Syrian troops liberate entire western Euphrates bank from ISSeptember 23, 2017 - 17:38 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The elite Tiger Forces of the Syrian Arab Army have liberated all of southeast Raqqa and northwest Deir ez-Zor Governorates from Islamic State terrorists following a massive offensive push up the western bank of the Euphrates, Al-Masdar News reports. On Saturday, September 23, reports – backed by photo evidence – came in from military sources stating that the strategic town of Ma’adan, thought to be an IS stronghold along the western Euphrates bank was liberated. By securing the entire western bank of the Euphrates north of Deir Ezzor city, the Syrian Army has de facto besieged any IS forces which may remain in the desolate inland desert spaces of southeast Raqqa, although it is hard to believe that the terrorist group left behind militants to defend such valueless areas. Given the general pattern of IS strategic withdrawals, it appears that the jihadist faction has completely withdrawn either to the eastern bank of the Euphrates and/ or south of Deir ez-Zor city. 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 | Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event. Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party. Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims. Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |