Moments ago, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) captured the three key high points of Hill 800, Al-Amdan hill and Al-Thar hill in the Ancient Quarries on the western outskirts of Palmyra. Since last week, government troops have advanced hundreds of meters daily towards the ancient city of Palmyra which remains under ISIS occupation. For now, less than one mile splits Syrian soldiers from entering the first building blocks in the western districts of the city.

However, the Islamic State seems all but willing to concede Palmyra as it lies in the very center of Syria itself. While some consider Palmyra a mere trophy city, it arguably represents the most vital link between the oil rich deserts in the east and the highly populated western coast of Syria. As such, it remains vital for the Islamic State to keep control of this city. If lost, it could cause a domino effect with the eventual defeat of the caliphate itself.

Meanwhile, the Syrian Government is more determined than ever to capture Palmyra. Therefore, Damascus has called upon the Tiger Forces, the 18th Tank Division, the Desert Hawks Brigade along with the Iraqi pro-government militia of Liwaa Imam Al-‘Ali. Furthermore, Hezbollah fighters are in the process of deployment to the Palmyra front while the Russian Airforce carries out dozens of airstrikes on the city daily.

Earlier today, government forces also captured several strategic points around the city and reached the archaeological zone in western Palmyra. Currently, a major battle is taking place at the contested Palmyra Castle which is located at the mountain of Jabal Qassoun which overlooks the city from the west.

The historic city of Palmyra, which was captured by ISIS in May of 2015 during a blitz offensive, has witnessed 4000 years of civilization and survived countless battles throughout the ages. But sadly, the Islamic State has demolished several important UNESCO world heritage sites inside the city.

Long-term, the capture of Palmyra will enable the Syrian Arab Army to push towards Deir Ezzor and break the siege imposed by ISIS on the remaining government-held districts inside the city. However, many kilometers of Islamic State territory must be wrestled from ISIS fighters for government forces to reach this goal.