Syrian government soldiers have raised a flag of victory in Maaloula after retaking the ancient Christian town.<br /><br />Military sources claim the advance will squeeze rebel supply routes into Lebanon.<br /><br />It was last December that Islamist fighters, some from the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front, captured Maaloula, holding several nuns until releasing them in March in a prisoner swap.<br /><br />Celebrated for its Christian sites, Maaloula is also strategically important. <br /><br />It lies close to the main road linking Damascus to Homs and control of it tightens President Bashar al Assad’s grip over central Syria.<br /><br />Last year the president appeared on the verge of defeat but in recent few weeks, his forces have recaptured towns including Yabroud and Rankous along the Lebanese border.<br /><br />Before the conflict Maaloula’s churches and monasteries attracted both Christian and Muslim pilgrims. Since then most of its population has fled.
