Turkish-backed rebel commander 'revealed to be spy for Syrian army'September 29, 2018 - 12:36 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - A Turkish-backed rebel commander recently defected to the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) after serving at several fronts around the country, Al-Masdar News says. According to a military report, the commander of the Al-Furqan Brigade of the Free Syrian Army (FSA), Wassim Al-Zarqan, was actually a spy for the Syrian Arab Army for several years before returning to Damascus. Zarqan was recently pictured in Damascus for the first time since he returned from the rebel-held lines. The former Free Syrian Army commander spent several years providing important intel to the Syrian Arab Army, including the whereabouts and movements of his comrades. 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 |