More than 220 Islamic State militants killed in Swaida offensive: monitor September 10, 2018 - 13:47 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - At least 226 Islamic State militants have been killed so far in battles with the Syrian forces in east Swaida pocket, a monitoring group says, according to Al-Masdar News. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported that up to 95 Syrian Army soldiers and pro-government fighters have been reported dead in the same offensive. The Syrian casualties also include members of the Lebanese resistance Hezbollah group. Fierce clashes are currently taking place in Safa Hilltops; the last ISIS bastion in the area. The militant group is making use of the rocky cliffs surrounding the Safa Hilltops in order to fortify themselves and make it harder for the government troops to advance.  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 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 |
