The Syrian Army and popular defense forces have ended the operation to liberate Palmyra from Daesh terrorists, the SANA news agency reported. After a violent night battle, the army regained full control over the city of Palmyra including its ancient sites and residential areas.
The Army and People’s Defense Forces are chasing the rest of Daesh militants who left Palmyra retreating to Raqqa and Deir Ez-Zor.
The Syrian Army’s offensive on the city of Palmyra to recapture it from Daesh began on Thursday. Palmyra is considered key for advancing to the Daesh stronghold of Raqqa in eastern Syria.
The town of Palmyra and its historic ruins have been under Daesh control since May 2015. The jihadist group has since destroyed part of the ruins which are a designated UNESCO.