Syria government troops storm Hayyan Gas Fields in PalmyraFebruary 3, 2017 - 12:19 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) stormed the Hayyan Gas Fields on Friday, February 3 morning, striking the Islamic State (IS) forces from the western flank of this site in the vast Syrian Desert, Al Masdar News reports. Backed by Russian airstrikes, the Syrian Arab Army’s 5th Legion and Shaheen Group (Tiger Forces), alongside Hezbollah, reportedly struck the Islamic State defenses at the Hayyan Gas Fields around 3:00 A.M. (Damascus Time), forcing the latter to withdraw from several points in order to avoid being overrun. Despite the withdrawal of Islamic State militants from the western part of the Hayyan Gas Fields, the Syrian Arab Army has yet to enter the area due to security concerns. The Hayyan Gas Fields were also set ablaze by the Islamic State terrorists on Thursday night after the Syrian Arab Army made their first push past the Jihar Crossroad. While the gas wells of Hayyan have been destroyed by ISI, this area 40km west of Palmyra is still considered vital due to its corresponding mountain that stretches for several kilometers. 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 |