Islamic State suffers symbolic defeat along Syrian-Iraq borderJune 23, 2018 - 09:39 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) continued their offensive against the Islamic State (IS) Friday, June 22, seizing more ground along the Iraqi border, Al-Masdar News reports. The SDF troops were able to seize more ground in southeast Al-Hasakah after breaking through the Islamic State’s positions near the Iraqi border. According to pro-SDF media, their forces managed to capture the town of Al-Zhibah after advancing from nearby Tal Safouk. As a result of the advance, the SDF was able to meet up with the Iraqi troops at the border of the Nineveh Governorate. This is a big blow to the Islamic State because the Tal Safouk area is where they first made their announcement that established their so-called ‘caliphate’ (var. khalifah). 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 | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |