Syrian army launches major anti-IS offensive at rebel request October 13, 2017 - 17:59 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Syrian Arab Army has begun a major operation to expel Islamic State militants from areas held by the group in southern Damascus. Even more interesting, it appears this offensive is being carried out at the request of the Free Syrian Army, Al-Masdar News reports. The army began its operation this morning after Syrian warplanes hit IS positions in the district of Hajar al-Aswad and in the Yarmouk Camp area. At the present time, IS militants in the Syrian capital hold the districts of Hajar al-Aswad, al-Asali and al-Tadamon and parts of Yarmouk Camp. This offensive comes after representatives from Damascus-based forces of the Free Syrian Army, Jaysh al-Islam, Ahrar al-Sham and Aknaf Bait al-Maqdas signed a ceasefire with the Syrian Army and Russia at a meeting in Egypt. According to sources, Free Syrian Army leaders in Damascus actually asked the Syrian Army to launch this new offensive. It is unclear whether or not units of the rebel faction will assist government forces in their operation against IS.   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 |  Latest news U.S. welcomes Armenia, Azerbaijan’s border delimitation announcement  Blinken said it is an important step towards concluding a durable and dignified peace agreement.Residents Of border villages protest as Armenia, Azerbaijan agree on delimitation Residents of several Armenian communities in the northeastern Tavush province began protests late on Friday.Up to 10% cashback from GetTransfer with IDBank cards IDBank clients who make their booking on GetTransfer will receive an exclusive cashback.Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. |
