Syria’s army, backed up by fighters from Lebanon’s Hezbollah, have reportedly made big advances against insurgents in a key border region.<br /><br /> The development in the Qalamoun area would be a boost for President Bashar al-Assad after several defeats for his forces elsewhere.<br /><br /> Intense battles are raging on several fronts, including around Idlib and near the world heritage site of Palmyra.<br /><br /> Rebels have reportedly attacked and stormed a military checkpoint in the Idlib province, blowing up a nearby tunnel.<br /><br /> But there is real concern about the advance by ISIL militants on a government-held area near Palmyra, which is listed by UNESCO.<br /><br /> The fighters, who call themselves Islamic State, have already destroyed ancient monuments in Iraq. <br /><br /> The militants have been stepping up their offensive on government and rebel-held areas.<br /><br /> Photos of Palmyra:<br /><br /> Islamic State ‘threatens ruins of ancient site of Palmyra’ http://t.co/b0H5XhSrsc pic.twitter.com/M7ADZtfyb4— Telegraph News (@TelegraphNews)
