Islamic State launches surprise attack on Syrian army near key airbase January 11, 2018 - 10:17 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Islamic State militants have launched a surprise assault against forces of the Syrian Arab Army near a major airbase in eastern Idlib province. The attack comes as Syrian troops are already heavily involved in battles with Al-Qaeda-affiliated fighters just south of the military installation, Al-Masdar News reports. On the night of Wednesday to Thursday (January 10-11), IS militants launched an attack against the Syrian Arab Army out the group’s bastion in northeastern Hama province towards government positions near the Abu Duhur airbase in eastern Idlib. According to IS-linked media, forces of the jihadist faction managed to kill 3 Syrian troops and capture another five. Al-Masdar News is currently unable to verify the terrorist group’s claims. The assault by IS comes as the Syrian Army is involved in a high-pitched battle against Al-Qaeda-affiliated insurgents for control of the Abu Duhur military airbase with government troops currently being placed several kilometers south of the key installation.   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 |
