Syrian army captures areas in IS stronghold of Deir al-Zour

The Syrian army on Saturday captured new areas in the city of Mayadeen, the Islamic State (IS) capital in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour.

The army fought with IS in Mayadeen in the southeastern countryside of Deir al-Zour, Xinhua cited , state news agency SANA as saying, which added that the army captured the historic citadel of Rahbeh, the Madfaiyeh battalion, and Shibli farmlands, as well as the Hal Souk and grain silos in the city.

Several IS terrorists were killed during the battles and the army destroyed three explosive-laden vehicles.

The Syrian and Russian warplanes also destroyed IS vehicles and positions in the town of Ashara, between Mayadeen and the city of Bukamal -- another IS stronghold near the Iraqi border.

On the eastern bank of Euphrates River, the Syrian forces continued their attacks on the IS positions, capturing a water station and positions in the town of Hatlah.

The army also continued operations to secure the road between the administrative border of Deir al-Zour and the entrance of the capital city at the Panorama roundabout.

--IANS

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