Syrian rebels launched an assault Tuesday on an ISIS-held town that is also facing a U.S.-backed attack from the north.
The strategic border town of al-Bukamal has been under ISIS control since 2014, reports Reuters. If successful, the attack would seriously limit the ability of the jihadists to move freely between the Syrian and Iraqi territories of their self-proclaimed caliphate.
“This is a major gamble, but we have been preparing for it for a long time. U.S. logistical support and aerial support is key to the success of this operation,” said a New Syria Army commander, speaking under the condition of anonymity to Reuters.
Rebel sources said that the desert approaches to the town had been secured and that rebel forces were already within the town’s boundaries.
[Reuters]
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Welcome to the Noah Lyles Olympics
- Melinda French Gates Is Going It Alone
- What to Do if You Can’t Afford Your Medications
- How to Buy Groceries Without Breaking the Bank
- Sienna Miller Is the Reason to Watch Horizon
- Why So Many Bitcoin Mining Companies Are Pivoting to AI
- The 15 Best Movies to Watch on a Plane
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
Contact us at letters@time.com