Syrian rebels launched an assault Tuesday on an ISIS-held town that is also facing a U.S.-backed attack from the north.

The strategic border town of al-Bukamal has been under ISIS control since 2014, reports Reuters. If successful, the attack would seriously limit the ability of the jihadists to move freely between the Syrian and Iraqi territories of their self-proclaimed caliphate.

“This is a major gamble, but we have been preparing for it for a long time. U.S. logistical support and aerial support is key to the success of this operation,” said a New Syria Army commander, speaking under the condition of anonymity to Reuters.

Rebel sources said that the desert approaches to the town had been secured and that rebel forces were already within the town’s boundaries.

[Reuters]

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