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Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/11/islamic-state-retakes-palmyra-syria
Islamic State Retakes Palmyra in Syria
(Guardian-UK) Kareem Shaheen - Islamic State fighters have reconquered the city of Palmyra after intense fighting prompted a withdrawal by the Syrian military. In May 2015, jihadi militants stormed the city and rampaged through its museums and ruins, blowing up the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel and the Arch of Victory. The Syrian army, backed by Russian fighter jets, reclaimed the city in March 2016. The loss of Palmyra a second time raises questions about the ability of the Syrian military to hold territory even with the backing of Russia.