic groups have been holding the town for the past four months. Forces loyal to President Bashar Assad appear to be trying to seize Morek to supply the Wadi Deif military base further north. The Observatory said at least 15 people, including four civilians, were killed Wednesday in the fighting. Over the past year, Assad's forces have been steadily seizing territory from the rebels. Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |