Islamic State launches new battle in Deir ez-ZorDecember 11, 2017 - 16:44 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Islamic State (IS) group announced on Monday, December 11 afternoon that they have begun a new battle in the northwestern countryside of Albukamal city, Al-Masdar News says. The terrorist group’s statement did not specify in particular which town or village their forces were going to attack in the Albukamal countryside. IS’ statement comes just hours after their forces lost more than 2,000 square kilometers of territory to the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and their allies in the southwestern countryside of Deir ez-Zor. IS will likely target the recent gains by the Syrian Army in a bid to reestablish a presence along the western bank of the Euphrates River. 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 |