IS launches fresh offensive in Syria's Deir ez-ZorAugust 14, 2017 - 13:44 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Islamic State launched a large-scale attack in the Deir ez-Zor Governorate on Sunday, August 13, targeting the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) positions near the military airport, Al-Masdar News reports. IS began the offensive by storming the Syrian Army’s defenses near the Al-Ta’meen Base that is located west of the Deir ez-Zor Airport. While the Islamic State failed to advance near the Al-Ta’meen Base, they would later launch a big attack on the airport from their positions at the Thardeh Mountains. Intense clashes are currently ongoing near the eastern slope of the Thardeh Mountains, as the Islamic State continues to press the Syrian Army’s positions at the Deir ez-Zor Airport. According to a military source in the Governorate, the Syrian Arab Army destroyed one 23mm anti-aircraft machine gun and killed over ten Islamic State terrorists thus far. The source added that the Islamic State is likely going to launch several more attacks in the Deir ez-Zor Governorate, as their reinforcements from Al-Sukhnah and east Hama continue pouring into the province. 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. |