Islamic State launches shock offensive against Syrian armyDecember 12, 2017 - 17:23 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Islamic State forces have carried-out a surprise offensive against the Syrian Arab Army and allied paramilitaries, crossing from the eastern bank of the Euphrates River to attack pro-government units on the western shore, Al-Masdar News reports. According to fresh reports from military-affiliated sources, an IS strike force stationed on the eastern shore of the Euphrates carried out a powerful cross-river assault against the Syrian Arab Army late yesterday, striking military positions north of Abu Kamal. Although the exact number of IS militants who carried out the assault remains unclear, it appears that jihadist fighters – making use of surprise – nearly managed to overrun army defenses along the western shore of the Euphrates. In the end however, Syrian army forces repelled the attack, killing part of the IS assault group and driving the surviving militants back across the river to their starting points on the eastern shore. Whilst this particular assault was rebuffed, the Syrian Army may remain exposed to such attacks until the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces completes its operation to clear the eastern shore of the Euphrates. 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 | Armenian, Saudi Foreign Minister meet in Riyadh The two commended the positive dynamics of the development of political dialogue between Armenia and Saudi Arabia Pashinyan: Azerbaijan’s proximity shouldn’t worry border residents At the same time, he said that he “does not guarantee [the security of villagers] one hundred percent”. U.S. doesn’t see Russia as contributing to peace in Caucasus Patel made the remarks when asked about the implications of Russia’s withdrawal of peacekeepers from Karabakh. Up to 1% cashback when shopping on Wildberries with IDBank cards IDBank is launching an exclusive campaign on Wildberries for online shopping enthusiasts. |