Activists Say IS Controls Parts of Northern Palmyra

Islamic State (IS) militants took control of parts of the ancient city of Palmyra, Homs, on May 16, according to the Syrian Observatory of Human Rights, citing local activists. The organization reported that IS “dominated large parts of the northern district,” following “violent clashes with security forces.” This video from a local activist organization is described as showing IS raising a flag in the city. A Syrian flag can also be seen.

Clashes between IS and government forces reportedly took place near the 13th-century Palmyra castle on May 13, after the militant group seized a nearby tower. The city, which dates back to the first century, is a gateway to oil fields and routes to Damascus and Deir Ezzor. Credit: Facebook/Palmyra Coordination