U.S.-backed Syrian troops seize strategic IS-held town in Deir EzzorFebruary 24, 2018 - 13:05 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) broke-through the Islamic State’s (IS) defenses in the eastern countryside of the Deir ez-Zor Governorate after several days of intense firefights, Al-Masdar News reports. Backed by U.S. airstrikes, the Syrian Democratic Forces stormed the strategic town of Bahrah on Friday, February 23 in a bid to expel the Islamic State from this imperative area inside the Euphrates River Valley. Following a fierce battle with the Islamic State militants, the Syrian Democratic Forces were able to impose full control over Bahrah. With Bahrah under their control, the Syrian Democratic Forces can secure the remaining towns in this part of the Deir ez-Zor Governorate. Meanwhile, along the Iraqi border, the U.S. Coalition reportedly killed at least 30 civilians in the last five days, prompting outrage from local tribesmen in the Deir ez-Zor. The U.S. Coalition maintains that they are not targeting civilians, but rather, the Islamic State’s remaining fighters in the Euphrates River. Photo. REUTERS/Bob Strong/File photo Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. 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". Partner news | Armenia, Turkey discuss restoration of historic bridge The meeting took place on May 17 in Ashgabat on the sidelines of an international conference of ministers of culture. India wants Armenia’s proposals on use of Chabahar port India is expecting proposals from Armenia regarding the use of Chabahar port in Iran, Indian ambassador says. EU welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan “progress” The EU has welcomed “progress” made in the framework of the Armenia-Azerbaijan border delimitation process. Belarus opposition leader slams Lukashenko for Karabakh trip Belarusian opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has harshly criticized the visit of Lukashenko to Karabakh. |