Syria: Daesh recaptures ancient city of Palmyra

By Mohamed Misto

DAMASCUS

Daesh terrorist group has captured Syria’s ancient city of Palmyra after deadly clashes with regime forces, according to local sources.

A Homs-based activist said Daesh militants have seized control of all oil and gas fields in north-eastern and western Palmyra.

“The militant group has engaged in street battles with regime forces and wrested full control of the city,” the activist told Anadolu Agency Sunday on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.

The activist said Russian warplanes have intensified airstrikes on the city in a desperate attempt to hinder the advancing Daesh militants.

“The bombardment, however, failed to stop [Daesh] from advancing and controlling the city,” he said.

Ancient Palmyra, a UNESCO world heritage site, along with the modern city of Tadmur, was captured by Daesh in May of last year.

The militant group, however, lost the western city to regime forces in March.