BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:45 A.M.) – The so-called “Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham” (ISIS) launched their largest offensive of the month in Deir Ezzor tonight, targeting the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) defenses at two key districts inside the provincial capital.

ISIS began the offensive on Wednesday night by launching several mortar shells and rockets towards the Syrian Arab Army’s defenses in the Al-Hawiqah and Al-Rashidiyah districts of Deir Ezzor City; this prompted a swift response from the Republican Guard forces in the area.

Minutes after the conclusion of rocket and mortar fire, the Islamic State terrorists stormed the Syrian Arab Army’s defenses at the Heart Hospital in Al-Hawiqah, resulting in a fierce battle that lasted for several hours last night.

According to a military source in Deir Ezzor City, the Syrian Armed Forces were able to beat back the first Islamic State assault after killing more than 20 combatants; however, the terrorist group launched a new assault this morning that is still ongoing.

The Russian Air Force has remained on high alert in the Deir Ezzor Governorate today, as they help the Syrian Armed Forces beat back the terrorist intruders inside the provincial capital.