Syrian army unleashes new attack against Islamic StateNovember 15, 2018 - 18:12 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Syrian Arab Army has launched a new assault against the Islamic State group this week, targeting the militants' positions east of the Euphrates, Al-Masdar News reports. Led by their 5th Corps, the Syrian Arab Army unleashed a large-scale artillery assault against Daesh in eastern Deir ez-Zor this morning. According to a military source in Deir ez-Zor, the Syrian Arab Army launched over 40 artillery strikes against Daesh, inflicting heavy damage on the terrorist group’s defenses near the key city of Albukamal. The source said that the Syrian Arab Army is trying to aid the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) at this front, following Daesh’s recent advances near the Iraqi border. Despite some friction in the past, the Syrian Army and SDF appear to be mending their relationship, especially in northeastern Syria. 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 |