GETTY*IG Islamic State has lost ground in northern Syria

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Fighters from the Free Syrian Army have taken back the town of al-Rai after bloody battles with the barbaric jihadis, according to sources. The town was said to be in a critical position for the terror group, also known Daesh, close to the Turkish border in the northern Aleppo countryside.

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IG Its the first time Daesh has lost ground in the area since last May

Abu Abdullah, from the Nour al Din al Zinki brigade that took part in the assault of the border town hailed the siege as a crucial turning point. He said: “This is the beginning of the end of Daesh, those who have bet the FSA have been decimated are now proven wrong.

GETTY Towns and cities in Aleppo have been brutally fought over in recent years

"It's a victory for the Free Syrian Army. We will continue our path to al Raqqa and all the towns occupied by Daesh.” The rebels are set to make an assault on ISIS-held city of al Bab as they continue their quest to wipe out the sick militants.

Images show the deadly conflict in Syria Mon, March 13, 2017 Devastating images show the horrifying aftermath from the on-going war in Syria Play slideshow REUTERS 1 of 98 Still image shows Russian Bastion coastal missile launchers launching Oniks missiles at unknown location in Syria

It is the jihadis first retreat in the area since its advances last May against rebel groups as they crept slowly towards the Turkish border. The Amaq news agency, linked to ISIS, confirmed it had lost ground to “US and Turkish-backed opposition brigades” after days of intense “US bombing and Turkish artillery” fire.

GETTY Rebels are continuing their assault on the depraved death cult