BEIRUT (Sputnik) – ISIL militants captured the ancient city of Palmyra in May, destroying some of its historic sites. The Syrian government evacuated the majority of the local population and removed the most valuable relics from city museums to prevent their theft, sale or destruction.
"Syrian army advanced this night, having al-Bairat settlement captured, therefore inching closer to Palmyra. The aviation is bombing the northern parts of the city, where militants’ field camp is located," a source told RIA Novosti.
According to Syrian national television, the army has recaptured an area some 3.5 miles from Palmyra and continues to advance.
