Syrian forces temporarily regain control over strategic positions in Hama

The Syrian troops backed by militias from the National Defense Forces have seized Tell Maleh strategic heights in the northwest of the Hama Governorate, the Al-Masdar news portal has reported.

According to the portal, during the offensive operation the forces defeated terrorists from the Jabhat Al-Nusra (terror group, outlawed in Russia) and returned the heights under their control.

The Syria Army’s success would not last for long, as a swift counter-attack by the jihadist rebels would force the government troops to withdraw west in order to avoid suffering more casualties.

According to a field source, at least five soldiers were captured during the attack and 17 soldiers were killed. Another 15 soldiers were also wounded, the source added.

The Syrian troops have also liberated the Al Jebin settlement, thus restoring control over a highway between the towns of Mharde and Sukeylabiya.

Meanwhile the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) entered southwestern Idlib during the first week of June after they managed to break through the jihadist lines north of Kafr Naboudeh.

Via TASS / al-Masdar