Syrian army scores sudden advance against Rastan rebels: reportMarch 2, 2018 - 14:40 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Troops of the Syrian Army have scored a sudden and unexpected advance against rebel forces in the Rastan pocket area of northern Homs province according to some military-affiliated sources, Al-Masdar News reports. Reports state that the Syrian army struck militant defenses on the Amiriyah axis (near the government-held town of Al-Mashrafah), swiftly taking control of the Kufa Farms area in a pencil-like penetration. If true, it is unclear whether the advance is part of a renewed general offensive against insurgent factions based in Rastan countryside region of northern Homs or just the result of an opportunistic snatch operation carried out at the initiative of a local government unit. Recently, the Syrian army’s patience with rebel groups in the Rastan pocket came to an end after negotiations to organize the departure of hard-line jihadist fighters – who often carry out raids and shellings against nearby government-held towns – from the area failed to produce any result. 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 | Armenian, Saudi Foreign Minister meet in Riyadh The two commended the positive dynamics of the development of political dialogue between Armenia and Saudi Arabia Pashinyan: Azerbaijan’s proximity shouldn’t worry border residents At the same time, he said that he “does not guarantee [the security of villagers] one hundred percent”. U.S. doesn’t see Russia as contributing to peace in Caucasus Patel made the remarks when asked about the implications of Russia’s withdrawal of peacekeepers from Karabakh. Up to 1% cashback when shopping on Wildberries with IDBank cards IDBank is launching an exclusive campaign on Wildberries for online shopping enthusiasts. |