Syria: Syrian Arab Army troops attack ISIS on the road to liberating Palmyra

Syrian Arab Army troops continued their front-line assault on Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL) positions near Palmyra, Wednesday. The troops, who are encamped in caves and hills near the heritage site taken by IS forces during the summer, exchanged fire with enemy militants at close quarters. IS has committed several atrocities at the site in recent weeks, including the execution of three Syrian Army soldiers by hand grenade. A senior Army spokesperson stated that, with Russian air support forces loyal to Damascus are preparing an assault to re-take Palmyra with minimal damage to the ancient heritage site. "The method to prevent destruction of the heritage is a part of our military plan, which is top secret and cannot be disclosed for now," said General Fuad. "Accurate measures are planned to free the heritage site with the least losses possible. The main reason for our delay in liberating Palmyra is protecting the heritage," he added.